Kamma

• Kamma is the law of cause and effect. A persons kamma is not a reward or punishment from a god it is simply the natural result of everything you have done.

• The law of kamma is best summed up as 'actions have consequences'. The buddha took the idea of kamma from hinduism.

• Kamma is not generated by every action. Buddhists believe that only our consciously chosen actions have consequences. Every intentional action is like a seed waiting to develop.

'Karma is what you do now because of what you did then' Therefore a person who bares grudges or has feelings of resentment is likely to act in a way that reflects negative kamma. 

A person who is able to forgive what has happened in the past, accepting and understanding it, becomes free from its negative effects and generates positive kamma.

A skilful action is- something that will bring merit and therefore accumulate positive kamma.

Using skilful means is about knowing what is the best thing to do in a particular situation. The buddhists guidelines which they choose to adhere to are pointers to a way of life that removes suffering.The guidelines will be interpreted differently according to each situation.

Actions that will bring merit are;

• Moral Conduct
• Meditation
• Charity

The intention behind an action is important.

Skilful actions-

• Helping someone cross the road
• Donating to charity
• Being kind and forgiving
• Meditating to reach enlightenment

Past experiences effect how you experience your present. They are NOT the only factor

The causes of your present happiness are not entirely related to past kamma, it is not the will of the gods and it is not uncontrollable - you determine your happiness.

Unskillful actions spring from actions motivated by the three root poisons.

Unskilful Actions-

• Acting for your own benefit- Preformative activism
• Being unkind or dishonest