A PROFILE OF PISCES: I BELIEVE IN ENDLESS POSSIBILITIES AND IN THE CONNECTEDNESS OF ALL LIFE

(FOR A PODCAST VERSION OF THE PROFILE OF PISCES, PLEASE GO TO THE UPPER RIGHT COLUMN TO LISTEN TO THE PODBEAN RECORDING)

Preface:  As I do every month for each of the signs, I want to emphasize that if your birthday does not fall during the Pisces timeframe for the year you were born, this DOES NOT mean that you do not experience the energy of Pisces, because somewhere in your natal birth chart, it is present.  All twelve signs of the zodiac are expressed in your being, although some signs, and therefore their corresponding energies, may be more emphasized than others.

The Sun sign is about your essence, your vitality (what makes you feel alive), and your self-image.  Whatever your Sun sign, you are on a life-long journey to discover and fully embrace this sign’s energy.  You will be tested in life to experience the meaning of your Sun sign’s energy.

IN PISCES REALM

By Chris Gonzalez

Imagine in your being a dreamy force

That yearns for release in creative form –

A mystical song, stained glass, or rhymed verse,

You are now traveling in Pisces’ realm.

Separating and merging – these two fishes dance,

One swims close to earth, one toward the Great Beyond,

Moved to feel various realms of existence.

In whichever state, Pisces feels at home.

In the wheel of life, Pisces is the last spoke,

The final stage where we release and transcend

Dissolving our boundaries so we can evoke

An awareness that universal life will never end.

The Sun moved into the sign of Pisces on February 18, 2011 (PST) and transits this sign until midafternoon March 20.  As I approached my timetable for writing this profile of Pisces, I feared that I would get writer’s block. Pisces is one of the astrological signs that I have problems describing in concrete words.  Why is this? I think it is because the zodiac sign of Pisces is about spiritual development and humankind’s relationship with the divine.  Pisces is about transcending personal attachments to matter. This territory is often nebulous and doesn’t necessarily lend itself to easily understandable descriptive language. 

The symbol for Pisces is two fish facing opposite directions but bound by a cord.  Astrologer Dana Gerhardt posits that the two fish are really gods in disguise.  One fish travels toward the heavens for spiritual transcendence while its partner travels a more secular path along the material plane.[1] Hence, one may speculate that the cord represents binding the paths of earthly existence with that of the mystical.

 Pisces is a mutable water sign. The ocean is Pisces’ home and water symbolizes emotional and spiritual energy.  Although the ocean is vast, water has tremendous power to cause ripple effects with everything else, and thus illustrates the connectedness of life. The perspective of “oneness” is a key Piscean theme, both in the mystical realm as well as the way Pisces energy interacts on the earthly plane.  One prominent individual who characterizes this energy is the late Beatle George Harrison, a Sun Sign Pisces who was the most obviously spiritual of his fellow band members.  His music, influenced by Hindu mysticism, speaks of devotion and peace. His works reflecting this spirituality include “Give me Love (Give Me Peace on Earth)" and "My Sweet Lord". Another Piscean, Bohemian author Jack Kerouac, spoke to this sign’s theme of unity in life and dreaming when he said, “All human beings are also dream beings. Dreaming ties all mankind together.”[2]

 The astrological chart is analogous to the Wheel of Life, and in the chart, the last house, the 12^th, is ruled by Pisces.  The movement around the 360 degree chart is one that reflects a move from the individualism of the first sign of Aries to the collectivism of Pisces. Traditionally in astrology the 12^th house shows service at a large institutional level, particularly ones that are characterized by seclusion or removed from the mainstream.  Astrologer Maurice Fernandez, in his analysis of Pisces, Neptune and the 12^th House, says that the Pisces archetype shows us how a person taps into the needs of public and collective consciousness. He encourages astrologers to consider this when analyzing client charts as it relates to career and vocation.[3] It’s interesting to note that Johnny Cash, the late singer with a Pisces Sun, performed regularly at prisons, which, in astrology jargon, is an institution that fits neatly the 12^th house.

Pisces energy gravitates to types represented by the poet, the dancer, the musician, and the religious devotee.  However, astrologer Dana Gerhardt cautions that we should not restrict our thinking that Pisces is not suited for careers which seem to be counter to the Pisces personality.  Gerhardt believes that because Pisces is so good at sensing their surroundings and adjusting to their environment that they can “go with the flow.”  Gerhardt views this “shape-shifting” quality as being central to an understanding of Pisces.[4] Scientist Albert Einstein successfully solved major gaps in knowledge in physics with his theories of relativity, in part because his “Pisces processing” allowed him to see how disparate parts could fit into a whole theory.  Yet, Einstein did poorly in school in his younger years, preferring to daydream (utilizing Piscean imagination) in class and he was known for being disorganized.  Nevertheless in many fields, the Einsteins of the world are needed to see the “big picture” in problem solving.

We can see that on a spiritual level, Pisces can tap into the place of oneness and connectedness.  Pisces extends this perspective into the realm of everyday existence.  A Piscean belief system would incorporate the concepts that shared space and interests are appropriate between human beings, whether that be in living situations such as communal living, economic interests organized in worker collectives, a local community’s identification of “the commons”, the sharing of online information in the public domain (e.g. Wiki), or advocacy efforts on behalf of the “public interest.”  In the case of the last example, this concept has been perpetuated in modern times by Ralph Nader, a long-time public advocate whose Sun Sign is in Pisces.

The fluidity of the Pisces personality, open to multiple external influences, can cause vacillation in thinking and behavior.  Pisceans are often characterized as being sensitive and impressionable.  Pisces energy often demonstrates kindness, trust, and openness to limitless possibilities.  Have you ever had someone sit you down to tell you some “bad” news in a very compassionate manner, perhaps filled with some palatable distortions in order to have the least painful impact on you?  That person was using their Piscean energy in this situation.  Astrologer Deborah Houlding’s perspective is that Pisces’ reputation for deception stems not from dishonesty, but rather from a reluctance to face uncomfortable issues head on and to minimize distress.[5]  Bohemian writer and Piscean Anais Nin once said, “I don't tell the truth any more to those who can't make use of it. I tell it mostly to myself, because it always changes me.”[6]

The planet Jupiter is the traditional ruler of Pisces, while modern day astrology suggests a rulership by the planet Neptune.  Among Jupiterian urges is that of freedom from restraint and earthly obligations.  While Jupiter can begin activities because of an initial inspiration, this planet’s drawback is the lack of sustained energy over time to fulfill objectives (unless earth energies come into play).  Neptune is the energy force that brings the softening quality often demonstrated in the Piscean approach.  Neptune’s thrust is to dissolve boundaries in order to bring about greater equality and communality. Because of Jupiter’s tendency to move away from mundane responsibilities and Neptune’s erasing of boundaries, persons with Piscean energy can choose to escape through the use of drugs or dreams.  While staying in a drugged state or in a perpetual dream state can be problematic, the use of the imagination is a necessary and healthy process in the appropriate context.  The Piscean writer of children’s books, Dr. Seuss, utilized this energy constructively.  Regarding imagination he said, “I like nonsense, it wakes up the brain cells. Fantasy is a necessary ingredient in living; it's a way of looking at life through the wrong end of a telescope. Which is what I do, and that enables you to laugh at life's realities.”[7]  You can’t say Pisceans don’t have a sense of humor!

The following is a short list of well-known (deceased) Pisceans:

Anais Nin – Writer

Edward Kennedy – U.S. Senator

Pierre Renoir – Artist

George Harrison – Musician/Singer

Johnny Cash – Singer

Rudolph Steiner – Occultist

Elizabeth B. Browning – Poet

Jack Kerouac – Writer

Percival Lowell – Astronomer

Albert Einstein – Scientist

Michaelangelo – Artist

Nat King Cole – Singer

Rudolf Nureyev – Dancer

Nicolaus Copernicus – Astronomer

Linus Pauling – Scientist

Dr. Seuss - Writer

Maurice Ravel - Composer

ENDNOTES  

---

1.      Gerhardt, Dana. February/March 2009.  “Pisces’ Labor: Capturing Unlimited Possibilities.”  The Mountain Astrologer, #143, pp.11-15.

2.      Jack Kerouac. (n.d.). BrainyQuote.com. Retrieved February 16, 2011, from BrainyQuote.com Web site: http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/quotes/j/jackkeroua384511.html

3.      Fernandez, Maurice. October/November 2007.  “Neptune, the 12th House, and Pisces.” The Mountain Astrologer, #135, pp.40-46.

4.      Gerhardt, Dana. February/March 2009.  “Pisces’ Labor: Capturing Unlimited Possibilities.”  The Mountain Astrologer, #143, pp.11-15.

5.      Houlding, Deborah. October/November 2008.  “Pisces the Fish.”  The Mountain Astrologer, #141, pp.25-31.

6.      Anais Nin. (n.d.) Famousquotesandauthors.com. Retrieved February 16, 2011, from Famousquotesand authors.com. Website: http://www.famousquotesandauthors.com

7.      Dr. Seuss. (n.d.). BrainyQuote.com. Retrieved February 16, 2011, from BrainyQuote.com Web site: http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/quotes/d/drseuss106019.html.

A PROFILE OF THE SIGN OF AQUARIUS: I AM UNIQUELY MYSELF WITHIN MY TRIBE



Aquarius the Waterbearer

(TO LISTEN TO A PODCAST VERSION OF THIS PROFILE, PLEASE GO TO THE TOP OF THE RIGHT COLUMN TO SELECT THE PODBEAN PODCAST)

Do You Know An Aquarian?

By Chris Gonzalez

Do you personally know an Aquarian?

Zodiac lore says they can be contrarian.

For them, it can be a rebellious streak that beckons,

Or it may be society’s sheep they strive to awaken.

It is a sign often labeled as quirky,

Unlike Leo, its opposite, it’s not perky.

Full of air, it summons the power of the brain-

Their genius inventions are society’s gain.

Waterbearers are wired to tell the truth,

Although it’s not their intent to be uncouth.

They form networking tribes with like-minded souls,

While maintaining their uniqueness is their personal goal.

The Sun moves into the sign of Aquarius on January 20, 2011 and transits this sign until February 19, 2011.  As I do every month for each of the signs, I want to emphasize that if your birthday does not fall during the Aquarius timeframe for the year you were born, this DOES NOT mean that you do not experience the energy of Aquarius, because somewhere in your natal birth chart, it is present.  All twelve signs of the zodiac are expressed in your being, although some signs, and therefore their corresponding energies, may be more emphasized than others.

The Sun sign is about your essence, your vitality (what makes you feel alive), and your self-image.  Whatever your Sun sign, you are on a life-long journey to discover and fully embrace this sign’s energy.  You will be tested in life to experience the meaning of your Sun sign’s energy.

In my previous podcast I noted that an astrological sign is a “reaction” to the sign of the zodiac that precedes it, and therefore adopts qualities that will compensate for the shortcomings of the previous sign.  In Capricorn we see concentrated focus to whatever it seeks to accomplish.  As an earth sign ruled by the planet Saturn, Capricorn is intent on bringing something into manifestation.  Capricorn wants to achieve in the concrete world.  This sign understands boundaries, restrictions, and limitations.  Capricorn, perhaps more than any other sign, understands the value of hard work, i.e. reaching one’s goals may not come easy.  In fact, it is the knowledge that one has applied tremendous energy to attain a goal that gives Capricorns their self-respect.  The byproduct of Capricorn’s effort is mastery and power.  Capricorn values conserving, and that includes traditions and structures from the past.

Aquarius, on the other hand, blends the energy of tradition with that of breaking boundaries in order to ensure necessary progress. In traditional astrology, Saturn was the co-ruler of both Capricorn and Aquarius.  Modern day astrology gives the rulership of Aquarius to Uranus and subrulership to Saturn.  As we learned in our discussion of Capricorn, Saturn represents the energy of contraction, of living within our means or abilities. Uranus is the planet of electromagnetic energy, innovation, sudden change, revolution, surprises, upheaval, and the force that demands authenticity and uniqueness. Hence, Aquarius must deal with the paradox of conserving and maintaining traditions, practices, and structures that still serve a worthwhile function, while at the same time being open to tearing away at anything that stands in the way of innovation. 

Aquarius moves beyond the reclusiveness of Capricorn, and as an air sign, it naturally wants to network with others.  Aquarius communicates on a mass scale, and this sign rules all electrical types of communication, including high tech and the Internet.  Among the social air signs, Aquarius especially gravitates toward group activities with like-minded individuals.  The challenge for Aquarians is to become their unique selves while flourishing within groups for which they have affinity.  While Capricorn thrives on conformity, Aquarius wants to break out of this mold for its own individuation and to move society in the direction of progress.  The prominent feminist author and Aquarian, Germaine Greer, once said that “Human beings have an inalienable right to invent themselves; when that right is pre-empted, is called brainwashing.”[1]

In order to achieve their state of freedom, Aquarius must constantly withstand the forces of peer pressure and conformity.  Astrologer Steven Forrest says that Aquarius uses stubbornness as a resource to prevent the compromise of their individuality. While stubbornness serves Aquarius as a defense, this stubbornness can also become a difficult trait in this sign’s personality, as it may be with the other fixed signs in the zodiac (Taurus and Leo).[2]

It may help to envision some personality types that reflect Aquarian energy.  Author Steven Forrest outlines five major archetypes[3]:

• The Genius
• The Revolutionary
• The Truth Sayer
• The Scientist
• The Exile

The descriptions of these archetypes that follow are my own perspectives. When I think of Aquarius the first type I think of is the Scientist archetype.  The scientist is often a detached individual who utilizes his intellectual prowess to think up radically different approaches to tackle a problem, and this leads to inventions and innovations.  They appreciate the body of knowledge that has been developed over time, but they are challenged by the goals of overcoming present-day problems with new knowledge and strategies.  Scientists often work in teams, and they often attend symposiums and conferences where they share key findings in their field.  Aquarians help their respective fields by putting forth visions of how things can be, because their thinking can be so far ahead of everyone else’s.

In my mind a closely related archetype is that of The Genius.  Aquarians have the gift of looking at problems in new ways and to “think outside the box” in formulating solutions.  Genius is not necessarily a pure IQ factor, but it is the ability to see issues or problems from a perspective outside the mainstream.  There are certainly geniuses in the scientific field where inventions abound, but this archetype can be applied to any field or discipline.  Aquarian President Franklin Delano Roosevelt bucked his own social class to create social programs that addressed the pressing issues of the country.  Even if some of the programs were not necessarily conceived by him, he had the willingness to be open to nontraditional concepts. Artists in the visual arts, dance, and music frequently explore and shape their creativity in radically different ways.

Another aspect of Aquarian energy can be captured under the category of The Truth Sayer.  Aquarius energy demands authenticity, and if one is compelled in this direction, then speaking truth is of prime importance.  Clearly, committing oneself to authenticity is paramount in any context for Aquarius, whether that is in the scientific community, in the field of mass communications, in the nonprofit service or advocacy sector, or in any other aspect of life in which this sign is involved.  James Joyce, the prolific man of letters, said that “Poetry, even when apparently most fantastic, is always a revolt against artifice, a revolt, in a sense, against actuality.”[4]

Speaking truth is often not met with approval by society’s institutions, or even one’s friends.  When an Aquarian finds enormous challenges to one’s perspectives, there may be no viable alternative than to become The Exile in one’s society.  Countless creative people of means have fled their native environments to live in a more tolerant community.  Examples might be Josephine Baker, the African-American dancer (often partially clothed) who thrived in Paris, or perhaps writer and social observer Gore Vidal who spent part of his year in Italy, where he perceived that news coverage of America’s international policies were more openly discussed in Europe.  The Aquarian writer James Joyce explained this archetype as follows: “I will tell you what I will do and what I will not do. I will not serve that in which I no longer believe, whether it call itself my home, my fatherland, or my church: and I will try to express myself in some mode of life or art as freely as I can and as wholly as I can, using for my defence the only arms I allow myself to use--silence, exile and cunning.”[5]

The last archetype is that of the Revolutionary, where Aquarius energy can see no other alternative for the growth of society than to call for radical changes to institutions or ways of life.  Clearly, in this archetype, the planet Uranus is functioning at its purest level.  In this context, there is little regard for convention.  .    The words of Aquarian Angela Davis, the activist Professor of Philosophy, demonstrate this astrological sign’s sentiments when she claims that “Radical simply means grasping things at the root.”[6]

Although all these archetypes may be present in individuals whose natal charts may reflect an emphasis in Aquarius, please keep in mind that some members of the “Aquarius Sun Sign Club” may exhibit only one or two of these characteristics.  Some Sun Sign Aquarians may seem to reflect the Saturnian side of Aquarius.  Some examples of these individuals may be Ronald Reagan and Dick Cheney, who may

identify with turning societal structures on their head, but not for the good of the masses, but rather to fulfill an idealist view of dominance by the elite.

In summarizing this sign's essence, I would like to borrow the words of Rockport, Massachusetts astrologer, Bruce Nevin: “The reception and dissemination of insight for the betterment of the world is the highest expression of Aquarian energy.”[7]

Below is a list of prominent Aquarians.  Can you identify the Aquarian parts of their personality?

• Abraham Lincoln
• Saul Alinsky
• Susan B. Anthony
• Angela Davis
• Frederick Douglass
• Betty Friedan
• Samuel Gompers
• Germaine Greer
• Langston Hughes
• James Joyce
• Sinclair Lewis
• Lewis Carroll
• Charles Dickens
• Audre Lord

Readers of this blog and podcast listeners, I wish you the very best in being your unique self for the month of Aquarius in the comfort of your tribe, and may you be a vehicle of inventiveness and innovation for your benefit and for the wellbeing of our world. 



Glyph of the astrological sign of Aquarius



---

ENDNOTES

[1] Germaine Greer. (n.d.). BrainyQuote.com. Retrieved January 18, 2011, from BrainyQuote.com Web site: http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/quotes/g/germainegr398252.html

[2] Forrest, Steven. 1988.  The Inner Sky. San Diego: ACS Publications

[3] Forrest, Steven. 1988.  The Inner Sky. San Diego: ACS Publications

[4] James Joyce. (n.d.). BrainyQuote.com. Retrieved January 18, 2011, from BrainyQuote.com Web site: http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/quotes/j/jamesjoyce157274.html

[5] Ibid.

[6] Angela Davis. (n.d.). BrainyQuote.com. Retrieved January 18, 2011, from BrainyQuote.com Web site: http://www3.brainyquote.com/quotes/quotes/a/angeladavi158901.html

[7] Nevin, Bruce. 1982. Astrology Inside Out. Rockport, MA: Para Research, Inc.






A PROFILE OF THE SIGN CAPRICORN: I WORK HARD FOR MY SELF-RESPECT

(TO LISTEN TO A PODCAST VERSION OF "A PROFILE OF CAPRICORN", PLEASE CLICK THE FIRST ENTRY AT THE TOP OF THE RIGHT COLUMN)

The Sun moves into the sign of Capricorn from December 22, 2010 until January 20, 2011. If your birthday does not fall during the Capricorn timeframe for the year you were born, thi
s DOES NOT mean that you do not experience the energy of Capricorn, because somewhere in your natal birth chart, it is present. All twelve signs of the zodiac are expressed in your being, although some signs, and therefore their corresponding energies, may be more emphasized than others.

 The Sun sign is about your essence, your vitality (what makes you feel alive), and your self-image. Whatever your Sun sign, you are on a life-long journey to discover and fully embrace this sign's energy. You will be tested in life to experience the meaning of your Sun sign's energy.

It has been said that an astrological sign is a "reaction" to the sign of the zodiac that precedes it. Perhaps another way to say this is that a sign builds upon the antidote for the shortcomings of the previous sign. The sign of Sagittarius precedes Capricorn. Sagittarius is always on a quest to find meaning, exploring with zest various philosophies, cultures, places, and other aspects of life that fascinate this sign of the Archer. The unfamiliar propels this sign into action, relying on faith and an optimistic outlook to continue its exploration. Sagittarius, a sign ruled by the expansive planet Jupiter, would say that "the sky's the limit." Sagittarius seeks new horizons to continually examine different ways of being so that one can make explanatory statements (or conjectures) about the meaning of life. As a fire sign, Sagittarius is led by inspiration, and therefore can inspire others with whatever journey of the mind or body it has chosen. Sagittarius seeks breadth in its experiences.

Capricorn, on the other hand, is intent on providing concentrated focus to whatever it seeks to accomplish. As an earth sign ruled by the planet Saturn, Capricorn goes beyond the processes of Sagittarius to bring something into manifestation. Capricorn wants to achieve in the concrete world. This sign understands boundaries, restrictions, and limitations. Capricorn, perhaps more than any other sign, understands the value of hard work, i.e. reaching one's goals may not come easy. In fact, it is the knowledge that one has applied tremendous energy to attain a goal that gives Capricorns their self-respect. The byproduct of Capricorn's effort is mastery and power.

The sage astrologer Steven Forrest ( a Sun Sign Capricorn) posits that Capricorn's purpose is to be true to one's nature so that he/she can find a role to best serve society, whether that be through a job, volunteer work, or public service. Forrest says that through this arduous process of finding one's proper place in society, Capricorn learns patience and self-discipline. Furthermore, this author contends that solitude is a strategy utilized by Capricorn to learn how to be content with his/her thoughts and projects so as not to rely on the praise and approval of others. In this way, observes Forrest, solitude transforms a burden into an opportunity. This author says that Capricorn's practicality can keep it focused on its intention and can overcome feelings of fear, frustration, and resistance, and that Capricorn's iron will is among its greatest resources. (Forrest, Steven. 1988. The Inner Sky. San Diego: ACS Publications).

When Capricorn fails to find, or loses sight of, his/her true nature and goals, Capricorn can become isolated and alone, and turn to false pursuits such as success for the sake of success, money as a sign of success, and a hoarder of tangible items as validation of self-worth. Hence, as this sign's symbol suggests, the Goat must find the right mountain to climb, so that it is not duty-bound, but instead free to climb heights in alignment with its nature.

Traditional Astrologer and researcher Deborah Houlding's brilliant article on Capricorn the Goatfish cites the following poem "If" by Capricorn poet Rudyard Kipling" as reflecting the true perspective of the Capricorn spirit. (Houlding, Deborah. December/January 2008. "Capricorn the Goatfish." The Mountain Astrologer, #136, pp.40-46).

IF

If you can keep your head when all about you

Are losing theirs and blaming it on you;

If you can trust yourself when all men doubt you

But make allowance for their doubting too;

If you can wait and not be tired by waiting,

Or being lied about, don't deal in lies,

Or being hated, don't give way to hating,

And yet don't look too good, nor talk too wise;

If you can dream — and not make dreams your master;

If you can think — and not make thoughts your aim,

If you can meet with Triumph and Disaster

And treat those two impostors just the same:

If you can bear to hear the truth you've spoken

Twisted by knaves to make a trap for fools,

Or watch the things you gave your life to, broken,

And stoop and build 'em up with worn-out tools;

If you can make one heap of all your winnings

And risk it on one turn of pitch-and-toss,

And lose, and start again at your beginnings,

And never breathe a word about your loss:

If you can force your heart and nerve and sinew

To serve your turn long after they are gone,

And so hold on when there is nothing in you

Except the Will which says to them: "Hold on!"

If you can-talk with crowds and keep your virtue,

Or walk with kings - nor lose the common touch,

If neither-foes nor loving friends can hurt you,

If all men count with you, but none too much:

If you can fill the unforgiving minute

With sixty seconds' worth of distance run,

Yours is the Earth and everything that's in it,

And — which is more — you'll be a Man, my son!

— Rudyard Kipling

(first published in Rewards and Fairies, 1910)

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MERCURY RETROGRADE ASKS US TO REFLECT

Beginning Friday, December 10, the planet Mercury begins moving in retrograde motion, as seen from Astrology's geocentric (earth) perspective.  The retrograde period lasts until December 29.  In the astrological chart, Mercury will travel across territory that it has previously covered, thus bringing the opportunity to "redo" what was done during its past journey.  The podcast that follows is a brief review of the symbolism of Mercury and a few words on the value of Mercury retrograde.

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PROFILING THE ENERGY OF SAGITTARIUS: THE WORLD IS MY OYSTER

 

Glyph for Sagittarius






This month I am profiling the energy of Sagittarius, because the Sun is now journeying in this sign from November 22, 2010 until December 21, 2010. Before you close this document and mutter to yourself that you are not a Sagittarian, may I clarify that somewhere in your natal chart, YOU have this sign in one of your astrological houses. The houses in your natal chart represent different areas of activity in your life, such as personal resources (the second house) or your local environment and siblings (the third house) and so on for the twelve houses. Even if this sign is not particularly prominent in your personality, you may notice that the narrative that follows does remind you of particular people in your life.


The common wisdom in the field of astrology says that each of the signs is in a sense a “reaction” to the preceding sign. For example, the sign that precedes Sagittarius is Scorpio. Scorpio energy is introspective and intense, often delving deeply to investigate inner mysteries or those in the external environment. Scorpio can go about this process often times in the background, hidden from public view. Persons with significant Scorpio energy are shrewd observers of other people and of the political power structure. Scorpio’s investigative intelligence may unearth information about others, but the Scorpio personality may reveal little about themselves.


Sagittarius, the sign following Scorpio, focuses its energy in a much different way, taking aim in a more outward direction. Sagittarius energy is expansive and explorative. Sagittarians loves freedom, whether that means the lack of restrictions in a career or in terms of their relationships to other people. This sign, represented by the centaur, is on a journey of the mind, body, or spirit. Sagittarians love variety and diversity, and they are bored with day-to-day routines. They revel in finding out about different cultures and love tasting new cuisines. Although Sagittarians are open to all sorts of people, their passionate viewpoints can make them indignant and intolerant.


Just so that I can more neatly paint a picture of a strong Sagittarian personality, I will create a fictional character named Shakti Amara. Now that is not her birth name, but Shakti was fascinated by other religions and philosophies beginning in her early twenties, and decided to rename herself to be more in alignment with her “citizen of the world” identity. Shakti studied cross-cultural symbol systems for her undergraduate degree, and she went on to earn doctorates in Anthropology and Economics. Shakti has traveled extensively around the world, and has focused her career on economic development in the Third World, particularly focusing on building the independence of women through microloan financing of their businesses. She has published three books in her field. She is a guest lecturer at various universities.


Shakti, while open to the diversity of cultures, is passionate about her left wing politics and she finds it difficult to be tolerant of other viewpoints. At cocktail socials, she engages in heated political debates, and she often finds herself saying things she wishes she could take back. In other words, she puts her foot in her mouth quite frequently. Nothing excites her more than exotic spreads at the buffet table. She can lean toward excess, whether that be in her large gourmet appetite or in the accompanying liquor drinks. Although her argumentative debating can send people to the other side of the room, once she has left the political debate and moved on to eating and drinking, she can be incredibly funny, with a sharp wit enjoyed by many of her friends and colleagues. Although a natural charmer, Shakti avoids long-term relationships and enjoys the freedom of her bachelorette status. Shakti enjoys sports, both those in which is physically engaged as well as a spectator.


Sagittarius is a fire sign, and is associated with inspiration, exuberance, enthusiasm, love of learning, cultivating wisdom and playfulness. However, this sign can demonstrate less positive qualities such as excess, exaggeration, self-righteousness, and restlessness.


Dana Gerhardt, practicing astrologer and magical writer, says that the skill Sagittarius must develop is archery–the capacity to focus and reach targets In order to use Sagittarian energy to its fullest, one must not simply play but put this sign’s gifts into meaningful work. Sagittarius then can reach mastery, and truly reflect its symbol of the archer.

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IF YOU KNEW LEO LIKE WE KNOW LEO

The Leo I speak of in this article is Leonardo Di Caprio, not the astrological sign. As an astrologer, an observer of human character, I take exception to Betsy Sharkey’s criticism in her August 10 piece in the Los Angeles Times. She opines that DiCaprio, the 35 year old screen star, has lost his way in his career and should diversify his acting roles in order to increase his range. From her vantage point, Di Caprio falls short of greatness because he has become stuck on intense roles where his characters are so tortured that many of his leading ladies have succumbed (in their onscreen roles, that is). Sharkey suggests that DiCaprio “lighten up.” She proposes that DiCaprio model De Niro and Streep in role selection, expanding his movie genres to incorporate comedy and romance in his repertoire.


If indeed one’s natal chart reflects our “operating instructions” for this lifetime, then Leonardo DiCaprio is doing a splendid job of fulfilling his life’s mission. The sun sign represents our vitality, our essence, where we need to shine, and it symbolizes the destination of our life’s journey. DiCaprio’s sun sign is in Scorpio, a sign that explores the realms of the underworld. Leonardo’s roles embody Scorpionic energy, a drive to investigate that which needs to be brought to light. His characters delve deep into the issues that plague their psyches, whether issues are dealt with or not. Scorpios have great insight, and they can successfully navigate the realms of power (often times politics) and wealth. Scorpios can transform from one character into another. It is important for DiCaprio to master this Scorpio energy, and he has chosen cinema as the realm in which this will be done, at least in part.

Below is Leonardo Di Caprio’s natal chart.

Even without a knowledge of astrology, the reader will notice that the bottom left of Leo’s chart has more symbols than any other section of this circle. These symbols are planets, the energy reflecting different human motivations (the urge to reason and communicate, the urge for freedom and uniqueness, the emotional urge, etc). First and foremost, the concentration of so many planets in this sector (northeast) of the chart indicates that DiCaprio makes his decisions independently and based on his own preferences. Leo’s Ascendant is in Libra, the sociable air sign that incorporates the art of relationship, harmony and balance, justice and beauty. DiCaprio’s personality (Ascendant) reflects these qualities. Four planets in Libra occupy Leo’s first house of identity. Various motivations represented by these planets make up Leo’s identity including the urge to purge and transform, the emotional urge, the urge for authenticity and the communication urge. DiCaprio expresses his identity urges in a Libra way. This house is where we find the romantic Jack Dawson, who won our hearts in Titanic. Given so much planet activity in this house, one can concur with Betsy Sharkey that DiCaprio is naturally well-suited to romantic roles, and how often he receives offers for such roles is unknown to me. Perhaps he favors the “tortured soul” roles more than romantic leads, but only DiCaprio can answer that question with full accuracy.

Three planets occupy DiCaprio’s second house of personal resources. These are Mars, the planet of pursing one’s desires, the Sun, which I spoke of earlier, and Venus, the planet of attraction and resources. Clearly, Leo’s assets are his ability to shine, act, and attract in a Scorpionic way. Here we see our subject’s desire to express his talents in ways that delve deeply into his characters. Beyond acting, these positions of the planets would also explain DiCaprio’s deep involvement in environmental and social issues, where he donates large sums of money for solutions in these problem areas.

Neptune in DiCaprio’s third house of local environment and communication illustrates his need to express service and idealism. His third house urge is related to the aspirational, as reflected by the sign of Sagittarius. This sign is concerned with expansive thinking and leaping into grand journeys (think Jack Dawson), whether that involves the body, mind or spirit. Neptune’s occupancy in the third house reflects DiCaprio’s spiritual journeys. Sagittarius explores various cultures and belief systems. Here DiCaprio is philosopher and teacher. In fact, I remember reading that Al Gore was impressed by Leo’s breadth of knowledge in the realm of the environment. This sign is both madcap and diligent, and it is here that we could see Leo playing more lighthearted roles relating to adventure and sports, the realms of Sagittarius.

Leonardo DiCaprio has the ability to play characters beyond his stereotypic roles, but I doubt that there is the natural propensity to be the lighthearted comic that Betsy Sharkey may want to see. Leo’s characters may be charming (Libra), intense (Scorpio) and philosophically madcap (Sagittarius) but they will more than likely be of significant substance. There may be occasional deviations from his natural tendencies, but it is doubtful that DiCaprio will venture into slapstick or superficial romantic roles. Betsy Sharkey and I will be witnesses to Leonardo DiCaprio’s transformations.

HAVE WE CLIMAXED YET?

Planetary alignments this summer have been leading up to the formation of what astrologers refer to as the cardinal cross or the “cardinal climax,” which can be represented by today’s energies as reflected in the event chart below. The term “cardinal” refers to the mode of the signs that form the aspect of the current event chart. Cardinal energy is new and initiating, and represents the beginning of a new season. This cardinal cross is an uncommon occurrence, and its effects not only impact the present but will linger for some time to come. It may be the prelude to major shifts in both our personal lives as well as in the collective.

The Cardinal climax will affect those individuals who have planets around the zero degree of cardinal signs (Aries, Cancer, Libra, and Capricorn). Without getting too technical, suffice it say that Saturn (restrictions, limits, commitment) in Libra has been opposing (180 degrees apart and symbolizing “awareness of the other”) Uranus (freedom, innovations, sudden change, radical actions, and authenticity) in Aries. Jupiter (expansion, the higher mind, the provider of benefits, enthusiasm) is conjunct (within close proximity) Uranus. At the same time, Pluto (purging, transformation, the underworld) in Capricorn is squaring (forming a 90 degree angle) both Uranus and Jupiter and Saturn. The faster moving planets Mars and Venus are conjunct Saturn in Libra. Mars and Venus often represent the forces of attraction (one active and the other passive or receptive), and more specifically romantic or sexual attraction. Since these planets are presently in early Libra, the theme of the “other” or relationships is particularly important. This planetary formation is characterized by great tension, because the signs occupied by these planets have characteristics which are at odds with each other.

Has someone new gotten under your skin unexpectedly (Uranus) and you feel the tension of doing something about it? For those in relationship, has the subject of commitment (Saturn) been surfacing, or has the need to give the relationship greater depth (Pluto) been voiced? Have couples in long-term committed relationships felt the need to make their understandings more authentic (Uranus) or entirely break free (also Uranus)? If you have planets in these sensitive points (early cardinal degrees) you may have felt great tension and the need to resolve this tension by taking some form of action. This tension may also be felt outside of romantic relationships, where there is the pull of doing what you need for yourself (Uranus and Jupiter in Aries) versus taking into consideration the interests of others (Saturn in Libra).

I myself have experienced jittery energy for a number of weeks, and it seemed to have begun subsiding today. The moon (although very fast moving) is at the release point of this cardinal cross. The moon is currently in Cancer, which rules the moon. The moon’s involvement in this formation, although very temporary, may have “soothed” some of the tension of conflicting energies.

Astrology is a tool to help us become aware of the energies we are experiencing. The symbolism for this period indicates that we may feel overwhelmed by all this cardinal cross tension and fears may surface with the issues brought forth at this time. This fear may take the form of resistance. We can address this resistance by understanding that the forces of growth are favoring the initiation of new phases in our lives, although we may not at this time be aware of its full scope. May you all benefit from the unfolding of this process of major change.