Causes and Conditions

The Buddhists speak of everything being impermanent, constantly changing, and interrelated. From the tiniest action or thought, to the greatest events of our planet, things are always evolving and changing. The smallest word or thought towards another is like a seed. It grows and grows with each bit of energy it is fed... these thoughts and intentions create the energy that forms greater actions, behaviour, and ultimately, character. ...This is why our daily yoga practice, meditation, and mindfulness are so important.... We allow ourselves to step back and to see this connection is apractice of compassion. Can you notice your reactivity to people, situations, and places? What's the first step? Do not harm others. Start slowly noticing any harmfulness or unhealthiness in your thoughts, intentions, actions, and goals. This applies to your perspective of individuals and groups of people as well. What's the second? Begin to help others. Little by little, add a spoonful of helpful action to someone's life each day. Something as peaceful as a smile can go a long way. Give out a hug, give out 10! This simple philosophy of kindness is about the practice of continuing to be kind to yourself and others. Allow yourself to be off balance in your life and get back up and try again without judgement. The more we do this, a subtle sense of relaxation begins to grow, because you then allow others to be who they are and allow them to be out of balance without judgement. My prayer is that you gain insight and clarity into the causes and conditions that are shaping your life and that you take a compassionate, peaceful, and truthful look at your thoughts and intentions. May you live your life in a manner that reduces suffering for yourself and others, and augments joy and peace within and around you.