Sagittarius ♐ Ingress – Make Your Mark

“…but a sanguine temper, for ever expecting more good than occurs, does not always pay for its hopes by any proportion of depression. It soon flies over the present failure, and begins to hope again.”

— Jane Austen (Sun ☉ and Mercury ☿ in Sagittarius ♐)

If life didn’t feel heavier than usual for you at some point during the past month, you might be one of the lucky ones! Maybe you walked a tightrope of emotional fullness as the Sun was eclipsed by the Moon in November or felt inhibited in a voracious quest for intimacy as the Sun conjoined Saturn in profound, penetrating and intense Scorpio in early October. At last, our Sun has entered expansive, optimistic, adventurous, and outspoken, Sagittarius at 3:51pm CST on November 21^st and luck is a fitting theme for this open minded and goal oriented mutable fire sign characterized by the keywords, “I Seek”. Scorpio represents areas of our life where we are often (un)willingly and painfully transformed while Sagittarius is where we begin to derive deeper meaning and a broader perspective from our rough experiences. Eventually, we develop our own system of personal beliefs.

“In a sentence, at the heart of Sagittarius there lies a great craving to explore and understand life.  Whether orthodox or not, Sagittarius, like Leo, is a deeply religious sign, and the word religious is here used in its original sense:  to reconnect.  This means reconnection with the source, with the roots of life, with some sense of meaning.  Whether you find him traveling as a salesman or an archaeologist, a poet or a scholar, whatever profession or job he lands himself in.  Sagittarius is trying to broaden his scope, to enlarge his consciousness.  Life is a curious and interesting thing to Sagittarius.  It is something to be played with, explored, enjoyed, and peered into.  And ultimately, understood.” ^[6]

Simplified astrology books depict Sagittarius as an optimistic and lucky sign, yet are all Sagittarians so happy-go-lucky? Mass murderer, James Holmes, who shot several people during The Dark Knight Rises earlier this year inside a Colorado movie theater was born under the sign of the archer. I say this to tether some of the broad generalizations of Sagittarius that widely exist. There are two sides to every coin and each sign has its own higher expression and shadow.

Sagittarius is an intuitive, energetic and inspirational fire sign, but it is also a sign that is strongly connected to one’s mental state and personal philosophy. I’ve observed that when the optimistic, expansive and freedom oriented nature of this sign is confined; it can sometimes result in a type of depression or detachment from reality which is in stark contrast to the typically jovial, tolerant and philosophical perspective of Sagittarians. Nevertheless, I meet the energy of the archer in many of my favorite people and I am most fond of their generally positive, adventurous, excitable and philosophical nature. I’ve had some great trips and conversations about the world at large with them!

Chiron⚷ – The Wounded Healer

The constellation of Sagittarius is tied to the mythological centaurs, creatures which highlight the combination of humane and animalistic forces that symbolize human nature. As a combination of human and animal elements, centaurs allude to Sagittarius’s connection to higher meaning as a means to make sense of these conflicting forces of human nature. In myth, centaurs were generally depicted as combative, volatile, and drunken beings.

“The first and most effective race to use the horse in battle was the Scythians, skilled archers who took full advantage of its speed and height to become a race beheld in terror and awe. It is claimed that when the Greeks first saw the Scythians they believed the horse and rider to be one, giving rise to imaginative and fear-inspired tales of the war-like centaur.” [1]

This unabashed nature of the centaurs is reflective of the unevolved Sagittarian’s infamous propensity for immaturity and bluntness that may be taken as abrasive at times. It’s true that if you encounter such a Sagittarian, you may want to avoid spilling your deepest secrets to them. Of course, not all Sagittarians are combustible blabbermouths! Legend tells of one centaur in particular by the name of Chiron that was known as a valuable philosopher, teacher, and sage. In many ways Chiron embodied a bridge between man and beast, and possessed spectacular knowledge because of this. He was considered a maverick of sorts: not quite human, not quite beast, and not like the other centaurs. The story goes that Chiron was accidently wounded by a poisoned arrow, but because of his immortal nature, he could not die. Chiron’s incurable injury led him to become a great healer despite the fact that he could not heal himself, hence his association as the wounded healer.

“Sagittarius with his intuition and his vision, is often in touch with many mysteries.  He may have a deep sense, often unarticulated, that life is meaningful, that man is divine, that all things have a purpose and reach a lesson and offer growth.  But the distance between his vision of light and the limitations of being human is a vast one.  The reality of tangible, physical life is always imperfect, always in a way poisoned when compared to the vision he sees. In some strange way, this is Sagittarius’ true wound.” [6]

Sagittarius ♐ and Jupiter ♃ – Expansion and Growth

Traditional astrology deemed Jupiter, ruling planet of Sagittarius as The Greater Benefic. Where Saturn, the Greater Malefic is structured, judgmental and serious, Jupiter is expansive, tolerant and jovial. Both planets are indicative of great teachers in different ways. During transits of Jupiter, one may encounter bouts of good fortune, goal setting, or spiritual and mental growth. On the day that Jupiter was exactly conjunct my Sun, I received a phone call about an amazing internship that I completed over the summer! The positive influences of Jupiter are how Sagittarius came to be known as a lucky sign. Personally, I think there are other factors at work instead of luck.

“It’s that remarkable eye for the opportunity, that intuitive nose that can spot a potential or a possibility thirty miles away.  And also the impulsiveness, rashness, boldness, call it what you will, that gives Sagittarius the flaming nerves to try his luck, where other signs will cower in the wings waiting for something more concrete…The more introverted Sagittarian may not be found frequenting a new disco or roller skating rink.  But he’ll usually be miles ahead of everyone else with a new novel, a new philosophy, a new film, a new cultural phenomenon.  The same gifted intuition works here, but in a more interior way.” [6]

In contrast, Jupiter is not always purely positive and can result in overinflated goals and opinions, overabundance and irresponsibility. With Jupiter as one’s ruling planet, there can be a tendency to overextend oneself, inclinations toward reckless and spontaneous action, and an interest in overly idealistic pursuits that may not be in accordance with reality.

Some of the mythological depictions of Jupiter help to shed light onto the nature Sagittarius. As king of the gods, Jupiter possessed a mighty temper which is a known quality of the fire signs. However, it’s often true that Sagittarians are quick to forget what fired them up in the first place. Another historical quality of Jupiter lies in his ability to shape shift. I’ve mentioned the myth of Europa in my post about Taurus in which he transformed into a magnificent white bull in order to lure her to him.

“Sagittarius loves to play roles – the more theatrical, the better.  Being caught in the same costume twice is quite horrific for him.  His restless mind is always seeking new ways to approach those goals, new costumes, new poses, new techniques.  Change, travel, constant mental stimulus, exploration of unknown landscapes – tell Sagittarius that there really is a hidden treasure under that mountain and he’ll be as happy as any Taurus with his bank account bursting.  Find a Sagittarian who’s forced to circle the same ground over and over again, perform the same routine in endless monotony, and you have found the most miserable of creatures.”  [6]

Sagittarius ♐ and House IX – Broadened Horizons

Sagittarius is also connected with the exciting and adventurous House IX in a natal chart. It is here that themes of higher education, foreign cultures, long distance travel, and belief systems are illuminated. People born with planets in this house often have an affinity for foreign cultures or might be attracted to people with different cultural backgrounds than themselves. It is also where we derive meaning from life experiences and develop our own personal philosophy. I’ve mentioned before that House VIII is where we are often transformed through crisis and House IX often carries the resulting revelations, just as Scorpio flows into Sagittarius.

 “When the hammer falls, we take out the map and look for a new frontier. There’s nothing like a distant horizon to repair a shattered soul. Whenever we reach a personal limit, after a divorce, a career gone bad, when life doesn’t turn out as we hoped it would, to the 9th house we’ll go. We’ll take a trip. We’ll return to school. We’ll seek advice from a 9th house person—an astrologer, lawyer, or priest. We’ll pray for God’s blessings. As we go through the outer 9th house motions, inwardly we’re reaching, stretching and struggling to acquire a new perspective on our world.” [3]

Sagittarius ♐ Vs. Gemini ♊ – Philosophy Vs. Objectivity

The polarity of Sagittarius and Gemini could be likened to the relationship of a student and teacher. I think that these two intellectual signs are a pair of opposites that complement each other more than other pairs. Gemini is a quick-witted and cerebral collector of information while Sagittarius exercises a knack for synthesizing what Gemini collects and providing it with true meaning. Gemini often excels at critical analysis while Sagittarius often has a much larger and more idealistic vision.

“You’ll often find that the Sagittarius man does his traveling and his wandering on a mental level rather than a physical one.  They are often the apparent intellectuals of the zodiac, devouring books, absorbing all forms of knowledge like tasty meals.  But Sagittarius isn’t an intellectual in the sense that Gemini is; he’s not prone to analyzing with a fine-toothed comb all the bits of information that come into his head.  He’s much more intuitive, and more interested in relating fields of knowledge than in dissecting them.  And his mind is speculative – whether it’s about philosophy, literature, the arts, or the stock-market.” [6]

Gemini as also represented by House III which is opposite House IX in a natal chart. House III represents the objective facts and data of the lower mind. Sagittarius in indicative of the higher mind: our own personal truth and vision that evolves from the lower mind.

“We seek truth in the 9th house. But what we get there are beliefs, an entirely different matter. Its opposite, the 3rd house, is built on facts. The 9th is knit with theories and opinions. While its ideals can open up new worlds, they can also shut our borders and lock us into conflict. ” [3]

“Perhaps it’s just this mystery that makes the 9th house so appealing–how your world can change with just an idea, a prayer, or a strange ritual. What is this power we petition here? Why has every civilization made offerings to it? How has this power poured into us as new concepts, moral guidance, art that endures for centuries? Certainly our 9th house beliefs can trap us and draw a curtain on our growth. They also can take us so far beyond ourselves that we conceive ourselves anew. That’s why mankind is so devoted to the 9th, connecting with God, searching for answers, believing in miracles. There is much in this house to ponder. And definitely much to love.” [3]

Jupiter in House I Mars in House IX – The World At Large

For whatever reason, I am an earthy Taurus born into a family nearly full of fire signs. My mother was a Leo, my brother is an Aries, and my father was born under the sign of the archer. Needless to say, I’ve experienced the combustible and ferocious tempers of each one of them! However, I’ve also seen each of them accomplish the most amazing feats and I wouldn’t be here today without the generosity and influences from of each of them.

My father was a textbook Sagittarian. He was tall, passionate about sports, religious and owned his own small claims practice for years which was also attuned to his Mars in Libra. When I was much younger, he would essentially say yes to almost anything I asked for in stark contrast to my mother. In a way, I believe this was the result of the freedom oriented values of his Sagittarian Sun. He had a habit of speaking very intensely and was a bit intimidating when fired up, but his generosity and commitment to helping others was unparalleled. He even married more than once.

Nonetheless, my father always did seem to have an eye on the future so that when he did pass, my brother and I were beneficiaries to his property. Keeping an eye on the future is one of the greatest lessons that I’ve taken from Sagittarius. Setting goals requires a certain level of hope and optimism and helps one to step outside of their current situation, if only for a second, to see things on a much larger scale. Having goals hopefully creates the belief that you will reach them and it invigorates life as opposed to  flailing around in a dull routine with both eyes on what lies before you.

I’ve spent an eventful 22 years of my life in Houston and more and more each day, I long to find a home away from home. I’ve always longed to travel abroad with Jupiter in my 1^st house and Mars in Pisces in 9^th, but early life never provided the resources to do so. Lately I’ve been intrigued by relocated natal charts and astrocartography maps and after noting the building inner compulsion, I briefly and correctly thought to myself that the ascendant of my next solar return chart must be in Sagittarius. There’s a grand vision of my future that is branded in my mind’s eye and it fuels me to pierce the heart of target that I’ve set for myself. To me, this is what Sagittarius is all about. So this month, ask yourself what kind of goals have you set for your future? Will you hit your mark?

Famous Sagittarians ♐ via CafeAstrology

Some Famous People with Sun in Sagittarius: Christina Aguilera (Sun, Mercury, and Venus in Sagittarius), Tyra Banks, Ludwig van Beethoven (Sun, Moon, and Mercury in Sagittarius), Billy Bragg (Sun and Moon in Sagittarius), Benjamin Bratt, Harry Chapin (Sun, Moon, Mercury, and Venus in Sagittarius), Dick Clark (Sun, Moon, Mercury, and Mars in Sagittarius), Emily Dickinson (Sun, Mercury, and Venus in Sagittarius), Walt Disney, Kirk Douglas (Sun and Mercury in Sagittarius), Brendan Frasier (Sun and Mercury in Sagittarius), Katie Holmes (Sun and Mercury in Sagittarius), Sinead O’Connor (Sun and Venus in Sagittarius), Ozzy Osbourne (Sun and Mercury in Sagittarius), Brad Pitt, Britney Spears (Sun and Mercury in Sagittarius),  Steven Spielberg (Sun and Mercury in Sagittarius), Ben Stiller (Sun and Mercury in Sagittarius), Marisa Tomei (Sun and Moon in Sagittarius), Mark Twain (Sun, Venus, and Mars in Sagittarius).

Damien Rice was born on December 7, 1973 under the mutable fire sign of Sagittarius ♐

Notes

1. Sagittarius The Archer
2. Star Lore of the Constellation Sagittarius: The Archer
3. The 9^th House
4. Jupiter
5. The Sagittarius Myth
6. Astrology For Lovers – Sagittarius

Scorpio ♏ Ingress – Profundity and Perception

“I have to re-create the universe every morning when I wake up. And kill it in the evening, which is a bit outrageous, but there you go. Heee! Well, maybe not every morning, but maybe twice a year I have to destroy everything.

  — Bjork (Sun ☉, Moon ☽,  Neptune ♆, and Ascendant in Scorpio ♏)

As the Sun glides towards a sobering conjunction with Saturn in Scorpio, things might seem a bit more serious for some as the realities of our deepest self are called into focus. Unlike preceding sign, Libra, Scorpio is acutely aware that life isn’t always so beautiful. Yet, could this actually be advantageous? The evolved Scorpio has knowledge that having the courage to face and let go of life’s darkest issues is a path to healing and transformation. And those who ignore the call for change? Well, that’s a very different story.

On October 22 at 7:14pm, our Sun transitions from aesthetic, romantic, and diplomatic Libra into transformational, penetrating, and intimate Scorpio. If Libra represents compromise and the initial romantic stages of a relationship, Scorpio is where the relationship deepens through intimacy and shared resources. Sometimes this increase in depth equates to struggles of power or positive and permanent new levels of understanding. Furthermore, realistic Saturn’s recent shift into Scorpio emphasizes the key lessons of the eighth sign of the zodiac: transformation, sexuality, death, rebirth, and power summarized by the keywords of “I Desire”.

Traditional astrology possesses strong words for Scorpio as a fixed water sign, often depicting it as dark, possessive, vengeful, and controlling. Like Cancer, its watery crustacean counterpart, Scorpio is also modeled after a creature with an exoskeleton indicating that the watery emotional nature of those with strong Scorpio energy is oftentimes concealed, yet fully present.

“This means that Scorpio, regardless of his habitual smokescreens – and make no mistake about it, Scorpio has the best smokescreens of any of the signs – is a sign of profound feeling and sensitivity, easily affected by the emotional currents inside him and around him, susceptible to the feelings of others, easily hurt, sympathetic, compassionate, often intensely lonely, and driven by an almost voracious need for relationship.  [1]

However, Scorpio is secretly one of my favorite signs as it holds several of the most difficult yet valuable lessons I’ve learned in my life of all twelve signs. Learn the lessons of Scorpio and you have the courage to transform and heal yourself and others. The truth is that all signs have a dark side. Scorpio is just typically more aware of this within everyone and its ability to see deeply into other people and situations is a unique gift which translates well into the realm of depth psychology, research, and detective work. Therefore, I think that the set of keywords “I Perceive” is most fitting for Scorpio.

“In order to penetrate it must first draw towards it: Scorpio doesn’t walk into your territory, it doesn’t flirt and cajole, it merely let’s its own energy attract, and when penetrating your secrets it does so having lured you to a place where resistance is low. Like Virgo, Scorpio has an analytical gift: it probes the depths, breaks apart, identifies the dross and eliminates the wasteful or insincere.” [1]

Scorpio ♏, Mars ♂, and Pluto ♇, and House VIII – Passion and Power

The most widely referenced myth of Scorpio stems from the inflated ego of Orion, who once bragged that he could hunt and kill every wild beast on earth. Normally Artemis, goddess of hunting, would take a stand against this but was a bit inhibited by her crush on Orion. Therefore, it was Apollo God of the herds who conspired with Gaia to send a giant scorpion after Orion. Different versions of the story state that is was either the scorpion who killed Orion or Artemis who accidentally shot him in the head while aiming for the Scorpion.

In ancient astrology, Mars was the ruler of Scorpio and Aries indicative of the sign’s tremendous drive and determination. Where fiery Aries represents the more extroverted and outwardly combative side of Mars, Scorpio highlights the receptive facets of the water sign associated with strategy and defense.

“It’s worth remembering that, as much as it may seem a contradiction, Scorpios strongest line of attack is always in defence, where their fixidity brings enduring patience and determination, and their natural resilience makes them seem practically impassable. Consider the role of scorpion gods in ancient symbolism and myth; invariably their function is to act as guardians, custodians and protectors; oblivious to external distraction but ferocious in the cruel retribution unleashed on those who break their sentinel.” [2]

The red planet is also known for its sexual nature, representing desire and libido. Similarly, it’s not uncommon to recognize a Scorpio through their highly sexual nature although it is not always apparent. Most people will not initially the grasp the depth and passion that exists within these human beings. Overall, Scorpio is a sign that prefers to appear unassuming, away from the center of attention. However, maintaining a sense of control over life events is certainly a motivating factor for many scorpions. There are many legends about how scorpions, when tightly surrounded by a ring of fire, have been known to sting themselves to death. Astrologer Liz Greene claims to have witnessed a similar scenario.

“Once in the south of France I watched a group of children surround a small brown scorpion with sticks, so that it was completely trapped.  It committed suicide.” The message here is that Scorpio would rather destroy himself, and go down in flames by his own hand – literally or psychologically – than submit to another’s ultimatum or control.  It’s that damnable pride again.  [1]

The more recent discovery of Pluto led to the assignment of Scorpio as its ruler. Pluto is known as the god of the underworld and similarly, transits involving Pluto are concerned with subconscious psychological issues that may be brought into the light from beneath the surface of our psyches. Although in modern astronomy Pluto is known as a dwarf planet, the influence of Pluto in astrology is undeniable with themes such as the transformation, power, destruction, and renewal.

“By house, the position of Pluto shows where individuals search for truths and deeper meaning. This area of life may be associated with change, upheaval, power struggles, and issues of control. Pluto in aspect to other planets in the chart colors those energies with obsessive qualities, power struggles, the need to find deeper meanings, and willingness to explore and examine. Where we find Pluto in the chart is where we either seek change and transformation, or have it thrust upon us if we refuse to accept our deepest needs.” [5]

 Scorpio is also associated with the eighth house in astrology, a division of a natal chart that deals with subconscious psychological themes, crisis, sexuality, death, and shared resources. These issues sound particularly heated and painful, but they serve a crucial function which allows an individual to transform themselves in order to reach a heightened perspective. Therefore, one could say that the ultimate goal of Scorpio is transcendence.

 “If the 7th house describes relationships forged through equality, in the 8th house we suffer (or profit from) relationships based on inequality. When others enter the intimate waters of this house, they get some power over us. Whether it’s the bank, our parents, the IRS, our sexual partners, even a stranger who happens to push our buttons, and let’s not forget the scythe-master Death—through the 8th we become painfully aware of forces beyond our manipulation and control.” [3]

Scorpio ♏ Vs. Taurus ♉ – Intensity Vs. Tranquility

It’s often said that is polarity that Taurus and Scorpio create is the most intense of all of the signs of the zodiac. As the product to two fixed signs and from personal experience, there seems to be truth in this statement. Students of astrology know all about the tranquil, easygoing, and preserving nature of Taurus. Therefore, it’s no wonder that the themes of Scorpio are well matched in opposition to those of Taurus. A key symbolization of the functions of Scorpio originate from the area of the body that it rules; the groins. Here, processes of attraction, creation, destruction, and regeneration all occur. Taureans are known for exuding a solid, grounded, and stabilizing influence, while Scorpio is known for undergoing periods of deep change and transformation.

Scorpio is the only zodiac sign represented by multiple creatures. In ancient astrology, Scorpio was represented by the serpent, a creature that sheds its skin and was once believed to possess regenerative powers. Next is the phoenix, a powerful creature which represents the crucial Scorpionic themes of death and rebirth. Lastly, the eighth sign has been known to be related to the piercing stare and ability of the Eagle to soar above circumstance.

“Transcendence from the crawling scorpion to the soaring eagle, still predatory, still conveying the essence of patience and penetration, but capable of flight and height, brings together the theme of destruction and renewal as a story of evolution. …All Scorpios feel themselves to be on this spiritual quest of transformation and it should be remembered that their depth of mind is as equally attracted to higher philosophy as it is to depth psychology.” [2]

Saturn in House VIII – Death is a Transference of Energy

From when I was much younger, I have vivid memories of how uncomfortable the prospect of death made me feel. Any talk of life after death would bring me and my Cancerian ascendant to tears. Today, it’s quite the opposite. Three of my immediate family members have passed in the last ten years beginning at the age of twelve and the fact that I remain here on earth, advancing my life is a testament to the reserves of empowerment that I discovered during such trying times. Traditional astrology has some very strong and negative words about my natal placement of Saturn in the eighth house, but as I’ve always said there are no inherently negative placements in my opinion. I like to think that I’ve absorbed the lessons of Saturn in this house well. Some of the astrology books say that individuals born with Saturn in eighth do great in occupations that relate with Scorpionic themes such as death or psychology. As my progessed Sun moves into Gemini, I want to do many things (hence the problem) but I’ve always relished the idea of being a therapist in some way.

Death has been an important theme in my life in so many ways, and the eighth house has served as a reflection of my evolving attitude concerning it. In this way, it also becomes important to think of eighth house decay literally and figuratively is it can oftentimes mean the death of an idea, a process, or an attitude and not just a person. When we let go and allow the things we’ve been holding onto to die, they are then able to transform into something greater that we may have never imagined.

As a Taurus I uphold the typically unusual value that it’s important to reinvent myself, and I owe this belief to the lessons of Scorpio. It’s no secret that Taureans are usually deeply unsettled by change, but with natal Pluto opposite my natal Sun, I almost have no choice but to relent to events that occur outside of my control. There are tremendous reserves of strength and mobilization that await every Taurus who actively face the resistance to change that lies within themselves. I think that what most mattered for me is that I’ve had so many defining events in my life occur outside of the jurisdiction of my control.

Lastly, I want to part ways with this wonderful reference to the nature of Scorpio from Liz Greene. It stems from a reference of Hercules’s battle with the hydra, a creature with nine heads.

“Scorpio is a sign of intense desire; and the hydra’s many heads can mean the many desires of the uncivilized human heart.  Left to grow in the darkness, they can become poisonous, and begin to destroy others.  But they cannot be dealt with by repression.  They must be understood, held up to the light, respected as part of oneself.  And although vanquished, it is a good idea to remember that one immortal head.  For Scorpio, all human beings carry within them the seeds of good and evil.  Evil is not an abstract thing, or somebody else’s fault; it is in everyone.  Human brutality cannot be blamed on society, but ultimately only on oneself.  It is relevant to realize that Freud, the great founder of modern depth psychology, had Scorpio rising.  Therein lies the deepest meaning of Scorpio’s myth:  come to terms with the hydra in yourself, and you redeem the world.”  [6]

Famous Scorpios via CafeAstrology

Ed Asner (Sun, Mercury, Venus, Mars, and Ascendant in Scorpio), Lauren Bessette (Sun, Moon, and Mercury in Scorpio), Bjork (Sun and Moon in Scorpio), Lisa Bonet (Sun and Mercury in Scorpio), John Cleese (Sun, Mercury, and Venus in Scorpio), Jamie Lee Curtis, Danny DeVito, Leonardo DiCaprio (Sun, Venus, and Mars in Scorpio), Richard Dreyfuss (Sun, Mercury, and Venus in Scorpio), Sally Field, Bill Gates, Calista Flockhart, Jodie Foster (Sun, Mercury, and Venus in Scorpio), Whoopi Goldberg (Sun, Moon, and Mercury in Scorpio), John Gotti (organized crime boss – Sun and Mercury in Scorpio), Harry Hamlin (Sun, Moon, and Mercury in Scorpio), Ethan Hawke (Sun, Mercury, and Venus in Scorpio, Shere Hite (who published the Hite Report on Sexuality – Sun, Venus, and Mars in Scorpio),Rock Hudson, Demi Moore (Sun, Mercury, and Venus in Scorpio), Pablo Picasso, Prince Charles, Puff Daddy (Sun, Mercury, and Venus in Scorpio), Julia Roberts (Sun and Mercury in Scorpio), Meg Ryan (Sun, Mercury, and Venus in Scorpio), David Schwimmer (Sun, Moon, and Venus in Scorpio), Nicolette Sheridan, Maria Shriver

Andy Hull of Machester Orchestra was born on November 7, 1986 under the fixed water sign of Scorpio ♏

Notes

1. Astrology for Lovers – Scorpio
2. Skyscript: Scorpio the Scorpion
3. The 8th House
   
4. Scorpio
   
5. Pluto
6. The Scorpio Myth

Libra ♎ Ingress – Self Reflection

“The test of a first-rate intelligence is the ability to hold two opposed ideas in the mind at the same time, and still retain the ability to function.”

— F. Scott Fitzgerald (Sun ☉, Mercury ☿, and Venus ♀ in Libra ♎)

I’ve officially reached the halfway point of my quest to blog about all twelve signs of the zodiac in accordance to the yearly passage of the Sun along the ecliptic, meaning that we have reached the Autumnal Equinox! Naturally, the Sun entered the cardinal air sign of Libra ♎ on October 22 at 9:49 am simultaneously marking the beginning of Fall 2012.

If the Sun’s passage through all twelve signs represent various facets of personality, The autumnal equinox marks a pivotal shift into temporary equilibrium (as night and day become equal in length) while awareness of others comes into sharp focus. In Virgo, we learn the value of self-sufficiency while Libra introduces the fascinating concept of self-projection; the process of defining ourselves through our relationships with others.

There are a couple of interesting myths surrounding the sign of the scales. The most popular Grecian myth surrounds Astraea, a virgin goddess of justice and law who wielded a sword and scales. Astraea was believed to be one of the last immortals who roamed the earth during the bronze age, determining the fates of men based on their degrees of good and evil with her scales. Eventually, the darkness in the hearts of man became so overwhelming that Astraea fled from earth into the sky as the constellation of Virgo. Her scales remained nearby to form the constellation of Libra.

Another more secondary myth is highlighted by Liz Green in Astrology for Lovers and gives great insight into the dualistic nature of Libra. One day, Tiberias, observes two coupled serpents and asks Hera which of them experiences the greater pleasure. Because Hera cannot answer, she grants him the experience of living part of his life as a woman. In the end, when asked which sex experienced the greater pleasure, Tiberias attempts an act of Libran diplomacy in order to avoid offending either sex. The bold act of Tiberias alludes to the trademark objectivity that Librans often possess as an air sign, allowing them to effectively weigh both sides of an issue. However, coming to a conclusion is a different story!Frederick Woodruff beautifully articulates the nature of Libra in his blog post.

“The symbol of the scales is neither human nor animal. Librans are a Platonic concept made flesh; guardians of ideals, upholders of truth, that engage in the circle of life but are not part of it; they are here to remind the rest of us that we’re more than animals with a neocortex (or worse sub-animals and an embarrassment to the species). We’ve higher callings, like beauty. Like truth. Like eventually learning to think like Librans do.”

Libra ♎, Venus ♀, and House VII – Reflection and Projection

Ancient astrology deemed Venus as the “lesser benefic” describing it as a planet of fortunate influence. However, modern astrology has moved away from the notion of planets with benefic and malefic influences. Personally, I like to think that the position of the planets in a person’s natal chart are not inherently good or bad. Each planet has many different expressions of its energy which people might perceive to be easy or difficult depending on the makeup of the chart and the individual’s level of consciousness.

Astrological Venus represents the process of relationships, pleasure, and our aesthetic tastes; all components that most relate to Libra. Many Librans excel in professions concerning law, strategy, and art. Therefore, it’s not uncommon to encounter cliché charming, attractive, highly artistic Libran individuals who may often identify themselves through the relationships in their lives. After all, we’ve all probably possessed the need to be wanted or approved by others at some point.

“Many Librans are all too eager to live in superficial harmony and can be exasperating in their avoidance of uncomfortable issues. Like the betrayed wife who has good reason to suspect her husband is having an affair but would rather not think about it, or the philandering lover who assures you of total commitment before disappearing off the scene – so long as it looks good”

Furthermore, Libra is linked with the descendant or 7^th house in astrology which is the house of relationships. Oftentimes individuals with strong 7^th placements strongly identify through their relationships or may continually meet the qualities of a particular planet in that house through others. For example, a woman born with Mars in her 7th house ♂ might find it difficult to assert herself in relationships and consequently attract a quick tempered or domineering partner as a result. Once we begin to understand that positive relationships involve successful awareness and integration of the parts of ourselves that we encounter through others, we are able to take invaluable steps towards self actualization or wholeness. Dana Gerhardt writes the following about the 7th house.

“Left to my own devices, I see nothing Pisces-like in me. I’m Virgo–analytical, organized, efficient. But through my partner’s sundry imperfections, I gain a mirror into the parts of myself I hide. Imagine this: I’ve discovered I can be forgetful, deceitful, and escapist too! Accepting my partner now gets a little easier. What’s more, embracing my darker Pisces side allows the positive one to emerge. I become more relaxed, more present, more at peace. Perhaps my partner, Robert, is my soul mate after all—if by “soul mate” we mean those people who patiently provoke us… into mating with the forgotten fullness of our souls.”

Gerhardt describes the concept of polarities that I always advocate because as Libra knows, it’s important to know each side to every argument. Each pair of opposite signs is deeply connected. Look further and you might find much more common ground than expected. Opposites really do attract, and you can oftentimes identify this trend through one’s 7^th house. April Elliot Kent also illuminates the complex issues of “self” and “other” that Aries (1^st house) and Libra (7^th house) represent.

“Once someone enters our 7th house (whether as spouse, business partner, or mortal foe), they experience a side of us which is often very different from the initial, welcome-mat Ascendant version of our personality. In sifting with us through the rubble of our rejected dreams, impulses, and personality traits, and mirroring us back to ourselves through our own 7th house, our partners are like Peter Pan’s Wendy, sewing Peter’s shadow back on: they “sew” the shadow (7th house) self back onto our personality (Ascendant) and make us whole again.”

Of course there is tons of literature on love and relationships. Is love a projection of our own desires? Are we truly selfish or selfless creatures? The archetypes of opposite signs Libra and Aries shed valuable insight into these questions.

Libra ♎ vs. Aries ♈ – Harmony and Discord

Popular astrology often depicts Librans as harmonious peace lovers. There are certainly Librans who prefer to keep the peace and strive to avoid conflict, yet this is certainly not always the case. By remembering that Libra is connected to Aries, it becomes much easier to recognize the pioneering, controversial, and argumentative qualities of many famous Librans. Obviously, harmony cannot be constantly perpetuated in a world full of so many disharmonies and Libra is acutely aware of this. Yet, there comes a point when one must state their case!

“…If they hold fast to the deeper spiritual principles of their sign, they will not feel obliged to offer concessions in order to avoid confrontation, but will be happy to take up a position of polarisation, to stand with equal force against whatever they are opposed to. In this sense they become the true ‘equalisers’, the children of the scales who, using the weapons of tact, grace, fairness and reason, are unafraid to meet the challenge of negating oppressive forces. Libra is a cardinal sign, underlain with a strong will that inclines towards initiating changes. Yet of all the cardinal signs Libra is the most underrated force; for their non-intimidating personas can often fool us into thinking that they will give up on their goals far easier than they will.”

One of my astrology teachers is fascinated by the mythology of Eris, one of the more recently discovered dwarf planets named after an ancient goddess of discord and believes that the myth of Eris has strong ties to the sign of Libra. In short, Eris aided in bringing about the Trojan War indirectly by throwing an apple labeled “To the fairest” in the midst of Aphrodite, Hera, and Athena which they battled over. Despite her twisted motivations, Eris actually executed a strategic move which stemmed from ill feelings she possessed from not being invited to a wedding. Here, we can see the strength of Libra’s strategic ability and tendency to stir up conflict indirectly when not aware of their inner self.

“The sooner he climbs down from the ivory tower which is his protection against emotional pain and disillusionment, the sooner he can begin his real work, which is first to marry the conflicting opposites within himself. Whether it’s his intellect and his emotions, his maleness and his femaleness, his spirituality and his materialism, Libra will always find deep conflicts in himself which represent the deep conflicts in life. And as he gradually carves for himself the thin road in the middle, he can truly become the bringer of the Good, the True and the Beautiful – because they no longer exist only in his mind.”

Pluto ♇ Conjunct Descendant in Capricorn ♑ – Authentic Relationships

Not long ago, I had Pluto cross over my descendant at 2° Capricorn. Plutonian energy is intense, profound, and penetrating while often characterized by themes of transformation, authenticity, destruction, and renewal. Next month, I’ll go into more detail about Pluto (ruler of Scorpio ♏). However by combining the basic meanings of Pluto and the descendant one can imagine that this tends to be a pretty impactful transit in astrology.

Eventually, I went through a crucial and initially painful separation and purging of inauthentic relationships in my life that wasn’t exactly by choice (the nature off Pluto). As I look back on it now, I clearly see how letting go of toxic relationships was immensely beneficial and it led to a greater awareness of the positive and negative Plutonian aspects of my personality that I tend to project onto others. It helped me to better embrace change and to see the benefit of relenting to the necessary transformational impulses that so often simmer inside ourselves.

“Through 7th house people we become more whole. That sounds nice, but it’s often painful in practice, for the 7th isn’t just a dance floor. It’s a razor too, scraping the rough edges off our personalities. This is in the horoscope’s design: our 7th house partners stand opposite our 1st house self. That is why the 7th rules “open enemies” as well as our “true loves.” (And isn’t it unfortunate how many true loves become open enemies in the end.)”

So here’s an interesting little exercise for you to do over the next month, if you please. Examine the close relationships in your lives and ask yourself about the reoccurring qualities that these relationships might have in common? How can you better integrate these qualities into yourself? If you have knowledge of your natal chart, examine your 7^th house and its planetary ruler. Chances are you are meeting the unexpressed qualities of yourself in several of your relationships.

“A good rule of thumb is that any individual who provokes us into a strong emotional response, who affects us, has unwittingly invited a shadow dance with our 7th house. Keep your wits. Hold your complaints at arm’s length and study them. Let them send you on a scavenger hunt for those very qualities inside yourself. Of course this spoils the fun of righteous indignation. But it’s worth the effort.”

Famous Librans via CafeAstrology

e.e. Cummings (Sun and Venus in Libra), Matt Damon (Sun and Mercury in Libra), Zac Efron (Sun and Mars in Libra), Eminem (Sun, Venus, and Mars in Libra), Sarah Ferguson (Sun and Mars in Libra), F. Scott Fitzgerald (Sun, Mercury, and Venus in Libra), Angela Lansbury (Sun, Moon, Mercury, and Mars in Libra), Avril Lavigne, John Lennon (Sun and Mars in Libra), Heather Locklear (Sun, Mercury, and Mars in Libra), Emily Post (Authority on etiquette – Sun, Moon, and Mercury in Libra), Kelly Preston (Sun and Mercury in Libra), Christopher Reeve (Sun and Mercury in Libra), Susan Sarandon (Sun and Mercury in Libra), Alicia Silverstone (Sun and Mars in Libra), Bruce Springsteen (Sun, Moon, and Mercury in Libra), Jean-Claude Van Damme (Sun and Ascendant in Libra), Kate Winslet (Sun, Moon, and Mercury in Libra), Yo Yo Ma (Sun, Mercury, and Venus in Libra), Catherine Zeta-Jones (Sun and Mercury in Libra), Mohandas Gandhi, Oscar Wilde

Tina Dico was born on October 14, 1977 under the cardinal air sign of Libra ♎

Notes

1. The Libra Myth
2. Skyscript: Libra the Scales
3. The 7th House
4. Libra
   
5. Gore Vidal: The Best Man

Solar Reflections – A Birthday Analysis

May 5th – Full Moon in Scorpio ♏

How fitting that the Moon ☽ (my chart ruler) is nearly full this year on my birthday this year (May 4th); a culmination of the abundance of valuable lessons that I’ve learned during my twenty first year of life! Many are calling tomorrow’s full moon in Scorpio ♏ a Supermoon due to its proximity to the earth.

Technically, the Sun ☉ returned to its position during my birth at 13° 51 Taurus ♉ at 5:28pm yesterday on May 3rd. Sometimes our Solar Return occurs a little before or after our birthday. This year, it’s an odd feeling that carries much reflection. However, I must say that May 4, 2012 feels incredible! Maybe it’s because of the hard work that I feel I’ve done this year (i.e. consolidating responsibilities through the constricting influence of Saturn ♄ square ☐ Saturn ♄, purging of inauthentic relationships through Pluto ♇ conjunct ☌ my descendant (DC), and learning the power of transcending my ego with the progressed Sun and Moon in the introspective twelfth house (XII). Regardless, I couldn’t feel any more fortunate to have amazing things going for me and amazing people in my life at this time!

Sabian Symbols – Intuitive Tools

I just received my copy of The Zodiac by Degrees by Martin Goldsmith. The book is basically a massive update to the existing 360 Sabian Symbols associated with each degree of the Zodiac (i.e. 0-30 of Aries-Pisces) which can be quite telling. In the introduction, Goldsmith writes:

“Symbols have the power to engage your intuitive faculties. They help you make a direct connection with a person’s basic spiritual energies and penetrate the private language of their own personal mythology.”

Goldsmith’s updated symbols for the position of Sun ☉ in my chart are the following:

13º Taurus A porter studies a pile of luggage and then deftly hoists the bags to his shou

lder

“Descriptive Phases – Assessment-seeing the basic problem underlying seemingly unrelated problems; getting a good handle on a situation; makeshift but serviceable solutions; calmly reassessing one’s balance of priorities and readjusting one’s use of time and energy accordingly (juggling acts); serving society by taking on it’s weightier problems, but only on one’s terms (bail out when personal freedom is threatened, ramblers, working class heroes); keeping one’s head and shoulders above one’s worldly problems; cheerfully accepting one’s lot in life (worriers); escaping a rut vs. being mired in problems; robust and competent handling of everyday problems vs. obstinately sticking with a method that isn’t working; putting in the requisite effort; taking the bull by the horns; resourcefulness.”

This imagery is known as the karmic condition (task to complete in this lifetime) for the placement of the Sun in my chart and certainly alludes to someone who has been called to handle heavy burdens. Naturally, I was exposed to very real issues at a very young age such as poverty, divorce, and death. Most of the time I felt as if the experiences of my friends were so much different than mine yet, I wouldn’t have it any other way. Shouldering such special ‘luggage’ has blessed me with an abundance of confidence and strength to face whatever awaits me in the future. Some descriptions describe 13º Taurus as a degree of extreme self-reliance and this could not be more true especially with my natal Venus in Aries as well. I tend to nurture my visions of practicality. However, I also have to remind myself to relax and open up to the subtle, lighter, and unseen influences of life.

14º Taurus: Crayfish are groping toward land, while high above the shore a modern city rises upon the ruins of an ancient civilization.

“Descriptive Phases – The slow, natural evolution of consciousness or social structures; the instinctive urge to press forward despite internal and ex

ternal resistance; small steps forward that eventually result in tidal shifts; learning from mistakes of the past; crawling out of the muck of ignorance and prejudice and rebuilding society among more humanitarian lines; shedding outlived social structures vs. getting stuck in a shell; crawling out from under an oppressive situation once one has seen the light of day (tentative fumbling while one is still “in the dark”); forming an underground brotherhood that shares breakthroughs in consciousness and tries to guide human evolution; refusing to be bullied or pushed back once one has seen where one is going.”

This second set of imagery also hits home for me and is known as my quest (the result of my efforts). I’ve always thought that one day, I will head my own personal creative and material empire. I like the fact that this degree speaks of modernist notions as I would certainly consider myself to be a progressive and socially conscious individual with an abundance of energy once I begin moving. Everything that I’ve endured in my life certainly fuels me to press forward. I’ve always harbored the Taurean instinct to build my life into something solid, but  also something innovative.

Solar Return – 2011

Yesterday I was analyzing my solar return charts for the past couple of years and I was certainly able to find the major lessons of each year within each chart. The Cancer ♋ Ascendant of my 2011 Solar Return chart on the left easily alludes to emotional and domestic issues. Indeed, I experienced a big security crisis of sorts and moved twice. Ironically, it was a Cancerian woman who was kind enough to aid me during this rough patch.

Naturally the chart ruler of the chart is the Moon at 29′ Taurus ♉ in House XI (groups and organizations). I joined COOG Radio this year and found myself a

s part of an amazing and budding organization.

In retrospect, 2011 was a considerably difficult and emotionally charged year for me, but also a year of immense accomplishment and responsibility which was totally indicated by the placement of the Sun ☉ in House X (career and public status). I spent part of the year feeling as if I had lost my personal effectiveness with my progressed Sun and Moon in House XII (ego dispersion) and working a job that I fell into where I felt highly unsettled. However, there is a happy ending. My domestic situation came full circle (Cancer Ascendant), I found a job that I love (House X) and I am about to begin a fantastic internship with a wonderful organization (House XI) next month!

Solar Return – 2012

My 2012 Solar Return chart on the right is an interesting one, boasting a Libran ♎ Ascendant. It appears to be a spectacular year for my creative pursuits and I am certainly much more creative now than ever before.

The Sun ☉ sits in the Scorpionic 8th House which indicates psychological insight and transformations. I did book an appointment with a therapist. Not really for any specific reason, but mainly for emotional well being. There are sure to be powerful emotional und

ercurrents this year and most likely more big changes so creative outlets and similar methods for emotional purging are essential.

Also, there’s the Moon ☽ again right on the Libran Ascendant!  Saturn ♄ in House I (self and physical manifestations) may help to keep me much more refined and task oriented in as well.

One specific part of  Goldsmith’s imagery for 14° Taurus resonates deeply for me this year:

“Small steps forward that eventually result in tidal shifts.”

All in all, I believe it’s going to be a great year. Keep an eye out for huge waves in 2012!

Photo by Garron Ballard / May 6, 2012 Supermoon / 3am Richmond, Texas

Tina Dico was born on October 14, 1977 in Aarhus, Denmark under the sign of Libra ♎

Taurus ♉ Ingress – The Value of Self-Worth

“Come what may, all bad fortune is to be conquered by endurance.”

– Publius Vergilius Maro

This morning at 11:13am CDT our Sun entered the fixed earth sign of Taurus ♉ and I am about two weeks away from my Solar Return (Birthday). Each year when the Sun enters Taurus, it has passed over what the ancients called the sea consisting of an area of the sky from Capricorn ♑ to Aries ♈. Naturally, the sea derived its name from the prominent amount of constellations that related to the sea.

“As the Sun moves through Taurus when plants take root, our determination and security needs are strong. Taurus is loyal to all that is familiar, and values longevity. ”

“More than any other sign, this is one of hidden reserves of power and strength. Of solidity in form and character.” – Skyscript

Taurus is the first of the earth signs in the zodiac including Virgo and Capricorn, so it is no wonder that many natives of this sign have an affinity for things of the earth such the outdoors, animals, natural science, or the environment. Despite an often inherent practicality and sometimes a lack of inertia, many born under the sign of Taurus are innately productive with a knack for bringing form to their creative concepts through activities such as music, art, and gardening.

Taurus ♉, Venus ♀, Self Worth, and Values

Taurus natives are oftentimes characterized loyalty to their commitments whether personal or professional. In certain aspects of astrology, Taurus is the only sign associated with permanence due to it’s fixed and enduring nature while closely linked with the keywords, “I Have”. Many popular horoscopes nowadays will tell you that this is a materialistic and stubborn sign that sticks to routines, opposes change, and likes to possess. Yet, it’s important to acknowledge the deeper aspects of a sign that is strongly linked to self-worth and inner values. Note that Taurus represents not only what one physically owns, but also what one owns intangibly and spiritually. The constant nature of this fixed earth sign is why it is known for it’s endurance and inclination to experience relative success later in life. Therefore, I want to introduce an alternate set of keywords for Taurus, “I Build“.

Renowned astrologer, Dane Rudhyar writes:

Possessions must be used. This means impressing them with the rhythm of our individuality–—whether that’s material possessions, our natural gifts, or the money we spend.”

“Nothing is more futile and spiritually empty than having without being, and this is true of all kinds of possessing.”

This means that the evolved Taurus is a being of sound values and an acute awareness of innate strength, talents, and self worth. Traditional Astrology reinforces this by relating the sign of Taurus to the planet, Venus ♀, reflective of the sign’s associations with sensuality, material possessions, self worth, and value systems. Evolving door astrology eloquently explains the relationship between Venus and Taurus.

“What we “have” reflects what we’re worth and what we value. But material worth is not the same as self-worth, even though we often equate the two.”

“It (Venus) is also what we “have not” ― the qualities, gifts and advantages that we lack or feel we don’t have enough of. At its worst, this can produce a kind of poverty mentality where we tend to assume that our heart’s desire will always be just out of reach.”

I can certainly say that I have experienced the aforementioned poverty mentality at certain points in my life. I think that sometimes as an earth sign in today’s world, we Taureans can become so materially conscious and concerned with routine that we lose sight of the deeper meaning behind our existence, including those valuable lessons of self-worth and and our connection with nature.

Taurus ♉ and Scorpio ♏ – Stability vs. Transformation

When I was about six years old, I can easily recall the fact that I didn’t like to share. I know, selfish right? Of course, time and social conditioning helped me to realize that the act of sharing is somewhat of a social norm with a whole wealth of benefits. As a Taurus, it’s interesting that memories of sharing are some of my earliest. I think that my early aversion to the act of sharing may have been the first time I began to experience the opposite principals of Scorpio. Simply put, Taurus and Scorpio are opposite signs where Taurus stands for stability, permanence, personal resources and Scorpio stands for shared resources, transformation, and elimination.

The archetypes of Taurus and Scorpio can be seen through the Myth of Pluto and Persephone. The festival of Beltane occurs at the beginning of May each year, symbolic of Persephone’s return from the underworld as nature blooms. While, Samhain occurs at the start of November at the end of the harvest as nature’s vibrancy begins to wither.

Clare Martin states the following in Mapping the Psyche:

“Without the destructive aspect of the life-force that belongs to Scorpio, everything would become static, incapable of change or growth. The point is that Taurus begets Scorpio, retention leads to release, incorporation to elimination, to ensure that nature remains in balance and that the life force is constantly regenerated”

Those born under the sign of Taurus are often gifted with rare powers of reliability, resilience, fixity of purpose, creativity, and endurance with a typically unmatched strength of character. Yet, the Plutonian (Scorpionic) principal of change is not something that Taureans tend to naturally embrace. Despite this, I have found that life unfolds much more smoothly if I strive to create change and embrace it as opposed to waiting until it occurs on it’s own and often painful accord!

The Sun is in Taurus this year until May 20, 2012 when it will enter the sign of Gemini ♊. Happy Birthday to all of my Taurus friends!

Famous Taureans

Leonardo Da Vinci, Wiliam Lilly, David Boreanaz, Megan Fox, Kirsten Dunst,  Penelope Cruz, Enrique Iglesias, Kelly Clarkson,  David Bekham, Robert Pattinson,  Cher, George Clooney,  George Lucas, Rene Zellweger, Jessica Alba, Pierce Brosnan, Bono, Rosario Dawson, Uma Thurman, and Tom Welling.

Trent Reznor of Nine Inch Nails was born on May 17, 1965 under the sign of Taurus.

Earth and Water – A Grand Trine Story

Earth and Water – Taurus ♉ and Pisces ♓

If you are familiar with the basic concepts of astrological compatibility, you might know that in general, Earth signs (Taurs, Virgo, Capricorn) and Water (Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces) signs relate well together. As a Taurus (earth) I’ve had quite a few friends born under the sign of Pisces (water). Most of my Piscean friends displayed otherworldly artistic talent to envy and each and every one of them that I can recall contained a distinct affinity for exercises of the imagination.

A beautifully articulated Article by Molly Hall on About.com states:

“Earth signs can help the emotional Water signs find tangible outlets for imaginative gifts. Like the banks to a flowing river, the Earth sign can guide the Water sign toward a goal. Water can help Earth by softening its rigid structure. If you think of how a potter uses water to soften, and then re-shape clay on the wheel, you get the picture. Water nourishes the ground of Earth with a feeling of being cared for, and this can add a dimension of meaning to their lives.”

I’ve studied the natal charts of many musicians for my radio show, and I have to say that Neptune is certainly a powerful artistic influence in the charts of an abundance of successful artists and Pisces is among the most creative signs.

Like most astrologers, I follow the yearly path of the Sun ☉ across all twelve signs of the zodiac as the location of the Sun in a natal chart at a person’s exact time of birth determines which sign of the zodiac they are. Our Sun spends about a month in each sign, traveling at an average rate of 1° per day. Currently, the Sun, is nearing the end of its travels through the sign of Pisces and preparing to enter the sign of Aries on March 20th.

Seeing as how my own natal chart is primarily composed of planets placed in Earth and Water signs, the  recent astrological weather and the abundance of Piscean energy has been quite nice for me. I have found myself naturally engaged in an abundance of wonderful creative and imaginative projects that I will be posting here on Aphelion Blog as well.

I wrote the following about the astrological sign of Pisces on February 19, 2012:

“Pisces represents gentility, peace, transcending the ego in favor of collective needs, and is often characterized by a boundless imagination, and spiritual resolve.”

Pisces is a water sign, along with Cancer and Scorpio meaning that it is somewhat ruled by the emotional realm. While Cancer and Scorpio tend towards being  more self-protective, Pisces is indeed the most receptive to an array of emotional and/or environmental influences and this is part of what makes them such great seers. Although innately sympathetic and compassionate, the dark side of the sign includes a go-with-the-flow attitude and martyr-like behavior. However, many of the world’s unparallelled artists, and insightful visionaries were born under this highly creative, versatile, receptive, and intuitive water sign including; Albert Einstein, Steve Jobs, and  Michelangelo.

Positively expressed Earth energy is materially conscious, grounded, productive and practical while the opposite extreme can entail rigidity, skepticism, and too much self control.

Grand Trine Earth – Mars ♂, Jupiter ♃, & Pluto ♇

Furthermore, we have a less common aspect called a Grand Trine in the sky between the Earth Signs: Mars in Virgo, Jupiter in Taurus, and Pluto in Capricorn. This aspect is indicated by the light blue triangle on the right in the center of the wheel.

Simply put, a Trine is formed when two planets are 120° degrees of each other and a grand Trine is when three planets all Trine each other. The Trine is thought to be an extremely fortunate aspect, although it is also indicative of complacency. I was born with a configuration of two Grand Trines in my natal chart in the elements of Earth and Water, also known as a Star of David and I can say that the general interpretations about Grand Trines are true.

The beginning of the Mars retrograde period this year in the sign of Virgo brought focus and determination as it formed a conjunction with my natal moon, and formed a Trine to my natal Sun, Moon, Neptune, and Uranus. Transiting Mars in my House VI (Home) also translated into a change of residence, however temporary. Despite the many fluctuations I have faced, I have managed to remain very grounded and focused.

Will Weisenfeld of Baths was born on April 16, 1989 under the sign of Aries in Los Angeles, CA.