I was using the example of chess as a parable or a metaphor for the game of life. :-) So here we are back to parable and metaphor again...

You know, the way some people play chess (me included), you would think their lives DID depend on it!

What I mean when I say everyone has what they "need" is a little mysterious, I'll admit, but it hangs on this: I don't believe we live just one physical life. I believe we live many. Accordingly, the soul gets what it needs, although the body may not, from the body's point of view, in certain difficult circumstances. I don't believe I am the body, I'm just making use of it at the moment in order to have this life experience here and now.

If you don't believe that, however, then we are talking somewhat at cross purposes.

Regarding the nature of evil, there's a very interesting book I could recommend, by a psychiatrist, called "People of the Lie". It's a superb book, revealing much about dysfunctional emotional states in people who could be termed "evil" in their nature. Check it out if you can.

Regarding spiritual philosophy, I highly recommend "Conversations With God - Volume 1" by Neale Donald Walsch. Don't be put off by the title...just read the book with an open mind, and see what it tells you. You will find a boatload of common sense in it, whether or not you believe in "God" or in anything spiritual.

Seriously. Anyone who is willing to think creatively would enjoy those 2 books.

- LH