Do we live by free will?

[Neil]

There are two main theories here. One says that our lives have been pre-determined and the other says that we have total free will in all our actions.I believe it is possible for these two viewpoints to co-exist and that they are not incompatible. What do you think?

[Mohit]

All has been destined.The universe or god has created everything including our thoughts,yet like the poet Iqbal said one must merge his will with the cosmic will.
Ramana Mahasrishi description- a cow with a rope around its neck.The cow can move within the limitations of the rope and thinks that's his free will.

My description- the movement of the earth at its poles.In the circle it makes it wobbles,this wobbling is also destined which we think is free will due to our ego.

[Myra]

Yes, somehow free will and God's predestination work hand-in-hand, although I don't think it's humanly possible to fully comprehend this. We have free will but He knows what we're going to do anyway? Not sure. The meaning of life: from what I've been learning / what God has been teaching me / these last couple of years, is to LOVE. Simple (and as difficult) As That. And boy, do I struggle with that!

[Neil]

OK. I'd just like to say that we're all agreed on it being a bit of both. My take is however that it's only at certain key times in your life that fate really takes over. Please have a look at "Life Cycles" and my profile to get the story. I actually maintain we have a lot more free will than we imagine. Probably 80% rather than 20% or 50%. But if we look at the whole of our lives, there is undoubtedly a distinct pattern. Love to hear more views. After all we're all in this living business together,

Neil.