Fatalism is the belief that every instance in our lives is predetermined. Outcomes have been set in motion and we have no control over them. So why try?

Let’s say you are a student who is about to take a test. A fatalistic person would believe that whether you pass or fail has already been determined. I call bullshit on that. How much you studied and understood the material determines how well you will do on the exam.

Personal responsibility is big in my book. Fatalism takes responsibility out of the equation. Being fatalistic is an excuse for being lazy and selfish.

At the same time, when tragedy strikes some people will say, “well, it’s just God’s will.” But I call bullshit on this one, too. God hates when his children hurt and therefore cannot cause pain. It goes against his nature.

This wonderful life is filled with choices. We can think things through and weigh the potential consequences of our choices. And yet I still do stupid stuff. Is it fate? No, it’s just me…