I didn't want to say anything, but everybody's culture bashing made me step in and bring to your awareness that the Mayan's did not predict that the world would end on the 21st of December 2012.
The Mayans simply inscribed in stone the ending of a 26,000 astrological era. This winter solstice marks a 5,000 year alignment and a 26,000 year alignment. You can check this with modern science and learn more about the uniqueness of this event.
Arrogant scientists tried to decipher these markings and without fully understanding their culture, beliefs, and language told the world the Mayan's predicted that the world will end. An era will indeed end.
But there is one thing everyone can learn from this. If you live like the world is going to end this December, you will live a more fulfilling life and remember not to hurt the ones that love you. If the world does not end, it will be a better world for our children.