Full Moon – Unavoidable Good Fortune

Even those who live wholesome lives
can experience suffering
so long as their acts have not yet borne direct fruits.
However, when the fruits of their actions ripen
the good fortune cannot be avoided.

DHAMMAPADA v 120

As autumn arrives and the beauty of a garden in full bloom fades, we might feel some disappointment though on some level we know, and accept, this is the way of things. Despite how it appears, in a few months time the beauty will return. Our spiritual practice aims to teach us similar lessons regarding the ways of our heart: apparent reality is one thing, actuality can be something else altogether. The results of our efforts might not be immediately obvious, and perhaps we wonder, ‘Is it worth investing in generosity, integrity and reflection, while others appear to be having a great time indulging in the opposites?’ This is why having confidence in True Principles is essential. It is wise to trust that unavoidable good fortune is the natural consequence of wholesomeness.

(This post is also available to view at dhammakatha.org)