Confused and concerned about 2012? You’re not alone! An explosion of books, movies, TV documentaries, and internet videos and blogs paints conflicting, even terrifying pictures of humanity’s future. Will 2012 usher in a time of severe Earth-changes and eco-disasters that end life as we know it? Will global financial collapse and wars over scarce resources continue to threaten our security and lifestyles? The new mega-disaster movie, “2012”, graphically contributes to the fear and hype that surround 2012 and what may lie ahead for Planet Earth.
What is likely to happen in 2012--if anything--and what can we do about it?
Much attention focuses on a particular date, December 21, 2012, when Earth, the sun, and the center of the Milky Way galaxy align and complete a long, cosmic cycle. The Mayan Calendar, kept by precise timekeepers for thousands of years, appears to end on or about this date. Does the ending foretell Doomsday—or is there another, more hopeful interpretation of this and other ancient prophecies?
Many of the world’s thought leaders and spiritual teachers are envisioning and working toward a transformational consciousness shift. This shift, in which people come to recognize the interconnectedness of all life, must take place in time to halt potential disasters and trigger a golden age of peace, harmony, and creativity for our planet. When people learn about steps they can take individually and within their communities to create a more positive future, they will respond, say these leaders and teachers, and co-create solutions to the world’s greatest ecological, economic, and social challenges.
Whatever happens on December 21, 2012 or at any point in the near future, plenty of evidence exists that our world is in the midst of a significant transformation and that the outcome is increasingly up to us. By holding up to the collective consciousness a vision of a peaceful, sustainable global society, our thoughts, intentions, and actions lead to a world transformed.
To participate in the new consciousness of a world that works for all, here are five steps each person can take now to make a difference:
1. Envision a new way of being.
Creating a world that works for all life on Planet Earth begins with envisioning what that world might look like. Imagine it, write it down, and share your vision through conversations or a blog. Listen to other’s visions and find what you hold in common. Set an intention to work with others to bring about this vision. Join or create an organization that carries forward your vision.
2. Understand that everything is connected.
The transformational consciousness shift will happen when people recognize that everything in the universe is connected. Science and inner wisdom teach us this basic truth. Each form of life is a unique expression of an interconnected whole and can influence the whole. This understanding is empowering but carries with it the responsibility to contribute in positive ways in service to the whole.
3. Choose an Earth-friendly lifestyle.
If you must move because of Earth-changes or lack of basic resources such as food, water and transportation, plan ahead where you would go, how you would get there, and what you would take with you.
n the event of disrupted communication systems and loss of power as a result of predicted solar flares, create a back-up system or learn to live off the grid.
Learn to live simply and sustainably on the Earth. Reduce, reuse, recycle. Calculate your carbon footprint and your use of natural resources and limit your consumption so that all may have enough and Earth can heal from human misuse and overuse of resources
4. Thrive in a new, sustainable economy
If the global economy continues its decline, create a new kind of economy in your community that is fair for everyone, using available resources. Create a local system of bartering goods and services and possibly a local currency. Support local micro-businesses and set up means of trade with neighboring communities. Grow food in community gardens, whether you live in the city, the suburbs, or a rural area.
5. Create community and an action plan.
In the event of severe Earth-changes and economic collapse, you will need a community for mutual support. Start to build that now with family, friends, and neighbors. Have a disaster preparedness plan for your community and companion animals. Establish basic food and water sources, housing, health care, and education needs and how they will be provided. Ensure that you have all the skill sets and experience you need in your community.
No matter what scenario lies ahead for 2012, you will be prepared if you take these five steps. There’s no need to fear the future, despite all the dire predictions, if you have set a vision and taken steps to ensure that life on Planet Earth will thrive beyond 2012.
Dr. Laura Dunham is the author of “Spiritual Wisdom for Planet in Peril: Preparing for 2012 and Beyond” (Langdon Street Press). Visit her online at www.healingandwisdom.com and www.2012iscoming.com.
