Walking to my car in a Beachwood parking lot yesterday, I spotted a damsel in distress. (It wasn't too hard to spot, since she was actually parked in the spot next to mine!) Her battery had died and she asked me for help.
"So sorry I don't have cables," I said.
"No worries; I do," she replied.
"Are you an AAA member?" I ask.
"Nah, it's not worth it for me. You see, whenever I see anyone in car trouble and in need of help, I stop and offer my assistance. So, therefore, whenever I need help, that positive karma comes back to me. It's never let me down yet!" she cheerfully explained.
Do I agree with her way of thinking and with her spiritual approach to life? Almost. I would just add one important component and phrase it differently.
A common question that I get is, "Do you believe in evolution or in the big bang theory?" I answer that yes, I do. I just believe that G-d began that process ex nihilo. He created that "primordial soup" that then caused it to expand and evolve into this complex and beautiful place that we call home.
Torah is not anti-karma. Our tradition is very clear: every mitzvah has a cosmic effect, and creates a potent force that attracts more opportunities for goodness and kindness. That's how we indeed make the world a better place - by creating all of that Divine karma!
