What are the signs of these times?

"In the same way, when you see these things happening, know that the kingdom of God is near.  Amen, I say to you, this generation will not pass away until all these things have taken place.  Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away."  (Luke 21: 31 - 33)

Jesus implies that the signs of the times can be observed with certainty.  We can interpret the signs in nature.  How can we not interpret the signs concerning our destiny.  The  implication here too is that the spiritual signs or the signs concerning our destiny can be interpreted with certainty.

We can observe the chain of secondary causes in action. For example:
Martin needs financial assistance.  Why does Martin need financial assistance?
Martin lost his job.  Why did Martin lose his job?
There was exodus of customers from his company.  Why?
A more cost-effective technology replaced the services the Martin's provided. Why?
Because of recent escalation in investment in technology.

We see how the chain of secondary causes can continue ad infinitum until they stop at the Primary Cause, God.

In religion, secondary causes also terminate with the Primary Cause, God.  This is what is called Providence.

The Catechism of the Catholic Church defines Divine Providence thus:  "Divine providence consists of the dispositions by which God guides all his creatures with wisdom and love to their ultimate end."  (CCC 321)

There could be either accident or providence.  According to the above quoted Catechism, there are no accidents.  Everything is providence.

"We know that all things work for good for those who love God,* who are called according to his purpose."  (Romans 8: 28)