What one shall receive with certainty is this: upon witnessing another perform a wholesome deed, the mere arising within oneself of a thought of anumodanā — even before a single word has been uttered — already brings a sense of ease, lightness, and inner peace. This is the most immediate and accessible fruit that one receives.
But should one go further — giving voice to words of praise and encouragement, and then inviting and drawing others to join in wholesome endeavor — these acts shall become a store of merit that accompanies one through all that follows. Whatever wholesome undertaking one may pursue in the days and years to come, there shall be those in abundance who are ready to cheer one on, to lend their support, and to offer their encouragement without reserve. This is the ānisamsa — the noble fruit and benefit — of the anumodanā of merit.
By contrast, should one partake in the anumodanā of demerit — let one take the utmost care never to err or falter in the days ahead. For there shall be those who stand ready to compound one’s every misfortune, to press down upon one without mercy, and to ensure that one is given no opportunity to rise again.
March 17th, 2020
