I think that things happen for a reason...

[Swami]

I hear this all the time. :rolleyes:

Of course things happen for a reason if one is talking Newtonian cause and effect, but there is zero evidence that the little neighbor girl was chewed to pieces by a pit bull to fit into some hitherto unknown cosmic plan.

[Lowlight]

Nor is there any evidence to say that it wasnt.

[Caprinardo Delirio]

but isn't that also just ignoring the inherit pragmatic function those kinds of statements serve to those who utter them? even if they go the whole cosmic scene of crimes, i usually dig what that should mean.

[Veritas]

I believe that it is up to the individual to create meaning/learning/growth out of the events which occur in their life.

The 'reason' why something happens could be irrelevant, if you decide that everything that happens in your life is kindling for your inner fire.