The day I thought the world would end is one of the memories that stands out in my mind, as my 50th birthday approaches and I reflect back on my half century of existence. The day was March 10, 1982, and I was sure that my worst fears would come  true - that I would never get to drive,  graduate from high school, and never have the opportunity to get married and live on my own.

For years there had been rumors that great havoc and destruction would sweep planet Earth when all nine planets aligned on the same side of the sun on March 10, 1982- just two months before my high school graduation. For years I lived with a certain amount of dread and anxiety deep in my spirit with this looming disaster approaching.

Although the alignment of planets has actually occurred many times in history, and does so about every 20 years, there were fears that the gravitational pull of having all the planets aligned would cause huge earthquakes, destructive tidal waves, and volcanic eruptions.

Of course, as it turned out nothing bad happened. Just like nothing bad happened on January 1, 2000, and again on December 21st 2012 when the end of the world once again was foolishly predicted.

One thing I learned from it was to not worry about things I have no control over. Worry accomplishes nothing, and certainly does more harm than good. Another thing it taught me was to not believe everything I hear.

I have to admit, however, as Y2K approached, and again nearing the end of 2012, I couldn't help but wonder "what if they are right this time?" I wasn't worried or fearful, just thoughtful.

Now as I get to age 50, I know I have fewer days ahead of me than are behind me. If the "end" of the world should come, I have no worries. I have lived a full and satisfied life. I'm ready to go.

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