We at Sounds True recently asked a number of our authors two questions about the phenomena of 2012: 1) What is your view of the year 2012 being identified as a time of unprecedented collective change and transformation? and 2) In your view, what is the best way to respond to these challenging times? What can we do to align with the shift in a way that is most supportive of personal and collective transformation?

We are pleased to present teacher and author Ted Andrews’ responses. For more information about Ted Andrews, please see www.dragonhawkpublishing.com.

What is your view of the year 2012 being identified as a time of unprecedented collective change and transformation?

Over the past few years in my travels and teaching around the world there has been a growing interest in 2012. Unfortunately, most of what I hear is extremely fear based. If we look at Nature as our guide, change occurs regularly throughout the natural world - season to season and year to year. It is constant - only the degree of change way vary. Because we are so connected in our modern world (TV, internet, radio, etc.) to everything happening everywhere, we assume that change is happening much quicker and more dramatically than ever before. This is perception only and it is not necessarily the reality and it is definitely not a reason for fear.

I am a believer in embracing change for the better. As humans grow in knowledge and experience, we realize that we can change and direct our lives more easily. We have much greater personal responsibility in how we live our lives. We have been discovering for the past two decades that the old perceptions and boundaries do not have to limit us. 2012 will offer opportunities to change and re-direct our lives—if we choose. Does this mean we will be facing catastrophic upheavals in society and Nature? No. It just means that there will be creative opportunities to grow, develop, and hopefully enhance our lives more productively—just as we have opportunities every year.

In your view, what is the best way to respond to these challenging times? What can we do to align with the shift in a way that is most supportive of personal and collective evolution?

If we wish to embrace change and make the most of its opportunities, we need to expand our vision from one that is personal to one that is communal. For this to happen we must not give into fear. I have always had a real problem with anyone or any idea that promotes fear or uses fear to teach. My one recommendation that I give to others and which I try to strongly embrace and practice myself is what will help people most with any change—now or in 2012. At the end of each day, ask yourself, “Is there one who is glad that I lived this day? Have I helped make another’s life better?”

For more information about Ted Andrews, please see www.dragonhawkpublishing.com.

Learn more about Ted Andrews’ audio learning course on animal messengers, totems, and signs.