Do we each have a predetermined, yet undisclosed, human destiny? Or are we the masters of our own fate? Either believing that events in human life are “written in the stars” or that the divine will for us may include instability or disruption of good can lead to passive acceptance when faced with difficulty. On the other hand, thinking we are self-made and self-determined may produce swings from optimism and motivation to fear of falling short of the wherewithal to meet our needs. Neither a belief in a mixed-bag destiny nor human self-determination truly hits the mark. But what about a spiritual view of life, based on an understanding of God that can enable anyone to perceive and fulfill his or her best potential? |