Originally Posted by Cyandin

While I agree with your thesis of needing to not live life in constant fear of the unstoppable, I must correct you with regard to the Mayans. Their accomplishments in mathematics (aside from astrological calculations), art, and architecture (just to name a few) are regarded as highly advanced and elegant for their time.

I have been to Tikal and stood atop their pyramids there, which was an amazing and humbling experience to behold, seeing an entire complex of pyramids rising up above the rain forest canopy.

I've also been to Xunantunich in Belize, Actun Tunichil Muknal Cave, and assorted other sites of archeological/cultural significance in Belize and Guatemala. The Maya were, and ARE, a truly amazing people. It's unfortunate that many think they disappeared and/or only made a noteworthy contribution to our civilization in the form of alleged doomsday predictions (again, a misconception; one which you accurately noted).

I have friends there who are of direct Maya descent and speak the language as well also.