From Destiny to Choice
Do We Live a Predetermined Life or do We Make Choices?
by Bahram Spitama

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DO WE ACTUALLY HAVE A CHOICE IN WHO WE ARE? Obviously, we do not have a choice in where, when, or to whom we were born, or any physical characteristics or limitations we are born with. But what about our life circumstances? To what extent do we have a choice in the struggles we experience in life, the thoughts we think, or even our career or financial situation? How much of our life is influenced by external factors such as biology, accident, or even luck? These questions leave us wondering if we really have any choice or control over the direction, circumstances, and experiences of our lives. The factors that influence our lives and our choices are numerous and complex. In Mazdaism, the belief is that we indeed have the freedom to choose. The teachings of Zarathustra explain that we are not defined by our personality, but by our essence. With deep understanding, awareness, and by elevating our consciousness, we can nurture higher qualities within our minds and achieve true freedom. Without this, we are not genuinely free to shape our destiny.

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BAHRAM MOTERASSED (Spitama) has been a psychotherapist for thirty years, incorporating Eastern spirituality into his practice. He has a BA in psychology and a master’s degree in marriage and family therapy. He has studied and practiced Sufism, Buddhism, Yoga, Mazdaism, Christianity, Kabbalah, and sweat lodges. He has also practiced and taught meditation courses for more than thirty years. He is the author of Born to Fly, You Are Beyond Who You Are, Good Thoughts, Good Words, Good Deeds: Thus Spake Zarathustra, From Destiny to Choice, and Your Immortal Spirit.

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