One often hears the phrase "Everything happens for a reason." Does this reflect our natural tendency to look on the bright side or is it a human defense mechanism, quelling our fear amidst the random nature of life and death. From a naturalist's perspective, it is more the latter.
As intelligent beings, we like to think that we have control over our lives and, to a great extent, we do. Those of us who eat well, exercise and avoid poor lifestyle choices are more likely to enjoy a long, healthy life than those who do not; in like manner, diligence, hard work and commitment are generally rewarded. On the other hand, genetics and happenstance play a significant role in our lives; those hobbled by bad genes and those who succumb to accidents or disease beyond their control are just unfortunate victims of life's fickle nature.
Religious persons see a grand design in both the Universe and in our individual lives and believe that tragic events are part of God's plan. Such beliefs are reassuring and imply that suffering or early death will be remedied in the afterlife. Still others put their faith in destiny, convinced that the twists and turns in life, however good or bad, have a mystical purpose. Those of us who accept the fact that humans are part of nature, no more essential than other creatures, do not find a rational purpose for childhood death, tragic accidents or the less serious setbacks in life; while we recognize that our lives unfold in response to genetics and experience, continually influenced by our daily interactions, we cannot abide the role of vindictive, sadistic gods or spiritual mysticism.
