The Dreamspell Calendar: A Controversial and Misleading Path

The Dreamspell Calendar: A Controversial and Misleading Path
The Dreamspell Calendar, introduced by José and Lloydine Argüelles in the early 1990s, has garnered attention and followers in spiritual communities worldwide. However, beneath its seemingly mystical allure lies a web of controversies, misrepresentations, and ethical concerns. In this concise article, we aim to shed light on the reasons why the Dreamspell Calendar should be approached with caution and why embracing the genuine Maya calendar is a more authentic and respectful choice.

1. Deviation from Authenticity

The foremost concern with the Dreamspell Calendar is its significant deviation from the authentic Maya calendar. While it borrows Mayan symbols and imagery, it fundamentally aligns with the Gregorian calendar, including the addition of its leap day every four years. This departure from the traditional Mayan calendar compromises its authenticity and raises questions about its true roots.

2. Allegations of Hidden Agendas

One of the most troubling aspects of the Dreamspell Calendar is the claim of hidden agendas. Critics argue that José and Lloydine Argüelles designed the calendar to align with their own birthdays, elevating themselves to a unique and central status within the system. This alleged self-designation of significance casts doubt on the calendar’s integrity and intentions.

3. Cultural Appropriation

The use of Mayan symbols and imagery in the Dreamspell Calendar without consulting or respecting the views of Mayan elders in Guatemala has raised concerns about cultural appropriation. By labeling the Dreamspell calendar as “Mayan,” its creators and proponents may be appropriating an ancient cultural heritage for their own purposes, disrespecting the traditions of indigenous peoples.

4. Lack of Transparency

Critics argue that the Dreamspell Calendar lacks transparency regarding its origins and motivations. José Argüelles never explained why he chose to modify the Mayan calendar, and the allegations of hidden agendas further cloud the calendar’s true intentions. This lack of transparency erodes trust and authenticity.

5. Distorted Spiritual Practices

The Dreamspell Calendar encourages followers to engage in daily mantras and practices, but it often fosters a cult-like atmosphere where unquestioning loyalty to its creators prevails. This manipulation of spiritual practices can divert individuals from genuine spiritual growth and self-discovery.

Embrace the Authentic Maya Calendar

In contrast to the Dreamspell Calendar, the authentic Maya calendar, known as the sacred 260-day Tzolk’in, offers a genuine connection to Mayan wisdom and spirituality. Rooted in Mayan cosmology, it has been used for centuries as a tool for divination, timekeeping, and spiritual guidance.

Choosing the authentic Maya calendar over the Dreamspell Calendar allows individuals to honor indigenous cultural traditions, respect the Mayan people, and embark on a spiritual journey free from manipulation and controversy. It offers a path of authenticity, transparency, and true spiritual growth.

In conclusion, the Dreamspell Calendar, with its deviations from authenticity, allegations of hidden agendas, and cultural appropriation, raises significant ethical and spiritual concerns. Embracing the authentic Maya calendar offers a more respectful and genuine way to connect with ancient wisdom and spirituality. It is a choice that aligns with integrity and authenticity in one’s spiritual journey.

Challenging the Dreamspell Calendar: Examining Controversies and Impacts

Challenging the Dreamspell Calendar: Examining Controversies and Impacts
The Dreamspell Calendar, introduced in the early 1990s by José and Lloydine Argüelles, has stirred debates and skepticism within spiritual communities worldwide. While it has garnered followers who view it as a means of spiritual growth and self-discovery, there are significant concerns about its authenticity, alleged hidden agendas, and deviations from the traditional Mayan calendar. In this article, we will critically examine the controversies surrounding the Dreamspell Calendar and its influence on spiritual communities, taking into account the perspective that José Argüelles may have been mistaken.

A Unique Spiritual Perspective: A Critical Evaluation

The Dreamspell Calendar was presented as a modern interpretation of the ancient Mayan calendar, drawing inspiration from Mayan symbols and imagery. Its emergence in the aftermath of the Harmonic Convergence of 1987, a spiritually significant event, played a crucial role in its initial popularity. Some followers embraced it, believing it offered a unique spiritual perspective, one that held the potential for personal transformation and heightened consciousness.

Controversies and Skepticism: Questioning the Authenticity

However, the calendar’s journey was far from without its share of controversies and criticisms. Some skeptics have raised questions about its authenticity, particularly its alignment with the Gregorian calendar, including the addition of a leap day every four years. Mayan elders have complained that they do not observe any day-out-of-time or have a New Year on July 26. Critics argue that these deviations from the traditional Mayan calendar cast doubt on its legitimacy.

Allegations of hidden agendas have also been a point of contention. The claim that it was designed to align with the birthdays of its creators, José Argüelles and Lloydine, has raised concerns about ego-driven motivations. While some proponents vehemently deny these allegations, others find themselves questioning the true intentions behind the calendar’s development.

A Dedicated Following with Skeptical Voices

Despite the controversies and criticisms, the Dreamspell Calendar has maintained a dedicated following. Many individuals continue to engage with its daily mantras and practices, believing them to be valuable tools for alignment and self-improvement. However, it is essential to acknowledge the presence of skeptical voices within this community who remain critical of its deviations from the traditional Mayan calendar and the allegations of hidden agendas.

The Dreamspell Calendar’s Complex Legacy

The legacy of the Dreamspell Calendar is a multifaceted one. It has undoubtedly left a significant mark on spiritual communities, contributing to the expansion of the New Age movement and inspiring individuals to explore alternative spiritual practices. Its enduring impact highlights the allure of systems that promise personal transformation and spiritual growth.

However, the controversies surrounding the calendar also serve as reminders of the importance of transparency and authenticity in spiritual practices. The deviations from the authentic Mayan calendar and allegations of hidden agendas underscore the ethical considerations that must be weighed when adopting and promoting spiritual systems inspired by ancient wisdom.

Conclusion: A Call for Critical Reflection

As we conclude our examination of the Dreamspell Calendar, it is essential to approach this subject with a critical and reflective mindset. While some may find value and inspiration in its teachings, the controversies and skepticism surrounding its authenticity and underlying motivations urge us to consider alternative perspectives.

In the end, the legacy of the Dreamspell Calendar prompts us to reflect on our individual spiritual journeys. What are our true motivations, and what do we seek to achieve in our quest for higher consciousness and personal growth? The debates surrounding this calendar encourage us to keep ethical integrity and authenticity at the forefront of our spiritual explorations. In doing so, we can navigate the complexities of contemporary spirituality with greater awareness and discernment.

The Impact of the Dreamspell Calendar on Spiritual Communities

The Impact of the Dreamspell Calendar on Spiritual Communities
The Dreamspell Calendar, introduced in the early 1990s by José Argüelles and Lloydine, has left a lasting impact on spiritual communities worldwide. Despite controversies surrounding its authenticity, hidden agendas, and deviations from the traditional Mayan calendar, it has attracted dedicated followers who see it as a tool for spiritual growth and self-discovery. In this article, we will explore the profound influence of the Dreamspell Calendar on spiritual communities and its legacy in the realm of contemporary spirituality.

A Unique Spiritual Perspective

The Dreamspell Calendar presented itself as a modern interpretation of the ancient Mayan calendar, drawing on Mayan symbols and imagery. Its introduction in the aftermath of the Harmonic Convergence of 1987, a spiritually significant event, played a pivotal role in its initial popularity. Followers embraced it as a means of gaining a unique spiritual perspective, believing that it held the keys to personal transformation and higher consciousness.

Controversies and Criticisms

However, the calendar’s journey was far from smooth. Controversies soon emerged, casting doubts on its authenticity and underlying intentions. Critics pointed to its alignment with the Gregorian calendar, including the addition of a leap day every four years, as a departure from the traditional Mayan calendar. Allegations of hidden agendas, particularly the claim that it was designed to align with the birthdays of its creators, José Argüelles and Lloydine, raised concerns about ego-driven motivations.

A Cult-Like Following

Despite the controversies and criticisms, the Dreamspell Calendar gained a fervent and dedicated following. Many followers embraced its daily mantras and practices, using them as a means to align with its principles. This led to the emergence of what some critics described as a cult-like atmosphere, where unquestioning loyalty to the calendar and its creators was demanded.

The Legacy of the Dreamspell Calendar

The legacy of the Dreamspell Calendar is a complex one. It has left an indelible mark on spiritual communities, contributing to the growth of the New Age movement and inspired individuals to explore alternative spiritual practices. Its enduring impact highlights the strong appeal of systems that offer personal transformation and spiritual growth.

However, the controversies surrounding the calendar also serve as a cautionary tale. They remind us of the importance of transparency and authenticity in spiritual practices and the need to respect and preserve indigenous cultural traditions. The calendar’s departure from the authentic Mayan calendar and allegations of hidden agendas underscores the ethical considerations that must be taken into account when adopting and promoting spiritual systems inspired by ancient wisdom.

Conclusion: A Contemplative Reflection

As we conclude our exploration of the impact of the Dreamspell Calendar on spiritual communities, we find ourselves at a contemplative juncture. The calendar’s influence, with its dedicated followers and controversies, has shaped the spiritual landscape in unique ways. It has sparked debates about authenticity, hidden agendas, and cultural appropriation, challenging us to consider the ethical dimensions of spiritual practices.

In the end, the legacy of the Dreamspell Calendar invites us to reflect on the broader question of what we seek in our spiritual journeys. Is it personal transformation, higher consciousness, or a deeper connection with ancient wisdom? Whatever our individual paths may be, let us remember that the quest for authenticity and ethical integrity remains a vital part of our spiritual exploration. The Dreamspell Calendar, with all its complexities, serves as a reminder of this enduring truth as it continues to be a subject of debate and discussion in the world of contemporary spirituality.

Controversies Surrounding the Dreamspell Calendar

Controversies Surrounding the Dreamspell Calendar
The Dreamspell Calendar, also known as the Thirteen Moon calendar, has been a source of fascination and controversy since its emergence in the early 1990s. Developed by José Argüelles and his wife Lloydine, this calendar system claims to be a modern interpretation of the ancient Mayan calendar. However, its departure from the traditional Mayan calendar, coupled with allegations of hidden agendas and egotism, has raised significant questions about its authenticity and ethical implications. Is this cultural appropriation? In this article, we will explore the controversies that have surrounded the Dreamspell Calendar and their impact on spiritual communities.

The Dreamspell Calendar: A Departure from Tradition

The Dreamspell Calendar made its debut in the aftermath of the Harmonic Convergence of 1987, a spiritually significant event organized by José Argüelles. The Dreamspell calendar presented itself as a playful and artistic way for individuals to engage with a calendar system that purported to be rooted in Mayan wisdom. It borrowed Mayan symbols and imagery, making it visually appealing and intriguing to spiritual seekers.

However, the calendar’s departure from the traditional Mayan calendar raised immediate concerns. One of the most notable deviations was its alignment with the Gregorian calendar, including the inclusion of a leap day on February 29 every four years. While it utilized Mayan symbols, it fundamentally adhered to the Christian-based Gregorian calendar, leading scholars and critics to question its legitimacy as an authentic Mayan calendar.

Hidden Agendas and Ego-Centric Elements

A significant controversy surrounding the Dreamspell Calendar revolves around allegations of hidden agendas and ego-centric elements within its framework. Critics argue that José Argüelles and Lloydine designed the calendar with a concealed intention—to align it with their own birthdays and elevate themselves to unique status within the movement.

José Argüelles himself made statements that implied he had designed the calendar to grant himself and his wife powerful master numbers and symbols. This perceived self-designation as significant figures within the calendar system led to accusations of egotism and self-importance. Critics argue that this deviation from the traditional Mayan calendar was not driven by genuine spiritual intentions but rather by personal agendas.

Impact on Spiritual Communities

The controversies surrounding the Dreamspell Calendar have had a significant impact on spiritual communities that adopted it. Despite objections and criticisms, the calendar gained a dedicated following, and its followers embraced it as a tool for spiritual growth and self-discovery.

One of the consequences of the calendar’s alleged hidden agenda is the perception that it has fostered a cult-like atmosphere different from its professed New Age ideals. Followers were encouraged to align with the calendar through daily mantras and practices, which some argue contributed to a form of spiritual conformity and unquestioning loyalty to its creators.

Preservation of Authentic Indigenous Traditions

Beyond the controversies surrounding authenticity and hidden agendas, the Dreamspell Calendar raises ethical questions about the appropriation of indigenous cultural traditions. Critics argue that by labeling the Dreamspell calendar as “Mayan,” its creators and proponents may be appropriating an ancient cultural heritage for their own purposes.

The authentic Mayan calendar, deeply rooted in Mayan cosmology and spirituality, has been used for millennia by Mayan communities. The use of similar symbols in the Dreamspell calendar without consulting or respecting the views of Mayan elders in Guatemala has led to concerns about cultural misappropriation.

Conclusion: A Controversial Legacy

The Dreamspell Calendar, while attracting a dedicated following, thus remains a subject of controversy within spiritual communities. Its departure from the traditional Mayan calendar, allegations of hidden agendas, and concerns about cultural appropriation have raised ethical questions about its authenticity and impact.

As the legacy of the Dreamspell Calendar continues to be debated, it serves as a reminder of the importance of respecting and preserving indigenous cultural traditions. It also underscores the need for transparency and ethical considerations in the development and promotion of spiritual practices that draw inspiration from ancient wisdom.

The Dreamspell Calendar vs. the Authentic Maya Calendar

The Dreamspell Calendar vs. the Authentic Maya Calendar
The Dreamspell Calendar, also known as the Thirteen Moon calendar, has gained attention and followers worldwide. Developed by José Argüelles and his wife Lloydine in the early 1990s, this calendar system presented itself as a modern interpretation of the ancient Mayan calendar. However, it has faced persistent controversy and scrutiny due to its significant departure from the authentic sacred 260-day calendar in use by the Maya for 3000 years. In this article, we will delve into the key differences between the Dreamspell Calendar and the genuine Maya calendar, shedding light on the debates surrounding its authenticity.

The Dreamspell Calendar: A Modern Interpretation

The Dreamspell Calendar emerged in the wake of the Harmonic Convergence of 1987, an event that marked the beginning of a new spiritual era for many. José Argüelles, a prominent figure in the New Age movement, played a central role in promoting this calendar system. He and his wife, Lloydine, introduced the Dreamspell kit in 1990, presenting it as a playful and artistic way for people to learn and engage with a calendar that was portrayed as Mayan in nature.

The Dreamspell calendar incorporated the same symbols as the genuine Mayan calendar, making it visually appealing and intriguing to those seeking a deeper connection with ancient wisdom. This presentation, coupled with New Age philosophy, attracted followers and leaders of the Dreamspell movement in various countries during the early 1990s.

Controversies Surrounding the Dreamspell Calendar

While the Dreamspell Calendar utilized Mayan symbols and imagery, it departed significantly from the authentic Maya calendar in several crucial aspects. One of the primary points of contention was its adherence to the Gregorian calendar, which includes a leap day on February 29 every four years. This alignment with the Christian-based Gregorian calendar raised questions about its legitimacy as a true Mayan calendar.

Scholars and critics pointed out that the Maya never had a “day out of time,” a central concept in the Dreamspell calendar. This discrepancy between the two calendars sparked debates about the Dreamspell’s authenticity. Moreover, the ancient Maya did not have a set New Year’s day at July 26th as the Dreamspell, but the beginning date of the yearly calendar would change over time.

The Hidden Agenda: Ego and Self-Importance

One of the most perplexing aspects of the Dreamspell calendar’s development is the alleged hidden agenda behind its creation. Critics have argued that José Argüelles and Lloydine designed the calendar to align with their own birthdays, granting themselves special calendrical numbers and symbols. This alignment suggested an element of ego and self-importance within the calendar’s framework.

José Argüelles himself made statements implying that he had designed the calendar to bestow powerful master numbers upon himself and his wife, elevating them to a unique status within the movement. This perceived self-designation as significant figures within the calendar system led to accusations of a hidden agenda. It seems that unbeknownst to its followers they were led into worshipping the birthdays of the founders of this calendar system and so give their energy away to them.

The True Mayan Calendar: A 260-Day Tzolk’in

In contrast to the Dreamspell Calendar, the authentic Maya calendar is a sacred 260-day Tzolk’in. This ancient calendar was a fundamental part of Mayan culture and spirituality. It revolved around a combination of 20 day-signs (such as Alligator, Wind, or Serpent) and 13 numbers, creating a cyclical pattern that repeated every 260 days without any interruptions or lost days in time. Hence, the genuine Maya calendar did not include a leap day like the Dreamspell calendar did, and it did not deviate from its traditional structure to accommodate external influences. It was deeply rooted in Mayan cosmology, serving as a tool for divination, timekeeping, and spiritual guidance.

Conclusion: The Dreamspell Calendar’s Authenticity Questioned

The Dreamspell Calendar, despite its visual resemblance to the genuine Mayan calendar, has faced persistent questions about its authenticity. Its alignment with the Gregorian calendar, the inclusion of a “day out of time,” and the alleged hidden agenda behind its creation have all contributed to an ongoing debate.

While the Dreamspell calendar has garnered a following and contributed to the New Age movement, it remains distinct from the sacred 260-day Tzolk’in used by the Maya for centuries. The controversy surrounding its authenticity highlights the importance of preserving and respecting indigenous cultural traditions and the need for transparency in spiritual practices that draw inspiration from ancient wisdom.

The Harmonic Convergence and Its Influence on Spiritual Awakening

The Harmonic Convergence and Its Influence on Spiritual Awakening
The Harmonic Convergence of August 16-17, 1987, marked a pivotal moment in the history of the New Age movement. Organized by José Argüelles, an influential figure in this spiritual community, this event brought together thousands of individuals from around the world. It was hailed as the beginning of a new, more spiritually enlightened era and had a profound impact on the collective consciousness. In this article, we will explore the significance of the Harmonic Convergence, its origins, its spiritual implications, and its enduring influence on contemporary spiritual practices.

The Genesis of the Harmonic Convergence

The origins of the Harmonic Convergence can be traced back to the visionary mind of José Argüelles. A notable art historian and author, Argüelles was deeply immersed in the exploration of ancient cultures, particularly the Mayan civilization. His work, “The Mayan Factor,” published in 1987, introduced a broader audience to the idea of interpreting human history through the lens of the Maya. Argüelles was a charismatic figure who believed that humanity was on the cusp of a profound spiritual transformation, and he saw the Mayan calendar as a key to understanding this evolution.

Argüelles had not come up with the specific dates for the Harmonic Convergence himself. Instead, these dates were provided to him by Tony Shearer, a Sioux Indian, who identified them as the first two energies in the true traditional Mayan/Aztec calendar: 1 Imix (Alligator) and 2 Ik (Wind). This collaboration laid the foundation for what would become a global phenomenon.

The Vision of the Harmonic Convergence

The Harmonic Convergence was more than just a gathering of individuals; it was a shared vision of a new era to come characterized by unity, higher consciousness, and spiritual awakening. Participants believed that during this celestial alignment, a powerful influx of energy would inundate the Earth, facilitating a collective shift in awareness. It was seen as a moment when humanity could come together to usher in a more harmonious and spiritually connected world.

The event’s name, “Harmonic Convergence,” alluded to the harmonic resonance that was believed to occur during this time, aligning individuals with the higher frequencies of the universe. The choice of dates, August 16-17, 1987, was significant, as it was said to coincide with various celestial phenomena, including a rare alignment of planets in the solar system although many astrologers would contest that.

The Global Gathering

The Harmonic Convergence captured the imaginations of people from diverse cultural backgrounds, spiritual beliefs, and walks of life. It served as a unifying force that transcended geographical boundaries. People converged at sacred sites, energy vortexes, and gatherings organized worldwide to collectively meditate, pray, and engage in spiritual practices.

In the United States, particularly in locations like Mount Shasta and Sedona, large groups of participants gathered to witness the dawning of this new era. Similar events occurred in other countries, making the Harmonic Convergence a global phenomenon. This collective consciousness resonated with the idea that human beings could play a role in the transformation of the planet through their spiritual intentions.

Spiritual Significance and Expectations

The Harmonic Convergence carried profound spiritual significance for its participants. Many believed that it marked the beginning of the end of a materialistic and ego-driven era, opening the door to a more spiritually attuned existence. It was seen as an opportunity to release old patterns, heal collective wounds, and embrace a more holistic way of living.

Expectations ran high as individuals anticipated a powerful cosmic alignment that would trigger personal and global transformation. There was a shared hope that this convergence would serve as a catalyst for heightened awareness, compassion, and unity among humanity.

The Legacy of the Harmonic Convergence

While the immediate effects of the Harmonic Convergence may not have lived up to some of the grand expectations, its legacy endured. The event succeeded in creating a global network of spiritually minded individuals who remained connected through shared experiences and a commitment to personal and collective transformation and this meant that a very real change had taken place.

The Harmonic Convergence laid the groundwork for subsequent spiritual movements and gatherings. It fueled the growth of the New Age movement and inspired individuals to explore alternative spiritual practices, holistic healing modalities, and a deeper connection with the Earth and the cosmos.

Conclusion: A Time of Unity and Transformation

The Harmonic Convergence of 1987, organized by José Argüelles and inspired by the ancient Mayan calendar, was a watershed moment in the world of spirituality. It brought together people from diverse backgrounds in a shared vision of global transformation and unity. Although the immediate effects may not have fulfilled all expectations, the event left an indelible mark on the spiritual landscape. It served as a catalyst for spiritual awakening and paved the way for the emergence of new spiritual paradigms and practices. The legacy of the Harmonic Convergence continues to inspire individuals to seek higher consciousness, unity, and a deeper connection with the universe.

The Origins and Evolution of the Dreamspell Calendar

The Origins and Evolution of the Dreamspell Calendar
The Dreamspell Calendar, often referred to as the Thirteen Moon calendar, is a unique system of timekeeping that emerged in the early 1990s. Developed by two Americans, José Argüelles, an art historian, and his wife Lloydine, a dancer, this calendar system has drawn both intrigue and controversy. The Harmonic Convergence event of 1987, which marked a significant turning point in the New Age movement and laid the foundation for the introduction of the Dreamspell calendar.

In this article, we will delve into the fascinating history and evolution of the Dreamspell Calendar, exploring its origins, the influence of the Harmonic Convergence, and the controversies surrounding its authenticity. We will also examine its impact on contemporary spiritual practices and the legacy it leaves behind.

The Beginnings: José Argüelles and the Harmonic Convergence

To understand the Dreamspell Calendar, we must first explore its origins in the wake of the Harmonic Convergence. This event, which took place on August 16-17, 1987, was largely organized by José Argüelles and played a pivotal role in shaping the course of New Age spirituality of the following two decades until the passing of José in March of 2011.

The Harmonic Convergence was seen by many as the dawn of a new, more spiritually enlightened era. It attracted thousands of people from various parts of the world, particularly in the United States. The event’s significance lay in its resonance with a profound shift in consciousness, a belief that the world was entering a more harmonious and spiritually connected phase.

José Argüelles, a prominent figure in this movement, had been a key promoter of the Harmonic Convergence. His book, “The Mayan Factor,” published in 1987, introduced a broader audience to the idea of interpreting human history through the lens of the ancient Maya civilization and led to an increased interest in Mayan cosmology and its calendrical underpinnings. 

The Emergence of the Dreamspell Calendar

Following the success of the Harmonic Convergence, many expected José Argüelles to continue his exploration of the Mayan calendar and its implications for modern society. In 1990, together with his wife Lloydine, he introduced the Dreamspell kit. This kit presented a playful and artistic approach to learning and using a calendar that claimed to be Mayan in nature.

The Dreamspell calendar utilized the same symbols as the authentic Mayan calendar, drawing attention with its New Age philosophy and aesthetic appeal. During the early 1990s, the Argüelles couple embarked on a global tour, gaining followers and advocates for their calendar system in a number of countries. The movement grew, and individuals began aligning their daily lives with the principles of the Dreamspell calendar. Many followers invested much energy to follow and support it.

Controversies Surrounding the Dreamspell Calendar

While José and Lloydine Argüelles presented the Thirteen Moon/Dreamspell calendar as Mayan, it however deviated significantly from the authentic sacred 260-day calendar still in use by the Maya since ancient times. Notably, the Dreamspell calendar was fundamentally dependent on the Gregorian calendar, including through subordination to the leap day of this on February 29 every four years. This alignment with the Christian-based Gregorian calendar raised doubts about its legitimacy as a true Mayan calendar.

Moreover, scholars and critics pointed out that the Maya never had a “day out of time,” a concept that however was central to the Dreamspell calendar. Despite these objections, the Dreamspell movement gained momentum outside of Guatemala, and its followers adopted a sort of daily mantra to align themselves with this new calendar system. The movement’s fervent adherence to the calendar, coupled with the rhetoric against the Gregorian calendar, created a somewhat cult-like atmosphere.

José Argüelles: A Self-Designated Messiah?

One intriguing aspect of the Dreamspell calendar’s development is the role of José Argüelles himself. Argüelles had not determined the dates for the Harmonic Convergence independently; they were provided to him by Tony Shearer, a Sioux Indian who identified these dates as the first two energies in the true traditional Mayan/Aztec calendar, 1 Imix (Alligator) and 2 Ik (Wind). Interestingly, Argüelles referred to Shearer as “my John the Baptist” in an obituary after Shearer’s passing, suggesting that he saw himself as a messianic figure. As the Dreamspell calendar was developed it no longer referred to days of the Harmonic Convergence in accordance with the traditional calendar but other energies were made up.

Argüelles had also undergone a personal tragedy in October 1987 when his son died in a car accident, an event that deeply impacted him. This tragedy followed the overwhelming success of the Harmonic Convergence, creating a complex backdrop for his continued spiritual journey.

Despite the controversies and criticisms, Argüelles remained a dedicated advocate for the Dreamspell calendar. He even traveled to Guatemala in 1998 to seek the support of the Mayan elders for his calendar system in addition to courting the Vatican to perform a calendar change to the one that he had devised. While he claimed that the Mayan elders saw no contradiction between his calendar and theirs, it has become clear from interviews with Don Alejandro Oxlaj, the head of the council of elders in Guatemala, that their views differed profoundly. According to Oxlaj, the Maya did not see a need to change their calendar, which had been in use for thousands of years and the Mayan elders were also offended that Arguelles had gone to the Vatican for support. After all, it was the Mayan elders whose calendar he had changed.

The Hidden Agenda of the Dreamspell Calendar

Why then had Argüelles changed the original Mayan calendar. One of the most significant controversies surrounding the Dreamspell calendar is this departure from the authentic Mayan calendar and its alignment with José Argüelles and Lloydine’s birthdays. This departure was not openly acknowledged, and followers of the calendar were not informed of the hidden agenda.

The Dreamspell calendar assigned master numbers, such as 11 and 22, to José Argüelles and Lloydine, elevating their status within the system. José Argüelles himself made statements that suggested he had designed the calendar to grant himself and his wife powerful master numbers, further fueling the perception that he saw himself as a special figure within the movement and texts were circulated discouraging independent thinking among his followers.

In conclusion, the Dreamspell Calendar, while initially captivating and spiritually appealing to many, has been embroiled in controversies regarding its authenticity and hidden agenda. Its departure from the traditional Mayan calendar and the alignment of its principles with the birthdays of its creators, José Argüelles and Lloydine, have raised questions about its integrity. Despite these controversies, the Dreamspell calendar still has a limited following in its community, and it may be time to debate and discuss its relevance at the current time.