DEAR READER

By DAVID DAY

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As one of the oldest Dig-sters, I have a worldview that is seen as occasionally wise or, more often, completely fucked up. I can go on about bizarre weather as evidence of climate change, or the mysterious and magical forces that hold sway in the corridors of power, but either way, I'm usually a crazy old man.

But no one can fuck with 2012. However you perceive its mythological symbolism, the year is shaping up to be an important fulcrum in human history. Whether technological or environmental, in sexual revolution, cultural collaboration, or the generational shift of rule and consumerist ideals, it's clear a huge change is around the corner.

Currently, nothing symbolizes this more than the shift toward buying locally. That it is happening so easily and simply bodes well for the necessary lifestyle changes we will need to make in the years ahead. The "10% Shift" movement, documented by Somerville's Joe Grafton, shows the positive and open way in which the change is occurring.

Making adjustments in the way we live may be hard, but as Grafton shows, through enthusiasm and optimism, the force of community is more powerful than any low-level fog blob or mysterious magic.

Joe is fond of this quote from the Hopi Nation, just one of many cultures that point to the year 2012 as a time of change.

Consider it a message from a crazy old man.

The time of the lone wolf is over. Gather yourselves!

Banish the word struggle from your attitude and your vocabulary.

All that we do now must be done in a sacred manner and in celebration.

We are the ones we've been waiting for.

—The Elders Oraibi

Arizona Hopi Nation

DAVID DAY | DAVID@WEEKLYDIG.COM