This post is an extension from my previous post about Reincarnation and Why Future Lives are Important. If you believe that you have a future life, then we need to consider what are the conditions you would like to live under in the future to be able to progress forward in your Spiritual Life. In considering those conditions here are some of the things I would personally like to have:

1) Becoming a being that has the physical and mental ability to discriminate between virtuous and non-virtuous actions. Animals and beings that are constantly in pain have a very difficult time with this discrimination. Also, humans can be born, or acquire problems that can take away their ability to discriminate and intentionally perform virtuous meritorious actions.

2) To be born in an environment where there is enough to eat and all the necessities of life are easily found.

3) To be born with wisdom, status and resources to easily allow for a spiritual practice and to assist others with their spiritual practice.

So, in thinking about what it is that you would like to create for yourself in the future, remember that you get to experience in the future what it is that you intentionally cause others to experience. Deciding to help and assist other beings is a great way to ensure that the conditions of your future lives will be advantageous for your spiritual progress, happiness and ultimately taking you to liberation and enlightenment.