Understanding Kamma and Good Deeds in Buddhism : หน้า 45/207

child to be born to her. When someone from a fortunate realm is ready to be reborn, he will choose the best and most generous mother. Once he enters the womb, he brings good fortune to his mother and himself. The strength of this person's merit is an interesting thing. If the mother suffers from morning sickness, she will not have any relief no matter what she does until she offers alms. This relieves her symptoms instantaneously. This implies that the the unborn child, in its previous existence always made Dana (donation in the Pali language). The baby's presence influences her to offer alms herself. For a person who loved to chant in a previous existence, when his mother experiences the sickness, he will trigger her to chant in order to gain relief. When the mother chants and meditates, the unborn child will be happy along with her. The social and physical differences between people in this world result from the past and present kamma. One part of this equation we cannot alter because it is the consequence of an action we have already performed. But we always have a fresh opportunity to create a brighter future for ourselves. The Lord Buddha taught us to refrain from accumulating more bad kamma. The bad kamma that we accumulate today will follow us and its consequences will arise in the future. So, avoid amassing bad kamma, even minor ones. This can only benefit you. The heart the Buddhism is to avoid doing bad deeds, perform only good deeds, and purify the mind until it is clear and bright. These three actions are good deeds, and performing good deeds results in good kamma that will make us happier. When we perform good deeds, some of the good consequences are immediately expressed in this lifetime while the rest will build the foundations for everlasting happiness in future lifetimes. For us, since we are already born into this world, we must endure the conditions we find ourselves in. Concentrate on performing more good deeds and do not be influenced by bad thoughts. The technique to keep our minds strong is nothing more than meditation. The more you meditate the more strength you will acquire to perform more good deeds. When we view the world and understand the effects of kamma, we will be determined to lead our lives truthfully and on the right path. The consequences of kamma are real and they will bear fruit. If we performed good deeds we will receive good consequences. If we performed bad deeds, bad consequences can be expected. The Lord Buddha's teachings are truthful, and they have been examined over many thousands of years. Be aware of the differences that exist among the people of the world. These are the conditions that we were born into and they prove that the consequences from kamma are real. This is why we must focus on doing good deeds.”