"If we should be blessed by some great reward, such as fame or fortune, it's the fruit of a seed planted by us in the past"

This quote by Bodhidharma speaks to the concept of cause and effect. He is suggesting that if we are rewarded with something great, such as fame or fortune, it is the outcome of something we have actually done in the past. This could be translated as suggesting that our actions have effects, both great and bad. If we have done something positive in the past, we might be rewarded with something terrific in the future. On the other hand, if we have actually done something negative, we might be penalized for it. This quote is a pointer that our actions have consequences which we should strive to do great in order to reap the rewards. It is likewise a pointer that we ought to not take our blessings for granted, as they are the result of our own effort and devotion.