Many Christians noticed that they were not Raptured over the weekend. For some, this seemed a bit odd. For most believers, though, this didn't come as much of a surprise. After all, the book of Matthew makes it quite clear that no one -- except God -- knows the date that Christ will return and gather the righteous. Some followers of Harold Camping, the preacher who foretold the date of the Rapture for May 21, 2011, and who has been predicting that the world will be completely destroyed on October 21, 2011, though, were disappointed to still be here. It turns out he had - oops - miscalculated (again!).
This left some of Preacher Camping's followers in a somewhat awkward situation, having in many cases drained their bank accounts and given away many of their possession.
What Not To Do As You Prepare for the End of the World
Given that rapture has not been cancelled, but rather delayed until October 21 (maybe - pending further miscalculations), it helps to be better prepared next time. When you look at the possibilities, it really does appear as though something might happen in terms of earth-shattering destruction. It might be something as mundane as complete economic collapse, or the result of a natural disaster. Or it could be something that even Preacher Camping could not predict. Even if you do expect the end of the world to be imminent, here are some things to avoid:
- Don’t sell off all your goods. You might need them the day after the world ends. Especially if it turns out you weren't as righteous as you thought.
- Don’t run up a ridiculous credit card bill. VISA will still expect you to pay, even after the world ends.
- Don’t default your taxes. Yes, there are only two things certain in this world: death and taxes. Neither one excuses you from the other.
- Don’t have wild, unprotected sex with everyone you meet. Diseases and babies don’t know the world will end.
- Don't send Rapture messages to friends and family. Not only is gloating in poor taste, but what happens if you aren't Raptured? Now you've sent this message, and you're still here. Awkward.
It's always a good idea to prepare for the unexpected. You can do this by living within your means, paying down your credit card debt, and taking steps to be ready for emergencies. Indeed, many people believe that the world as we know it could very well end soon. They believe this for reasons ranging from religious to environmental to warfare to a zombie attack to technological Armageddon. Whether you think that there will be a governmental collapse, or even if you just suspect that another depression is on the way, it's a good idea to be prepared.
Getting Ready for the End of the World
From natural disasters to car accidents, we all face unexpected financial challenges. So, rather than get rid of your financial assets (not even Harold Camping, who maintains that the world will end in October, is giving away his possessions), build them up. Create home food storage, prepare your finances to withstand a recession/depression, and know what to do in a emergency. Then, no matter what tribulations the world's end brings with it, even if it is a zombie attack, you will be a little better prepared to meet them.
