New Moons, Full Moons & Eclipses

" Ultimately, a man should not ask what the meaning of his life is, but rather must recognize that it is HE who is asked. In a word, each man is questioned by life ; to life he can only respond by being responsible......... Responsibleness is the very essence of human existence. So one should not search for an abstract meaning of life; everyone must carry out a concrete assignment that demands fulfillment.  Therein he cannot be replaced, nor can his life be repeated. Thus everyone's task is as unique as his specific opportunity to implement it." - Victor Frankyl

So, what's the deal with all of this stuff? The New Moon, Full Moon and all of these eclipses? One of the most common questions that I receive is: "what does this mean for me?" We all possess an individual birth chart, and this will tell the story. Before we move to the macro level, I would like to hit everyone with some very basic information about these phases of the lunation cycle so that we may be in a position to take advantage of the energy:

New Moon: A New Moon occurs when the Sun and Moon are conjunct (at the same degree,in the same sign) For example: when  the Sun is in Cancer at 13 degrees and the Moon is also in Cancer at 13 degrees, this is a New Moon. The energy of the sign that the Moon occupies at this time is rather intense. The current moon sign's expression is "all over the place" if we're paying attention. In order to gain maximum benefit from this phase, we must check our personal birth charts to see where the new moon is occurring. This will give us clues as to where to focus our energies. This is an excellent time to set an intention. To make a new beginning. To essentially reclaim anything concerning our own personal power or identity that we might have given away to anyone else..... Like: bladow! Gimme that back!!

Full Moon:  During the full moon phase, the sun and the moon are at  the same degree in opposite signs.  For example: If the Sun in Sagittarius at 5 degrees and the Moon in Gemini at 5 degrees,  this is a full moon. Just as the symbolism of the physical entities indicates, our psyches also become more aware of polarities, or opposites. We're naturally searching for a bridge to unite the divisions that occur inside of us.  We might even benefit from using our personal relationships as mirrors to become more aware of the positive or negative behavioral patterns which have become embedded in our way of being. It's also important, no matter what we discover, that we're able to exhibit objectivity and examine both sides of the equation. By instituting a balanced approach to all we encounter during this period, we're then able to counteract the unsettling energies that come with the territory. Once again, where the full moon occurs in our individual chart will assist in the unfolding of the plot.

Eclipses:  The New and Full Moons are the times at which eclipses occur. Most of the time, we get two sets of solar and lunar eclipses per year. So... here's the deal.... Eclipses are very unpredictable. Some Astrologers say: "the truth finally comes out!" While I would be reluctant to say if it's really the "truth" or not, chances are, whatever we might be suppressing, or have moved into the furthest regions of our mind has a reasonable chance of re- surfacing during an eclipse.  The elders say : "you'll deal with it until you're done with it." I would say that this adage is ultra- applicable during these times.  If we've been ignoring the tapping and soft knocks on the window of our psyche , the energy is ripe for broken glass. 

Now... don't get me wrong, this "broken glass" can also serve as a symbol for our freedom. An eclipse is a fruitful time for wiping our personal slates clean. Opening our eyes and ears REALLY wide in order to make a serious, and even ruthless assessment of whom and what we've allowed into our circle up until now: relationships, behaviors, activities, jobs, attitudes, goals and all else. At this time, we have a huge opportunity to retain, and improve upon what constructively serves us, and purge ourselves of what doesn't.

So.... what does this all mean for US?

I agree with the approach to Astrology that says: WE happen to events, events don't HAPPEN to us. Through our choices, we're the ultimate assigners of meaning to our experiences. These cycles are merely symbols that serve as initiators for our future actions. In his book "Cycles of Becoming", Alexander Ruperti touched on this point:

"The way we act and the meaning we find in a particular experience during a given cycle represent the creative, individual element, the nature of the cycle and the cycle's phase which corresponds to the experience enable one to understand better the significance of what one does and experiences at the time."

These events mean what WE make them mean, via the clues that are supplied within our birth charts. 

It doesn't matter if E.T. emerged and touched any one of us with his illuminated index finger. If we have no context in which to apply significance or meaning to that experience, it is very unlikely that there will ever be any. At best, it will just be a bugged out story to share with friends over drinks.

Let's always remember that while the planetary cycles may serve as the motor, we still serve as the key. We must access our own inner power to turn that key, start our engines and establish a clear direction in which to travel. Read more...

Capricorn's Quote of The Day

" Happiness is when what you think, what you say, and what you do are in harmony."
-Mahatma Gandhi

In this world, where image carries excessive weight, it's easy to become captivated by what others seem to be. In fact, it's not terribly difficult to get caught up in the maintenance of our persona's in lieu of the cultivation of our inner cores. More often than not, we grow to realize that a facade makes a lot of promises, however it doesn't withstand the test of time. The return on investment is not all that we thought it would be.

An essential part of Capricorn's life task is the development of true integrity.

Integrity is defined as : The quality or state of being complete or undivided.

Simply put, Capricorn's greatest growth comes from becoming a whole person, leaving no division in thought, word or deed. Displaying stellar consistency no matter what situation you might find yourself in. Through the successful implementation of integrity, you will grow to build a solid reputation as a role model. Someone who people trust. A solid example for others to emulate.

This is not an easy task.  For emphasis, I want to repeat that again: this is NOT an easy task. Capricorn is symbolized by the mountain goat.  Growing from acorn to oak tree is the mountain that you must climb. This requires the delay of short-term gratification in favor of making slow and steady progress toward more long lasting and significant achievements.

Even when  you do reach the top of this mountain, you may find yourself with very little company. Capricorn's must recognize that true leadership has it's price. However, being alone doesn't have to equate with being lonely. By using your times of solitude strategically, this allows you to plan, organize and structure short and long-term goals which will allow you to reach even greater heights.

Gaining integrity is a lifelong process. It requires that you trust your inner authority, discipline yourself and engage in a tremendous amount of self-honesty.

Capricorn: You were born to fulfill this task. Always remember that no matter what happens, your true worth will always be measured by your internal evaluation system.

See you at the top.                            

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Outer Planet Transits: Let Go Or Be Dragged

"We must be willing to let go of the life we have planned so as to accept the life that is waiting for us." - Joseph Campbell


At one time or another, most of us have conducted a search of our refrigerators only to find at least one item that is past its expiration date. Usually, our first instinct is to immediately remove the item and throw it away. We rely on our stellar judgement, which leads us to the conclusion that the product would most likely be harmful to our health if we ignored the date and decided to consume it. Easy enough, right? Well.... It really IS that easy if we're talking about a gallon of milk or a bottle of orange juice.

Let's take a portion of this logic and apply it to the universe.  Specifically, the transits of Uranus, Neptune and Pluto.

It is true that outer planet transits which align with our personal planets ask us to perform a search. However, this is a much more meaningful and arduous process because the investigation is within the domain of ourselves and our psyches, which are far more complex than even the most advanced Frigidaire.

I am in no way implying that the transits of the inner and social planets are not important, because everything has it's place in the universal celestial order. However, the outer planets, because they move slowly, provide the opportunity for the actual process of transformation to take place. There are no "one shot deals" when it comes to the outers. Their transits are conducive to major, life altering, and hopefully life enhancing changes. 

While transiting, Uranus, Neptune and Pluto each have their own method of operation. However, one theme which binds them together is what they ask of us on a general level: 

to honor our cosmic expiration dates in relation to our identities, emotional responses, thought processes and relationships.

During outer planet transits, it's essential that we examine the energies that surround each planet, concordant with the issues which are currently existent in our lives.  Then, we must ask them what they specifically want to do, in accordance with our overall life development. When we receive the answers, it's in our best interest to cooperate, respecting the planet's wishes  while keeping resistance to a minimum.

Generally, the outer planets are asking us to examine ourselves, with the ultimate objective of removing useless, outdated behaviors, attitudes and philosophies which no longer serve us. Concepts which aren't consistent with the new person we're being summoned to evolve into.

The longer and tighter that we attempt to cling to the way we've "always been" through overidentification with props that have been supporting us up until this point ,such as jobs, relationships, friendships, titles, marriages, etc... the more severe and intense the inner battle will be.

If we fail to address and resolve these challenges at an internal level, the universe may then deem it necessary to offer an illustration of sorts which manifests in outward circumstances to drive the message home. 

Throughout the process of these transits, it's worth considering the methods contained in the planetary energies that are designed to capture our attention.

*Uranus suddenly shocks, jolts and awakens.

We're in the shower one morning and we realize that we want a divorce. A complete life overhaul. We want to ditch the 8 to 5 and go out and live in the woods of Montana, and nothing else will do. "Maybe the 20 year gap in age doesn't seem that far fetched after ALL for a relationship. After all, we both like hip hop." Or, we're 33 years old and up until this new realization we've been living a contrived existence. It's all been a sham. Always doing what our family wanted, listening to advice from "friends" that didn't resonate with us, just to be a polite member of society. This has turned us into a drone of the highest caliber. We want out of the metaphorical picket fence, country club and weekly backgammon game.

*Neptune refines, softens and dissolves through a covert process.

We sit in the chair at the dentist's office and he/she asks us to count from 10 backwards. All we remember is that we got to 7. At the highest level, Neptune can inspire whatever it touches to it's highest and most spiritual level of creativity. It's divine imagination at work, assisting  us in manifesting inner realities in the outside world. At it's most harmful, it casts a haze on whatever faculties it comes in contact with. We've forgotten the date, time and have driven 25 minutes south from our intended destination, or we were supposed to get off our train 5 stops ago. Better yet, we've failed to hear the "ribbits" that our prince charming is releasing every time he opens up his mouth.

*Pluto symbolically brings death and rebirth.

If Saturn re-models the building, Pluto brings the TNT and blows it up. If it's time do vacate your post as Vice President of Operations, Pluto does not care that you have 15 family photos on your office wall. Here's your box. You've been with her for 7 comfortably numb years, and the imprint on your couch looks like a crime scene outline? This planet will let you know. If you don't listen to the whispers, you may get screams. While you think that the termination of this relationship would shatter your whole world, you know not what's behind door number three. You can take the stairs, which might be difficult. But resist, and be thrown out the window.

Rarely does any type of significant growth feel totally blissful. We must think seriously about the instances which we seek to remain too comfortable in the name of avoiding what we label as pain. If our intention is to truly grow, we can sincerely ask the outers to show us the way.

Yes, we might be unsure and sign the agreement with a shaky hand. However, if we consistently self-inspect, while assigning meaning to our experiences during outer planet transits, we will gain a wealth of knowledge that can transform us and serve as a catalyst to claim the life which has been waiting for us.                                                                                                                                       



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Astro Profile : Madlib

If you call yourself a "hip-hop head" and you're not familiar with the music of Madlib, I suggest that you crawl out from under your rock and do some research. Otis Jackson, Jr. (Born October 24, 1973 in Oxnard, California) is arguably one of the most versatile, productive and hard working producers ever to lay his imprint on the game. With production for a roster that consists of the likes of Erykah Badu, Ghostface, Mos Def, Talib Kweli and the Alkaholiks (just for starters), you've probably been nodding your head to this man's beats and you didn't even realize it.

Madlib, October 24, 1973 6:00 am, Oxnard, CA

Sun in Scorpio:

" I'm like a hermit, I'm not really doing all this mingling with people."

" I hate standing in front of a crowd and having to show myself, I'm a background dude."

Private, reclusive yet strikingly charismatic, Madlib lets you pry through the peephole just enough to get a glimpse of him crafting his masterpieces in the studio. He's obsessive about his craft. However, the majority of his speaking comes through his music. As a Scorpio Sun, Madlib's destination, a.k.a. the "skin" that he's growing into is comprised of depth, passion, intensity and complexity. Never taking a superficial approach to his music and constantly re-making, re-molding and transforming himself under such monikers as Quasimoto and Yesterday's New Quintet. Experiencing a continuous "new birth" of sorts.

Moon in Libra:

What does Madlib need to bring along with him on his journey to his Scorpionic destination? A deep seated emotional need to be creative. Harmony, melodic tones, rhythm. Employing the Libran strength of collaborating with other heavyweights such as Doom and J. Dilla(R.I.P.) on classic joint projects:

"The reason why I collaborate with MCs is that I wanna see if my style can fit with theirs or vice versa. See if we can bring something together.....I collaborate with anybody who is dope."

Regarding the aforementioned comment: I'm sure it takes one to know one.

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Mercury-Jupiter Aspects: Mr. Big Stuff

Today's blog, and it's title is dedicated to the memory of Dwight Arrington Myers, better known as Heavy D, who made his transition on Tuesday, November 8th, 2011 at the age of 44. He served the hip- hop community as a vibrant, positive and inspirational figure. His presence will be sorely missed. May his artistic contribution live on as well as his expansive, generous spirit. Hev is truly "Mr. Big Stuff."

In astrological symbolism, the planet Mercury represents the rational mind. It's what we think about; the processing of information. Mercury is speech, writing and the formation of our opinions.

Jupiter symbolizes the higher mind. It's the largest planet in our solar system, and whatever Mr. Big Stuff touches, he expands. In some cases, Jupiterian contact can even indicate an exaggeration of sorts. Jupiter infuses meaning, significance and wisdom.

If there's a Mercury-Jupiter aspect contained in your birth chart, your mind has the potential to see the world from a wide lens view. If you're able to develop this aspect, the results can manifest in someone who gathers information like a cook compiles ingredients for a recipe. Not only can you know all of the parts, but you're intuitively adept at baking the whole cake. The gift of synthesis can be yours.

Mercury-Jupiter people have the capacity to enthusiastically examine a subject or situation and all of it's inherent possibilities. This aspect reminds me of a scene from the movie "Love Jones", when Nina asks Darius:
" So you just have all of the answers, huh?" and he replies: "No, just all the questions." What we're dealing with here is a wide ranging, philosophically inclined mind seeking to derive profound meaning from thought.

The typical challenge for the Mercury- Jupiter individual is practical application of lofty ideals. What people with this aspect need, arguably more than anything is clarity. If it's absent, they may find themselves spouting sweeping generalizations based on a morass of unorganized information.

You're not fully capitalizing on this planetary contact if you're sitting in a smoking room with four other college professors or "intellectuals", wearing your tweed jacket (complete with elbow patches), pipe in hand, pontificating about why we're on this earth, with no structured plan in sight.

Mercury- Jupiter can negatively materialize as the person who thinks they know more than everybody. Accumulating knowledge for it's own sake. Neglecting to prioritize relevance. The self-righteous pseudo-scholar striving toward blowhard status.

The relationship between these two planets is used most constructively when you're able to share your vast reservoir of wisdom with others, inspiring their minds to greater heights, igniting the spark of noble activity. Through your understanding, both yourself and others are able to generate efforts toward tangible worldly achievements.

Because of the orientation of your mind, the eclectic approach to learning can and will surely be employed. However, meaning must reign supreme. If one remains consistent in this view, a natural expansion of mind will occur, through the extraction of enlightenment from diverse systems of thought in order to create a comprehensive personal philosophy.

Mercury- Jupiter: your elevated ideals are held in high esteem.  Just remember that your keys are on the coffee table, gas is what makes the car go and reading by candlelight is out of vogue.  

                                                   

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Sun-Pluto Aspects: Healing Power

When studying Astrology, one of the first and most important lessons to be digested is:

when it comes to signs, planets and their placements, houses and aspects- there are two sides to every coin.

Attaching the labels of "good" and "bad" when discussing these entities will most likely hinder us from developing a broad understanding of their functions within the greater astrological whole.

When the Sun, which symbolizes the ingredients that comprise your life force and identity has a "sit down" with Pluto, who represents the transformer, catharsis, regeneration and all that reforms, a powerful impact is released into the universe. Influence that can be used for good, or for ill.

If you have a Sun-Pluto aspect within your birth chart, there is an astounding amount of personal power at your disposal. Whether or not you spend the time and effort on yourself which is necessary to access this power is another story. Anything which involves Pluto is deep. It's below the surface and cannot readily be seen with the naked eye.

To truly benefit from these aspects, you will need to engage in a tremendous amount of self-reflection. You will also have to scrutinize your own motivations when it comes to dealing with others.

Listening ability can most certainly serve you as an ally. You will not succeed if your method for getting ahead consists of bulldozing others with your views or agendas. Your highly magnetic personality will work for you providing that you learn to trust others and reveal your motives.  In fact:

Sun-Pluto people have the potential serve humanity as healers because of their experience in dealing with matters which are not openly discussed due to the sensitivity and the privacy of their nature.

The uniting of these two planets, when capitalized on, makes it possible to live a life which is highly evolved. An existence based on positive change, and the continuous reinvention of self. Shedding the skin of your identity on a periodic basis, removing all of the outworn parts in order to thrive as the TRUE you. Authenticity in all of its forms can be yours.

The misuses of Sun-Pluto power are evident in the megalomania of Nino Brown and Tony Montana.  If you haven't seen "New Jack City" or "Scarface", watching these films can provide a picture which cannot be totally captured in words.

The choice remains: to heal or to hurt. It's truly up to us what side of the coin we choose.   

                                                                                                         
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The Wide World of The Sagittarius Woman

" If you do not ask yourself what it is you know, you will go on listening to others and change will not come because you will not hear your own truth."
-Saint Bartholomew

The Sagittarius Woman

Who she is :
The mind expander. The eclectic visionary. The minister of whatever moves her spirit. The straight talker. The freedom seeker. The funny woman. The great debater. The experience hungry. The knowledge thirsty. Ms. or Mrs. International. The self-righteous hypocrite. The truth copyrighter. The flawed goody two shoes. The open-minded proselytizer.

Life tasks:
To craft the most enormous vision possible for her life. To educate. To Illuminate. To share ideas which provide others with a broader understanding of the world. To gain wisdom and understanding. To discover her personal "God" or "Gods" within.  To connect the dots of her life and create a workable life philosophy. To find meaning, significance and internal joy.

Where you can find her:
At the Cannes International Film Festival. Reading "Autobiography of a Yogi" or "Assata". Obtaining a graduate degree in Education, Anthropology or African-American Studies. At the New York Knicks Game. At the Jay -Z and Kanye West show, watching Anthony Bourdain's "The Layover". At a lecture on metaphysics. At a used bookstore. At church, mosque or temple. Shopping, adding to her eclectic wardrobe.

Her many faces:
The Professor. The Globetrotter. The Student. The Nomad. The Intellectual. The Preacher. The Prophet. The well-read Woman.

Victor Status:

A tour guide through the mental and physical realms. The woman that you want as a teammate in "taboo" , or as a traveling partner on any continent. A striking blend of intellect, insight and humor. Open to anything which will elevate her intuitive thought.

Victim Status:
Hypocrisy, Intolerance. Forces her views on others. Dogmatic. Unyielding in the face of new information. Ignores facts and important details, exaggerates emotions for effect, "right at all costs" syndrome.

Wardrobe:
Comfortable, bright and multi-colored with exotic flair.

Sexual style:
Exploratory, adventurous, uninhibited.

Ideal Relationship:
Full of laughter, mind blowing conversation, and international excursions. Simultaneously meeting her needs for intimacy and independence. Honest, straightforward communication.

Her Greatest Strength:
Enthusiasm

The moment you encounter a Sagittarius Woman, you will be catapulted into the wide open world of possibilities. In fact, if you converse with her long enough, you'll discover just how vast the world really is. You'll discuss places you've never been, but have always wanted to go: mentally, physically and spiritually.

The Archer Woman will be so filled with enthusiasm when you meet her that it will be hard to tell whether spring water, mocha latte or ciroc is in that cup she's carrying around. Whatever the case, you'll appreciate her for being disarmingly honest and providing a wide lens view of life's potential.

The word "enthusiasm" has it's origins in Greece. It means "to be filled with God". The roots being "en"(in) and "theos" (God).

The interests and tastes of lady Sadge are so eclectic that you might find her in any number of places. Her philosophy centers around becoming involved in whatever is going to expand her horizons and provide her with a sense of meaning and significance.

One of the most impressive dimensions to the Sagittarian Woman's personality is her versatility.  Even if she doesn't have a crazily stamped out passport, her mind is traveling at 100 miles per hour and changing lanes. From music to art to politics to film to metaphysics to religion. Her Cerebral Cortex works out like an olympic champion, and if you're even going to have the slightest chance at capturing her attention, she expects you to keep up.

Ms. Sadge is confident, principled and filled with conviction. She'll debate you over Illmatic vs. Reasonable Doubt, Plessy vs. Ferguson and Roe vs. Wade all in the same conversation. Unless you're a listless deadbeat, there's absolutely no way you can't emerge from this Woman's presence inspired, and much more knowledgeable.

We can all take lessons from the Sagittarius Woman about finding joy in life, keeping the faith and making the most of whatever situations we've created for ourselves. The Centaur's world is filled with abundance. If you're thinking about bringing a wet blanket to the party, you've got another thing coming. The Sadge woman will wash and dry it for you and send you on your way.

What can cause this Jupiter-ruled Woman trouble is her desire to be right at all costs.

In unevolved form, she'll swear to you up and down that the "truth" is registered in her name at the patent and trademark office of whatever country she may reside in. What the Archer needs to learn in order to invoke the inner wise woman is that there's no need to force your beliefs on others. Everyone is in a different place on their road to personal development, and when the time is appropriate, they will receive the knowledge that's tailor made for them. Your words will not go unheard, but the actual listening and absorption may take place further down the line.

In closing, the last words to the Sagittarian Woman would be these: remember the symbolism which surrounds your sign.

Half Woman/half horse aiming your bow and arrow high up into the open universe.

Find ways to honor both sides of your nature and it will help the arrows which you shoot be more effective.  Continue on your quest for your personal truth, travel fast and travel far.                

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Who is My Astrological Dream Match?

"Everything that irritates us about others can lead us to an understanding of ourselves." - Carl Jung


Where intimate relationships are concerned, there seems to be an ongoing debate regarding the significance of zodiac signs and astrology in general.

Some think astrology is quite helpful as a tool for self knowledge and it's ability to highlight the themes and tendencies which may be present in their personal relationships, while others cast astrology as containing minimal merit and even playing  on the naivete and desperation of individuals who are searching for answers as to why they cannot find their dream partner or soulmate.

So..... the large scale question becomes: to what extent can astrology assist me in finding a healthy, loving and productive relationship?

In true Sagittarian fashion, I'm going to give it to you straight.

Astrology is a strikingly profound art. When used constructively, practically, and with honorable intentions, it can reveal a great deal of valuable information regarding our compatibility with another individual.

However, what it doesn't reveal is the level of consciousness at which we, or the partners we are comparing ourselves with are living out in our birth charts. Astrology does not tell us how mature we are or how accountable we are for our behavior.

In synastry,(a.k.a. relationship astrology) having a "good" chart does not let you off the hook in maintaining the relationship any more than having a beautiful front lawn excuses you from mowing and caring for it.

Conversely, while a "difficult" chart may indicate challenges, if addressed earnestly, the two individuals may produce an inseperable union built on integrity, trust and mutual respect.

If we truly plan on using astrology for guidance in dating and relationships the way it was intended, the best method of operation is for us to know ourselves first.

Let's have our charts interprteted by a competent professional astrologer. Or, at the minimum, explore a reliable free website to obtain a copy of our birth charts. Through active participation we will be vastly more equipped to delve into, and evaluate, with discrimination, the wealth of information available in books and cyberspace. It is a requirement that we develop a throrough understanding of our own astrological dynamics, or we will find ourselves forever uttering the dreaded sentences:

"I'll never date a (insert zodiac sign) again" or
"I don't date (insert zodiac sign)"

For example, let's say that you are now praising the celestial gods because you've found your "ideal" Pisces Man/Woman, and it appears that you'll never have to deal with the cold, remote and impersonal Aquarian energies that give you the heebie- jeebies. However, you never looked deeply enough into the totality of astrology to find out that he/she's an Aquarius rising with a stellium of the moon, mercury and venus in aquarius in the 11th house. True, the individual may have a Pisces sun, but a major portion of their chart reflects the same Aquarian flavoring that you were so intent upon escaping from.

We may need to participate in some serious self-examination and ask ourselves honest questions regarding whether we've discovered another convienent scapegoat on which to pin our anxieties, insecurities and frustrations. Or, we sincerely want to incorporate astrology as a viable system of assistance and insight, into our relationships.

Another point worth considering is: through astrological research,  we may  discover that what's holding us back is US.  OUR fears, phobias, baggage, complexes, etc... which we have convienently projected upon the Scorpios, Sagittarians and Libra's of the world. Maybe we're not personifying the highest energies of our individual planetary placements and relationships. Difficult to read? Yes. Worth considering? Also yes.

When we reduce or remove accountability from the equation, and minimize the power of our own efforts at self-improvement, we have not only failed astrology, but more importantly failed ourselves. Working in our best interest, we allow astrology to serve us as a tool, we don't serve IT, coupled with the self-deception that some irreversable cosmic fate awaits us.

So, who is your astrological dream match? The answer is YOU.

The better YOU that you're becoming. The YOU that you're sincerely and consistently working to improve. YOU, with all of your strengths, talents, gifts, flaws and challenges. The wiser YOU, who, through experience has become more enlightened, liberated from past hurts, and more loving. The life-affirming and positive YOU, who is ready to embark on the journey of becoming fully engaged in relating to another human being in an honest, intimate and heartfelt manner. Respecting and honoring your individual destinies, while sharing a collective quest.

Know and become yourself, and watch your world expand.                              

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Saying No to "The Man" : Act Like You, Think Like You

I am not a Woman.

However, I've been granted the privilege of having eyes to see and ears to hear.

On a regular basis, I ask myself what the world of relationships would be like if we never read another article from Cosmo, Essence or the like with suggestions on "how to please the man in your life".

"10 techniques to drive your Man wild." "10 things not to say to your Man."
"10 ways to hold on to your man." "10 ways to keep your man coming back for more."

Please correct me if I'm wrong, but it seems as if in general, Women have been engulfed in a morass of the reaction of the male populace as a barometer of their own self -worth. 

As if Men are the measuring stick or standard bearer for their behavior, interests and aspirations. Unfortunately, many of us who have not chosen to think for ourselves, have followed suit:

"Girl, why are you dressed like that? You'll never pull a Man looking like that."

"You HAVE to watch the NFL, NBA, etc. No Man wants a woman that doesn't keep up with sports."

Oh, really?

I'm not a Woman, but I know that a human being doesn't need to sign a permission slip to be themselves and live by a set of internally established values.

Let's say we follow the logic of all of these magazines for a minute....

Where does this leave you when your "Man" is driven wild with desire, or he's pleased until he can't be pleased anymore?  Temporary satisfaction doesn't lead to permanent empowerment.

Masking or changing your behavior to suit the often times fragile ego needs of a Man (or male, which ever applies) can often serve to the detriment of Women, as a profoundly regressive step in development. It disturbs the ability to define yourself outside of the context of a relationship with a Man.

This is not to say that a healthy, loving and trusting bond is not something to be pursued and cherished, but the wholeness which you seek through others  must be achieved on an individual level first, so that you have a TRUE self, or center to offer another person on terms which are established by YOU.

I'm not above stating a personal preference when it comes to behavior, a sense of humor or physical appearance. However, should I really be so arrogant as to tell you what you MUST do as a Woman?

It's a disingenuous construct for you to have to think "like a man" in order to pursue your aspirations. Because I may have a preference, does it necessarily make it the best thing for YOU?

 Certainly, the type of Man who's worthy of all of this "pleasing" and ecstasy is up for debate. However:

I'm stating the case for your intelligence, warmth, inner/outer beauty and sincerity to be channeled in the direction of YOUR desires and not the dictates of today's popular taste makers, whose true interest in the totality of your being is minimal at best.

In the book "Women Who Run With The Wolves" by Clarissa Pinkola Estes, she discusses a psychological portrait of Women who have either severed, or lost contact with the wildish force in the deep instinctual psyche:

"Feeling extraordinarily dry, fatigued, frail, depressed, confused, gagged, muzzled, unaroused, without inspiration, without animation,  without soulfulness, without meaning, shame-bearing, volatile, stuck, uncreative."


"Feeling powerless, chronically doubtful, shaky, blocked, unable to follow through, giving one's creative life over to others, life sapping choices in mates, work or friendships.  Suffering to live outside one's own cycles, overprotective of self, inert, uncertain, faltering, inability to pace oneself or set limits."

"Not insistent on one's own tempo, to be self conscious, to be away from one's God or God's, to be separated from ones revivification, drawn far into domesticity, intellectualism, work or inertia because that is the safest place for one who has lost her instincts."

"To fear to venture by oneself or reveal oneself, fear to seek mentor, mother, father, fear to set out one's imperfect work before it's an opus, fear to set out on a journey......"

I am not a Woman, but I have the feeling that a true sense of worth and value validated through faith in yourself and your inner resources beats the facade of rehearsed accolades and verbal trickery, that magazines and "experts" try to get you to indulge in, as a means to please a man, any day of the week.

May all of your dreams be fueled from an internal locus of control and the deep well of wisdom that you already possess. My most sincere hope is that you decide to ACT like YOU and THINK like YOU.                                              Read more...

We're ALL More Than Just "ONE THING"

" We have already been given everything we need; our task is to assemble it and use it in the appropriate way. Nothing is meaningful as long as we perceive only separate fragments. But as soon as the fragments come together into a synthesis, a new entity emerges, whose nature we could not have foreseen by considering the fragments alone."
-Piero Ferrucci from "What We May Be"

As I progress through my astrological career, here's one of the most perplexing themes that I've noticed: on the whole, as a society we don't give ourselves anywhere near the credit we deserve for our depth, complexity and for the multi-dimensional facets of our humanness.

In fact, some of us even appear to prefer labels; to be put into nice comfortable boxes complete with a "kit" full of goodies that we need to embody that pre-packaged persona. Let's just call this the fast food version of self-expression. Shall we? 

Well....this leads me to another question? Do we "do" labels in order to evade the vulnerability contained in what we deem as the "lesser" parts of our being? Do we say: yes, just put me in that box- quick! No one will even think of my challenges in other areas? So, then we quickly become "secure"/"insecure" ; "rational"/"intuitive", "homebodies"/"travelers", "conscious"/"unconscious, "intelligent/"ignorant", when the truth is, we are ALL of these, just to a greater or a lesser degree.

So, where does astrology fit into the picture? When someone asks the famous cocktail party question: "what's your sign?" What they're referring to is known as our sun sign.

Usually, those who are unfamiliar with the reality of an entire birth chart would answer the question and proceed to talk a bit about some descriptive words they read on a zodiac poster, or a paper weight in their co-workers office. If you who are reading this fall into that category, I applaud you.

The fact that you're even on this web page tells me that you think there's much more to what you read on that Pisces t-shirt and Capricorn bumper sticker. And guess what?? You are most certainly correct.

When used irresponsibly and not as a tool for spiritual and psychological growth, astrology runs the risk of being reduced to a "one size fits all", static classification system rather than recognized as the rich, expansive symbolic art which gives life to potentials and possibilities and is fortified with depth and meaning through synthesis.

These observations are by no means designed to discount the importance of sun signs within the totality of our birth charts. In fact, it is essential that we honor our suns, for the mastery of the energies represented by our sun signs are imperative to our spiritual evolution. There is, however a danger that we must be aware of which is stated so eloquently by Ferruci:

" This realization leads us to consider perhaps the greatest and most common of all dangers: one-sidedness. Were we to develop only one part of our being to the exclusion of all others- be it the body, or feelings, or "spirit", or what have you-that part would be invested with a power it doesn't deserve. It could become demonic and make of us limited and perhaps, even fanatical beings."

In addition to our Sun sign, which symbolizes our individuality, we must integrate our Moon sign, which speaks to our emotional life, intuition and our deepest needs. Our Mercury sign, which illustrates how we think and communicate. Our Venus sign, which testifies to the manner in which we express our enjoyment and appreciation of the pleasures of life. Also, how we relate to our fellow human beings.

Our Mars sign, which is all about taking action, asserting ourselves and sexual expression. Our Jupiter sign that indicates how we believe, have faith, express our philosophies and find meaning. Saturn's sign in our birth chart lends it's expression to how we exert our authority, spend our time and exercise discipline and responsibility.

While the outer planets: Uranus, Neptune and Pluto, are generational by sign placement, they are still very important based on what houses they inhabit and the aspects they make to personal planets. All of these planets insist on inclusion.

So, yes ladies and gentlemen, this is our lifetime homework. To take these parts and successfully weave them into a functioning whole working at it's optimum level and exercising it's full potential.

Lastly, Ferruci states:

" When it is balanced and healthy, human growth proceeds in all directions: it looks like an expanding sphere rather than a straight line. It is for precisely this reason that psychosynthesis endeavors to take into consideration all the dimensions of human life which truly matter and which, if left unacknowledged, lead to a fragmented, even absurd existence."

This statement applies directly to my astrological philosophy.

Amerie says that the idea of one thing has got her trippin'.  

I say:
me too.                      

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The 411 On Astrological Compatibility

Ah.... relationships !!!  If we're not involved in one, yet want to be,  we would like to know why, as the Pharycde asks:"she/he keeps on passin' me by". Or, at the very least we're curious as to whom we may be compatible with. If we are among the fortunate and a participant in a strong, enduring union we still would like to know what we can do to ensure lasting bliss.Unfortunately, some of us may also find ourselves entangled in a mess of epic proportions. Feverishly searching for the light at the end of the tunnel. Feeling like we've explored every nook and cranny and have nowhere to turn.

From time to time, I'm willing to bet that most of us have been in the grocery store checkout line and browsed through a copy of Cosmo's "Bedside Astrologer". Or, peeped a copy of Thelma Balfour's "Black Sun Signs" in the Astrology section at Barnes & Noble. We are naturally curious, and inquiring minds want to know!!  Astrologically speaking, what type of Man or Woman would I be best suited for?

Better yet, is there really anything to this Astrology nonsense?  I'll nip the latter question in the bud right now with a resounding *YES* just so we all understand where I'm coming from. However, where we're going is slightly more complicated. For the purposes of this article, I am writing describing intimate relationships. However, synastry - which is the art of comparing  two natal charts to estimate the degree of compatibility, as well as the adjustments that would need to take place by both parties to sustain a fulfilling relationship, can be equally applied to family, friends and colleagues.

More Than Sun Signs
Most of the mass-marketed books which discuss compatibility do so on a strictly sun sign basis. "I'm an Aries, he/she's a Capricorn, why can't we get along?" While Sun sign compatibility is a vital piece to the puzzle, there are other factors which are not discussed in these books that are just as important. One of the best bits of advice that I could give anyone who is thinking about visiting an Astrologer for a compatibility consultation is to have their own personal chart analyzed first. Find out what you're bringing to the relationship as an individual. Your drives, strengths and challenges.

What you're about to read will not provide you with all of the answers that you seek regarding astrological compatibility. However, it will briefly explain and outline some of the other important factors in determining chemistry between two individuals. This is definitely not an exhaustive list. Nevertheless, they are
important points to consider:

The Elements

 Fire, Air, Earth and Water. Elements are the lifeblood of Astrology. They're  our "juice", and the "flavor" is different for each grouping of signs. Elements explain what world is the most "real" to us.

The Fire Signs: Aries, Leo, Sagittarius : Dynamic, expressive, inspirational. Fire signs want to "get up, get out and get something." They are literally "fired up" because of the innate enthusiasm that permeates their being. To fire signs, the world of spirit is reality.

The Air Signs: Gemini, Libra, Aquarius: "Great minds discuss ideas" would be the mantra of this group. Air signs thrive in the world of intellect. A day without cerebral stimulation could be akin to suffocation. Very social, versatile and well rounded- they love to circulate physically and mentally.

The Earth Signs: Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn: For Earth signs, life must be lived sensually: seen, touched, heard, tasted and smelled. The physical and material dominates. Very practical, loyal and dependable people. This group says "don't tell me, show me." With earth signs, action speaks louder than words.

The Water Signs: Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces :  When this group asks "you feel me?" They really mean it. The realm of emotion, imagination, and non-verbal communication is as real as it gets for them. This group is very absorptive. Sensitive to the slightest environmental stimuli. Very compassionate, empathetic and on the whole- great listeners.

The Quadruplicities : Are the majority of your planets, or your partners in cardinal, fixed or mutable signs?

The Cardinal Signs: Aries, Libra, Cancer, Capricorn: These four signs are the starters. They initiate action.

The Fixed Signs: Taurus, Leo, Scorpio, Aquarius:  This group of signs serves as the builders and maintainers of what was initiated by the Cardinal signs.

The Mutable Signs: Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius, Pisces:  Here, you have the "go-betweens" or the intermediaries between the Cardinal and Fixed signs. Mutable signs are the adapters.

The Planets
Well......... you know I had to sneak some music in with the Astrology, right? I wasn't going to leave y'all hangin' !!  To explain the planets importance to relationship compatibility, I figured I would "break it down, so it will consistently and forever be broke" in musical language.

The Sun: 

Song:"The Light" by Pharoahe Monch.

Sun Signs are the facets of Astrological compatibility that we're most familiar with. It's where we "shine". It's the light that's cast around us. Our personal power and life mission. Between two people, the questions the Sun asks are: "Are we on the same path", "Are our journeys compatible?"  "Can we honor and encourage each other in pursuit of our individuality?".

The Moon: 

Song : "The Food" by Common featuring Kanye West.

The Moon literally symbolizes what "feeds" us. Our emotional needs. What nurtures, sustains and provides nourishment for us in our feeling world. It's our level of sensitivity, our urge to "nest". Family and domestic matters also fall under the Moon's domain. Here, we're asking: "Does this person understand my emotional makeup." "Are they attuned to my inner needs?" "What would family life be like with this individual?"

Mercury

Song: "Come and Talk to Me" by Jodeci

Mercury represents the urge to communicate. It's how we think and process information. What we talk about and what stimulates us intellectually. The objective mind, our reasoning ability and powers of analysis. So, we ask : "Do I have good intellectual rapport with this person?" "What do they think/talk about?" "Do we communicate well?" "What are our mutual areas of interest?"

Venus

Songs: "The Sweetest Thing" by Lauryn Hill
"The Pleasure Principle" by Janet Jackson

If the Moon symbolizes all that nourishes us, Venus symbolizes the "sweets" of life. It is truly where and how we enjoy ourselves. Venus is beauty, charm, grace, pleasure and refinement. It's relating in the broadest sense of the word. As a very general rule of thumb, the Venus sign in a Man's chart is said to represent his ideal woman.Venus prompts us to ask "How do I relate to this person?" "Do I really enjoy being with them?" "Are they fun?" "Are we able to peacefully settle disagreements?"

Mars

Song : "Knockin Da Boots" by H-Town

Yes, ladies and gentlemen.... Mars is SEX. It's symbolic of desire and is very instinctive. Passion, aggression and physical feats of prowess are all Mars ruled. Yes, Venus is nice and sweet and what we like, but Mars is what turns us ON!! As another general rule of thumb, look to Mars in a woman's chart to see what type of man that she would be sexually attracted to. Mars prompts us to ask: "What turns me on?" "What arouses my passions?" "What makes me angry? What is my partner like when they get mad?"

Jupiter

Song: " 4 Leaf Clover" by Erykah Badu

Jupiter brings opportunity for growth and improvement in the sphere of relationships. The planet is symbolic of an open mind, humor and optimism. Jupiter is inspiring and suggests that we ask: "Does this person make me laugh?" "Are they tolerant of the viewpoints of others?" "How receptive is my partner to the bounty of life experience?"

Saturn

Songs: "Make it Last Forever" by Keith Sweat, "I Ain't No Joke" by Eric B & Rakim, "Discipline" by Gangstarr featuring Total, "Let's Stay Together" by Al Green

Saturn symbolizes maturity, stability and responsibility between two individuals. When we mention relationships and involve the ringed planet, we are in it for the long haul. Able to delay short term gratification for the greater rewards of endurance and commitment, Saturn's compensation is directly equivalent to the amount of work and effort displayed. Between two people, Saturn cues us to ask questions such as: "Am I willing to be committed through thick and thin?" "Do I promise to be loyal and true?" "Do I have the level of maturity needed for a successful partnership?

The Outer Planets: Uranus, Neptune and Pluto:

Because the outer planets move relatively slowly, they will make natural aspects to each other in another person's chart born in the same generation. From this perspective, their influence is minimal. However, when the outer planets of one individuals chart make contact with the other's personal planets, the outer planet energy holds the influence.

Uranus liberates, awakens, changes, stimulates, unsettles, rebels.

Neptune refines, dissolves, distorts, purifies, spiritualizes, obscures, inspires, creates.

Pluto scrutinizes, eliminates, regenerates, heals, transforms, purges, destroys.

Next time, we will discuss the houses and their significance in synastry. I hope  this piece gave everyone more food for thought about relationship astrology. Read more...

Mirror, Mirror: The Looking Glass of Relationships

A couple of years ago, I had the pleasure of making the intellectual acquaintance of Richard Idemon, an Astrologer who passed away in 1987. I picked up a copy of his book "Through The Looking Glass: A Search For The Self In The Mirror of Relationships."  I will be expanding on some of his ideas in tonight's blog post.

One of the first ideas which captured my attention was that of our most fundamental need in human relationships being the revalidation of our basic myths.

We all have a "story", or mythology of sorts that we carry around with us. This basic psychic ground is a significant contributor to our sense of self.  As a result, the patterns which we consciously or unconsciously create are those which are going to keep co-signing on our basic myth.

Those relationships which we may feel less comfortable, or even highly unsettled are those which challenge our basic ground. However, if growth and evolution in relationships is what we truly seek, we must ultimately head in this direction.

There is an excellent example given in this book regarding the physical territory of animals, which can directly be applied to the psychic territory of human beings.

All animals have a basic physical territory that they will not deviate from. Even when chased by a larger, more fierce animal, which is sure to eat them alive, they will not leave this territory. In fact, the animal in question will run until he/she can't run anymore and double back into the jaws of the pursuing animal rather than leave it's comfort zone.

If we apply this same logic and scenario to our human relationships, we now see that most of us would rather be "eaten alive" psychically largely due to our need for safety. Pushing ourselves into the unknown constitutes a psychological death. So, in our discomfort, we resist change with all our might.

What we may have failed to realize is that we won't be able to evolve into any relationship which does not support our existing myths.

If our mythology casts us as unlovable, undeserving, fearful human beings, our relationship patterns can't reflect anything else. The only people that we're able to accept into our worlds at this time are going to be continual confirmers of that reality.

Even if genuine love hit us head on like a mack truck, we would not realize it, nor could we appreciate it because of our insistence to clinging to these outmoded patterns.

It's only when we decide to renovate and expand our personal mythology that we're able to open our universe to a broader array of possibilities.

There are two examples given of very different relationship models. The first model is the static model and the second is the erotic model.

With the static model, the basic intent is to stay safe. To avoid risk.  As long as there are no major shake- ups, everything will be all right. "Mr. Jones and I have been together for 30 years and everything is in it's place just the way I like it." However, the question remains: have you and Mr. Jones really been together 30 years, or just one year 30 times over?

The erotic model is far more risky, but the potential rewards are much greater.

The prime goals are intimacy and growth, variety, openness to change, open communications, trust, varied and shifting roles, independence, and adult-adult relating.

The author goes on to suggest that there are probably ten percent of people who have a sufficient amount of the erotic in their relationship to keep them on their toes; to have them aiming towards deep bonding and personal transformation.

As you peruse this food for thought, it may help to take inventory of your personal relationships and ask yourself where you fall in the spectrum.

What are the primary goals of your relationships?

What do the relationship patterns that you've attracted into your life say about your personal mythology and your basic ground?

Do you wish to embark on the journey of changing your myth?

Let us begin anew with a legend for ourselves which reflects the highest possibilities for creating the types of relationships which will enhance the quality of our lives and ultimately contribute to our personal satisfaction.

We are not static human beings. We're always changing and evolving. Hopefully, into someone greater than we were the day before.

*Reference: "Through The Looking Glass: A Search For The Self In The Mirror of Relationships." by Richard Idemon                                                                     Read more...

Dear Mercury in Capricorn........

Dear Mercury in Capricorn:
  
Good afternoon. First of all, I want to assure you that reading this letter is worth your time. I'm well aware of your disdain for small talk. Please excuse me in advance if I happen to come off a little on the casual side, as I've also been informed about your penchant for formality.

What I want to say to you is this: sometimes, I think you get caught up in fear and doubt and tend to forget your strengths. You have some amazing ideas. And, they aren't the "pie in the sky" variety, they're extremely practical and down to earth. Something that,  given your capacity for focus and concentration could easily manifest itself as tangible form in the physical world.  

Don't be afraid to be "wrong". You're more than competent.

As a matter of fact, if your thoughts and ideas are something that resonate from deep within your being, how can  narrow, limiting labels such as "right" or "wrong" even be placed on them?  Just know that I see your potential. I'm waiting for you to construct the mental framework as a prelude  to building the prosperous reality of which I know you're fully capable.

I know it's not easy for you, but you're well equipped for the slow, steady climb to the mountain top. Your patience is enviable and your determination steady. Do you realize that you have the potential to emerge as the standard bearer for consistency through your thoughts and communication?

People can say what they want, but just from talking with you I know the capacity to be clear headed, ambitious, goal oriented and conscientious of how you spend your time is alive and well in your bloodstream. I don't think your mind needs too much more sharpening, it only needs to incorporate the tools of focus and organization for you to be on your way to success.

With a work ethic like yours and the importance that you place on taking responsibility and the integrity of mind, I would be proud to associate myself with you. 

Take care, and best wishes on your quest to convert the ideal to the real.                                                                                                                         
           


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