The Karma Bug

~ Karma moves in two directions. If we act virtuously, the seed we plant will result in happiness. If we act nonvirtuously, suffering results. ~ Sakyong Mipham

The kids have been burning up our internet allowance with the XBox, so my computer is as slow as a slug today and will be for another 4 days, until the next month's allowance kicks in. Hubby has tried to ring our provider and raise our allowance only to continually be put on hold and even when they promise to return phone calls, it's to no avail. We have also considered moving to the provider that we have our mobile phones with - only they don't have the plan we want, in our area - not enough lines apparently.

I read of another example today (http://devonellington.wordpress.com/) that good things do come to those that deserve them and it got me thinking about the whole karma thing. An old boss of mine always used the term 'swings and roundabouts' which in essence meant what goes around, comes around. I used to love this saying, because I believe it's true. If you do good in the world then eventually the good will come back to you. Same said with doing bad, it comes back to bite and usually twice as hard.

I've just finished reading a book by Tom Bay, called 'Look Within or Do Without - 13 Qualities Winners all Share'. I found it easy to read and understand and it has lots of exercises for journalling. He lists four qualities he believes are integral to self-esteem; living consciously, responsibly, purposefully and with integrity. I believe these are also qualities of people worth having in your inner circle. He states:
1) People who live consciously are mindful of how their actions affect other people. e.g these disciplined people don't drink and drive.
2) People who live responsibly are accountable for their own behaviour. e.g they strive to do their personal best and could never seel shoddy merchandise.
3) People who live purposefully believe in giving 100%. e.g they are committed to excellence in whatever they do.
4) People with integrity stand behind their words and actions. e.g they follow through decisively on their promises.

What do you think?