Karma... the Golden Rule!



Karma is a simple word with a simple basic meaning - action - however, many of us use karma in a more negative context. "He got hit by a wild buck while riding his bike?... he must have had bad karma" - (see video for reference).


The other day, while I was walking, a man fell in front of me and cut his head wide open. I assisted by helping him up, however, that was the extent of good samaritan deed. I didn't ensure he was going to get help. I directed him to the local Starbucks and ironically I continued on route to my yoga class looking for my next "happiness" fix.  


"Tomorrow's events depend very much on today's actions, this year's events on last year's, while this century's events are linked with those of the previous centuries.  The actions of previous generations affect the lives of the generations that follow" - Dalai Lama


Louisa, even though she probably doesn't know this, is the most karmic person I know and will ever know.  She has the unknowing ability to act with her heart - unconditional love and compassion.  If a man cut himself in front of Louisa she would have piggybacked him to the hospital (if required and if he was a midget)... without hesitation.  


She doesn't care about or help others to "increase" her karma, she doesn't act morally and unselfishly because society expects her to, she just follows her heart and acts in the way she would want others to act towards her.  This to me is the essence of karma - treat others as one would like others to treat oneself - the Golden Rule.  


I now believe that karma is directly linked to happiness.  If you follow your heart, treat people the way you want to be treated and live in the present, happiness will be obtained.  Anyone that knows Louisa can attest that she is always happy, always positive and always cares.  The World needs more people like Louisa ... 


I am very grateful for having Louisa in my life and grateful for her showing me what life should be about... your heart's desire!













Stay Hungry, Stay Foolish...

"Death is very likely the single best invention of Life" - Steve Jobs


Today, October 5, 2011, one the great technology innovators of our time has passed away at the young age of 56.  Like many of us, we find out news on Facebook - news article after news article, we remember... however, many of us won't think/contemplate death/life beyond the "share" button. 

Among the many Facebook posts and articles there is a amazing video of Steve Jobs giving the commencement speech to the 2005 Stanford graduating class that I would like to share with you - 15 min speech, but well worth it: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D1R-jKKp3NA


Louisa and I are embarking on a 1 year tour of the World, however, I find myself analyzing the risk and rewards of such an adventure to the extent that there are days I think we should not go.  But why?  I love travelling, I love experiencing and love freedom. I would rather die happy then die rich.  Western Society believes that wealth comes from how much is in a persons bank account, not by what is in their soul... there needs to be a paradigm shift away from this thinking. 


Steve's speech can resonate in just about every individual in this World.  One quote that will stick with me for life is:

"Your time is limited, so don't waste it living someone else's life. Don't be trapped by dogma — which is living with the results of other people's thinking. Don't let the noise of others' opinions drown out your own inner voice. And most important, have the courage to follow your heart and intuition. They somehow already know what you truly want to become. Everything else is secondary."

I am currently living someone else's life and conforming to what society and people "believe" to be the right path... 

Yes, Steve was richer then rich, arrogant and even a little crazy, but he did do one thing better than 90% of North Americans - loved what he did, didn't care what people thought, lived by his own rule, and made every minute count.  Steve's death is tragic and sad, however, I do truly believe things happen for a reason... Maybe the World will be one step closer in realizing that following your heart and passion is the most important "wealth" one can accumulate...

Life is short, death is sudden - do what you love and the rest will fall into place!

Stay hungry, stay foolish...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dX9GTUMh490