The world didn’t end on December 21. Nor did we all shift consciousness and ascend to higher dimensions. Yet both memes were woven into the strange and awful events of the past month and into our collective hearts. England’s joy at Kate Middleton’s pregnancy (echoing the ancient winter solstice theme of divine birth) was marred by a prank that led to a suicide. The mass murder of 26 children and teachers in Newtown was finally met by a strong collective outcry against the policies that make it easier for sick individuals to get guns than mental health care. These are just two of the many striking stories of cultural lows and highs.
It’s what worlds dying and worlds being born look like up close. Much less reported are all the strong and subtle shifts occurring within each of us as we step into the post-2012 new world. I am reminded of the strange beauty of “frost flowers,” ice sculptures that grow between sea and air. As the poles melt, we may see more of these wondrous meadows blossoming from the sea. The surprise for scientists is that despite being largely made of salt, they’re full of life–each flower is home to a million creatures. The world keeps changing, but the great beauty and mystery continues. May you have a glorious 2013.
Leave a Reply