People think that it is God who is the cause of their happiness and sorrow. But it is not really so. Each one is responsible for his actions and reaps their consequences, good or bad. God is the eternal witness and does not interfere in this. He gives neither happiness nor sorrow. If you talk endearingly to someone, and that person will also speak to you in the same loving manner. But if you talk in an arrogant way, you will get a similar response.
As is the action, so is the reaction. The reaction, reflection, and resound are based on your own thoughts, words, and actions; God is not responsible for them. If you stand before a mirror, you will see your own reflection. In whatever way you speak to others, you will have the resound in the same way. Whatever thoughts you have in your mind, they will be reflected back to you. It is therefore essential to know whether your thoughts and actions are good or bad. Whatever good or bad you experience is the result of your thoughts, words, and actions. When any bad thought comes into your mind, give it up immediately. If you conduct yourself in this manner, you will become a true devotee of God. - From Swami's 2006 Ugadi Divine Discourse. Om Sai Ram
