Apocalypse in translation from the original Greek has a meaning not many of us assign to it. It means "enlightenment". There are events that occur to every individual, city, nation, or the world as a whole, that cause a shift in consciousness.
The bombing of Pearl Harbor that brought the United States into the second world war and the terrorist attack on New York City that brought down the twin towers were both apocalyptic in that they caused the people of this country to slow their rush through life and focus on a concern collectively.
A natural disaster such as Hurricane Katrina is apocalyptic primarily to those who were directly affected by it.
But there are events much more personal and individual that occur on a daily basis to people all around us that I consider apocalyptic. The unexpected death of a spouse, a child, even a loved pet; the heartbreak associated with divorce, drug addiction or alcoholism; the betrayal by a trusted friend; illness or disease such as cancer. All of these situations as well as many others cause us to reconsider the priorities of our lives and can bring about personal change that leads to greater understanding and spiritual fulfillment.
Why does it take an apocalyptic event to bring about personal, national, or global transformation? Must I have a heart attack before I understand the meaning of living a heart-healthy lifestyle? Can I have a spiritual experience without being close to death? Is it only in calamity that I find reason and purpose? When I was a child, disobedience to stated rules brought about a punishment that was designed to cause me to focus on my personal behavior. All of us, even as adults, are "spanked" by life from time to time whenever we stray, causing us to pause and consider the path each of us travels.
Whenever we are diverted in life from living truth, an event is looming that will cause us to redirect. Living your life consciously will keep you centered on your path where no apocalypse is necessary.
