THE BUILT-IN SIDE EFFECTS OF GOODNESS

“Do good without thought of benefit to the self.” [UB 1452:03]

Thought Adjuster:“By its very nature, goodness is selfless and beneficial all around. The mere thought of accumulating brownie points through the performance of good deeds somewhat dilutes their appeal and spiritual outreach.

“If you do good expecting some fringe benefits, it amounts to a type of benefits package negotiation—a barter: “If I do this for you, you will owe me.” or “I can buy my way in God’s good graces by dutifully doing good unto others. It is better than not taking any affirmative action, but it amounts to do good with disclaimers that denature its pristine quality.

“Goodness comes from the heart—not from a calculating mind. Your compassionate heart prompts you to do good, which makes you feel good, even great. Those are the built-in side effects of doing good. They bless both the receiver and the giver. Your self is automatically taken into account when you perform good deeds. Such is the beauty of what is called the Karmic Law.

“You reap what you sow. Concern yourself only with the seeding of goodness through selfless acts of kindness. Someday you will witness its harvest, and it will make you feel terrific.”