“A mountain is composed of tiny grains of earth. The ocean is made up of tiny drops of water. Even so, life is but an endless series of little details, actions, speeches, and thoughts. And the consequences whether good or bad of even the least of them are far-reaching.”—Swami Sivananda
Consequences. Does anyone not believe there are consequences for their actions? Apparently. Just follow the news of scandals coming out of politics, Hollywood, sports, etc. For every action (acceptable or unacceptable), there is a consequence—a result that follows basic laws of nature. We may skirt by unscathed by our unacceptable actions, but our actions affect someone—and, ultimately, they will return to bite us.
How we live our lives will have an impact on what we get in return. Poor diet and lack of exercise? We get fat and out of shape. Lack of communication is destructive to relationships. Lack of work ethic affects our outcome in sports, school, work, etc.
We begin with the desired outcome and work back to establish the patterns and efforts we need to create to achieve. Success is planned. There is nothing haphazard about it. Failure (i.e., that which is associated with negative consequences) is likewise planned. Consider the consequences of your actions before you act.
“Wisdom consists of the anticipation of consequences.”—Norman Cousins