Agency vs. Fate: Do we control our life?

The sun is shining and it's a beautiful day outside, and a great day to write a little blog!  I discussed an interesting topic with a few friends this last week and I'd like to share it and get people to think.  That's probably one of my favorite things to do.

So here's the beans.  What we discussed was the idea between fate and agency; whether our lives are dictated by our own actions or the decision of some higher power.  Or perhaps it is three goddesses who cut the strings of life.  :)

First of all let's see what the good 'ol dictionary says.  Fate is "the development of events beyond a person's control, regarded as determined by a supernatural power."  Agency is "action or intervention, esp. such as to produce a particular effect."

Here are some questions to tickle your intellect about the subject:

1. Do you believe that everything is already decided, and no matter the decision, it was meant to be?
2. If you believe in a God, does he/she already know what is going to happen to you and dictates your life accordingly?
3. If you believe in a God, do you believe that you control most decisions, but God influences your life at times?
4. Do you believe in God, but believe that your decisions and choices are the only source dictating your future?
5. Is life just life, and no matter what you do it will end and that is it?

Probably don't want to hear it, but here's a little bit from the Book of Frans.  No matter what you believe, I think our decisions still play a major role in our life.  Take for example two people, one who sits around waiting for the end versus the other who travels to new places, helps people, experiences life, etc.  If the question were asked, "Who lived a fuller life?"  The real answer, it depends. But most would say the one who kept busy and gained experience.

Well, there you have it my friends.  Some questions and ideas about how one aspect of our life works.  What do you think, fate or agency?