I think it is a little bit of both.  Coincidences definitely happen, they happen all the time.  I also believe in fate.  There are many different paths to reach the same destination.  Sometimes we can handle it on our own and sometimes we need help. 

 If you have ever looked into the big TOE (Theory of Everything), it is suggested that everything is random and only becomes what it actually is once until it has been observed by conscientiousness.  It is very interesting.  Great topic by the way!