For every action, there is a reaction. You are born with past life karma and you create new karma with each thought and action. We carry our karma from life to life; so for example, if you were kind and generous to others in previous lives and have continued this behavior in your present lifetime, you create a future incarnation for yourself where you will receive kindness from others. The reverse is also true. Harming others attracts future harm to yourself. The law of karma does not exist to punish us, but to encourage us to behave well and avoid doing evil.
Chi-Jen Liu says, "Whether you meet miracles or disasters, do not forget to show appreciation. Heaven blesses those who appreciate openly." What does it mean "to show appreciation?" It means to understand the mechanics behind every experience we encounter, be it good or bad, and accept each one as an opportunity for self-improvement. Easier said than done! No one wants to suffer the effects of bad karma. However, the universe is composed of duality, which means there is both darkness and light in this world. What each of us can do, though, is to invite more light into our lives by actively caring for others as we would care for ourselves. His painting, "Karma Coin," is symbolic of the rewards you receive when you have made good karma.
A giant coin is anchored in the center of a cosmic vortex. It is filled with colorful nebulae bursting with stars and spirits swimming through space and time. Transcendent energies from all directions flow toward the coin. They are attracted to the coin's magnetic force – or metaphorically speaking, the karma of prosperity – that has been created by diligence, generosity, and gratitude. Having "Karma Coin" before you can feel like seeing a mirror of your past good deeds. Every altruistic deed, however small, eventually brings heavenly blessings in return.
