Karma Musings

Simplified definitions of Karma include 'what goes around comes around' and 'jaisi karni, waisi bharni' (meaning: as you sow, so you reap)

We love stories that illustrate Karma. Such as stories about someone who cheats his brother to gain sole ownership of a huge business empire only to eventually end up a leper in some incognito alley or a story about the helpless old father who is abandoned by his kids but after a few years of suffering, suddenly chances upon fame and success and thereupon gets the opportunity to ignore his kids in return OR better still be the magnanimous forgiver.

This idea of there being a system in place, of cosmic justice seems to makes sense but does it also reflect on fact?

Often, when we encounter news of terrible tragedy befalling individuals, families or countries, I hear people exclaim "why them?!! they don't deserve this." I also notice that this does not lead to them questioning the concept of Karma. They are content with simply pushing it into the huge thought-balloon of the unexplained that floats in the sky along with other mystical objects.

The way I see things, I am inclined to believe that things happen totally at random. Sometimes, good things happen to bad people. Sometimes bad things happen to good people. Sometimes, good things happen to good people and bad things happen to bad people. (we all celebrate the idea of Karma during the latter 2 random occurrences, as if it is what always happens)

Alternatively, I hear people saying to one another "you just need to focus on gaining good karma"

The theory of Karma, in effect seems to be an extrapolation of the latent human weakness of seeking a transaction out of every interaction; a benefit in every relationship etc.

But since I see happenings as totally random, I don't see the sense in "gaining karma". Being good doesn't assure you that only good things will happen to you. Neither does being a devil, guarantee a mountain of misfortunes.

Question is, would you still see merit in being good, fair and generous if you found out that Karma is a myth? Why would you? You ask.

Well, I choose to be good, fair, generous and forgiving because it makes me feel good about myself. I have no expectation of the universe or even the people that I am kind to, to return the favour. And yet, I see more goodness in the world than bad. So, that's my choice.

If you don't see merit in generosity sans the promise of good karma; if you indeed find that you experience joy and long-lasting peace and happiness from being the bad guy, so be it. To each his own.