Have you ever wondered… about determinism? I have. Initially, I thought this topic was a fascinating rabbit hole to explore as time permits. The variations of and complexities behind it extend further than I originally thought. One main concept behind it boils down to the idea of free will. Do we lead our lives with our own determination for what events unfold, or is our entire existence predetermined? Personally, I am a proponent of free will.
Determination, with an optimistic attitude, is the key to success.
-Dalai Lama XIV
For better or worse, I believe that free will is one of the reasons we are here on earth. Will we choose to do well while we walk within this world? Will we be determined to help and not hurt both ourselves and all others? I think that is our ultimate test here.
Life was meant to be lived, and curiosity must be kept alive. One must never, for whatever reason, turn [their] back on life.
-Eleanor Roosevelt
Ultimately, does the debate of determinism matter? Regardless of which “dialect” of determinism or some other philosophy turns out to be true, does it change my personal determination for who and how I choose to be? No. Perhaps it is an example, then, of unnecessary information or knowledge that we waste time on discussing frivolously.
We must remember that one determined person can make a significant difference, and that a small group of determined people can change the course of history.
-Sonia Johnson
This shift feels important to me. It reminds me of something I heard this morning. As we learn how to be better and more efficient, we may eventually reach points where we even move on from good actions because they no longer fit into our lives. That does not mean we are now going back to any bad actions. Instead, it means we have multitudes of beneficial possibilities arising all around us, so we now have to pick and choose what is best among those blessings. What a beautiful “problem” to behold :) I love the thought of that delightful “dilemma” and am now determined to revel in such a state at some point.
A small body of determined spirits fired by an unquenchable faith in their mission can alter the course of history.
-Mahatma Gandhi
At the end of the day, what are you choosing to do with your life? How determined are you to faithfully follow your dream(s) and live your purposeful passion to best benefit all?
When it comes to life, we spin our own yarn, and where we end up is, really, where we always intended to be.
-Julia Glass
Where do you intend to be? Drive your dedicated determination diligently in that direction until you reach that destination. Sure, detours will undoubtedly develop. Digressions may devolve demeanor, but you can and should still enjoy those deviations along the way. Listen, learn, and adjust. Keep in mind which way will lead you onward.
Maybe it is wise. Maybe it is dumb. Time will tell. Wonder and wander well, y’all :) <3