The relationship of cause and effect is such that a "cause" possesses the capacity to create an "effect". In other words, it can bring something into existence. But is it possible for the cause and the effect to exist at the same time? No, this is not possible. If they were to co-exist, this would imply that the effect already exists, and under such circumstances, what need would there be for a cause? In this case, 'cause' loses its meaning, just like saying that when food supplies are already present, then seeds are not needed.   

~ Luminous Wisdom Book Series 10