Causality
Dear friends,
We often want to know the cause of things. This is quite understandable and natural, but neither matters nor helps us. Our effort ought to go into solving a problem or improving an attitude of ours that is unhelpful. The "why" is only of value if it is in fact helpful (that's not the deep philosophical part!).
We want to know the "whys" but often it is just curiosity and a kind of scratching-an-itch. Focusing on the why oftentimes distracts us from what needs to be done or settled in the heart. "How could they!" is usually less relevant than, "They did... so what ought I do and feel now?"
Too, causality is very hard to establish. What we know is just constant conjunction. That is, two things happen one after another so we attribute causality. An example will make this clear.
Suppose you are looking through a slat fence in your backyard, with one slat missing. A cat walks by with, of course, the head appearing first and then the tail. The cat gets to the end of the fence, turns around, and comes back. Lo and behold, the head is again first and then the tail. After repeated viewings of this you are now quite certain that cat heads cause cat tails! How could it be otherwise?!
However, a peek over the top of the fence gives an entirely different picture. Without that view from above it is almost impossible to tell what is a cause and what is merely a conjunction of events. The Masters and Saints have that overview. It is why we need the Teachings and writings of those who see clearly. As said originally, causality is very hard to establish.
It is also said that God is simple, but everything else is complex. Fortunately, we do not need to understand everything that happens, but only how to respond, both physically and internally. An open and calm heart, generous spirit, positive attitude, and acceptant nature means we are doing everything we can in the best way we are able. May we always keep focus on those things and hold less firmly to explanations, reasons, causes, and justifications. The heart is always the seat of true wisdom and happiness.
Blessings,
David G., manager
For the staff at East West