Obama Speaks of "a Planet in Peril"

On election night, President-elect Barack Obama spoke of "the greatest challenges of our lifetime: two wars, a planet in peril, the worst financial crisis in a century...."

Earlier this year when I chose the title of my new book, "Spiritual Wisdom for a Planet in Peril: Preparing for 2012 and Beyond," the words "a planet in peril" resonated deeply, just as they did when I heard Obama's speech. For me, they evoke images of Earth changes--extreme weather patterns, climate change, earthquakes, species extinction, and the like--as well as human-caused disasters such as the wars and global economic collapse we currently are experiencing.

Significant changes lie ahead on the path to 2012 and beyond, as I point out in Chapter One of the book, "Signs of the Times." Yet Barack Obama's election in itself is a strong sign of hope for our common future. He shares the vision and consciousness of unity I wrote about that will guide us through these transitional times. He understands that we must overcome our fear of the unknown and of the "other" that divide us. The only way through the turbulent times ahead is together. I continue to believe and hope that we will weather the storms and not only survive but thrive in the years ahead.

Still, we have our work cut out for us. Our new President expects to hit the ground running on January 20 to deal with crucial matters of government. To prepare for a world in transition to a higher consciousness, connecting with our spiritual centers and drawing upon our inner strength is essential. From the core of our being we radiate positive, loving thoughts and intentions and take action to support the highest good of all.

President-elect Obama reminded us that our planet is in peril. But he also called for a spirit of hope and unity to carry us through. The spiritual plane is similarly guiding us to a new way of being. These are exciting times!