The Beginner’s Guide to Karma: How to Live with Less Negativity and More Peace

Lama Lhanang Rinpoche and Mordy Levene have created a magnificent guidebook for those wanting to understand Karma, its origins, and one’s ability to transform its effects. The book is small and to the point, but relatable and not drenched with metaphysical concepts or drowned in Buddhist wisdom. The Guide is designed with everyone in mind, with enough content to deliver on the premise’s promise.

Each chapter answers a key question about Karma.

For instance, what is it, heavy or light, how do you reduce negative karma from your past, and how do you manifest good karma? The answers are surprisingly simple and you probably already know them, but they’re presented in a way that offers more profound understanding and promises positive change.

The big ask is why? Why should anyone bother reading this book?

Well, to answer this question, I’ll give my experience. Time and again, I wondered what a wonderful world this would be if everyone read this book and decided to follow the footprints toward erasing negative karma and doing good will? Then I remembered we live in a world designed around achievement. While that’s not necessarily bad, it does create negative karma when one’s success comes at the expense of others. Even simple things, like negative comments on social media, or yes, deliberately stepping on an ant, can have long-term effects. You may not believe this to be true, and that’s your right, but though I was not raised in a Buddhist household, I learned early on that actions have consequences—good or bad.

I think that’s the overarching point of this book. If you (and I) consider first before acting and speaking, perhaps we can catch hold of that little thread of warning slipping through the adrenaline and hang on for dear life.

Repeatedly, the gut-centered nudge to pause and reconsider words and deeds will eventually lead us down a brighter path. Dark and torrid history? The authors teach that it’s never too late to rework karma in your favor. I made copious notes in my journal on actions that I want to take, reflections I want to spend time in, and, of course, habits I want to cultivate. Perfection is not the goal. It’s impossible, but more peace and less negativity are objectives worth striving for. Sound appealing? Then this book is worth the investment.

Image and Book Courtesy of New World Library