Isn't it interesting how many times destiny is also tied to the idea of happiness? Something I just thought of as I was reading your post. Not always of course, but when we talk about destiny, it's often focused on the positive outcomes of the word. Sure you do hear people talk about someone and say things like "they were destined to end up in prison", but it's not nearly as common.
Yep, good point. Maybe that's people's sense of hope coming through, I'm not sure to be honest. People have good intentions for things to work out but destiny isn't going to make it happen, actions will (as per my post), so I don't think that destiny is responsible for negative results either. Maybe it's best not to use the word as liberally as we do.
"They were destined to fail due to the inaction, poor planning and lack of correct equipment and training," seems a better and more accurate statement than, "they were destined to fail."
Just an example of course, but the word, destiny, takes on a different meaning in the above context I think.
Yes, I agree with you, context is very important. It's important to include the "why" component when you are using the word. It kind of gives it a whole different meaning.