As Gandalf says, “all we have to decide is what to do with the time we are given.” » (Tolkien, 67). It is crucial to understand Gandalf's use of the word "decide" in this passage. There are times and circumstances that are beyond our control. There are forces that attempt to exercise or impose their will, for better or for worse. It is our own choice whether we decide to join the dark side or resist. Although these forces can influence characters, they cannot completely take control away from beings with free will. Bilbo chooses to let Gollum live and, in doing so, takes pity on the creature while Frodo chooses to take the ring to Mordor, knowing that it risks being corrupted by darkness. These acts of mercy are beyond the will of even the greatest powers “for even the wisest cannot see all ends” (Tolkien, 78). The power to choose, in addition to doing good, also has the capacity to do harm. The Ring and its master, the dark lord Sauron, are powerful evil forces capable of asserting their domination and will over lesser beings. For example, in “The Shadow of the Past”, Gandalf, a very strong character with the best intentions, can be devoured by the forces of evil if he decides to brandish the ring (Tolkien, 55). The One Ring seeks to enslave its wearer, violating the God-given gift of free will..