The World Will Not End in 2012

In the news today, Egypt decided to cut off Internet access for the ENTIRE COUNTRY due to civil unrest and protests:

Egypt Cuts Off Internet

This got me to thinking about 2012 and the supposed end of the world.   As most people probably have read or heard from other sources, there are some that believe the world will end on December 21st, 2012.   Why or how this will occur is subject to debate.   Some believe there will be some world wide catastrophe. Yet, others believe that perhaps in 2012 there will major changes to humanity and how we live.

In my humble opinion, I think that in 2012, there will be some incident involving the world being cut off from the Internet.  This may be accidental or intentional.  Regardless, being cut off from the Internet will have a drastic affect on everyone.  Just think about the majority of people who do their shopping, banking, and other activities online.   There are others whose social lives revolve around email, instant messaging and Facebook.  This incident will last for some time and cause unrest.

Eventually Internet access will be restored and the world will get back to the way we know it.  However, there will be a chance in the attitude regarding the Internet.  The Internet has been a godsend for online activities and fast communication.  Yet, meeting up with people, talking on the phone and other live social activities can never be replaced by electronic communication.

In 2012, I believe there will be a fundamental change in the way the Internet is viewed and used.  Online shopping, banking and other activities will still continue.  But real human interaction will once again rise up as people realize that a phone call to a friend beats an email.  Meeting up with someone beats just exchanging instant messages.

Who knows, I could be wrong and the world could still end in 2012.  If that is the case, we'd better enjoy it for what it's worth now!

2012 the movie: Typical Hollywood Fare

If you were not familiar with the theory that the world might end sometime in December of 2012, you probably got a little education with the release of the film (aptly titled) 2012 this weekend.

I'm not going to summarize the theories that have been thrown out there on why the world might end in December of 2012. If you're curious, watch the History Channel as they have had many shows covering this topic recently. If you happen to miss any of the shows, it's ok. Given the interest in this topic, the shows will likely be repeated many times from now until 2012! Also, Wikipedia has a summary of information on 2012 as well:

2012 Phenomenon

I'm also not going to summarize the plot of the 2012 film. It's really a typical Hollywood film. Take a subject matter, write some story around the events, throw in some drama and then have a happy ending. I will say that the film is entertaining and will make lots of money. However, as with many Hollywood blockbusters, you'll probably have to suspend belief in certain situations.

While the film's happy ending was predictable, the fact that the remnants of the people on Earth were saved by getting gigantic arks was an interesting nod to Christian mythology. In fact, animals were shown being moved to the Ark as well.

Overall, while I liked the film, there are a couple of points I hope people take away from the film besides being entertained:

1. I hope that people take some time to learn more about the 2012 theories. None of us know what will happen in 2012. However, it doesn't hurt to be educated and prepare if needed.
   
2. I hope that people enjoy life every day like it's their last. Regardless if the world ends in 2012 or tomorrow, we should enjoy our time with friends and family.