can't cheat karma

so, those who know me know that i am in no sense of the word a religious man. i tend to be fairly outspoken as a devout atheist rather. there are, however, certain concepts here and there tend to poke my curiosity hole. in particular, concepts of the major eastern religions peak my interest. this may come as a symptom of life in the U.S. where i've progressively become repulsed by anything stemming out of that new testament (but that's another topic altogether) . the eastern religious philosophies can be tasteful abstracts for concepts approachable. the relatively familiar eastern belief concept of karma has always been a point of interest with me.

now my concept of the indian karma is far separated from any type of mysticism. i'm a strong believer in the "karma effect", as it were, more of a definite cause and effect idea associated with our attitudes and general disposition. it is plain to see we reap what we sow. those introspective curmudgeons who walk with the air inferiority rarely climb the ranks of social order. conversely, the cunning braggart, though perhaps monetarily successful, is not likely to achieve the necessary emotional gratification. so it goes.

lets look at this mathematically (as much as it pains me to do so) to emphasize the non-mystical values of the "karma effect";

1) negative (action/value) x positive (action/value) = negative (response/outcome/value)
2) positive (action/value) x positive (action/value) = greater positive (response/outcome/value)

the major philosophical flaw in the basic religious karma concept is the same drawback of all religious concepts; the reliance of a greater power to bring about outcomes. the hindu/buddhist/sikh believers rely on mystic forces to bring about the karma-tic outcomes, or "karma-phala" as the metaphysical fruits of karma are regarded by the believers. does a seed sown grow with no water or sunlight? obviously, to rely on mystic powers is to become pacifistic and weaken our self-control, minimizing our influence. the potency of the "karma effect" relies on the individuals action and continued effort towards the goal.

the key concept is perspective. to understand the "karma effect" is to have a clearer view of oneself. this places the individual in a greater position of self-control allowing them to manifest their perceptions of their world. through this practice we can better control out own fates empowering us to develop our own outcomes.

so, in finishing, don't fuck with me.