Karma

When their time comes, even sovereigns pass away,

And enjoyments, loved ones, and friends cannot follow after. 

But wherever beings are, wherever they go,

Karma follows after them like a shadow.

The Ten Non-Virtues

(body) killing, stealing, sexual misconduct; 

(speech) lying, slander, harsh speech, idle talk; 

(mind) envy, ill-will (wanting to harm others) and wrong view.

The Ten Virtues (opposite of non-virtues)

(body) protecting life, not taking without permission, practicing sexual morality;

(speech) speaking the truth, speaking harmoniously, speaking gently, not chattering meaninglessly; 

(mind) rejoicing in the good fortune of others, having goodwill, training in right view

Meditation:

First we assess our own karmic situation. Look at the circumstances of this life to see what the karmic patterns of past lives were. Look at present thoughts and actions to see what the future holds. See that although all beings want happiness, we almost all create causes and conditions for misery. We act as we wish, ignoring karma, then blame our bad luck on negative outside circumstances.

Now without making excuses, explanations, we make an honest assessment of our behaviour. Only we know the truth, whatever people say or think about us. Only we know if our motivation is pure or poisonous. Reflect, then rest the mind.

When thoughts arise, we use them to arouse compassion. We remember the terrible karmic forces that will affect those who have been cruel, aggressive, murderous. Remember how anger and aggression rebounds as endless lifetimes in hell. We feel compassion for those who use up their past good karma and don’t plant seeds for future happiness, and for those who have no opportunity to act virtuously – hell beings, hungry ghosts, animals. Reflect, then rest the mind.

When thoughts arise pray– may all beings learn what to accept and what to reject. May I stop blaming others, and begin to purify my own mind. Through virtues of body, speech and mind, may I create the causes and conditions for fortunate circumstances. May all beings escape the web of karma and enter a state of pristine awareness. May I act in accord with the most proper conduct, and meditate until I establish the highest view. Rest.