THE end of the world is merely days away and surprisingly, it's being greeted with some pretty upbeat reactions.
According to the ancient Maya Long Count calendar, Dec. 21, 2012, marks the end of the 13th b'ak'tun, a 5,125-year cycle, at which point the universe will destroy and renew itself.
Although it's not entirely clear what the Maya expected to happen on that day, Westerners have no shortage of apocalyptic theories. These delightful scenarios might involve the sun destroying the world in a fiery, hellish solar storm or Planet X colliding with the earth, eliminating all life.
But there's no reason to believe that any of it will come true, said Marvin Cohodas, a professor of art history at the University of British Columbia who has studied the ancient civilization for decades.
Cohodas compared the fuss to that of Y2K. "A little over 1,000 years ago Christians thought world was going to end on the millennium date. Nowadays, there are very few Christians who would predict when end of world will happen," he said.
"Similarly, the ancient Maya believed the cosmos would recycle in this 5,125-year cycle, but contemporary Maya, they don't believe that anymore."
Time is sacred to the Maya, and there will certainly be ceremonies held in Central America in honour of this transition, but if anything, there's an anticipation of good luck.
"The Maya have been possessed and exploited for 500 years, so they are hoping for some change."
That's a sentiment that intuitive Cheryl Brewster wholeheartedly agrees with. From a spiritual perspective, she said, the new era gives way to "ascension," an event that propels the earth into harmony and provides chances to grow and serve others.
"There is opportunity to create massive change on the planet," said Brewster, who regularly hosts workshops in West Vancouver.
"It's exciting, it's dynamic, it's alive and it creates community," she said.
As for all the Armageddon hype, Cohodas chalks it up to a moneymaker.
Countless books, movies and attractions on the topic have been successfully marketed to the public and our desire to find a deeper meaning in life makes for an easy target, he said.
"There are many people making money off building end of the world bunkers, that you can survive the end of the world in. As if that makes any sense."
Those looking to go out in style need look no further than the Doomsday parties being hosted by local bars and businesses.
Zazou Salon & Spa in Lynn Valley is throwing a post-apocalyptic zombie-themed fundraiser all day Friday.
Donations of clothing, bedding and food will be given to the North Shore Lookout Society to support those on the street.
"Since we're all going to be homeless anyway, we're doing a clothing and bedding drive," joked manager John Cowie.
"It's about wanting to help the community and having fun doing it."
A zombie survival kit featuring a tomahawk hatchet, first aid kit, camping gear, hand sanitizer and barricade tape is also up for grabs.
