Quote by GalantryThe idea that an outside result changing your choice means you aren't true to yourself sounds nice and stoic but doesn't, I think, add up to much. In the end it amounts to the idea that things are as they are and our lives should all just play out like will-less robots according to our program. The existence of free-will however shows us that choosing is a part of life and in choosing we are true that part of us. Following on, the whole idea of choosing is that the matter isn't random but is based upon using one's intellect and experience to make the best choice. That where wisdom and foolishness come in.

Each man is free to choose what he may, and may he enjoy it, but when a man who has all the facts before him chooses something that will in the end result in loss and harm then historically he is considered to be making a foolish decision. Now, if that is his knowing choice then fair enough, but objectively his decision will be called a poor choice.

What's more, if heaven and hell were certainties then the notion of life and being true to what we were created to be would certainly include taking that aspect of life into consideration. Excluding those aspects from your choices on this earth could be considered to be denying that part of one's existence.

As for me, I hope that my belief and knowledge of heaven and hell have changed my life - and considerably. From a Christian stand point, Jesus, the apostles and may great men and women since then have thrown their lives away on this because their hope was in the life to come, they made their investment there and gave their lives here, away. They lived well, blessed and enriched many and I doubt there are any who would say they lived foolish or poor lives.

Just some thoughts.

Regards.

hmmm. i am wondering if i have offended you in anyway because of my statement. if i have i am sorry. being a catholic i do not disagree with you that jesus, the apostles, and the countless followers where wrong in any way. i do not believe that they lived a foolish and fruitless life. on the contrary they lived a marvelous life, all of them, and i am sure that they were rewarded according to the actions and good deeds they preformed in the living world.

yes. i would also agree that it is considered a great folly to choice a path that leads to a loss when you are handed a plate that gives you knowledge of what the true path should be. it is shown throughout history as you have said.

yet i have stated what i have stated because i have lived a strict catholic life and i terrible dislike the thoughts that i have to live the life that my priest and parents want for me. i understand that they are only trying to do me good and help me to a better after life but like i said before i lived a strict catholic life. i wish not to change much about me for i feel there is nothing that is so flawed about me that goes against the teachings of the bible and the church. yet my parents and priest, since he is a close friend of the family, feels that i am not doing enough. in there eyes i should live the life of a saint; something that is not suited for me. that is why i refuse to change my ways. it is not because i dont believe in a heave and hell but it is because i choose not to follow others wants for my life. it is a bit vague but i wish not to go into details about my life. sorry if i did go of into a limb.