Fate vs. Free Will

            Fate is a very interesting and thought provoking topic, one that I tend to think about quite a bit, not so much about whether fate or free will exists, but more about my future. I believe how our lives play out falls somewhere in the middle of the continuum between fate and free will. There is not a set path that we, as humans, all follow, each human having their own crafted path they follow. I believe we have the power to change what direction we are going in our lives, thus changing out fates and destinies. Ms. Ruch put it in a way in which I though catered wonderfully to my own thoughts about fate and free will: she supposed we, as humans, have the ability to make choices to determine where we end up in terms of destiny. However, these decisions have ‘strings’ attached, meaning every decision we make then follows a path destined for us. These paths may end up at the same ending spot, but each takes a different road to get there. It is a very interesting point of view provided by the vocal Abby Ruch, and I felt it lined up most with my own views because it incorporated both fate and free will into one. Essentially, we have the power to make decisions that are brought to us through fate.

When I ponder fate and free will deeper, it is mind blowing. If you look at this argument from the fate side, you would argue that everything is already decided for you. So wouldn’t you just do anything then? Wouldn’t you just lie on your couch and let your life come to you? If your life is predetermined for you, what influence do you have in your own life? On the contrary, if you look at this problem from the free will perspective, you would argue it is all up to you. You have to power. It all rests in you. But are the decisions you’re making lead to something greater? Is there something bigger you are working towards without you knowing it? Is it your ‘fate’ to make these decisions? These questions and arguments go back and forth endlessly.

So what role does this debate of fate and free will play in people’s lives? Whether humans support fate or free will, it gives people hope that they are making the right decisions. Those who believe in fate, when faced with a tough decision, they put their faith in fate, and rest easy believing it will all work out in the end. It is supposed to. Those free will folks know they hold the power for themselves, and whatever happens, they can control the next decisions. They are in control of the direction of their lives.

One of the problems I hold with fate are the numerous religious undertones it holds. When many people discuss their destiny, they often refer to God’s plan for them. No matter the outcome, God has a mission for me, and I will be okay. This makes me cringe. Sorry, but it does. I respect their beliefs and opinions, but this is mine. I am an atheist, loud and proud. I get religion and the importance it holds to people. I understand it, after all I haven been baptized, confirmed, and raised Catholic. As I have learned more and have begun to actually think for myself, I have come to my own decisions about religion: I don’t like it, and don’t believe in it. That is a story for another discussion post, but the main point is: fate brings a negative connotation for me because of the religious meaning it comes with.