Frigid Days and Destiny

These frigid days are welcome for the novelties they are in San Antonio, and for the opportunity to create a contemplative fire in front of a cozy seat. I ponder the belief in Destiny, expressed to me yesterday in conversation. My fire- and tea-fueled thoughts today are about how that belief benefits its adherents personally.

These frigid days are welcome for the novelties they are in San Antonio, and for the opportunity to create a contemplative fire in front of a cozy seat. I ponder the belief in Destiny, expressed to me yesterday in conversation. My fire- and tea-fueled thoughts today are about how that belief benefits its adherents personally.

The concept of Destiny is a grand example of circular logic. If we choose to make a change in the world or our personal lives, it was foreordained. If we choose not to act, it was similarly foreordained. We are puppets of a grand scheme predetermined.

The belief in Destiny is the greatest excuse I have ever heard. It means we can avoid accountability for any action we take or choose not to take. We can pass the buck to Destiny. We never have to say, “I'm going to change my life,” and set about doing so.

Destiny allows no one to take credit for overcoming an early, unfortunate life, for conquering an alcohol dependence, or for beating depression...because those accomplishments were predetermined. Conversely, it allows no one to take the blame for continuing a decades-long affair, or behaviors that perpetuate depression and anxiety. Those decisions were “in the stars,” had to happen. Again, shrug and pass the buck.

There is an assumed genetic predisposition to depression, anxiety, substance dependence. Genetics are a definite influence on actions and thoughts, but they are not destiny.

It is not honest to refuse personal accountability. The belief in destiny benefits the person who is determined to continue doing exactly as he is, to make no change and have an excuse outside himself to do so.

What has gone before is not what we are consigned to. It is possible to effect outcomes.

Now that I have that off my chest, it is time for another log on the fire.