Astrological principles, purpose, and potential

A few words about astrological principles and their purpose and potential from C.A., an associate in the field of counseling.

The birth chart, the natal chart is the blueprint of the agreement that the soul makes for its purpose of incarnation. Thus, when one understands astrology, one always has at their fingertips the means by which to understand the purpose and reason of one's character and one's being, as to why one may react and act in certain ways, why one may feel that certain events and circumstances are preordained. It is not that astrology is an ironclad contract, it is more simply a flexible blueprint that can help to understand oneself as they journey through life. The contract that is made in spirit is indeed a flexible contract, and spirit never holds that one must fulfill that which was contracted, and it is for this reason that free will applies.

One can go against what may have been part of the contract. One can for example decide not to go to an event one felt one should go to. By not going they might not meet an individual who was meant to play a prominent role in their life. If this individual was truly meant to play a significant role, they may meet up again later, or they may not. All of these events are due to the free will of the individual and their choices. If one has a blueprint and one is able to overview the blueprint to understand the energies that are available due to the various alignments of the stars, and of the energies available, one has a more enlightened way of living one's life. Again, one cannot say that their astrological chart will force them to act a certain way, for there is always the free will, but one always has the blueprint to consult. It is in this way that the astrological information that is captured at the moment of birth can prove to be of great significance during the individual's lifetime.

The Evolution of the Nature of the Stars - The new energies entering the planet will affect the signs, the portent of the stars and the planets that astrology is based on. But at the same time it is seen as an evolutionary type process. The Chaldeans many eons ago who developed what is now modern astrology would not be seen to be entirely relevant now, because the nature of the stars and the properties assigned to the stars and the planets were much different in those times. Yet astrology has been a constant factor since these earliest of times and it has always evolved and taken on relevancy for the times it is used and in the times it is found.

Thus, astrology in the 1930s was of a nature of a planet set to engage in international world conflict. Much of the energy of those times that was seen in the astrological information obtained from the stars and the planets that was available would be interpreted in the consciousness of the masses of that time, and would influence those astrologers and how they would see things. Later there was a shift in the '60s and '70s; there were those who saw the signs in terms of love. Linda Goodman was one who brought a different influence into the energies of astrology at that time. Again, this was part of the evolutionary adaptive program of astrology to the mass consciousness, and how many could tie it in so more could understand. With the new energies it is seen that there will be a radical leap forward as astrology again evolves to suit the needs, and those who have awareness will be able to bring astrology to a new level, higher than ever before, and those who have raised their consciousness will receive much more benefit from the new ways of interpreting the signs and the stars.

Chart Interpretation choices & Options

The art of chart interpretation is one that offers a range of opportunities. In itself, I've found it to be filled with choices--and there is ALWAYS "another idea" that someone uses, knows in expertise, or waits to be fulfilled by the astrological consultant or individual. Here, I'll outline and describe three of what I would describe as the most well-known variations. As a reference, they all have a special purpose and place--but it's up to you in deciding which is appropriate and in which circumstance you'd choose each one. 

First, the most familiar one that many people favor: aspects. I've mentioned them in other posts, but to be general here, aspects to me refer to the dynamics of cooperation or resistance between planets that represent actions, behaviors, choices, or responses in the psyche. Some planets (as representatives of human responses) work well with each other and some do not. There are grids that can be produced by certain chart forms which show these energies. Other people prefer to keep a mental scorecard of who's willing to be a team member or not. Aspects can be major or minor--and some people use both. Aspects also use a range of connection-contact with each other: "orbs," which vary depending on the aspect name and dynamic.

On a separate note, I've also mentioned in other posts that certain societies of astrological study prefer to use aspects under their own range of orbs. The Magi Society is one of those with whom I have found accuracy; however, it can be very complex and requires an in-depth understanding of their methods and software. They adhere to the concept that the use of house systems (the means of establishing the boundary markers for signs on the wheel/format for a chart) is not relevant because the exact time of birth is often not known in accurate measurement. (I understand this and have said, "What IS the exact time? When the first breath is taken at birth? When the umbilical cord is cut?")

To this end-and-means, the Magi Society says that aspects are the key to understanding and interpreting human behavior and dynamics because they can be consistently and accurately measured by use of an ephemeris or chart. I agree with this also because I find the ephemeris to be a valuable tool which is reliable and resourceful WHEN A CHART IS NOT AVAILABLE; for example, if a computer software package is not on hand. (I worry about the demands and availability of electricity: what would we do if there was no power for our electronics? Therefore, an ephemeris is a must-have resource for anyone regardless of experience or level of knowledge.)

Second: there are counselors, consultants, and other advisors who also consider that linking dynamics between planets in elements are significant: that connections of aspects can be interpreted by unions (conjunctions, trines) or resistance (squares, oppositions) according to match-ups of fire, earth, air, or water elemental patterns. An example: Venus in Scorpio and Saturn in Pisces, both in water element, for an individual who will find that longevity and patience will bring potential fulfillment in social relationships and love. Or in synastry: Venus in Scorpio squaring a partner's Pluto in Leo would indicate possibilities for challenges of power that would normally NOT be harmonious, but in this case, because of the special energies of a square creating a means for "resolution in the bedroom" that are satisfying to both parties.

The third means of interpretation is one that I often use or hear referred to as a "sunrise chart." This is the solar chart--when no accurate time of birth is known. It is commonly done with 6:00 a.m. as the time of birth, and all signs on house cusps reflect the according degree of the Sun sign. As such, the Sun would go in the 1st house of Self-Appearance, Personality, and Early Childhood environment, and all other planets would follow by degree in their sign and respective house cusp alignment.

I have thought about this in my use of chart software, and I want to extend it further. I normally favor the 6:00 a.m. time frame, but I now consider that there could be potential for me to use the other times that counselors, fellow astrological consultants, and others use: noon (12:00 p.m.), sunset (6:00 p.m.), and midnight (12:00 a.m.). 

As such, these are the reasons I now consider to be useful and appropriate for means of interpreting the psyche as displayed in the chart outlay: for sunrise, in dealing with the signs known for being "personal and self-focused": Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo. On the flip side of the chart, the "sunset option" puts the Sun at 6:00 p.m. in the 7th house. This could be especially resourceful for Libra, especially, and its orientation to the Significant Other and relationships, and also for a Scorpio's sense of dealing with intimacy, privacy, and shared values. At the same time, this could work just as well for the other 10 signs, but especially so for validating potentials in those specified dynamics of the psyche.

I would see the 12:00 noon option being especially useful in determining potentials for career patterns or expressions of choice for establishing one's sense of status, and the Sun would be in the 10th house of Capricorn's domain, and again, all other planets would be placed accordingly to the house cusp degree of the Sun. I am sure all signs would favor this, but especially for Aries, Gemini,  Leo, Virgo, Sagittarius, and Aquarius. I would also see 12:00 midnight being used especially so for Cancer-Crab souls who want to see or know how they work in the safety and establishment of a home domain and within patterns of family establishment and security. This could also work well for Taurus's sense of home acquisition and style, as well as Leo, Virgo (and their ability to keep order and "a place for everything" in their residence), but also for Libra, Scorpio ("Can I share my home with someone and in what way?"), and Pisces, in determining what kind of home near a body of water would be appropriate. 

In conclusion: I repeat that the art of chart interpretation is a multi-faceted skill that is never totally resolved or completed in the legacy and effort of anyone who enjoys studying and learning astrological techniques. I offer these ideas above as a means to consider: if it works and makes your skill set more open and beneficial, I have given this product for your benefit and opportunity.

Out-of-Bounds Planets: a display of potential disruptive energy

In 2017, a topic introduced to me by my dear best friend and wise astrology consultant, Michelle, was the idea of an out-of-bounds planet. I've since found a great article by the late Pamela Welch (shared here), and comments from Steven Forrest. I'll try and simplify what this idea means.

An OOB planet occurs when it falls on the declination markers that go beyond the range of the  23°26’ tilt of the Earth's axis (North and South) of the equator. This can be found depending on the software program you're using, or in an ephemeris.

The significance of an OOB planet is that it acts like a maverick energy: it knows no limits, can be very disruptive, and cause a great deal of unsettled energy for the dynamic it represents. It could be said that an OOB planet has a very Uranus-like quality to it: nothing as expected, and it breaks rules, boundaries, and expectations of the behaviors that would be considered traditional. 

An OOB moon position often indicates a pattern of disruptive behavior from the individual's mother, and there can be follow-up responses whereby the person responds in society in ways that are filled with over-emphasis on security, emotional mood swings, and personal needs. It's the most common OOB planet. An OOB Mars could possibly be over-reactive for aggressive behaviors--or in the case of Tiger Woods, sexual appetite and masculine energy. In Welch's article, she notes that Henry Kissinger has this position--and clarifies it with the fact that he participated in covert decisions in Vietnam and also in Chile, when a dictator replaced a democratically-elected leader. Daredevil Evel Knievel had an OOB Venus, and his flamboyant lifestyle as a performer was a potential example of this planet's needs for going over the edge in action and social display. It may come as no surprise to anyone who follows radio talk show host Howard Stern that he has an OOB Mercury.

It should be noted that the majority of charts done for clients and individuals will not show OOB planets. It's not as common a possibility as more traditional aspects and dynamics. However, it does bear consideration and a potential "aha!" answer to certain possibilities which may give further clues to the psyche.

Welch does recognize that the major asteroids can be OOB, but I would go carefully with this analysis unless the person interpreting the chart is comfortable with their purpose.

The Life and Legend (and chart) of Freddie Mercury

Everyone's talking lately about Freddie Mercury. Understandably so: the movie is a marvelous capture of the personalities in the band. And he was the main focal point. This is my intuitive/analytical take on the late, great singer and his personality.

I noticed Freddie’s chart is a bowl: it’s a self-contained pattern that indicates the person has a need for independence, isolation/involvement with others, and a singular focus. Within the bowl, there’s a lead planet, and this is Uranus in Gemini, in the 10th house of Career/Status. Certainly, Freddie was known for those qualities, both in his need for being away from the view of society, but also along with his dramatic need for being noticed. In Gemini, I think this was his lightning-quick mind and need for communications in socially rebellious ways and in contrast to moral standards. In the 10th house of Capricorn’s domain, Uranus found a platform for public broadcast (singing and a musical career) with all the flair, attention to ego, and bombast that Freddie could handle (or not—the 12th house Sun). However, with Pluto in Leo in the 12th, Freddie not only found the inner need for leadership and admiration in this life, but it also was part of a previous incarnation. In trine with Lilith and his South Node, he was really showing that he could do it again and with gusto.

Since it’s acting as a secondary chart ruler/leader, Uranus is trine to key planets: a 1st house Mars in Libra that also allowed Freddie’s bisexuality to find expression along with his stage and public persona. Uranus and a 2nd house Jupiter in Libra trine supported Freddie’s over-the-top lifestyle, and here, I would say Jupiter also gave momentum in a big way to his indulgences, especially sexually, as the 2nd house is expression of self-values. In Libra, Freddie found support for “everyone is fair game in love and pleasure.” Chiron also in trine to Uranus gave way to hypnotic charisma, and in Libra, there’s a need for relationship repair. Again, I see this in Freddie’s coming forward as a man who favored both genders until he settled into a gay lifestyle, which Uranus endorsed as bohemian. His Uranus and moon are also in the polarity of father-mother (10th/4th), and I see the opposition as a means of social rebelliousness and unconventionality in his actions and lifestyle, and also perhaps that his father and mother had different goals and expectations of him as the oldest son. Finally, the 7th house Vertex in Pisces square Uranus tells me that relationships were a social standard that Freddie was drawn to as a generational issue, and that a vague, elusive-escapist type of partner was what he wanted. Certainly, in his early years, he was vague about his ability to share his intimate feelings with his girlfriend. On a final note about aspects: I know Venus in Libra 28 can be possibly seen in trine with Uranus, and this certainly enhances Freddie’s flamboyant visual energy and his erotic appetite. Especially as Venus is in a sign of social duality in the house of personal appetite, so I do accept the aspect in a wide orb than I normally use. I would also say his Vesta in the 7th made him sacrifice something for a partnership; certainly his love life and his potential marriage to Mary Austin.

Freddie was a double Virgo: Sun and ascendant, and I would note this in his feelings of superiority as a dominant force of talent. Virgoans or those with strong qualities sometimes think themselves as superior because they are so determined not to show their flaws to the world-at-large. I am sure Freddie’s uncomfortableness with his legendary overbite was part of this Virgoan sense of “I MUST be perfect before the World.” (Strangely enough, he credited his teeth with as part of the gift of his singing capacity.)

The Virgo drive for achievement is almost as strong as a Capricorn’s thirst for legacy. As a 12th house Sun, I see Freddie hiding his true identity away from the world because there was so much social shame attached to a gay person. Freddie also drove his band to perfection—nicely documented in the film with drummer Roger Taylor’s vocal donations to “Bohemian Rhapsody” being laid down on tape. Freddie’s North Node in Gemini is square to both his Sun and ascendant, and it was a personal, inner frustration for his career endeavors to blend with his Life Path expression. Note that his dramatic stage and personal life were sources of gossip and frustrated communication. Poor Freddie just could not come forward and say he was a man who wanted variety in his intimate relationships and identifying with his sexuality. His parents, as seen in the movie, were very hard-working people with high expectations for him, and the Virgo ascendant gives backup for this. Certainly, too, Freddie worked hard as a singer and musician, and his Virgoan ascendant and Piscean domain Sun brought forward his musical gifts. As a 2nd Virgo Sun decan, he had a Capricorn-like edge to his identity that drove him for success as a bandleader and performer.

With Neptune in Libra in the 1st, we again see the nebulous identity issues that Freddie faced, especially trying to reconcile his sexuality and relationship needs. Also, the drug and alcohol indulgences are part of this placement. In square to his 4th house Moon in expansive Sagittarius, those problems were seen in his elaborate parties, and the largess of the homes where he lived.

Going on to the 2nd house, we notice the significant Libra stellium. Again, in the House of Self-Values, this would otherwise tell me that he walked the tightrope in relationships, and certainly, his choice of partners was part of his legend. Venus in the 2nd also opened his hedonistic ways, and conjunct Juno, the marriage consort and expression of sexual needs in a relationship/commitment, Freddie wanted a passionate bed mate, be it man or woman. (I’m again considering that he had a girlfriend, Mary Austin, earlier in his career.) Both Venus and Juno squared Saturn: Freddie Mercury suffered from alienation of those whom he wanted to love (having to hide his gay love interests and battling the inquiries of the press), and not fully giving his love to Mary.

Moving on to the 3rd house, we find Lilith, the Black Moon, in Sagittarius. Here, there is a thwarted expression of thoughts and ideas, although the individual has a powerful wish for being an oracle of truth. Lilith squares Freddie’s Sun and ascendant, and again, I take this to indicate the frustration he felt at not being able to live his love interest openly as a gay man, and also battling the media. Directly noted in Wikepedia: “In December 1974, when asked directly, "So how about being bent?" by the New Musical Express, Mercury replied, "You're a crafty cow. Let's put it this way: there were times when I was young and green. It's a thing schoolboys go through. I've had my share of schoolboy pranks. I'm not going to elaborate further." Mercury once said of himself: "When I'm performing I'm an extrovert, yet inside I'm a completely different man." I also see this by way of his South Node in Sagittarius in his 3rd: his way of communicating was something he had done in past lives as “a Bringer of Great Wisdom,” and in this present case, it was the lyrics of his songs. I haven’t looked through them for messages, but certainly “Bohemian Rhapsody” is loaded with opportunities.

Moving on to his 4th house of Family and Home Life-Environment, I would say that Freddie’s family origins are indicated by the Moon in Sagittarius: the Bulsara family moved from India to Zanzibar, Tanzania, which is certainly a long distance and from one continent to another. Freddie’s family practiced Zoroastrianism, which is one of the world's oldest religions that remains active. It is a monotheistic faith (i.e. a single creator God), centered in a dualistic cosmology of good and evil and an eschatology predicting the ultimate destruction of evil. Ascribed to the teachings of the Iranian-speaking prophet Zoroaster (also known as Zarathustra), it exalts a deity of wisdom, Ahura Mazda (Wise Lord), as its Supreme Being. Major features of Zoroastrianism, such as messianism, judgment after death, heaven and hell, and free will have influenced other religious systems, including Second Temple Judaism, Gnosticism, Christianity, Islam, and Buddhism. This certainly resonates with the higher social and cultural connections with Sagittarius. I would also see Freddie’s large Georgian home as a second way of fulfilling the sign, and also the large lavish parties with which he entertained. 
Also, I’m noting that his life-long love interest and friend, Mary Austin, was given a home adjacent to his, so I’m qualifying this as his “larger-than-life” generosity for a female (the Moon) by gesture. I would also see fulfillment of Freddie’s 29-degree Part of Fortune in Sagittarius by the exterior Japanese walled garden and trees. As well, having a large home may well have been a way of giving him that measure of happiness and security. Adding to this: Pallas in Sagittarius as a means of advocating the benefits of both the Japanese culture and the respect for nature.

And last, in Freddie’s 5th house, the asteroid Ceres, which I find as an externalization of both the Moon’s need for nurturance and relating to the Inner Child as well. It’s 29 degrees Capricorn and squaring his Venus and Jupiter in his 2nd house. To me, this shows Freddie’s way of releasing his creative nature in a way that let his music and showmanship find outlets which satisfied his generosity (Jupiter) and his social enjoyments and pleasures (Venus), even if it created some friction (the squaring aspect) with relationships—which it certainly did in his love life with Mary Austin and indulging in promiscuity which eventually gave him AIDS.

Finally, in considering Freddie’s elemental balance and polarities, I find it VERY interesting that he was dominantly male-sign influenced: eight planets worth. I would see this as his way of expressing his masculinity in an uber-way through his bisexuality and ultimate gay lifestyle. He clearly over-dramatized this, but he loved using it to his advantage for his success as an artist and performer. Freddie had three fire signs, two earth, five air—and no water. Certainly, he was exciting and enthusiastic-exuberant enough to let the fire blaze, he was socially engaged and intellectual enough as a musician and artist and boldly engaged with the public to fulfill the air, but not very grounded, as seen by the lack of earth. What I question—and this is a variable of the singleton quality of any sign or planet lacking in something with only one (or even less) expression: is the fact that he was not “emotional” with no water. Certainly it can be argued that he was very in touch with his sensitivity as a man of variable sexuality and a blazing stage presence. I think this is the other side of the singleton issue: often the individual over-expresses him/herself for the lack of an element or sign. 

Freddie’s modality balance shows four Cardinal and Mutable, but only two Fixed. I would say his lifestyle and larger-than-life persona make up for the Cardinal energy (and he certainly faced significant Life Challenges), and the Mutable in the way he found adjustment to his personal needs and social life. He did have the staying power of a Fixed nature, I think, through his determination and perseverance to BE the rock star we know and love. 

Lastly, his house quadrants are balanced for an upper-lower range, so he was comfortable going out and meeting the public-at-large (upper quadrant), and he loved having his friends coming to his mansion (lower half). I note that his chart shows a 5:1 eastern-western pattern, so I’m going with the idea that he was VERY “me-first” in nature (especially with 1st and 2nd house planets), and that he was interested in fulfilling his social networking and associations more than “a significant other” and their needs. 

Freddie’s rulerships are Mercury (ironic, yes?) in Virgo and Venus in Libra—again, I believe, showing his brilliant mind for lyrics and his love for people, the arts, and the pleasures of life in all its beauty and glory. Mutual receptions are found with the Sun-Mercury connection (again, the irony of identifying himself with the planet of Communications), and Venus-Jupiter (living the “bigger-more glamorous life with all the glory and indulgences”). With a 2nd-quarter Moon lunar phase, I believe this to show Freddie was born to fulfill his need for “telling the bigger story of life.”

More importantly than the chart, we have Freddie’s work captured on video and in sound, and as such, I have included the performance at Wembley Stadium which I feel shows so much of the majesty of his work and personality. Long live Farrokh Bulsara, and in turn, the man we know and love as Freddie Mercury, and his legacy. 

Why Doesn't Astrology affect everyone the same?

I like the way he presents these ideas--and I hope you will too!

Planets mean "We're Open for Business"

As I'm now teaching for a 10-month session at a major university of Finance and Economics in Nanchang, China (I have English writing and reading), my students are business-minded--but interested in astrology because I've introduced it to them. They seemed overwhelmed at the sight of a chart display, but I assured them that Chinese characters (over 4,000) are a lot harder to learn, especially since astrology only uses about 25 symbols, and they're not as complex.

So I thought "How would I explain the energies of the planets?" and came up with a business structure for them. (I've already done transportation, using a train ride, on this site.) So here's what I conceived: 

(1) The Sun: the president, and the name on the company building. The founder of the institution.
(2) The Moon: how the public-at-large feels about the company, and what is the goal/target of the company objective.
(3) Mercury: Public relations and all forms of information exchange, including hardware/software programs.
(4) Venus: Interior design and appearance of offices, including what form of architecture and how the entrance/lobby is planned.
(5) Mars: what form of physical activities are offered for employees. Is there a gym membership offered, or an on-site facility? Who takes care of the building itself: what kind of maintenance program for landscaping and interior clean-up?
(6) Jupiter: what long-range growth plans are in line, and what direction is the company taking to pursue these? How much and what is in line for bonuses, raises, promotions, and community donations?
(7) Saturn: Internal security. Who and what kind of privacy of the facility is offered, and how is it kept up? What about record-keeping/accounting?
(8) Uranus: creative development. How is research and development of new innovative ideas brought forward, and do employees have a say in this? (I'm thinking of 3M and the man who invented Post-It notes. It was his own idea.)
9) Neptune: Vacation time. What kind of package is offered for those who need to get away for a while, and is there some place on-site where employees can have a private quiet moment? Is there some form of yoga or meditation time built into the workday to enhance productivity?
10) Pluto: Recycling and trash removal. Who does the dirty work, and how "green" is the company?

Special options for the 4 major asteroids, Chiron, and the Nodes:
(1) Ceres: what programs are there for stay-at-home workers with children or day-care options?
(2) Juno: what benefits are there for spouses or partners?
(3) Vesta: does the company have a dedicated community program for charitable contributions?
(4) Pallas Athena: what community programs are endorsed or promoted by the company for those who are in need of social support/advocacy?
(5) Chiron: what mental-physical health benefits are part of the company program for employees?
(6) North-South Nodes: is this a new start-up company idea, or does it have a past history?

Gene Roddenberry meets a Vulcan (revisited): farewell, Leonard Nimoy (1931-2015)

Astrology breaks ground in the study of the psyche by taking us figuratively beyond where no man has gone before, to add as an introduction with tongue-in-cheek.  It’s also due in part to the advances in technology (i.e., movies and television) that this is possible for us to see the role of “life beyond Earth” through the eyes of astrological analyses and chart interpretation. 

The modern era came during the mid-'60s when astrology was championed during the rise of television and movies starting with Gene Roddenberry’s gift of Star Trek.  At last:  humans and other beings living together and working too.  Mr. Spock, as portrayed by the calm aloofness of Leonard Nimoy’s Vulcan-human first officer, really opened so many people to honor their natural awareness of astrological identifications within the framework of one single character.  Not only was he cool because he knew nerve pinches that disarmed and disabled potential enemies, he possessed a mind that was lightning fast and always with the most effective answer.  He appealed to something special:  the need to be of and in service to a higher authority in command as well as a singular focus on the most direct way to gauge the odds for success or failure—and why.  I believe that we will indeed see and identify a trans-Mercurian planet close to the sun which will be named for the Roman god of the forge and Spock’s paternal home planet.  

Interestingly enough, astrology has spoken about Vulcan for some time, going back to the late 1800s.  Isabel Hickey also mentioned it in her book Astrology: A Cosmic Science, but it's my view that Roddenberry took the identity of an Advanced Virgo ascendant and made it into the logical, analytical image of the pointed-ear alien—a “Vulcan-Virgo” or "2V."  The qualities are obvious (or "logical"):  an over-fascination with accuracy and fact, and a detached insistence on maintaining a poker face because emotions show a lack of control—and reason. In an evolved storyline that may have been unintentional, the “next generation” series brought Mr. Data as an android with the same rigid structure of facts-as-law.

  

What is interesting here is that both men in their roles clearly represent the mental acuity and skillful cause-and-response capacities of a very adept Mercurian.  The Vulcan-Virgo is also very proud of the capacity to perform a role as a waking data base (hence Data’s name).  “Human Library” is a term I assign both personally and astrologically to the 2V.  (This does not necessarily have any impact on rulership by Mercury; that’s another topic.)

 This is of personal interest to me as well:  at my first-ever astrological reading by my future teacher, I was told that I was a 2V with the chart indicating a Virgo ascendant—and it’s been a family joke that I have pointed ears.  

(This was pushed to the test when I stretched a 1-hour astrological consultation meeting into eight hours, and then departed with two textbooks to study after being told a flat “no”—by a Scorpio!--to my insistence that I borrow them.)

(c) MDLOP8 2010

The Astrological Arsonist: Setting Fire to their lifestyle for Excitement & Control--or incapability to manage

Meet the astrological Arsonist. They seem to self-destruct and ask for help on a continuous basis by which they use, either openly or through means, passive-resistance refusal, child-like behavior, manipulation, or pure willfulness. An Arsonist is a master of creating Controlled Chaos, and most likely a psychopath. This is the first of three articles that I am postulating on this subject.
   An Arsonist in my astrological-psychological view is someone who deliberately creates circumstances or behaviors where someone must come and figuratively and emotionally put out a fire: an event or condition that has dead-end results and misjudged expectations without consideration. The Arsonist enjoys the thrill of power-control: he/she has reinforcement of ego and importance as a new obstacle-hurdle has been put in the way of a daily routine, a long-term plan, or just spontaneous action. I would imagine those of us who are now experiencing the role of caregiver for friends and elderly parents are noticing this identity. Also, consider the Arsonist in relationship patterns: a continued sense of "My life is not exciting enough--I must do something to see others jump at my command!" A romantic involvement is often a playground for an Arsonist.
      Arsonists are often bored--they seek excitement and adventure. I would therefore categorize the Fire signs (Aries/Leo/Sagittarius) as the primary candidates, but that is too obvious. Instead, consider that the other 11 signs also have tendencies, each with its own quality.
     For example, it's obvious that an Aries would easily trigger patterns of disruption for sheer initiation and "something new," but Taurus can delay, refuse, resist, and be unwilling to yield to even the most reasonable offer or request. The delaying tactic is one that creates a whirlpool of potential resolution. Gemini, in a search for endless information, may surely continue to be involved in so many commercially-driven promotions and solicitations from media sources who are sales-driven and based on self-promotion and exploitation of the consumer. Financial management problems would likely follow: "I can't get enough ideas!" Crabs surely know how to make the best of worries and fears, especially over personal safety or that of family members, in order to maintain and keep close ties. Fear and smothering demands for love and nurturance to/from others can be like quicksand to those involved. Leo, again as Fire, can be bombastic and pompous to the point of distress: "How dare you defy me?" is a phrase I heard from my own mother, who had a Leo ascendant. The sense of royal obligation by underlings is not only expected, but held as a sense of status and entitlement.
     Virgos can micro-manage even themselves into a state of Obsessive-Compulsive disorder, let alone unhinge the person who has to manage or care for someone with organization-is-life needs. Libra can be caught in the net of Co-Dependency so tightly that they can not bear to be alone for 24 hours, and may use social media formats and electronics as a tool of continuous contact. Scorpio surely knows how to be in control: paranoia and suspicion of ANYTHING or ANYONE who dares threaten must be kept at arm's length and under careful observation.
    Sagittarius can potentially be an Arsonist in both speech and action. Words can cause huge battles, especially with family members, colleagues, and social outlets of beliefs and values. Also, don't put it past an Archer to be a hoarder: "more is better." Try and manage a house where "don't throw that out!" is a mandate, and Time is left sitting in cabinets and closets, later to be discarded when it should have been avoided in the first place.
      Capricorns don't usually find a spot as an Arsonist, but there are surely those who take advantage of others for personal advantage--and usually financial gain. Aquarius in search of Freedom can be an Arsonist in style: "I'll follow my own path and disregard any action or result that doesn't give it my way." Anyone in partnership with this type knows this likely means associating with a lack of constraints on social structures: living from day-to-day in group units (shelters, collective gatherings). Pisces offers a never-ending potential of Arsonist qualities, but it's emotional-sensitive in nature and not aggressive-dynamic. A Pisces soul caught in an Arsonist pattern can be caught in a maelstrom of confusion followed up with sensitively good intentions and terrible judgment.
     What to do about the Arsonist in your life? It's clearly a matter of Power & Control--and personal boundaries. The Arsonist has no qualms about encroachment on other peoples' lives--this is a very self-centered character flaw, and may likely be hiding a Narcissistic Personality. The key factor to remember is simple: "No." An Arsonist will rise into whatever level of insistence their sign carries with a likely demonstration of unhealthy tendencies, but it is essential for anyone involved in a relationship or caregiver role to recognize the need to put out the Arsonist's ability to ignite intention and spark an inappropriate or unwise response. 
(C) MDLOP8 2014    

Venus in Scorpio: "I've Love You to Death or Die Trying."

Venus is in Her detriment (lacking awareness of the higher qualities of the planet's energy) in Scorpio: jealousy, intensity of ownership toward objects of affection and property, and desires for sexual fulfillment which may be violent if not agreeable to the selected "victim" of choice. (Also, think of a female praying mantis: if you know what she does to her mate, you'll get the idea.) Emotions and passions run extremely strong during this time--and revenge can be a bitter result in love-hate partnerships, especially if trust has been betrayed. In Greek mythology, Medea was outraged that Jason had cast her aside for another woman--and in her rage, she killed her own children. The old saying "Hell knows no fury like a scorned woman" is VERY true and possible during the transit of Venus in Scorpio! 

However, it's not all for worry with the goddess of Love in this sign: a dramatic personality may find new outlets for attention and display (with a touch of "come closer if you dare"), and occult studies and mysteries (such as an enjoyment of solving mysteries or an appreciation of forensic sciences) may be heightened. Just be sure you're not Dr. Frankenstein building a bride for your latest creation--he or she may be intent on love with a painfully dangerous twist!

Venus in Virgo: "There is a Time and Place for Love--and it's Qualified by Specifics"

     "She/he loves me, she/he loves me not--because of the following reasons," says Venus in Virgo, and you're either on the receiving end or handing down the hard facts. This is the Goddess of Pleasure & Enjoyment in a cool, distant state of affection, with emphasis on personal boundaries and conditions: "What do you mean when {you} say 'I love you, baby'. Be more specific!"
     Venus in Virgo says, "I'll believe it when you show me--and actions speak louder than words" will make or break your romantic mood. Doubt, discernment, critiquing and second-guessing: these are some of Virgo's traits, and Venus would rather say "No thanks" rather than have to tell you that you're not meeting Her standards as a partner. Venus in Virgo will love sincerely and with earnestness, but you've got to pass a lengthy interview of qualifications. And no: sweet talk and charm doesn't make it work: there's a mental notebook of "must-have" conditions.
     On a positive note, Venus in Virgo is quite willing to do something for a social project that serves the community: helping decorate or improve a food kitchen that feeds those in need, or making sure the area of work is spotless, organized, and kept functional. A fun date for a Venus in Virgo would be at the gym--but don't expect to share the shower unless your nails are trimmed and you've brought your own soap.

Elements as the spice(s) of Life Expression

If the elements (motivational factors of signs) were seasonings, then they would be the spices of Life that variety is said to bring.  They are emotional and sensory keys of behavior and needs that indicate the “temperament” of an individual:  how he/she “tastes” their world-at-large.  In that manner, using spices and the sensory quality of taste will work here:

 

Fire signs (Aries, Leo, Sagittarius)

are “spicy”: “hot” people who are spontaneous, energetic, motivated, aggressive, dramatic, overpowering, royal-in-bearing, or impulsive. Need energy, enthusiasm, motivation, A.C.T.I.O.N. or just putting it into a higher gear? FIRE it up! 

 

Earth signs (Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn) 

are “salty”: “Salt of the Earth” hard workers, fixed in principles and unwilling to yield until moved, grounding, sensuous and touchy-feely, persistent, determined, and willing to bear a burden to get the job done. Put some EFFORT into it--some real HANDS-ON and see it finished!

 

Air signs (Gemini, Libra, Aquarius)

are “sweet”: “Lighter-than-air” intelligent souls who communicate, question, query, disseminate, and disperse ideas and information; arbitrators and negotiators, graceful presenters of social tact and presentation, social gatherers and coordinators of humanitarian projects and programs. Oh, you make my head spin with your words! 

Like pickles and relish, Water signs (Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces)
are “sour”: “bitter-at-times” but with a purpose: an awareness of pain, sensitivity, and distress in another person’s psyche.  Outbursts of emotions, playing on vulnerabilities and compassion in others, manipulation of affection by acts of display, and mood swings are found here. I'm CRYING buckets of tears because I feel so much!!

(c) MDLOP8 2010

Love goes Flutterby in Social Circles with Venus in Gemini

With Venus in Gemini, intellectual and social endeavors and pursuits are more favorable—including “second-guessing” a relationship and clarifying intentions from you or a partner. Therefore, it’s a good time to socialize and work on communications skills with loved ones (and those whom you wish to pursue)—with new technologies that encourage reading and writing, expressing and directing curiosity through short-term endeavors and trips, and even classroom experiences.

However—DO expect that “two-for-one” deals are possible now in romance: Venus in Gemini brings out “duality” in others, so that “I have an alternative in case this doesn’t work out” love affairs and relationships are possible.

And a musical reminder from Gustav Holst about Gemini qualities, courtesy of Mercury.

Lunar types and Moon Sensitivities

The late Donna Cunningham came up with a terrific idea about some people being "lunar types in a solar world."  What I understand from this:  some of us are more "moon-influenced" by the moon's placement in our chart or by sign (Moon in Cancer, for instance, or a 4th house moon). 

Dynamics:

·       1^st (Personality), 4^th (Home-family), 7^th (Relationships-partnerships), or 10^th (Career-status) house moon; option is a 4th house Sun  

·       Close ties to emotions, sensitivity, feelings

·       Unable to comfortably express themselves

·       Shy, vulnerable, prone to tears

·       More “grumpy” than most people;

·       “hard shell exterior” (and sensitive feelings that are hidden)

I should note here that a moon in the 1st, 4th, 7th, or 10th houses makes a person "lunar/loony" and more of a Cancer-Crab/Moonchild, even if they are not of that sign. This idea also comes from Donna Cunningham—that the moon in one of the Four Quadrant Markers (1st/4th, 7th, 10th) houses gives someone a “lunar” perspective of dealing with society; that is, the subject is more withdrawn to some level from society and protective of their psyche.

They are crab-like in their manner of hiding a vulnerable sensitive attitude behind a gruff exterior.  Emotionally sensitive from hard-to-express-from-within levels, the Lunar type retreats in their home or office for safety and protection from the outside world.  A 4th house placement for a woman often indicates some sort of Earth Mother role, protecting, caring for, and nurturing animals, plants, or people. 

The 1st house moon will "feel every emotion" as part of their personality; the 4th house moon will feel grounded and secure in their own home; the 7th house moon will want a partner whom they can "mother" and be nurtured by in return; and a 10th house moon will make their job (and colleagues) their 'children.' A first house Lunar type would be highly sensitive to the moon’s sign placement.  Physiologically, a 1st house moon would impact the physical body in some manner, or at least the personality in a distinct way. A first house Lunar type would be highly sensitive to the moon’s sign placement.  Physiologically, a 1st house moon would impact the physical body in some manner, or at least the personality in a distinct way. 

I should note here that a moon in the 1st, 4th, 

Moon Sensitivities:

·       Reflexive gut feeling; system of security-needs and subconscious reaction

·       “first response is self-preservation-safety” when caught unaware

·       Capacity to establish a safe zone around self and home

·       Subconscious attitude toward society; empathic sensitivity to events

·       “Emotional-mental tentacle” that touches world

Declinations - "As Above the Equator, So Below" in aspects

Declinations are the astrological version of "As Above, So Below." It's the North/South polarity match that uses the equator as the measuring point. This is the aspect of parallel (north of the equator and matching) or contraparallel (south of the equator but opposite). 

Most users of regular aspects with parallels and contraparallels think that the former are like conjunctions and the latter is like the opposition. However, in Magi astrology, both of these are favorable, especially when linked to Chiron. The Beatles had a pattern of interlocking parallels and contraparallels. So does Mick Jagger and Keith Richards of the Rolling Stones.

P's and C's act like conjunctions. The arc of 1.5 degrees is allowed. (An example would be someone's Moon at -19 and a partner with a planet within range of +/- 18:20.) Depending on which software you use, certain charts (equatorial, for example) work for me in showing Chiron's declination.

Declinations are referred sometimes as a "second chart."

Venus in Pisces: the Exaltation of Love as a Force of Attraction and Creation

(From The Astrologer's Handbook by Sakoian and Acker) - Venus in Pisces. 

(Author's note: I have this position opposite my ascendant in Virgo. The Feminine Principle totally inspires me, and totally overwhelms me. At the same time.)

Venus in the sign Pisces is in its exaltation.  Here the love principle reaches its highest evolutionary development; the natives marry for love, no other considerations being of any consequence. Venus in this sign manifests deep compassion and sympathy converging on spirituality—the understanding of and unity with all life. 
The universality of Venus in Aquarius, combined with the empathy and emotional depth of Pisces—which is ruled by Neptune—produces an emotional rapport with the life of all creatures in the universe.  The individual sees the Eternal Life principle flowing through all manifestation, uniting the soul with all life.  
These people have a high capacity to understand the feelings of others; they know what it is like to be in another person’s shoes. The experience of having been through all the signs of the Zodiac gives the soul the ability to identify with all types of humanity.

       People with this position of Venus are romantic and sensitive. Unless they receive clear demonstrations of love and affection from others, they feel lonely and disappointed.
     Sometimes the disappointment leads to a feeling of martyrdom, which may be sublimated into religious expressions. Or it may lead to neurotic tendencies or mental illness.  The Neptunian rulership of Pisces gives intuitive inspiration to Venus, making these people capable of drawing on higher dimensions for resources in artistic, poetic, and musical creation; many great composers, artists, and poets have Venus in Pisces. This Venus position probably has more innate ability for inspired artistic creativity than any other placements.

          Because the natives are highly sensitive to the suffering of others, people may take advantage of their sympathies unless their discrimination is well developed. Their extreme emotional sensitivity means they are often afraid of being hurt through rejection; thus they hesitate to express their feelings, suffering the pangs of love in silence.  Sometimes they miss romantic opportunities. They are inclined to become emotionally dependent on others or have others become emotionally dependent on them.

          If Venus is afflicted in Pisces, there can be excessive sentimentality, lack of discrimination in choosing love objects, laziness, hypersensitivity, and over-dependence on others.  Strong emotions can stand in the way of objective perception of reality.

Venus is Exalted in Pisces

     To mature to its full fruition, Venus, which rules the principle of love and attraction, must go through the entire cycle of experience in the Zodiac. Only when we can put ourselves in another person’s shoes and feel with him or her what he feels can we be sympathetically attuned to that person and feel capable of loving them. Love in the true sense requires that we be attuned to all creation.  
Only in Pisces, where Venus works with the transcendental vibrations of Neptune and the goodwill of Jupiter, does such a high goal reach fulfillment. 
Love is the most transcendent and exalted product of the evolutionary process; only one who has lived through all the experience of humanity—as represented by Pisces, the last sign of the Zodiac—can fully experience the meaning of it.  Even this is limited, since Pisces is but the end of one turn on the spiral of evolution, the next spiral holding a greater promise of the expansion of consciousness and the unfolding of new creative powers.

Transits & Progressions: Your Life's Personal Life Experience/Growth Visitors

Guess Who’s Come for a Visit?

Why, it's the Transits & Progressions!!

This refers to the counter-clockwise movement of the planets under current cycles against the natural background of your chart. Let’s think of it as your personal "Cosmic Bed & Breakfast" with a pattern of new guests who show you what you're meant to learn and why it matters.

In personal terms, think of as many as 16* visitors (*with the asteroids, Chiron, and Lilith) “visiting” your home (Life) and the respective houses (wedges) in your chart, depending on the sign on the cusp (sort of a doorman, eh?). Each “guest” receives a different "room" to stay in for their time of residence, depending on their schedule—and each house/wedge is a realm of activity that is activated or emphasized. Preparations need to be made for each “visitor,” in that you either gain “rent-income” for their visit (a positive opportunity phase) or a lesson to be learned and mastered (a frustrating or stressful time—or ultimately a growth process)--in how you choose to handle it).

Each planet-guest receives a measure of comfort—or discomfort—depending on any previous occupants by design from the birth chart. In other words, when a transiting planet “arrives” at a wedge on your chart, it stays for its respective term—like being on a vacation. However, it might be asked to ‘share’ accommodations with any planets that naturally reside there by natural residence on your chart.

So now you’ve got a ‘visitor’ to a particular area of life experience—and depending on how they generate energy, your ‘guest’ may be comfortable—or irritable. Either way, there are lessons to be experienced and learned; “activated” is another term. The “guest” planet(s) will also interact with the natural outlay of planets from the birth chart—so your “guests” may or may not be pleased at the circumstances—hence, the “learning” process in how we choose to adapt and make them “at home.”

The *planets in their transits repeat themselves in timely cycles: Mars moves around the chart every two years; Saturn takes @ 2.5 years; Jupiter visits in a 12-year phase; Uranus has a 7-year cycle; Neptune works its illusions and dissolving trends for @13 years; Pluto may vary between 12-31 years, depending on its unusual orbit. The Sun, although it is the center of our solar system, is also considered to “move” in the chart, as does the Moon. The Sun will naturally follow the 12-month zodiac, and the Moon will change every 2.5+/- days.

I don’t usually emphasize Venus or Mercury because they are more ‘social’ in nature, rather than having long-term significance or emphasis. (They're easier to accommodate.) Nothing like Pluto staying for years at a time--and there's always some sort of unplanned renovation going on when it visits!...and just about everyone is glad to see Saturn leave too because there's SO much work that has to be done while it stays! The door is always open for Jupiter because it usually brings fortune and opportunity. Mars...tends to be a bit upsetting: anything from literally burning down the house to knocking down the walls to build that new exercise room. Uranus...well, you never can tell what will happen--but prepare for the unexpected. And Neptune...never sure if Neptune is EVER going to make an appearance!)

Progressions:

Whereas transits are the current Life Activity events, progressions are more about the Soul's Evolutionary Progress as experienced by the advancement of the planets through the signs over a lifetime. I call progressions "The Butterfly Emerging from the Cocoon" phases of Life.

The primary points & planets that I recommend are the Sun, Moon, and Ascendant. They each change signs over specific periods of time, especially the Sun (1 degree per year from the starting degree marker of birth; 30 degrees total) and the Moon (1 degree per month). For example, I was born 24 degrees Aries; at 6 years old, I "evolved" into Taurus. My birth Sun remains the same; I then experienced 30 years of a two-way lesson of Soul Identity as an Aries-Taurus. At age 36, I became a Gemini, and will continue until age 66, when I become a Cancer-Crab.

The Moon also advances in this way each month at one degree, and is very useful to examine trends in social activity, encounters with the public-at-large, and relationship patterns. The other planets also move, especially the inner ones, but I do not use them as frequently unless they reach critical degree points.

Here's another way of viewing it:

· When the Progressed Sun Changes Sign: Depending on how long a person lives, the progressed Sun changes sign perhaps 3 times in the entire life span. The period when the progressed Sun is very late in a sign and is about to change to a new sign (this occurs for about a year) is often a rather critical year in which many changes occur. When the progressed Sun changes signs, there is usually a very clear change in a person's general orientation and responses to his or her environment. Plenty of real-life events are possible (such as relocation, a new job in a new field, etc.), but the common theme is starting fresh—"out with the old and in with the new"—and a marked change in the outlook and attitudes of an individual. Before the progressed Sun changes signs, there can be some fear and dread—even a feeling that things are being "taken" from us. Hasty and poor decisions and a sense of urgency can be characteristic of this period.

· The Progressed Moon — Cycle of Maturity: The progressed Moon moves through the houses of our natal chart, coming full circle in about 27-28 years. The house it is moving through represents areas of our life that come into focus. We recognize our needs in these areas more intensely, although not necessarily clearly. For example, the progressed Moon moving through the 4th house often brings with it a strong need and search for "roots" and basic life definition. Even though our natal Moon sign "reigns" over our emotional needs in a general sense, our focus shifts as the progressed Moon passes through our houses.

In fact, our emotional needs seem to change or shift as the house position changes. The sign of your Progressed Moon indicates the prevailing emotional attitude of that period of time. Also note that if you look into your past and determine when the progressed Moon passed over any one of the four angles in your chart (that is, the Ascendant, Midheaven, Descendant, and IC) you will see that these progressions/passages often mark rather significant times in your life. Also significant is the progression of the Moon to critical degrees, as well as Progressed Moon in aspect to natal planets and points.

· The Progressed Lunation Cycle: This is the cycle from one progressed New Moon to the next (every 27-28 years). Look to the phase of the progressed Sun and progressed Moon. During the progressed New Moon phase, individuals instinctively start a new phase or chapter in their lives. The Crescent phase brings about new challenges and opportunities, as well as adjustments, that don't always feel pleasant, to the new cycle as a purpose is not entirely clear at this point in the cycle.

The First Quarter phase represents a particularly active, building stage, while the Gibbous stage presents a time of refining and fine-tuning. This makes way for the Full Moon phase, which is a time of fruition and accomplishment. This marks the beginning of the progressed waning moon phase, when some things dissolve and one begins to recognize the need to let go. 

The Disseminating phase is a time of sharing and literally "disseminating" that which has been learned in the waxing phase of the moon. The next phase, the Third Quarter Moon phase, marks a time of one's life when there lies some discontent and dissatisfaction with the way one has been approaching life. This can be a somewhat confusing time, as one instinctively prepares for the final stage of the waning Moon: the Balsamic phase. During this phase, old systems begin to phase out, and there may be a desire for withdrawal and reflection.

· Progressed Planets Conjuncting an Angle of the Natal Chart or Progressed Angles Conjuncting a Natal Planet or Point. These activations involving natal and progressed angles (the Ascendant and Midheaven) generally point to significant personal changes in the native's life.