Karma And Merit

The way the word ‘merit’ is used can sound like a reward
– a carrot held in front of a donkey.

The Dharma is a complete personal uncovering of what we are, which is ever-present.
Any elaboration of pure consciousness is not only unnecessary, it becomes a burden.

When we are hooked on elaborations – ‘charitable’ acts, yogic jobs, selfless service – which supposedly create merit, we hope to reap the ‘reward’. Merit is a two-edged sword, so be very careful – it isn’t a business transaction.

Merit: Middle English – deserved reward or punishment: from Latin meritum,‘due reward’.

When we liberate ourselves from the hook,
we are free of reward.

Empathetic understanding is merit;
that changes karma/attitude/motivation.