Understanding the Cosmic Gamble

Life can often feel like a roll of the dice.

“Everything happens for a reason!”

“What about the Haitian earthquake? Or cellulite on skinny women?”

~ Garfunkel & Oates, “29/31”

In 1926, Albert Einstein was notably frustrated with the state of physics. The prevailing theories were shifting towards probabilities and the perplexing notion of Schrödinger's cat, which could exist in two states at once. It seemed as if the universe was akin to a casino, with a higher power throwing dice.

However, Einstein was unconvinced: “(Quantum theory) produces a good deal but hardly brings us closer to the secret of the Old One. I am at all events convinced that He does not play dice.”

Imagine this entirely fictitious scenario: You’re engaged in a game of Monopoly and you land on Boardwalk, where a hotel awaits. You find yourself bankrupt, losing the game to an obnoxious relative, and that moment lingers in your mind for years to come.

Why have you been forsaken, oh Lord?

What this chaotic situation truly needs is a Master Plan©! Disregard the skeptics who claim that it’s all meaningless—perhaps the universe rolled snake eyes and delivered a swift kick to your pride. No, this setback is merely a stepping stone in your Master Plan Journey™!

It's understandable why people seek a grand narrative in their lives. While I may disagree, I’m no expert. Einstein, a figure revered in intellectual circles, believed life encompasses more than mere happenstance.

Until 1945:

God tirelessly plays dice under laws which he has himself prescribed.

This implies that existence is indeed a gamble, dictated by mysterious rules and random misfortunes. Just like in Monopoly, you might have felt like a deity to that little metal dog, only to roll poorly and face defeat. Did you really have a plan? No, that was a comforting illusion meant to spare the feelings of your tiny companion.

Even if there exists a Cosmic Chessboard, it’s far too intricate to grasp. Recall the times when that annoying relative's equally obnoxious child attempted to teach you a new game? It all felt chaotic without an understanding of the rules. Life’s misfortunes may appear—if not be—senseless.

It's no wonder that people often harbor disdain for science. It seems filled with individuals who disrupt the comfort of your rationalizations.

The brilliance of religion lies in its unwavering certainty. It presents The Absolute Truth devoid of logical scrutiny, offering all the answers while reassuring you that your beliefs are validated—after all, mankind has created a god in its own image.

At Man’s Faithhouse, your beliefs will be embraced. I assure you!

This vague promise is paradoxically its greatest strength. People generally prefer not to confront harsh realities. Posing questions could lead to unwelcome truths. The downside of scientific discovery is that once a fact is established, it’s yours to reckon with.

So where does the esteemed intellect stand on these matters?

I believe in (a) God who reveals Himself in the orderly harmony of existence, not in a deity preoccupied with human fate.

To put it simply, life happens, and you may never fully comprehend why. When the next round of Monopoly begins, be wary as you grasp those dice. The Divine is indifferent to whether you become a punchline once more. Best to wear protection!

John Werth’s mind is like a Schrödinger kitten, entangled in a complex web of thoughts. It’s quite perplexing in here.

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