Saturday, September 6, 2014

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.

Thursday, July 24, 2014

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

Thursday, July 10, 2014

Relationship Techniques: Closeness or Distance? Personal, Social, or Global?

In synastry, I consider the energies of the signs as Indicators of Attraction: either it's a matched force or not. And if so, how does the sign and its qualities of Closeness or Distance (C&D) correspond with the partner? If you're matched with a "like-minded" polarity for C&D, then you should have a much better chance at a relationship. If not...prepare for struggle or rejection.

I've seen this referred to as Personal, Social, and Interpersonal as well. Again, in my synastry work, I go with a blend of this along with the planets and signs. But--I let the Magnetic Attractive Force be part of my answer. Are the two parties involved matched regarding their Levels of C&D? How are they suited as Personal, Social, or Interpersonal (Global)? (I credit this to either Stephen Arroyo or the late Richard Idemon,if my memory is correct.)


Let's try it with an astrological review of Sun and Moon energies:


Aries - Personal for sure. "It's All about Me Being Important and #1!" Closeness, but beware the need for "a new conquest!" in some Aries. It's all about being involved with someone, but it could also be someone different on an ever-rotating basis depending on availability.


Taurus - Personal. "You're Mine!" Can be overly possessive of belongings and loved ones. Closeness for sensuality. Taurus holds on tight, so if you're personal-space claustrophobic, stay away. Taurus regards partners as property, so your personal value and income count too.


Gemini - Personal. "I love a good conversation!" Enjoys closeness to share ideas; more mental than physical, please. Gemini grooves on someone to talk with/to, and the intellectual stimulation leads to emotional satisfaction (especially with a Gemini Moon too).


Cancer - Personal--big time. The Apron Strings/Smothering or Deep Attachments. Closeness is a must--and family counts too. Moonchildren love the physical touch; it's all about feeling and holding someone--and if you were small enough, you'd be cradled in the Crab's embrace.


Leo - Social. "You noticed me, of course!" Leo prefers Closeness, but it's also because they need to bask in the attention they get from being loved and sharing it too. Of COURSE Leo needs someone who says "You look great! I love you!" If it's one person or an adoring crowd, it's all glow and go with Leo.


Virgo - Social. "I hope you understand how difficult it is for me to let you see my faults if we live together--and by the way, I'll do the same to you too." One of the signs which indicates a life apart from others, partially because of the stress involved in maintaining Personal Boundaries & Private Space (and everything and everyone in neat little organized structures).


Libra - Social. The Quintessential Soul Mate-Match who rightfully needs a complimentary Partner. This is the Completion Factor at its highest level, and Closeness is an absolute cornerstone. Downfalls are co-dependency and fears of being alone.


Scorpio - Social. "It takes two people to make a baby, and society is built on births." Scorpio needs the physical release of sex and the emotional intensities too. This is more Distance than Closeness because the Scorpion wants privacy and security, and a partner could compromise it. For this reason, I think Scorpios are the best-suited-for-each-other match of the same signs. The closeness that Scorpio does desire is more for physical-sexual bonding to create deep emotional release.


Sagittarius - Interpersonal/Global. "There's so many Opportunities, including other people, so why limit myself?" Sagittarius does like commitment, but they like the Distance between themselves and partners more often. Sagittarius can find people from other cultures to be better matches.


Capricorn - Interpersonal/Global. "You're part of the Big Plan, and that includes our relationship." Money and love bring Distance or Closeness--if it's sensible, profitable, and keeps the Plan in action, then it's better. Trophy-hunters are found here, and their objects of desire too, and Sugar Daddies and Vamps.

Aquarius - Interpersonal/Global. "We're all One Big Family." Aquarius has a natural awareness of All Man & Woman Brothers and Sisters. Distance is never an issue when they're with someone who is a friend in a close-enough way that doesn't get serious. That goes for bonding and commitment choices too--just expect the aloofness and need for being with groups.


Pisces - Interpersonal/Global. "I'm Joined in Partnership with the Universe." Kind of hard for the Fish to let go; they're so tuned in on Higher Wavelengths of Love. Pisces can be extremely loyal and Close (especially if Venus in Pisces is indicated); they can also be out to sea and deep in the depths of detachment. Remember: 2 fish, going in opposite directions.


Monday, June 23, 2014

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.

Friday, June 20, 2014

Psychological Astrology and holistic healing practices



Psychological astrology (and astrology in general) has excellent opportunities for the community of holistic and natural healers.  By using astrological knowledge as an additional tool in one's respective practice with clients and patients, the potentials are diversified and expansive. 

This also extends financial options and advantages:  astrology's "right to the heart of the issue" is far better for  the healing or counseling session and making it affordable for both the practitioner and the client.  There is no need to prolong or delay valuable time:  the effective use of knowledge and energy by both parties is realized much sooner and with better results. (And this also means more income for the practitioner along with more available personal or professional time.)

Here are some enterprises where astrological knowledge can enhance and support the healing and psychological arts.  Remember: there are therapists and healers who are incorporating astrological techniques in these fields:

Massage therapy
Body movement therapies
Reiki
Social work cases
Psychological counseling
Family counseling
Parenting classes
Life crisis management
Vocational guidance
Academic guidance
Animal husbandry
Gardening for healing 

Sunday, June 8, 2014

Love, Money, Power, or Fear: Personal Motivators of signs

 This should give a great deal of insight not only for the signs, but for how we relate to others, to our own Needs (our Moon), our Self-identity (Sun), and also our Fears and Worries (Saturn). 

Ever figure what motivates people?  It's easy--and it works with everyone you know (including loved ones):
Love, Money, Power, or Fear.  

Two of them are constants in our life (Primary), and two are not important (Secondary). The trick is to know which two are yours, and see how you  match each other (in relationships), or just being aware of your personal "hot  buttons."

They each have a positive and negative reinforcement as motivators in our lives, depending on which ones are Primaries. Again, the rule is that two of four are Primaries: these are the two factors which motivate and inspire each of us, and the remaining two (Secondaries) are not of consideration nor consequence when it comes to decision-making processes. Our relationships that succeed or fail, whether personal or professional, can depend heavily on how well matched we are with a Significant Other who mirrors back a similar Primary.

Love as a Positive Primary brings someone a warm feeling of appreciation for living things, human or otherwise; they are very attuned to the flow of energy that sustains all that exists.  Some of these people are healers or work with support systems that enhance or encourage people, animals, plants, or other creatures to be maintained or thrive. Love as a Positive Primary can be very spiritual; it is a natural part of this type to be affectionate and seek out others who enjoy receiving and giving this energy.

As a Negative Primary, these people can be overcome by jealousy and possessiveness. They may be envious of others who receive or give affection or displays of love. Some people who use Love as a Negative Primary force do not let other people find fulfillment in romantic situations:  a parent or partner who deliberately uses control of Love is such a person.

Money as a Positive Primary can be seen through people who are resourceful, inventive, generous, and philanthropic; they are willing to share with others who are in need. Possessions and property are not theirs exclusively; they are aware of being supportive and encouraging in motivating others to reach their goals or just keep trying and not quit. Professor Muhammad Yunus and his efforts to provide micro-loans to women who needed financial assistance to break the cycle of poverty is one example. This is more than just giving to charities too: this is realizing that Manifestation is a gift that everyone can create and use.  

Something  as simple as the "pay it forward" method of giving to someone who needs assistance and then letting them extend the same opportunity to someone else in need would be such a method. The Native American tradition of potlatch is an example: The potlatch is a festival or ceremony  practiced among Indigenous peoples of the Pacific Northwest Coast. At these gatherings a family or hereditary leader hosts guests in their  family's house and holds a feast for their guests. The main purpose of the potlatch is the re-distribution and reciprocity of wealth.

Different events take place during a potlatch, like either singing and dances, sometimes with masks or regalia, such as Chilkat blankets, the barter of wealth through gifts, such as dried foods, sugar, flour, or other material things, and sometimes money. For many potlatches, spiritual ceremonies take place for different occasions. This is either through material wealth such as foods and goods or non-material things such as songs and dances.
 

As a Negative Primary, Money can be a crippling need for wealth at the cost of others' lives:  slavery is one example.  Greed, miserliness, and the abuse of others at any price is another. The monetary system in general (not barter) has many examples of how financial means can become an abusive method of controlling people.

Power as a Positive Primary brings out the best in creative visualization and faith in one's values if they are used to help and assist others and life in general.  This is the realm of believing in one's goals, as well as helping others to reach theirs.  It is more than physical strength; this is spiritual strength and empowerment, and the purpose of having a dream to pursue.  Some people go into various methods of Life Coaching, including sports, in order to help others fulfill their destinies.  The late college basketball coach, John Wooden of UCLA, is a great example.  Jaime Escalante, the high school math teacher who encouraged his students to break free of the poverty mentality of their East Los Angeles upbringing and go on to college, is another.  

As a Negative Primary, Power can certainly be seen as a control factor.  The use and abuse of Love, Money, and Fear to frighten and weaken others can be seen throughout the history of Mankind through the works of literature and other means of expressing and recording the stories of people and their efforts.  Domination, tyranny, and competitiveness that overwhelms others at the price of their freedom (again, slavery and conquest being two examples) finds justification in the eyes and minds of people who believe that "Might Makes Right."

Fear as a Positive Primary is often misunderstood as a weakness, but it has a proper place.  Caution, security, and deliberate, proper planning are excellent ways of being sure and confident of one's plans or position in life.  Such people are often slow to respond, but are determined and successful.  I would place investor Warren Buffet here because of the rules he follows regarding his strategies about money:  don't lose it, and don't take unnecessary risks.

As a Negative Primary, Fear is used by people who are afraid; the word "afraid" itself often appears in their language.  They can be intimidated easily and reduced to positions of self-doubt and worry.  (Author's note: I consider such people to "drive with one foot on the gas and one foot on the brake"; they often are hesitant to take control of opportunities for themselves, and can be overwhelmed by emotional factors and insecurities.)  Death as a topic and the fear of the unknown after death is another part of a Fear-based Negative Primary; it has been used for centuries as a means of controlling people's values and resources.
--------------------------------------
As I see it, Aries, Gemini, Leo, Scorpio, Sagittarius and Capricorn are the ones I would say have more potential for influence by Power. Certainly, Aries activates it in self and others; Gemini acquires satisfaction of information from it; Leo wants to receive it from presence of existence; Scorpio controls and contains it; Sagittarius exults in receiving and distributing it; and Capricorn wants it for consolidation and formation of an idea.

I'd say that Taurus, Cancer, Virgo, Scorpio, Aquarius, and Pisces are more Fear-motivated. Taurus wants security of existence in tangible form; Cancer wants safety of existence; Virgo wants boundaries and structure of existence for self and others; Scorpio wants privacy and safety at any cost; Aquarius fears losing freedom of self and social encounters to outdated standards; and Pisces needs to hide from the aggression of others in a world that seems bizarre and unfriendly. 

And I'd think that Taurus, Cancer, Leo, Scorpio, and Capricorn are also Money-oriented too. Leo, Libra, and Pisces are the ones I'd say are definitely "Love"-motivated too. Yes, I do think some people who are in these Sun signs could have other types of motivation other than what I've indicated--but this is a generalization on my part to categorize them.

Aries is all about conquest: Power. Gemini wants Power of Information. Leo wants Power for Appreciation of Personality. Scorpio wants it to control and dominate; also for self-protection. Sagittarius wants it for the ability to do more. And Capricorn wants it to create a legacy.

Taurus wants security--without it, there's no safety: either Money or Fear (the lack of money). Cancer is the same way--especially for a Cancer Moon or ascendant. Virgo wants to protect personal boundaries and quirks: the fear of "not having routines." Scorpio doesn't want to lose personal privacy, so in fear of this, it lashes out fiercely at anyone or anything who would take it. Aquarius doesn't want to lose Personal Freedom of choice. And Pisces is afraid of never Going Back Home.

As noted, Taurus wants money to acquire belongings. Cancer wants it to provide for others--and to maintain security. Leos may want money to show themselves in more dramatic ways. Scorpio likes the power of money and what it can do. Capricorn knows that money makes for business deals.

Regarding Love, Leo is more likely to want everyone to love them for Being there. Libra may be Co-Dependent for Love. And Pisces feels such Universal Love for others from the Flow of Life force from the Creator.

Wednesday, May 21, 2014

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:
·       1st (Personality), 4th (Home-family), 7th (Relationships-partnerships), or 10th (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



Tuesday, May 13, 2014

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."

Saturday, May 10, 2014

The Four Major Asteroids, Lilith, and the Emerging Feminine Consciousness

The four (Ceres, Vesta, Juno, and Pallas) major asteroids represent the Emerging Feminine Consciousness of the 21st century.  They offer access to the right-brain side of creative visualization and thinking, relationships, and emotional sensitivity, as well as healing energies and overcoming painful experiences.


Ceres can be seen as one of the Earth Mother archetypes: she deals with the subject’s externalization of caring and comfort to others—in effect, how the individual, regardless of gender, “mothers” another.  Mother Theresa’s dedication to caring for the poor would be an archetype.  Ceres can also play a role in mother-daughter power struggles in a “Snow White” dynamic with the “mirror-mirror on the wall” issue of blossoming adolescence and a jealous parent. 

Vesta indicates how and what an individual will sacrifice him/herself for regarding a social or personal cause or belief; a way of giving up something in service to the community, society, or for personal growth in areas like religious retreats or isolation for spiritual growth.  Emily Dickinson’s withdrawal from responsibilities and social contact in order to dedicate herself to her poetry and writing is an example of a Vestal energy.  Another Vestal archetype would be the men who guard the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.


Juno represents the bonds and commitments of marriage, fidelity, and ownership of rights within a relationship.  It shows how an individual will value and validate his/her status as a Significant Other as well as personal preferences for a mate.  The separate-but-equal identity of a woman in a man’s world is represented by the lessons of Juno.  The media struggles of Tiger Woods and his wife Elin during their break-up and divorce would easily represent this archetype. 
  
Pallas Athena represents the power of Creative Manifestation and acting as a spokesperson for those who need a protector, especially in gender rights issues or human rights.  The DVD series about “The Secret” is an archetype, as well as Amnesty International, and the “Peaceful Warrior.”  Pallas represents the ability to focus and stay on target for a goal, as well as manifestations of prosperity, success, and reward.  Persistence, determination, and endurance are tests that Pallas uses to teach the psyche.  Activism and participation in group or social functions that champion the underdog or defend those less capable are in this realm. 
 
Lilith, although not a physical celestial body, represents the destructive tendencies of the psyche to strike back when rejected or when one’s personal desires are thwarted or diverted.  As “The Al Gore 2nd Place Award” (my idea), Lilith represents the runner-up in a Life Challenge episode where the subject does not achieve a goal or objective, or feels blocked by forces or energies that cannot or will not cooperate or yield.  However, if discipline is applied or accepted, the lessons Lilith brings will bring rewards and fulfillment in another area of life or in a different manner.  In this way, Lilith has a limiting Saturn-like quality for delivering messages and challenges that are tests of the ego’s need for attention.


(c) MDLOP8 2010

Friday, May 2, 2014

Child*Star Reports for Mom & Dad--and grandparents

Mother's Day is coming up--AND Father's Day in June--and it takes a mother to make a man a father too. But what does this mean for parents to have the gift of a child? A child can't say to his or her parents, "This is who I am. This is what I need to express and develop in my character." 

It takes a Child*Star report to know the messages that need to be understood. It can give years of guidance that no pediatrician, grandparent, or even Mom or Dad can be without: astrological and psychological guidance.

Child*Star reports were developed by a Montessori teacher with 25 years experience--I've spoken with her about this material too--and years of raising her own children. Make a difference in a child's life and development--and your own as a parent and adult. Available for $25 via email.


 

Wednesday, April 16, 2014

Magi astrology Cinderella/Prince Charming Romance Timing for Soul Mate connections

(Note: the role of Cinderella is being played by Scarlett Johansson.)

“Dear Astrological Consultant, when will I find the man (or woman) of my dreams**?”**(Note: yes, men do have 'romantic times' too; the author Robert Louis Stevenson met his wife, who was 10 years senior, during such an event--and he wrote some great love letters to her. And there certainly are 'romantic' signs for men with Venus in their chart.)

The comet Chiron is the planet of Cinderellas.  Like any other planet, Chiron is constantly moving as it orbits the Sun. As Chiron moves in the sky, whenever it makes a special harmonious energy to your Venus, Jupiter or Neptune, you are at the peak of your Romance Cycle. The same is true when the position of Venus, Jupiter or Neptune in the sky makes a harmonious energy flow to your Chiron. It is at these times that you are in your Cinderella Time and you are most attractive, most charming and most fascinating.

During your Cinderella Time, people forgive you for everything. They overlook your faults and you are at the peak of your popularity. It is during your Cinderella Time that you are as irresistible as you can possibly be. You can almost walk on air. 

   ***This is when you have the greatest chance of meeting your Prince Charming (or your princess), fall in love together and marry him (or her). But as you must have guessed, your Cinderella Gateway is open only for a few times in your life and only briefly each time. Don't miss it. It is crucial that you take advantage of it whenever it occurs in your own life.

Sunday, April 6, 2014

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.

Thursday, March 20, 2014

Aries, the Sign of the first day of Spring and Motivation


 (Just a note:  not ALL the classic social role models ("archetypes") will fit the sign's characteristics--but these are good examples of people who outwardly express the qualities of the sign.)

Aries:  Mar 21-Apr 19
"I Am What I Am"

The birth sign Aries heralds the start of Spring, and the beginning of new life. Arian natives are characteristic of the growth that signals the new season: they are dynamically active to open up new endeavors and experiences, much as nature emerges from winter's sleep with a burst of vitality. Arians are so boundless in their expression to release their energies, they sometimes lose sight of the goal they sought to accomplish. Therefore, it would be better if an Aries learned to complete the task at hand, before bursting out aggressively to the next idea!

Arians are fiercely independent for their causes and desire to conquer new territories. The Arian temper is legendary for its volcanic explosions at the slightest challenge, but it burns out quickly and all is forgiven moments later. Arians are noted for both physical strength and endurance, which also translates into sexual energy. Their desire to bring forth new avenues in all aspects of life carries into pursuit of the opposite sex.

Arians have a child-like, innocent quality to their actions; foolish, impulsive decisions without planning and courageous life-threatening heroics are typical. They are certainly accident-prone. Their greatest fear is to be rejected by someone or to be confronted by a potential weakness. Due to the warrior nature of Aries' namesake, the Greek god of War, Ares, military service and the affinity for firearms and sharp objects have an Arian appeal. Aries is the sign of the soldier, and sports often provide the release for the need to physically overpower an "opponent."

Aries is the sign of the ego, the need to learn life's lessons the hard way, through repeated, patient example, until deliberation and preparation of their exuberance can be better directed.  There are two types of Aries:  the "Mars" type which looks for fights or causes and must be constantly engaged in some kind of conflict, or the "Sun" type, which is the Exalted role of Aries.  This role brings more motivation and inspiration to projects (or individuals with whom the soul connects): "the Peaceful Warrior." The classic composition "Mars, the Bringer of War," by Gustav Holst, personifies the Aries soul.

Control, comprehension and completion are three important milestones in an Arian's life. When they are mastered, the dynamic regenerative ability, spiritual self-confidence and willpower are harnessed, and the creative activities become more divinely inspired.

Masculine Principle: Potency
(Mars)  Physical -Sexual Energy
Aggression – Anger - Drive - Assertion
Soldier – Warrior - Amazon   
The Don Juan - *Woman Chaser 
#The Pioneer - **Daredevil

Sly Stallone        Hercules        *Warren Beatty 
*Casanova          Vin Diesel        Bruce Willis
Extreme Sports  #Amelia Earhardt
Arnold Schwarzenegger           **Evel Knievel


(c) MDLOP8 2010


Monday, March 3, 2014

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.