eneral strategies are outlined in this section addressing both social and political initiatives. These general strategies are both independent of one another, yet clearly connected as one without the other would create an imbalance that could derail a positive future agenda for society.

The "social strategy" put forth lays a framework that, from the start, unites people who are already taking initiative or leadership in creating an awakened society with many more who already resonate with this. It also unites both the religious and the secular in a consciousness of the heart and in so doing energizes people to rise to the occasion of social and spiritual awakening. This social strategy, called Decade of the Heart, offers the possibility of diverse practical and social expressions of our highest aspirations. Its proposed initial campaign is guided by the understanding that forgiveness and reconciliation are a portal to global awakening, freeing us to connect with our higher selves.

The "political strategy" emphasizes the values, actions, and integrity of leadership for those holding or seeking office, and in leading social-political action campaigns. The strategies do not center upon any one party or the formation of a "positive future" third party for its own sake, but rather on ways to connect people, regardless of party affiliation, who are willing to stand for a positive future with integrity and resolve. (This does not mean however that a new party embracing spiritually aligned, positive future values and positions is undesirable. On the contrary, a new party standing for an awakened world could play a valuable and influential role, as long as voters or party members are not forced to choose along party lines.)

Both approaches – social and political – focus on movement toward a more positive future, seeking to find the commonalities within our multitude of socio-economic groupings and alignments. "Bridges" are then identified that can bring seemingly disparate individuals, associations and organizations together, organized around a new and more inclusive paradigm: integrating the greater whole through connection, service, and spirituality.

We begin first by offering a backdrop to the current national and world stage and a look at some future outlook indicators. Ultimately, real change is about using our precious gift to consciously choose.

Do we choose an enlightened life or death by disconnectedness and denial... or worse?