Understanding the Mayan Calendar: Selections from “The Book of Destiny: Unlocking the Secrets of the Ancient Mayans and the Prophecy of 2012” by Don Carlos Barrios (vegetarian), Part 2 of 3

In today’s program, we are going to explore the meaning of the Mayan signs governing each day of the Mayan months. Don Carlos Barrios wrote the following about the significance of the 13 months in the Cholq’ij calendar: The 13 numbers are conceptualized similar to a pyramid. From numbers 1 to 7 we are climbing with much effort. At the number 8 we are in a position where perfect harmony is possible and on the top of the pyramid, and 9 to 13 is directed downhill, creating more ease with the energies, as they are no longer so forceful in developing us. This varies slightly between men and women: for men, 8 is considered to be the top of the pyramid as they are considered to typically be more balanced physically and have to struggle more to reach the spiritual levels than women, where 9 is the top of the pyramid, where they are typically thought to be slightly less stable in the physical realms but have an easier time accessing the spiritual. “Our Grandfathers warn that this ancient tradition is not to be treated as a curiosity, not to be indulged in as a form of entertainment, and not to be used selfishly. Instead, it should guide our growth on all levels - physical, intellectual, emotional, and spiritual. Mayan life and spirituality are built on understanding and using the following signs, which governed the Classic Mayan world and have been preserved by our traditional Elders. On August 17, 1992, the planet entered a new cycle, one of comprehension, wisdom, and harmony. This new cycle is a time of great change in the world’s social and economic structure. For this reason, the doors of Mayan wisdom are being opened to humankind. Now that the period of darkness has ended, the Elders have resolved to publish the Mayan signs as an instrumental way of understanding our true purpose. The hope is that everyone will orient their life based on their sign and follow Saq B’e (the White Road). Respect for historical accuracy is one of the strictest and most important rules: not a single word is ever added to or removed from our texts or oral tradition. This book (The Book of Destiny) is a commitment to reality - that is, to our Grandfathers’ vision. Although as human beings we have many limitations, we can find a way to overcome them in the depth and transcendence to be found in these signs. The task of using the signs in one’s personal life, however, requires a real desire to conform to a new way of life that balances technology and harmony with nature.”