Our civilization is in for some big changes. 2012 is only a mystery to those who have not yet bothered to find out what it is. It is NOT the "end of the world" but indeed it is the end of an old era and the beginning of an entirely new one. And there will be some turmoil as the old crumbles and is replaced by an entirely new perspective. Both things are happening at once. Simultaneously. Many folks are very fearful of this, expecially the status quo. To put it briefly, it is the end of selfish competition and the beginning of creative cooperation. Emergencies will bring this on. The present selfish control paradigms will be the casualties. If you are planning to retire to Florida, I suggest you learn to swim well. There are also earth changes which are already beginning due to the convergence of our solar system with the Milky Way ecliptic and the vast energies now increasingly bombarding us. There is considerable scientific evidence for this. It is an entirely natural event which is exacerbated by mankind's foolish technology and total disregard for himself and the entire web of life. However, those who dig into this will find that recently some very positive steps have been taken by those who have some insight on this matter. All actions have their consequences and this entire event is an awakening to that. To some, a rude awakening indeed. On the one hand it is a chaotic experience and on the other an opportunity to learn invaluable lessons well, through hands on expereince. Anyone who really wants to find out what it is all about should watch the interviews of various people being presented by "Project Camelot." I especially recommend the insights of David Wilcock. I always thought that the ancient Galactic Mayans presented this as a total "mystery" but then I started to study those who are well aware of what the Mayans actually recorded about it. Google "Dr. Jose Argueles." They were very clear and specific. Of course, the "mystery" aspect is there because this event is very unique but, on the other hand, much is known, although you will never see it on CNN or FOX. Of course, rather than actually finding out, many prefer to guess and speculate. That's okay too, since that won't go on for very long now as the earth changes rapidly increase due to the present convergence never before experienced by humankind on this planet. There is a very long and detailed history behind this and a few will actually find out about it. Also, watch the videos I have on my recently started thread (must see videos). It is all very interconnected.