[chaz64]

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I could be wrong, but haven't all of Desmond's visions been something that Desmond himself could/would have observed if steps had not been taken to avert them? And theories have been that he has already lived all of these events (possibly multiple times) and his visions are actually memories.
In this case he must be lying about the vision of Charlie dying, since there is no way he could have observed Charlie drowning with as much detail as he said (flashing yellow button etc). So I guess either he's lying or that theory is shot down.

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This is a very interesting point actually and I had to think about it for a while. I then realized a possible solution - Desmond follows Charlie down at some point. Perhaps that is why he offered to go in his place. Des knew they would both end up down there and since he could push the button himself, why should they both die when he can spare Charlie and still get them rescued?

Maybe Des is tired of "flashes" and feeling like he screwed his life up and part of him is ready to die.