Question: Since all is pre-ordained, is our self-realization also pre-ordained? Or are we free there at least?
Answer: Destiny refers only to name and shape. Since you are neither body nor mind, destiny has no control over you. You are completely free. The cup is conditioned by its shape, material, use and so on. But the space within the cup is free. It happens to be in the cup only when viewed in connection with the cup. Otherwise, it is just space. As long as there is a body, you appear to be embodied. Without the body you are not disembodied — you just are.
Nisargadatta Maharaj, “I AM THAT”
