Karma? In my direct experience, I drop a stone in a pond. The ripples radiate outward... and after some time has passed, the waves radiate inwards, and I meet them again... whether I can understand or appreciate them or not.
In Buddhism, we have something referred to as "The Five Remembrances." Intriguingly the fifth remembrance is, "My actions are my only true belongings. I cannot escape the consequences of my actions. My actions are the ground upon which I stand." These words made such an impression on me that I took them to heart and have gently held them here.
The above said, when I'm going through things that are stressful or difficult, instead of asking, "How can this be happening to me?", "Why is this happening to me?", or potentially thinking and feeling anxiety, depression or sorry for myself like I used to do... I instantly pause and ask myself, is there any possibility that this is me, meeting myself again? Is there an amends in here in this moment... amends meaning to heal that which caused a tear or break in the natural flow of something. More times than not, there's an opportunity to show me or others some kindness... love... compassion... humility (being grounded in my values). How is karma for you?
一We Are the Practice Itself
Calligraphy note:
因果 | Karma | Cause and effect