https://pjmedia.com/richardfernandez/2009/08/24/the-mandate-of-heaven/feed/PJ Media is a leading news site covering culture, politics, faith, homeland security, and more. Our reporters and columnists provide original, in-depth analysis from a variety of perspectives.en-usWed, 10 Jun 2026 07:02:49 -0400<![CDATA[The most problematic dimension of decisions is their futurity. It&#8217;s not what decisions are about that is most worrisome. It&#8217;s what they will lead to that we don&#8217;t anticipate that causes the most problems. A turning changes a trajectory in a fundamental way. Take choosing a pair of sunglasses. If you buy an expensive pair, they&#8217;ll look funny unless you have a shirt to match, which will look strange unless you&#8217;ve got pants to go with them and they in turn will force you to buy a good pair of shoes. You can get a whole new wardrobe from a choice of sunglasses. Here&#8217;s another example from those familiar with the tabloids. Newly divorced or widowed men who for some reason think to date a supermodel-type girlfriend may soon find they&#8217;ve acquired more than a new romantic interest; that they&#8217;ve bought into a whole new lifestyle &#8212; as their purchases of hair gel, tooth implants, gym training and contact lenses will soon prove.]]>Mon, 24 Aug 2009 22:51:25 -0400<![CDATA[Richard Fernandez]]>https://pjmedia.com/richard-fernandez/2009/08/24/the-mandate-of-heaven-n189015