It is hard for me to come to a conclusion about the universe. This question, speaks to me of the nature of the cosmos itself, just as your carefully chosen headline image suggests. :)
If the universe is predetermined, then destiny is a real thing. If it is random happenings of sub-atomic particles and atoms, then free will doesn't exist.
I've read a few interesting papers arguing for both (free will existing vs not) - and there is no clear conclusion. If free will didn't exist... why would we be able to ponder it? Gets into highly metaphysical realms of thought the more you ponder over the toipic.
My view is that I can change the future, by what I do right now.
Good point, there is a probability that there is no free will, according to the Sanskrit texts of India called the Vedas. Everything is going on by the "modes of nature" by nature. We can at most desire, but we are not the doers.
Exactly! We make our own futures.