October 2nd 2009

"Every man's life lies within the present; for the past is spent and done with,
and the future is uncertain."

Marcus Aurelius

The current tense opposition between Uranus and Saturn, which has dominated the year, begins to lose some of its grip for a few months, only to return in full vengeance for one final battle in the Spring. In its’ wake it has brought disruption, de-structuring and unexpected events which we have witnessed playing out on the world stage through the collapse of financial institutions, unstable politics, and increased tension within many countries. To re-iterate from a previous ‘chronicle’ – these are volatile times.

There is little obvious relief soon, especially as the planet Pluto begins to join in the fray this month, configuring a deeply challenging aspect to Saturn and set to continue for many months. While Saturn and Uranus in opposition have illustrated the severe tension and fear endemic at this time, Pluto energy coupled with Saturn describes resistance while a slow intense breakdown of ideas, opinions and structures unfolds. The prize can be a global awakening to renewal through transforming values when this long aspect has fully run its course.

One can watch this ensuing world drama and possibly feel fairly detached, but this is unlikely. The outer planets describe our evolution – and although the main events appear to be ‘out there’ affecting the global stage, we are all intimately and inexorably connected to these powerful energies and, of necessity, their qualities eventually filter down to the personal level.

You may have been dimly aware of some powerful force emerging within some aspect of your life. An ambition, relationship, event or deeply ingrained habit that needs closer scrutiny. A situation that continues to pester and seek your attention, yet you appear to be without the ability to both fully understand or to invoke change. Uncomfortable as this may be, you perhaps just hope or expect things to adjust or simply go away. The better course of action is to honestly and openly examine those dissatisfactory aspects of your life, letting go of anything that hampers your personal growth. Not easy. As a species we dislike change, especially when the outcome seems uncertain. For most, personal transformation moves at snails’ pace; we seem to require pain, resistance, great discomfort to inaugurate necessary movement. Pluto asks we sweep away our detritus, our old or outworn structures, even values carefully built over our lifetime. It may be opportune over the next few months, even years, to attempt to make what presently seems like drastic personal change.

The transformative energy of Pluto ultimately cannot be entirely ignored. As changing social, political and economic forces beyond our control unfold over our beautiful planet, so too these times are right for paving the way to individual personal development.

January 2009

"Come gather 'round people
Wherever you roam
And admit that the waters
Around you have grown
And accept it that soon
You'll be drenched to the bone.
If your time to you
Is worth savin'
Then you better start swimmin'
Or you'll sink like a stone
For the times they are a-changin'."

Bob Dylan, 1963

2008 required a sabbatical – but, now 2009 has sneaked in rather darkly, some comment through the months ahead is appropriate.

The next two years offer considerable potential for a major shift in perception. When outer events become extremely testing through apparently insurmountable obstacles, the human species seems able to take a more objective stance, turning inward to take stock of what life is really all about. Priorities get shuffled and adjusted and what seemed to be the life goal of immense significance a short time back no longer holds the same sway.

2009 houses an ongoing planetary opposition between Saturn, presently in orderly Virgo, and Uranus in the chaotic sign of Pisces. These two giants are not best of bedfellows. Saturn insists on order, structure, hierarchy and established authority to remain; the status quo. Maverick Uranus however requires change through innovation, break-up, the disintegration of outworn structures or corroded thinking. Instability follows. A stressful energy to which each of us will be subject through some aspect of our personal life; from this particular planetary energy, there is no retreat. The opposition meets on no less than five occasions taking us well into 2010 when Pluto will join the fray augmenting uncertainty until, and unless, fairly massive world transformation begins to manifest. It will be 2013 before this combined planetary energy has run its course. However, for now, the pivotal months are: October 2008 (the first encounter); February 09, September 09, May 2010, and July/August 2010.

It is worth noting that the last opposition between these outer planetary giants was in the second half of the Sixties. Pluto also joined the fray then too. Bob Dylan was writing music and lyrics for his album ‘The Times-They Are A’Changin’. Cycles such as these cannot pass by without some global revolt. Relentless Saturn forces us to our knees, allowing the disruptive unpredictable Uranus-insight to sweep in change; Pluto then obliges with death and re-birth.

The current planetary episode repeatedly informs of a major opportunity to re-adjust ideas and accept uncomfortable change in order to leap towards as yet unidentified aspirations. Inevitably, some measure of global growth and personal realisation is both the goad and the goal. The pace of events is variable; occasionally extremely slow, often uneasy, but also unexpectedly electric through those months aforementioned. Periods of apparent unreality coupled with entrenched insecurity become the perfect recipe for a shift in awareness both collectively and individually.

Consciousness cannot be measured in the birth chart - it is not displayed. It is the life force - the Sun; we are already there. But, for many of us, it seems we choose willingly to engage with our lives at a pedestrian, frequently unconscious level. Along come a few years of major upheaval, both globally and personally and it seems our back is to the wall. Systematically, we appear to be stripped bare. This can be the climate for considerable awakening. New awareness illuminates murky old vision, seeping through those rare, ‘accidentally encountered’ life events or people. We become potently faced with ourselves, our ‘stuff’, our attitudes and smallness. Given the ‘right’ time, opportunity and, especially, given sufficient pain, we may ask ourselves the ‘right’ questions. The shift can be either so subtle it may scarcely be noticed or quite brutal if unexpected events erupt and disturb. Unquestionably, any shift in awareness, however slight, is deeply empowering and transformative. We are in such a time.

January 2008

Pluto in Capricorn

Pluto moves from Sagittarius at the end of January. Dipping briefly back into Sagittarius in the Autumn – it then settles in Capricorn for the next 13 years. Each of the signs that the three outer planets (Pluto, Neptune and Uranus) transit bring that particular signs’ qualities and attributes into sharper focus. Depending on the nature of the transiting planet, we are able to deal with that signs’ unfolding demands in a specific manner. The outer planets greatly impress the natal chart bringing necessary change, illumination or personal transformation. Pluto transits, in particular, contain the seeds of our deepest metamorphosis.

Those of you with planets in the early degrees of Capricorn, Cancer Libra and Aries are likely to be most affected by this new earthy Capricorn Pluto. More detailed information on the nature of Pluto and how personal planets are likely to be affected will be discussed in subsequent articles. Do look at your horoscope to see if you have any planets in this sign (Sun, Moon, Venus, and Saturn especially). Which area (house) in your chart falls under Capricorn? That particular zone of your horoscope is likely to undergo slow, thorough transformation over the next few years.

Pluto in Capricorn places great value on the virtues: character, integrity and productivity. Social order and law enforcement dominate. Extreme effort is available to attain practical goals and Pluto’s slow journey through this rigid but deeply sensitive sign, includes a breakdown of outworn structures while re-building new systems that will endure. The Shadow side of Capricorn manifests as excessive control; the tyrant; the workaholic; the obsessive entrepreneur; joy-less-ness; depression.

On a global level, part of Pluto’s journey through Capricorn will encompass the establishment of a sustainable, practical relationship between humankind and the threatened delicate ecosystem of our planet. Side by side however, political tyrants may emerge, economic breakdown spiral out of control, leading to certain countries taking draconian measures to re- establish order and security. Ultimately, the Highest principles will dominate and flourish; visionary thinking manifesting as durable, civilized yet purposeful practical growth.

Do call or email me for a free copy of your natal chart.

 

 

March 21st 2007

If the day and the night are such that you greet them with joy, and life emits a fragrance like flowers and sweet-scented herbs, is more elastic, more starry, more immortal – that is your success. All nature is your congratulation...(Thoreau)

Equinox day has arrived heralding the Sun’s new annual solar cycle. The Aries zero degree-point in all horoscopes is a most dynamic area. Describing particularly high energy and a significant starting point, this years Spring equinox, together with Monday’s new moon witnesses a harsh 90 degree angle from Pluto. This suggests an essential demise of outworn, misplaced ideas or negative habits is both overdue and appropriate over the next weeks. Through relinquishing restrictions that restrain and shackle, that cloud clear-thinking or retard creative output, an astonishing personal rebirth is now available. Today commences a Mars-ruled month; personal assertion can galvanise change. On occasion energy-levels may dip, feel elusive or erratic, nevertheless they are constantly re-accessible. Choices that transform and accelerate personal growth are attainable if consistent focus is maintained while unrelenting drive can be pushed to its limits.

February 28th 2007

Not mine own fears, nor the prophetic soul
Of the wide world dreaming on things to come,
Can yet the lease of my true love control,
Suppos’d as forfeit to a confin’d doom.
The mortal moon hath her eclipse endur’d,
And the sad augurs mock their own presage;
Incertainties now crown themselves assur’d,
And peace proclaims olives of endless age.
Now with the drops of this most balmy time,
My love looks fresh, and Death to me subscribes,
Since spite of him I'll live in this poor rhyme,
While he insults o'er dull and speechless tribes.
And thou in this shalt find thy monument,
When tyrants' crests and tombs of brass are spent.
William Shakespeare -Sonnet 107

Leo-Saturn and Aquariun-Neptune in exact opposition today suggest this- the second of their three balancing acts, contains both the most vibrancy as well as a certain urgency, especially when considered with Saturday’s lunar eclipse. The retrograde Mercury recently swimming downstream in poetic, yet rather muddy Piscean waters, re-enters the airy Aquarian back door while Mars has just entered this detached eccentric sign. Rebellious Aquarian themes modified by the pragmatic Saturn opposition to Neptune, offer us individual and collective wisdom which, backed up with Martian pressure and Mercurial forthrightness suggest changes whether political, personal or merely mundane can receive cosmic approval if integrity lies at their core.

The total lunar eclipse falling across Neptune’s sign Pisces and Mercury-ruled Virgo on Saturday March 3rd, will vividly highlight these planetary themes adding particular drama to this full Moon. The unpredictable planetary ruler of Aquarius-Uranus is intimately associated with the eclipse, placed within two degrees of the Pisces Sun.

Visible over the eastern Americas, Europe, Africa, and western Asia, the eclipse begins at 9.30pm GMT on Saturday, reaching its moment of greatest eclipse between 10.43pm and midnight. Depending on visibility, it is considered exact at 11.20 pm. This particular eclipse promises to be a spectacular sight; the Virgo full Moon will be well within the Earth’s shadow and is likely to be deeply coloured by the Earth’s atmosphere. A phenomenon not to be missed.

February 22nd 2007

Enlightenment is like the moon reflected on the water.
The moon does not get wet, nor is the water broken.
Although its light is wide and great,
The moon is reflected even in a puddle an inch wide.
The whole moon and the entire sky
Are reflected in one dewdrop on the grass.
Dogen -1200-1253

Whilst steely Saturn, domiciled in royal Leo presently eyeballs watery Neptune, uncomfortably situated in the detached intellectual sign of Aquarius, yet another great cycle begins to reach its second crisis point. Visionary Jupiter –enthusiastic and impatient, challenges eclectic Uranus, maverick of the cosmos to dismantle and disrupt. Jupiter, powerful in its own sign-Sagittarius may impel Uranus to strike out against stale ideas or suppressed innovation. Uranus, somewhat dampened while it floats through sensitive Pisces could force through ambivalent emotive actions as fiery Jupiter remains a co-conspirator.

Subtly synchronising yet astutely observing the constraints of the Saturn/Neptune current impulse, both a collective and personal longing to re-connect with the divine father, the higher Self or, to seek a more Utopian ideal may be measurably reinforced by this pairing. Jupiter’s far-sightedness challenged by Uranian unpredictability can invoke radical thought, shaping irrevocable change. The current noble Saturn may just possibly comply if sufficient structure and realism accompanies any potential futuristic visions engendered through the coming weeks.

February 12th 2007

Enough, if something from our hands have power
To live, and act, and serve the future hour;
And if, as toward the silent tomb we go,
Through love, through hope, and faith’s transcendent dower,
We feel that we are greater than we know.
William Wordsworth – After-Thought

Bound up within the current planetary opposition between Neptune and Saturn lie various interesting contradictions. Neptune and Saturn are inimical. Neptune dissolves the ego longing to reconnect with the great cosmic ocean whether imagining a return to the safety of uterine waters or through the experience of transcendental union. Saturn, the cosmic policeman requires structure; flesh and bones that shoulder life’s responsibilities and hardships thereby strengthening the ego. Saturn, the lawmaker and disciplinarian accepts nothing without substance, whilst Neptune, the dreamer, artist, or addict attempts to experience and express the mysterious fears, imaginings and longings of the soul. Saturn painstakingly forms the ego through restriction, hard work and self-discipline, ultimately rewarding us with greater personal fulfilment and consciousness. In Neptune’s more muddied waters life is undifferentiated; selfless devotion and acquiescence prevail; willingly, we may submit to the dissolution of the personality in our pursuit of glorious Oneness. Both planets require a measure of the qualities of the other, yet when such powerful planetary oppositions occur, one side may get projected, even rejected, at the expense of retarding their synchronised, immensely creative natural evolvement.

The Neptune-Saturn opposition has been with us since August 2006. The second exact face-off between these planets falls in the final week of February, but their intentions and influence have remained with us over the interim months albeit somewhat diluted. The opposition remains deeply active through the next few months peaking for a third and final period through June. The fixed signs Aquarius, Leo, Taurus and Scorpio will endure the greatest impact from this mighty pairing. Perhaps most especially, those born between August 8th and 15th and February 5th and 12th have the more dynamic opportunity to reform ideas, create or restructure any impelling personal visions thereby strengthening their life purpose. Out of this time new ideas can deeply resonate and slowly seep into the collective consciousness. More than any other sign, Leo in particular can best formulate ideas through active participation with the contrary qualities of these two planetary giants, injecting new vitality to creative thinking whilst seizing any current opportunities. Struggle is indicated yet through these next months nebulous Neptunian inspiration can be distilled and sufficiently grounded releasing demonstrable, imaginative ventures that have authenticity as their cornerstone.

January 14th 2007

Now the moon is almost hidden
The stars are beginning to hide
The fortunetelling lady
Has even taken all her things inside
All except for Cain and Abel
And the hunchback of Notre Dame
Everybody is making love
Or else expecting rain
And the Good Samaritan, he's dressing
He's getting ready for the show
He's going to the carnival tonight
On Desolation Row

(Bob Dylan)

The Sun travels through the last degrees of Capricorn, as the ever-waning Sagittarius moon sheds its final early-dawn light, before silently disappearing from earth’s view tomorrow, to return renewed after the Capricorn new moon on the 19th January.

Saturn, as Capricorn’s ruling planet has dominated the month, and, as co-ruler with Uranus of Aquarius, will remain a considerable influence. The year’s most major planetary alignment depicts Saturn in opposition to the mighty planet Neptune , ruler of the sign of Pisces, which will continue to spotlight Saturn through the coming months. This particular opposition occurs every 35 years and cannot be left unmentioned. Spanning two years, and presently in its second, as a collective, we are already attuned to its effect. Unfolding over the next nine months, the opposition peaks through both February and June. The generation born in the early years of the seventies may especially resonate with this time, just as those born at the last grand conjunction in the late eighties will also connect with this particular planetary gestalt. Saturn, the cosmic policeman faces the transcendence of nebulous Neptune , thereby binding them into disturbing cohabitation.

The Saturn-Neptune opposition symbolizes the mysterious dichotomy within our material incarnation. Saturn-Neptune alignments move us to transform the relatively banal and prosaic concerns of work and career into higher quests, whereby our daily efforts carry more profundity impelling our life-priorities to become muddled, imbued with less-certain meaning; life’s meaning becomes elusive, forming disquieting internal dissatisfaction. An uncomfortable feeling of spiritual alienation, abandonment, and judgment, forces through a new will to attempt to understand the rift between the transcendent and the reality of our world. Yet as humans, we know at some deeper level that we participate in something much larger than ourselves, diversely naming this the divine, the numinous, the spirit, soul or Self. The fear, melancholia and anxiety often felt by individuals born with Saturn-Neptune aspects, presently besets the world psyche; a disenchanted, collective mood-swing may be consciously detected over the coming months. Each of us at some stage this year may experience confusion, or a world-weary malaise that leads us to question our seemingly tenuous existence. We may find ourselves demanding or shrieking, bellowing or sobbing, whimpering or merely whispering: ‘What is it all about?’

We crow over our technical advancements, our super democracies, our personal evolvement, and our superiority over ancient more primitive times. Despite the many millennia, mankind’s behaviour, aspirations and personal woes have but barely altered, yet thankfully, somewhere on our precious planet, the Sun continues to rise.

December 25 2006

The Owl and the Pussy-cat went to sea,
In a beautiful pea-green boat.
They took some honey and lots of money,
Wrapped up in a five-pound note.
The Owl looked up to the stars above,
And sang to a small guitar,
“O lovely Pussy! O Pussy, my love,
What a beautiful Pussy you are.
You are,
You are!
What a beautiful Pussy you are!”

Pussy said the Owl, ’You elegant fowl!
How charmingly sweet you sing!
O let us be married! Too long we tarried,
But what shall we do for a ring?’
They sailed away for a year and day,
To the land where the Bong-tree grows.
And there in a wood a piggy-wig stood,
With a ring at the end of his nose,
His nose,
His nose,
With a ring at the end of his nose.

'Dear Pig, are up you willing to sell for one shilling
Your ring?’ Said the Piggy, ‘I will.’
So they took it away, and were married next day
By the Turkey who lived on the hill.
They dined on mince, and slices of quince,
Which they ate with a runcible spoon:
And hand in hand, on the edge of the sand,
They danced by the light of the moon.
The moon,
The moon,
They danced but the light of the moon.

(Edward Lear).

~~~~~~

balsamic moon ~ december 16 2006

In truth, everything and everyone is a shadow of the Beloved and our seeking is his seeking, and our words are his words. We search for him here and there while looking right at him. Sitting by his side we ask, ‘Oh Beloved, where is the Beloved?’ Enough with such questions! Let silence take you to the core of life. All your talk is worthless, when compared with one whisper of the Beloved.
Jalal ad-Din Rumi (1207 – 1273)

The inverted, desolate waning-crescent moon faces eastward, her light rapidly diminishing. Still faintly visible just before dawn, our nocturnal mother vanishes from earth’s view after Sunday. This-‘the dark-of-the-moon’ phase is steeped in superstition, legend and mystery. The loss of light draws us inward. Secrets may be revealed; perhaps ‘dark deeds’ more likely to occur under moon-less skies.

The term ‘Balsamic’ appears to have originated from the alchemist-astrologers of the middle-ages. The OED has many entries for this interesting word. Among some of the most appealing, which describe this moon-phase relatively accurately would be ‘soothing; restorative; to anoint; to impregnate with balsam; to heal wounds almost at a touch; to perfume; to balsam every mortal woe; to salve and finally, it is noted in one entry that- ‘‘the sweet breath of the cow is healing and balsamic.” Dane Rudhyar (gifted, influential astrologer of the last century) aptly describes the balsamic moon as the mother, or beloved “petitioning the divine spirit in the name of confused and disintegrating earth creatures.”
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The Moon, from a Sanskrit term for measure, remains the primary means by which many peoples in the world quantify time and events. Closely observing changing energy patterns through each of the moon’s eight phases, increased awareness of the rhythmic sun-moon relationship is vividly demonstrated. From conception, structuring, blossoming in the waxing phases, to the harvest and distribution at full moon; through assessment, decline and disintegration in the waning phases, the lunar metaphor unfolds. The balsamic-phase includes closure and restoration. Wisdom gained, is distilled, its meaning infused through the next cycle. Any failures have to be dissolved; inertia challenged. It may be appropriate to dismantle, even that which has been productive, in order to make space for fresh fertilisation which, condensed, may be converted into new vision. This is Nature’s time to rest, recuperate and re-charge. Creating sufficient space for quiet introspection through these dark few days allows deeply intuitive intentions to rise and potentially ripen through the next lunation cycle.

The balsamic personality may encounter many revolutionary challenges, including reform, transformation and self-sacrifice. These are the prophets, visionaries and martyrs, whose lives can be complex as they straddle both the past and the future. Relationships may be problematic-many brief encounters occur, before establishing permanence. Balsamic types may feel ruled by a destiny over which they have no control, which seems to invite a strong desire to reconcile many old differences, healing broken hearts from the distant past. Childhood problems leave deep impressions; they may feel odd, the outcast, and, frequently suffer through a belief they cannot live up to other’s expectations. Being or feeling different, balsamic personalities occasionally are impelled to break ties with the past. They experience life-situations where they encounter or attract volatile episodes, yet can be courageous in adversity, daring to re-invent their self-image. Often highly gifted, with a future vision considerably ahead of its time, once they acknowledge and form deeper trust, they experience greater fulfilment.

The moon enters intense Scorpio on Saturday remaining in this most powerful water sign until Monday. The fire element however, still dominates the current planetary picture. As we race towards the Sagittarian new-moon on Wednesday, the winter-solstice on Friday 22nd, and Christmas day just three days later, this coming week may welcome the intense energy of the fire element. However, making time to be alone, to reflect – even for brief periods will be fruitful during this deeply penetrating, Scorpio-influenced balsamic phase, especially over Sunday. A most supportive aspect between circumspect Saturn with the far-sighted Sagittarian sun can offer inner steadiness and brief detachment, easing any temporary stresses while containing the natural excitement that precedes the festive period.

The balsamic moon, having performed her final release enters into the sanctuary of the solar realm. Absorbed in the creative embrace of solar light, while visibly absent from our skies during the next few days, the fecund moon will emerge once more to distribute the new solar intention.

waning third-quarter ~ december 12th 2006

‘Though I am old with wandering
Through hollow lands and hilly lands,
I will find out where she has gone,
And kiss her lips and take her hands;
And walk among long dappled grass,
And pluck till time and times are done
The silver apples of the moon,
The golden apples of the sun.

William Butler Yeats –(1865-1935)

The ever-diminishing solar warmth and light heralds the approaching winter solstice. While the silent earth appears depleted of growth, seeds lie dormant. This year, the current Virgo third-quarter moon, appropriately, moves in complete concert with the equally waning annual solar cycle. Seen high in the sky preceding dawn, her pace steadily increasing, the sun’s insistent luminosity draws her irrepressibly homeward. Somewhat wearily, she forms the stressful 90 degree angle to the Sun, over Tuesday and Wednesday, framing a final protest. Her goal has peaked, her intentions accomplished, yet an internal crisis of conscience engenders indecision and self-doubt. The moon, half dark, half light; intentions can waver. Newly formed internal re-evaluation may have brought insight, yet externalising any dawning consciousness requires a leap of personal faith. Altering entrenched behaviour may cause resentment from others, generating an inner disquiet. The two final phases in the lunar cycle preceding new moon are steeped in struggle, requiring re-orientation and re-alignment. The emergence of internal revelation, either personal or collective, necessitates firm direction.

Those born in the last quarter phase are frquently required to re-define their beliefs. They may lack flexibility, yet can become pioneers having an eye leaning towards the future. This group contains the natural rebel. However, in order not to experience deep disillusionment, those very rebels require a cause based on sound principles. This waning-phase type may lead lives that are marked by continually turning away from accomplishments, requiring to re-orient the truth as they may have previously known it. They often sever the conditioning into which they were born. Many encounter difficultly, balancing ever-growing inner changes with their outer lives. At least one major life-crisis may force third quarter types to probe deeply into the validity of their beliefs and values.

Pluto, currently situated close to the Sagittarius sun, increases the tension of this already taught moon-phase. The moon in analytical Virgo until Thursday, however, refines and discriminates. A further tension from Capricorn Venus, coupled with either confusion or inspiration from Neptune, suggests that one’s current purpose needs to be well defined over the next few days. The moon’s entry into balanced Libra should diffuse any tension from Thursday, if the brief spat between Uranus and Mercury on Friday is to be avoided. Attention may briefly become scattered, plans may suddenly change, yet the restlessness engendered over Friday can trigger timely insight, which may be usefully integrated into a clarified new concept.

Relinquishing the obsolete, whilst considering perhaps daunting intimations of the future, implies courageous revision of the past. Retaining newly-emerged understanding, whilst dismantling outworn ideas or behaviour, may be painful, yet essentially defines this lunar phase.

 

waning-gibbous ~ 8th December 2006

'It is enough for me to contemplate the mystery of conscious life perpetuating itself through all eternity; to reflect upon the marvellous structure of the universe, which we can dimly perceive, and to try humbly to comprehend even an infinitesimal part of the intelligence manifested in nature.'

Albert Einstein (1879 -1955)

The waning-gibbous phase is referred to in astrology as the disseminating moon. The moon, her speed somewhat slower, her sphere less perfect, now begins to anticipate her return to the brilliance of the sun. Where the waxing moon implied spontaneous and instinctual action, the waning phase suggests assimilation, a conscious growth in understanding. To disseminate is to broadcast, convey, sow and distribute, as well as to disperse, diffuse, dissipate and scatter. This three-day phase can bring to fruition the vision germinated five phases earlier at new-moon. Having become aware of some meaningful purpose at full-moon, the disseminating period in the waning lunar-cycle describes living out that purpose, conveying through a particular medium that which may have deeply impressed, allowing the fruits of some accomplishment to be displayed or communicated.

Disseminating-moon types are invited to steady their vision, to focus their talents, sharing any wisdom gained through their personal experience. They are able to embody what has been revealed to them, integrating their talents and values into a workable life philosophy. Disseminating people, living a conscious life, are urged to anchor their gifts through an adequate vehicle, which in turn, may resonate, awaken and instruct others. The evolving consciousness of this phase-type requires being unfettered, aware and potentially inclusive of others' views, whilst continually refining and questioning the substance of their own particular vision.

Strong and comfortable in her own sign since Wednesday, the Cancer moon may have illuminated internal struggles centred on security. Over Friday, her arrival in Leo suggests more playful activities take precedence. With six energetic, optimistic Sagittarian planets now in the fire-element, together with a dramatic Leo moon, ego-centred action may drive and dominate the coming weekend. Fire can lack sensitivity, so some caution is advised; over-enthusiastic responses could subdue others, especially those with a predominance of water planets in their chart. Mercury closes in on Mars over Sunday - generous, Leo-moon humour should diffuse and deflect any aggression. The planetary elements slowly alter on Monday to include the long-absent, missing earth-element. The ever-waning moon reaches discerning Virgo on Monday, while Venus gently slips into structure-loving Capricorn. The imminent third- quarter phase indicates a crisis point arises next week, yet a considered Capricorn-Venus, will help to lever that crisis, intuitively forming a plan containing both creative and practical worth.

full-moon ~ 00.26 gmt december 5th 2006

The Sagittarian sun’s rays are now fully reflected in the Gemini lunar mirror. The moon, her journey complete, faces the sun, apparently having become its equal. She releases the fullness of the solar light through the night to the earth, as an offering; imploring, as it were, the earth to accept and assimilate the solar intention seeded at new moon. The unusual, imminent gathering of six planets in Sagittarius, further underscoring this solar creativity, may now be perceived in objective consciousness, suggesting various forms of personal realisation. Re-orientation of everyday activities, a change of direction, or a repudiation of old values is possible and, depending on the quality of response released in each individual, a new statement of purpose may be born.

People born under a full-moon phase, in which the natal sun is situated directly opposite in their horoscope, generally experience intense polarity between self and other. Two essential parts of the personality seem diametrically opposed. This week will certainly resonate with meaning for this group. Full-moon types are frequently drawn to relationships in their search for that vital ‘other’. Integrating these polarities is not simple. Only through the experience of conflict will a search for wholeness begin to operate. The experience of life-struggles, especially in relationships, then develops deeper awareness, leading to increasing balance in the personality. The full-moon type, especially, has the potential capacity to cultivate clear-sightedness, generating an increased appreciation of the larger meaning of their lives.

This particular full-moon may, for everyone, briefly present a crisis of yes or no proportions, emphasised by the moon’s journey through the dualistic sign - Gemini. A choice is available: either to seize an opportunity for possibly new, challenging, yet ultimately creative, personal integration, or; to endure the status-quo, continuing to remain in the shadow-lands of potential growth, feeling frustrated and self-thwarted.

The cosmic messenger - Mercury, the Gemini full-moon’s ruling planet and situated in the last degrees of intensive Scorpio - is currently challenged by weighty Saturn and lightening insight is being discharged from Uranus. Through Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, the jollity of Sagittarius may appear briefly muted, whilst truthful awareness rises, illuminating certain aspects of our lives. These three days contain the full-moon’s objective clarity, together with copious creative planetary support, to be both profoundly transforming, yet exceptionally innovative.

waxing gibbous ~ december 1st 2006

The refulgent Aries moon is steadily increasing her sphere. Recently immersed in Piscean waters, Aries’ more adventurous influence goads her swiftly through to the sign of steadfast Taurus on Saturday. She appears to invite, even conspire, with the earth just now, coaxing all creatures to assemble, to celebrate her imminent culmination. The prized solar intention, seeded at Scorpio’s new moon and so vigilantly borne thus far, contains promise and enlightenment.

Those born under a Gibbous moon often inherit a natural vitality. They are clear thinkers, being relatively comfortable with the increasing emotional momentum that precedes a full-moon. Much depends on which combination of the four elements the sun and moon share at birth, but generally a positive approach to challenge is visible in this moon-phase type.

The next few days contain an opportunity to regain ground, perhaps lost at the first quarter crisis, but also demands complete dedication to previously-set goals. If a positive attitude has prevailed through the crisis point, some degree of personal illumination may be gleaned at full-moon. Four planets are currently in the fire element, suggesting energy is plentiful. So, with the current absence of any earth-element planet, it becomes essential to take advantage of the moon’s short stay in Taurus from Saturday till Tuesday. This grounded Taurus moon brings common sense to far-fetched Sagittarian ideas, just as she will scan with a canny eye plans containing substance, nurturing their potential.

Steady nerves and considered responses may be indispensable from Saturday, as the planetary rebel, Uranus, plays a pivotal role in the approach to, and throughout, the full-moon next Tuesday. Electric Uranus can strike blindly; it speeds up the pace of life, inducing both excitability and instability. Uranus represents sudden insight, however, so may offer a timely opportunity to unshackle and discard stale or static patterns.

This waxing-gibbous phase invites an affirmation period. Recognition of the creative potential in the relationship between the Sagittarian sun and current Taurus moon can be revealed, strengthening any wavering intentions.

waxing quarter ~ november 28th 2006

The moon has entered the sensitive sign of Pisces. Through this three day phase, she appears to have distanced herself from the solar source, firmly placing her focus on dispensing vital solar light and intention to the receptive earth. Her sharp sliced line describes the dynamic 90 degree angle of moon to sun, known as the ‘square’ aspect in astrology. This is the second and more major crisis point in the waxing period of the lunation.

Obstacles must be overcome; the remainders of ineffective previous actions thoroughly cleared away at this time if new intentions are to proceed. Wilful activity is at its peak, indicating objectives may need clarification, even alteration. Unexpected outside influences can topple carefully-constructed plans; routine daily contacts may cause setbacks. Several small personal crises may all appear to come at once. In tandem with the moon's quarter phase, the assertive planet Mars ‘squares’ Saturn, suggesting further friction of a similar nature. This duet represents a formidable force. Mars, currently in Scorpio, contains strong survival skills while, equally, Saturn in the noble sign of Leo is unlikely to demonstrate an easy surrender. A third ‘square’ between Neptune and Mercury describes a short period of confusion, especially on Wednesday. Communications require clarity; deceptive tactics are to be avoided. The following three days may be eventful, are likely to be challenging, even occasionally irritating, yet not insurmountable.

The first quarter phase always asks that we push beyond others’ expectations, ultimately discovering and possibly manifesting more of our real identity.

waxing crescent ~ november 23rd 2006

This is the beckoning moon. Briefly visible in clear western skies, wistfully, she unexpectedly appears. First sightings of the fragile crescent can delight, whether with nostalgic gratitude on her return, or, as the harbinger of, as yet unrealised potential. Likened to a sickle, she appears to be clearing old ground to forge or force through bold new ideas. Significantly, the youthful crescent-moon also displays a faint image of her full disc, perhaps implanting anticipation of the full-moon light that is yet to come.

Having garnered the fiery creative spirit of Sagittarius, she reaches Capricorn on Thursday whose more restrained stamina, born of the earth element, offers practical structure to budding plans. The sun has entered Sagittarius, while Jupiter stands at its portal until Friday. This time in the lunar month is creatively potent yet inherently impatient.

One of two crisis points in the waxing lunar phase occurs over Friday, suggesting struggle and conflict may briefly arise. New concepts can only become real if the remains from the past have been sufficiently cleared, and the will for self-challenge is genuinely focused. Indeed, a certain rigour and alienation must be faced over Friday and Saturday. The circumspect Capricorn moon can fortify scattered ideas which could bode useful now, albeit for a brief two days before her arrival in erratic Aquarius on Sunday. Meanwhile, Jupiter’s lavish enthusiasm will engender many lofty options through this period; the difficulty may lie in carrying them forward to enjoy some form of fruition.

new moon ~ november 20th 2006 22:18 GMT

This is possibly the most significant, and indeed serious, New Moon of the year. Perhaps it will not surprise those of you who know me well that circumstances have chosen it to launch the moon diary. New moon phase is frequently a period of instinctive, youthful, essentially unconscious and irrepressible activity.

As you may like to occasionally refer to your natal chart, if you require a copy, please email me.

The relationship between the sun and moon as described in the natal horoscope is complex. It defines much about a person and their approach to life. The diary will attempt to unravel this mysterious relationship over time. People often describe themselves only by the sun sign - I am a Sagittarian, Taurus or Gemini - but perhaps it would be more accurate to say I am a new-moon Sagittarian, or a full-moon Taurus or a waning-quarter phase Gemini, thereby disclosing that intimate yet dynamic connection the natal sun inevitably shares with the moon. A new-moon type person tends to be subjective, impulsive and emotional in their responses to human relationship and social interactions. This may produce a state of confusion occasionally, as there’s a tendency to spontaneously project themselves on to others or any immediate situations that may arise.

Today’s new moon will particularly resonate with those last degree Scorpios born between 19th and 20th November, as well as Sagittarians born between the 21st and 24th November. It may also trigger natal charts in polarity to these signs, i.e. Taureans and Gemini’s born between 20th and 24th. Equally, it offers a creative energetic charge to any planets in the early degrees of the fire signs Leo and Aries. Indeed, any planet or point in the natal chart close to 28 degrees will be activated. The area (house) of the horoscope which this new moon highlights can be especially vibrant over the coming month, suggesting different approaches to that house’s affairs could be explored, as the potential to inaugurate change will be available.

The current Sun/Moon/Jupiter conjunction in the rather unstable last two degrees of Scorpio symbolizes not only a fresh search for truth but also an emotional need to remain in control, maintaining a position of power. Mars and Mercury also in Scorpio offer their influence to more truthful action alongside considered thought. Courageous new decisions can take place that may shed false layers built up over time, to which we often needlessly cling. This New Moon in Scorpio can expose both truth and vulnerabilities, yet also offers the strength to quietly relinquish destructive behaviour patterns. The Scorpio moon almost immediately enters life-affirming Sagittarius, remaining till Thursday when its delicate crescent shape becomes briefly visible in our skies once again. The Sun emerges into this future-oriented fiery sign on Wednesday joining both moon and recently arrived Venus, while Jupiter’s more triumphant arrival home to Sagittarius falls on Thursday. An increasing shift of emphasis may be perceived over this week, replacing Scorpio’s intensely dogged survival needs with Sagittarius’s more far-sighted optimism.

 

© annie mccausland 2009