Sometimes I shudder at the thought of the multiple or rippling effects of a single action. Of course this was triggered when coming across news that 250 thousand workers in India's diamond cutting and polishing industry were laid off arising from western sanctions on Russian diamond suppliers ( impact of Russia/Ukraine war).
As I ponder I realize even an individual's small action can have far reaching effect. For example there is this case where the negligence of 2 employees of an eldercare service provider caused the death of an elderly resident. The driver of the van forgot to apply the brake of the wheel chair while another healthcare worker did not hold onto the wheelchair properly. Unintentional acts but that of an unfocused mind. Again one wonders what caused the driver to be less attentive and the worker to have a less firm grip. Could something have happened at home or at work that distracted the driver (perhaps arising from yet another person's actions)? Could some physical discomfort have caused a loss of strength for the healthcare worker? The two are charged in court for performing a negligent act. This will have a rippling effect on each individual member of their family not to mention their colleagues.
In the most common day to day example, an improper comment or some slightly impolite behaviour may cause an aggressive reaction from the recipient if they happen to be in foul mood. This will escalate tension and create adverse rippling effect on people who cross their path and it spreads on and on in widening circles.
It bears to remember how our every action or words can have consequences we may not even imagine. We must practice and practice and practice continuously to be mindful.
"I come here empty-handed, and I go empty-handed. My actions are my only true belongings. I cannot escape the consequences of my actions. My actions are the ground on which I stand.”
Thích Nhất Hạnh
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