Tomorrow is 12/21/12. According to the Mayan calendar, that means the world is supposed to come to an end. Even though I never believed this was going to happen, there were a few times over the last year when this prophecy slipped into my mind, giving my imagination a little workout thinking about impending doom and computers crashing à la Y2K.  Mostly, though, I used it as an excuse to live life to the fullest (or party like it’s 12/21/12).

I’m happy to report that I got the low-down from my big bro that the world is not going to end on Friday, and I trust him as a reliable source because he lives in Mexico City and has actually spoken to Mayans about it. As he tells it, the Mayans are bummed that everyone is so poorly misinterpreting their prophecy.

To the Mayans, the end of their calendar does not mean the end of the world, but rather marks the beginning of a new and better era for the human race. They believe that with each new era the world is supposed to bring more abundance to man both in the physical and spiritual realms. As humans we will continue to advance with greater knowledge and improved quality of life.

The end of their calendar, in essence, should be interpreted as a rebirth into a new and better phase of our lives. A time to become more fully enlightened.

Whew, what a relief!

My brother went on to tell me that throughout the country there are groups of Mexicans that are caravanning from town to town with a runner in front of them carrying a flaming torch (imagine an Olympic runner carrying a torch). The torch symbolizes the Mayan rebirth and a new beginning. They’re running from the dark into the light. Those Mayans are very wise.

Have you been living in fear of the end of the world?  If not, what other darkness has been living inside of you? Now is the time to shed any disappointments, negative habits, and thoughts of the past and let the dawn of this new era allow you to experience a rebirth. Let go of the past, and let yourself reach for the light. Believe that this new calendar year will bring you more abundance – and I’m not just talking material abundance. I’m talking about an abundance of love, peace, courage, and spiritual growth. If we can cultivate peace, harmony, and positive change in our lives, we can be the change the world needs.

December 21 also marks the winter solstice, the shortest and darkest day of the year. Use this momentous date to remind you that the dark days are over. It’s time to move forward as each new day brings the opportunity for more light and love in your life.

I’ve been participating in an 8-day winter solstice celebration at Yoga Bliss Akron, and that is the underlying theme of the program: let go of the dark and embrace the light.

So, with a big high-five to the Mayans and their auspicious prophecy, I’m sending out a wish for each of you to embrace and flourish in the light of this brilliant New Year to come – a wish for you, me, and the entire universe to live this mantra.

Lokah samasta sukhino bhavantu

May all beings everywhere be happy and free,

and may the thoughts, words, and actions of my own life

contribute in some way to that happiness and to that freedom for all.