Recap

Generational Forecasting

Author William Strauss outlined the cycles of American history and detailed his prediction for a change or "turning" for the years 2005-2025. Such turnings are "driven by generational change," he explained, with four main archetypes (prophet, nomad, hero, artist) repeating themselves in 20 year intervals.

In this upcoming 4th Turning, he sees the United States in a crisis mode responding to global terrorism, and posits an increased use of technology that may restrict civil liberties in exchange for perceived security. America's young people (the new "Hero" generation) could be enlisted to serve in a National Service Corps, he said. He referred to them as the "Homeland Generation," children who are just growing up now, that never knew how America felt before 9/11.

Further, there will be a return to "classic virtues" during this cycle where honor, reputation, civic duty and strength of family will be highlighted, he noted. Yet Strauss also anticipates "class warfare" in this time frame, driven by the cultural and economic rifts in the population.

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After Dark Sneak Peek

Corinna Underwood tracks the history & practice of lucid dreaming (being conscious that you are dreaming while in the midst of a dream) in the Sept. issue of After Dark. In this excerpt she explains the concept of "reality testing" as a way of attaining lucidity:

Reality testing is simply asking yourself if you are dreaming. This isn’t always as easy as it sounds. But usually is it quite obvious if you are dreaming or not. You may find yourself on an unfamiliar place or doing/seeing something that will not likely happen in reality. But sometimes can you find yourself in your bed, and everything looks as it is suppose to be. You can try to look at the clock then look away, and see if the time is different. You can try changing colors on something or try to fly. Reality tests should be done every hour throughout the day, or more frequently. And especially before going to sleep and if you wake up in the middle of the night.