That’s a saying that you’ll often hear from self-help gurus, “the universe will provide.” It implies that we just have to put ourselves out there, and if things are meant to be, somehow things will turn out alright.

I’m not totally sure what the intention behind this philosophy is. Is it to soothe us? Do we need to chant this in order to give ourselves peace of mind when things don’t work out? Are we supposed to be consciously waiting for something? And what if the universe isn’t ready yet - when will it be?

The worst possible stance would be to use this motto as an excuse for inaction and laziness. “The universe didn’t give me that promotion, so I’m going to the pub.” And then we wait for the perfect timing to do something. But there’s no such thing as perfect timing.

I have an inkling that many people would be happier (and possibly more productive) if they removed all notions of “fate and destiny” from their lives. I don’t want it to rain on my birthday, but the universe doesn’t give a shit.

There...