Episode 46 - A discussion about the concept of Free Will

A discussion between Craig Rebuck and Feroze Dada. Both Craig and Feroze work on behalf of Sylvan Healing Sanctuary, a new organization represented by the website www.sylvanhealing.org. The discussion revolves around the topic of free will. They begin by acknowledging the complexity and simplicity of the concept of free will and invite viewers to share their thoughts on whether the discussions should focus more on spirituality or pragmatism.

Feroze raises the question of the extent to which individuals can truly express their free will in society. He suggests three interpretations: societal free will, individual choices, and the free will of the soul's journey. He emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and sending positive thoughts to those living under oppressive conditions, as freedom is not equally experienced worldwide.

Craig adds that while society often presents a predefined path, individuals still have personal choices in their day-to-day lives. He introduces the concept of a soul's journey with bus stops along the way, where individuals can choose to get on or off the path and explore different experiences. However, he notes that ultimately, individuals must follow the path and learn the lessons of their journey.

The discussion then delves deeper into the question of whether individuals can express their free will without having a plan or a sense of purpose. Feroze suggests that having a plan or destiny provides a framework for exercising free will and learning life's lessons. Craig agrees and adds that the lessons encompass relationships, actions, and responsibility towards oneself and others.

They continue by discussing the restrictions and control imposed by society, acknowledging the increased monitoring and surveillance. Feroze shares a personal anecdote about a friend from Burma who felt a sense of freedom despite living as a fugitive. They conclude that while societal restrictions exist, the lessons and growth derived from personal choices and actions are significant.

www.sylvanhealing.org

Transcript

Craig Rebuck:
Good morning and welcome to the next in our series of discussions between myself, Craig Rebuck, and Feroze Dada. I and Feroze both work on behalf of our new logo, the backgrounds for the Sylvan Healing Sanctuary. Today's topic is entitled "Free Will." Let's see where this discussion goes.

Feroze: I want to continue the conversation we were having before this program, which is whether these talks are more spiritual or pragmatic. It would be interesting to know the viewers' input on this matter.

Craig: Let's talk about free will. Are we really free in this society? There are different interpretations of free will: societal free will, individual choices as a human being, and the free will of our soul's journey. I am blessed to be living in a pretty democratic country where I have the freedom to do what I want. Oppression is not a pleasant thing to experience. Then there are life choices, the personal choices we make every day. And finally, there's the soul's journey, where we have choices but ultimately need to follow a path.

Feroze: Is it right to express free will without having a plan? Do people need to know their purpose or plan to begin exercising their free will?

Craig: It's not as simple as just having a plan. Lessons in life come from our actions, reactions, and responsibility to ourselves and others. We are restricted and controlled in society, and our freedom is limited. However, there are moments when we can experience a sense of freedom, like lying on a beach and losing track of time. So, we do have some freedom, but it's restricted.

Feroze: Many people believe that destiny is everything and that there's no need to exert much effort. They think that everything is predestined. What do you think?

Craig: We are talking about the tension of opposites. There is a guiding direction, a set of plans, but we still have to live day to day. Some people give up their choices to follow a larger manifest. Monastic life, for example, is a choice made to devote oneself. Is it a choice or a listening to their inner journey?

Feroze: I believe that free will and destiny are not opposites. They are like shades of light. As you exercise your free will, destiny comes closer. Destiny is not waiting for things to happen; it is your destination on the journey of free will.

Craig: We are saying the same thing but in a slightly different way. It's easier to see them as the same and create a smoother journey. You have to act to bring destiny closer.

Craig: So, can you define what you mean by exercising your free will, meaning taking action and making choices?

Feroze: Yes, absolutely. By exercising free will, I mean actively making choices and taking actions in our lives. It's about being proactive and not just letting life happen to us. It's about having a plan, a direction, or a destination in mind and making conscious decisions to move towards it.

Craig Rebuck: I see what you're saying. So, it's about having a sense of purpose and knowing what we want to achieve, and then using our free will to make choices that align with that purpose.

Feroze Dada: Exactly. Having a plan or a sense of purpose gives us a framework within which we can exercise our free will. It provides guidance and direction. It doesn't mean that we're restricted or confined, but rather it gives us a roadmap to follow while still allowing for flexibility and growth.

Craig Rebuck: I agree. Having a plan doesn't limit our free will; it actually empowers it. It gives us a structure within which we can make choices and take actions that are in line with our desires and aspirations. It allows us to navigate our journey with intention and purpose.

Feroze Dada: Absolutely. And it's important to remember that life is a combination of both destiny and free will. The circumstances and the cards we are dealt with can influence our journey, but how we choose to play those cards is up to us. We have the power to shape our own lives through our actions and decisions.

Craig Rebuck: I couldn't agree more. Destiny may set the stage, but it's our free will that determines how we perform and what outcomes we achieve. It's about finding the balance between embracing the path that life unfolds for us and actively shaping that path through our choices.

Feroze Dada: Precisely. It's about realizing that we have the ability to co-create our reality. We can't control everything, but we can make the most of the opportunities presented to us and use our free will to make a positive impact on our lives and the lives of others.

Craig Rebuck: Well said, Feroze. It seems we're both aligned in our understanding of the interplay between free will and destiny. It's a complex and fascinating topic that requires deeper exploration, but I believe we've touched upon some important aspects today.

Feroze Dada: Absolutely, Craig. It has been an enriching discussion, and I hope our viewers find value in our perspectives. Free will and destiny are profound concepts that shape our existence, and understanding their dynamics can lead to a more conscious and purposeful life.

Craig Rebuck: I couldn't agree more. Thank you for sharing your insights and engaging in this thought-provoking conversation, Feroze. It has been a pleasure discussing these topics with you.

Feroze Dada: Thank you, Craig. The pleasure is mine. I look forward to our future discussions and the opportunity to delve deeper into these fascinating subjects.