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is a similarity to that extent. The difference seen here is on account of the virtues and vices which are related to the soul. The son's soul and the virtues and vices related to his soul are not produced from the father's soul or body and hence the question of similarity between the two does not exist. The character is carried forward from the past life and the circumstances of the present life give shape to the existing virtues and vices.
Hence in a nutshell, the son's personality is a sum total of his character of the past life and character developed through the circumstances of his present life. His character is carried forward from his past life and he gets the circumstances here in the present life. This data is fixed.
A fertile seed has the potential to become a huge tree with thick branches and leaves. To reach that potential it needs two things: soil and a gardener. Fertile soil and a skilled gardener will help the seed to realize its potential to become a huge tree. In the same manner, each child has a lot of hidden potential. A noble family and right training can help to create brilliance from a small child.
Where a life will take birth is determined to a great extent by his own karma. But the circumstances available to him and his own efforts play a pivotal role to determine the situation created thereafter. Thus three determinants that are key to the development of each person's destiny are :
• Past Karma and Character
• Present Circumstances
• His own efforts
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Second Edition
