Predestination is not part of my belief system. Unfortunately, though, it is parcel of my personality. While I staunchly deny that God dictates before we are born whether we are good or bad, I cannot go so far as to profess to do the same. 

 

Let me explain. 

 

There are situations where I put the cart before the horse, and come to a conclusion before the interaction begins. It could be a speaker that I determined long ago was subpar, and the expectation takes over before he or she opens their mouth.

 

"Oh, it's him again. I already know what he thinks. Boring." Then when the content does not interest me it is no surprise. 

 

Or conversely I have concluded that the woman or man has worthwhile opinions and whatever they say only confirms it. I give my full attention, putting a positive spin on the dialogue regardless of any misspoken words. 

 

Many years ago a friend was wrestling with addiction. I loved him and clung to unwavering trust that he would shake it. He did. Is it possible that having support facilitated it? At the very least it didn't add to the burden. 

 

While I assert that God does not predetermine our eternal fate, I cherish the notion that He wants us in heaven. Wants it very much. 

 

 

"Out of Divine love, or mercy, the Lord wills to have everyone near to Himself, so that they do not stand outside, that is, in the first heaven. His will is that they should dwell in the third heaven. and if possible not merely with Him but abiding in Him."- Heavenly Secrets 1799, Emanuel Swedenborg