That good old Moon of ours was full last weekend. What can be its influence on our lives? Most know of the Moon’s affect on the tides of the ocean, and that it also stabilizes the orbit of the Earth. So if the Earth can feel it, and be changed by it — then it can reach into us, can it not? In Astrology, the Moon has been said to represent feelings, emotions, and the subconscious. So now that the Moon is Waning (in it’s fourth quarter), watch for insights in the week ahead.

“This is the first week of the Sun in Sagittarius, and the energy of that sign is both fun-loving and truth-loving…”

Are you focused on what you need to do? Sometimes, all that energy from the full moon can “get you going” a little too fast. As you head into your work week… take a look around you, and pause to gather your breath. Think more in terms of “quality time” both on the job and in your relationships to stay with what is important this week. This is the first week of the Sun in Sagittarius, and the energy of that sign is both fun-loving and truth-loving — that seems like an excellent mix for the kick-off of the holiday season.

What tools do you use to resolve conflict? We’re in the Zodiac time of Sagittarius (Happy Birthday Sagittarians), and Astrologers agree that this sign has a certain tug & pull associated with it. Generally speaking this is the struggle and tension between the higher and lower self that so many of us face, no matter the sign to which we are born. Just remember this need not spell crisis, but rather opportunity in your life, since this is part of becoming an adult and growing into a good citizen in your culture. How can you tame the beast within? Look to the Spirit, and call upon God to help.

Sagittarius is a constellation of the zodiac, usually shown as a centaur drawing a bow, and lies between Ophiuchus (west) and Capricornus (east).

Western Astrology (there are other “schools” of Astrology in different parts of the World), originated around 3,000 years ago, and it’s followers — Astrologers — study the Zodiac as a method of understanding the human personality. The Zodiac is the group of constellations through which the Sun and Moon pass on their sky journey. And, there are 12 constellations used in Western Astrology, where if the sun was in the constellation of Pisces (a grouping of Stars that looks like fish, when you “connect the dots”), then you are said to be a Pisces with Piscean traits in your personality. Of course, there are many other celestial patterns we look for in a persons horoscope, and in those they have questions about.

“The famous psychologist, Carl Jung believed that in Astrology, one could find, “the curious psychological qualities of the zodiac: a complete projected theory of human character.””

We are currently Leaving “Scorpio” (Oct. 24 – Nov. 23) which is the constellation of Scorpius (Latin for Scorpion), and heading into Sagittarius (Nov. 23 – Dec. 21)… the 9th sign in the Zodiac. This constellation generally resembles an Archer when you connect its star “dots”, and in Greek mythology was often associated with Chiron, a centaur that provided instruction for Greek heros.

These days that lead up to the celebration of the Birth of Christ can be filled with the Spirit of Sagittarius — a fun-loving, adventurous, philosophical, truth-loving sign. Of course, it is important to guard against the flip-side of the Sagittarian good points which can manifest as carelessness, over-indulgent, and scattered energy.

How was your Holiday synastry? Synastry? Ok… probably not a word you use to describe the time you had with family and friends hanging out on Thanksgiving. In Astrology, however, “synastry” is a word we use to explore how one person is compatible with another. It involves looking at the two person’s precise (need exact time and location of birth) horoscopes, and comparing the patterns we see there to one another. We look at houses, planets, and different configurations of these cosmic keys to determine how two people will get along. Pretty deep. But you can leave that to me, as you enjoy the turkey, stuffing and mashed potatoes.

The famous psychologist, Carl Jung believed that in Astrology, one could find, “the curious psychological qualities of the zodiac: a complete projected theory of human character.” Jung also noted that Astrology provides a “bridge to nature,” (from “Archetypes of the Collective Unconscious”, by Carl G. Jung), meaning the association of the planets, stars & cosmos with the lives and happenings of human kind. He saw in it a link to the human unconscious psyche. And so, Astrology can reveal quite a bit about your self, and your motivations… and also about your close relationships.

From a French Painting from around 1415 illuminating the Book of the Hours for November.

It’s almost Thanksgiving… the year is passing quickly! Is your day restful? This week, on Thanksgiving, the Sun enters Sagittarius… a thoughtful and progressive sign with a positive outlook. Enjoy your conversations on the holiday. There has been so much written about “Sun Signs”, which is what most people know when asked, “what sign are you?”. In Astrology, we concentrate on all the other planets, the Moon, and a number of other symbolic influences too. The Sun is a very powerful force, associated with your ego — but to understand yourself, and others, through the Kaleidoscope of Astrology, you have to take the bigger picture — the whole cosmos — into account.

A lot of Astrology has to do with patterns — patterns in the Cosmos, translating and interpreted into seeing patterns in your life. Do you ever notice odd coincidences, or events that seem like they might be connected, but you’re not sure how? That can be due to a certain sacred synchronicity that Astrology can help you explore. For example, one “pattern” we can look at in Astrology, are “triplicities”. One simple understanding of a “Triplicity” is that people are attracted to people that with signs that share the same element — so a Pisces would get along well with a Cancer, and a Scorpio, which are all Water (element) signs. Do you see any patterns with types of people who frequently come into your life?

What do the patterns seen in Astrology (horoscopes) tell you about people and situations? Well, there are several types of “patterns” we look at. Here are a few examples:

• A “grand cross” — when four planets form a square to one another — creates a sort of inner tug-a-war in a person. This a configuration is not commonly found in most horoscope charts.
• A “cosmic cross” — when two planets are opposite each other, and a third forms a square to both — is more commonly found and seen in about 40% of horoscopes. It looks like a “T”, and your Astrologer can tell you the opportunity this represents in your life.
• A “conjunction” (also called an “occultation”) is when two planets appear close together when viewed from Earth. This creates a union of the energies of both planets, and the interpretation depends on which planets are invloved.

Much depends on which planets are in the key positions of these cosmic patterns. Just as relationships vary between two or more people, so do the tugs and pulls of the heavenly bodies in your horoscope.

Above, precession of the equinoxes as seen from ‘outside’ the celestial dome. Illustration by Tauʻolunga.

Did you know that the word “Astrology” is derived from two Greek words, roughly translated as “Star” and “Speak”? Well, the Stars (and Planets) do speak quite a lot about events on good old earth. Astronomers (Astronomy and Astrology used to be one field of study), look to the Stars to learn about history, geology, and make mathematical predictions about celestial events. Astrologers have developed a number of Psychological interpretations for the influence of heavenly bodies. Both believe that all things are connected. So often people turn to Astrology to learn about their own connections — relationships. And, as a framework for understanding the personality, Astrology can tell you quite a lot about yourself… and your partner.

“Your opportunities during this period are to relax, plan things out, and enjoy practices (like Yoga and Tai Chi) that build spiritual energy.”

On Nov. 15th, Mars went into retrograde — yes, Mars. Most people are used to Mercury Retrograde and know that during those times it is best to be cautious about your communications and negotiations. So what does Mars Retrograde mean? The long answer is that it means different things for different signs. A simpler way to understand it, though, is to remember that during a Retrograde things slow down, and Mars is the planet of feisty energy. Put those two things together and a lot of energy that goes into projects in general will now move slower. Moods, desires, and ambition all function on a lower level during this time (Nov. 15th thru Jan. 30th). Your opportunities during this period are to relax, plan things out, and enjoy practices (like Yoga and Tai Chi) that build spiritual energy.

Do you feel a slight depletion of energy today? That can be because Mars Retrograde — Mars is a very energetic planet. Of course there are other planetary influences at work too — Mercury is active and can bring you some stamina this weekend. Speaking of the weekend, it is a good time to relax and take it a bit slow. Do some spiritual and physical exercises. The week ahead is a busy one. Thanksgiving is ahead, and there is lots to be thankful about. Remember not to be over extravagant this week — fit things into a good plan. And, enjoy the conversations with family and friends — they are the roots in your life.

Most Astrologers, as do I, believe in a kind of Divine Government for our World, and a Map of it can be seen in the Stars. When we look at your horoscope, we see how the Stars speak about you as an individual. In the larger scheme of things, God, leads quite a celestial orchestra whose music will indeed inform you — when you listen.

From a mid-17th century Icelandic manuscript showing the 12 Houses in Astrology.

Are your days becoming more interesting? It’s the time of year when everyone is busy. The planets are in some interesting configurations — Mercury coming out of Retrograde, while Mars is showing and preparing to go into Retrograde. This means it’s still good to proceed with caution on important negotiations. Remember during this busy season to look at things with logic and take the time to get at deeper meanings in your communication.

“…we look in your “Fourth House,” to learn about your home and family influences, we look in your “Tenth House,” to see where your ambition might lead…”

How are your relationships going? One revealing area of Astrology lies in the interpretation of your “houses”, and those of your loved ones. If you’ve ever looked at an actual horoscope chart, you may have noticed it is divided up into 12 sections of a large circle. These section are your “houses”, and each one relates to a different part of your life. And what planets fall in a particular house determines how you are influenced in that area. For example, a planet, or planets, in your 7th House will have a major influence on your relationships, marriage, and business partnerships.

Most folks seem to know about their Sun Sign, since it’s pretty easy to determine based on the date you were born. But there are some things that are even more important than Sun Signs, and those aspects depend on your time and place of birth. For example, we look in your “Fourth House,” to learn about your home and family influences, we look in your “Tenth House,” to see where your ambition might lead, and we look in your “Third House” to get an idea of how you communicate with those around you. This can be helpful for introspection, and also to learn more about what makes loved ones “tick.” There are 12 houses each pertaining to a different aspect of the personality. These can be helpful in understanding your own questions about yourself, and questions you have about others.

The houses are determined by dividing the path the Sun takes at your time and place of birth, across the sky, into 12 segments. They are numbered counter-clockwise from the eastern horizon. There are actually different systems to determine “Houses” used by Astrologers around the world. In the West, most use that which was brought out by the Babylonians.

Below is a simple list of the 12 houses of Western Astrology with their Latin name, Ruling Sign, and a brief statement of their influence.

1. 1st House- Vita (Aries) : The self, ego, beginnings.
2. 2nd House – Lucrum (Taurus) : Money, values, priorities.
3. 3rd House – Fratres (Gemini): Communications, siblings, neighbors.
4. 4th House – Genitor (Cancer): Family, caring, imagination.
5. 5th House – Nati (Leo): Leisure, holidays, creativity.
6. 6th House – Valentudo (Virgo): Employer, work, duties.
7. 7th House – Uxor (Libra): Marriage, partnerships. negotiations.
8. 8th House Mors – (Scorpio): Birth, death, relationships, self-transformation.
9. 9th House – Iter (Sagittarus): Religion, education, freedom.
10. 10th House – Regnum (Capricorn): Status, ambition, celebrity.
11. 11th House – Benefacta (Aquarius): Friendships, clubs and societies.
12. 12th House – Carcer (Pisces): Retreat, reflection, sacrifice.

NOTE: Remember, that in your horoscope, the planet(s) falling in each house also impact the meaning — making your horoscope as unique as your own individuality.

Vienese Illustration of Zodiac from 1364.

How are your holiday plans and chores coming? As we head into a New Moon (Friday), it’s a good time to complete the early planning items — and feel like you’re “ahead of the game.” We are in the sign of Scorpio which has its depths to it, so you might enjoy a “deep conversation” this weekend with someone special. Maybe a conversation about Astrology?

“…when you understand the influence of your Rising Sign in your personality, and for those you care about, a lot of things come into sharper focus.”

Most people know a bit about their “Sun Sign” and can converse on what it means to be born under, say, Pisces, for example. The Sun Sign is probably the astrological influence most written about — it is that which gives your character life. But there are other powerful influences in one’s horoscope, like your “Rising sign” (also called your “Ascendant). This Ascendant is based on the exact time of your birth, and is why I always ask for it. The Rising sign/Ascendant relates to how you project yourself to the World, and how others see you. So… a Pisces with Scorpio rising is a very different character than say, a Pisces with Virgo rising.

In Astrology, we look at what’s happening now, to uncover patterns, and influences for our lives in the present. We also look at a number of key factors in your horoscope chart. Most people know about their Sun Sign. The rising sign, however, is another powerful entity and clue to the personality. The “Ascendant,” it is determined by the Zodiac time that was ascending on the eastern horizon at your time of birth. This is seen as your awakening consciousness, and when you understand the influence of your Rising Sign in your personality, and for those you care about, a lot of things come into sharper focus. You see, an Ascendant is specific not only to your time of birth, but also to your place of birth — and it then gives clues about your childhood and upbringing.

Some of the things an Ascendant reveals are:

• Your personae
• Your childhood development
• “Masks” and defense mechanisms

In fact, it is so important, you can see your Ascendant as a sort of cosmic filter through which all the other aspects of your horoscope are filtered. A good book on Ascendants is “Your Rising Sign,” by Jeannie Avery.

Here are some general interpretations for ascendants in your horoscope:

• If you have an Aries, Leo or Sagittarius Ascendant, you usually are seen as energetic, a positive thinker, and approach projects with enthusiasm.
• If you have a Taurus, Virgo or Capricorn Ascendant, you project a practical nature, and an aire of security.
• If you have a Gemini, Libra or Aquarius Ascendant, you can be a good communicator, friendly, and stay busy.
• If you have a Cancer, Scorpio or Pisces Ascendant, you have a great deal of emotional intelligence, rely on your intuition, and go with your gut instincts.

Remember to pay attention to your ascendant, because it is the defining indicator or your personality — much more so than your Sun Sign.

Mars as seen from the Hubble Telescope

Have you been feeling a bit “firey” at all lately? This could be the influence of the “Red Planet” — Mars. You can use your fire for good work, or course — it is the fuel that drives your ambition, and passion. Mars can also be at the root of impulsive action. Mars is going Retrograde this month (from Nov. 15th thru Jan. 30 — a time to exercise caution in your affairs), and it’s a good time to explore the influence of the “Red Planet.” Historically, Mars was the Roman’s God of War. Astrologically, Mars exerts its influence with energy, strength, in ambition, aggression, and impulsiveness. It is often associated with the element of Fire. You can watch for its presence in your horoscope, and gauge how it affects different personalities.

“Now is a good time to look at truths in your relationships and career — make a careful evaluation, then proceed with your choices and plans wisely.”

How do you balance ambition and passion with wise behavior that is good for your career and relationships? Ahhh… one of the key questions in life. Astrologically speaking, you don’t want that hot little planet — Mars — to fire you up so much that you can’t think straight. Thinking strategically, planning things out, and listening to spiritual counsel (from the “big guy” of course) is the answer to that question. But sometimes there are so many tugs and pulls on us that it seems almost impossible. It isn’t. Forget about “impossible” and take back your power.

Those of you that follow Mercury Retrograde, know that it has moved out of Retrograde this week , and that means that you can begin moving forward with confidence on important negotiations and communications. This is true, but remember that Mars is going Retrograde, mid month, so don’t be in too much haste. Caution is still in order. Now is a good time to look at truths in your relationships and career — make a careful evaluation, then proceed with your choices and plans wisely.

Welcome to November — it should be an energetic month. Mercury will come back “direct” next week… but go slow now, and double-check your communications until that time. Mars is active this month, and should bring some welcome energy this first weekend — get some chores done… the holidays are coming. That’s because about mid-month, peppy Mars will go retrograde… and that would be a good time to take a “time out,” before Thanksgiving. We’re also under the influence of Scorpio — a sign that looks into life issues for deep meanings. Don’t be afraid of that — life is enjoyable on the surface… and also when you plumb its mysteries.

“When all around you seems chaotic, your advantage will be the ability to sort things out.”

The first weekend of november is full of energy and fun — enjoy it. In the next week ahead (beginning Nov. 5), Venus interacting with Pluto brings an opportunity to examine any difficulties there are in our relationships. We are also under a Scorpio influence, and that means you can enrich your relationship by going beyond the surface concerns to address deeper feelings. When all around you seems chaotic, your advantage will be the ability to sort things out. If you step back and think a bit, you can always apply some logic to bring order to your life, and a richer understanding of your important relationships.

Life is about choices. In Astrology, we believe that the tug and pull of the planets can influence your choices, just as the Moon determines the tides of the ocean. Albeit the ebb and flow of the ocean tides may be determined by the phases of the moon, there is a lot more going on out there in the ocean than what is determined by the moon, independent of the moon’s influence. So, it’s important to note that I do not mean that your choices in life are controlled, or predetermined. It’s amazing to me how many times I get a client who calls, believing that I will predict your future, or that Astrology will tell you whom you’re going to go out with on Saturday nite! Only GOD knows for sure, exactly what is going to happen tomorrow, and the day after that, and two years down the road. And nothing else in this universe, not me, not Astrology, nor anything else here on this planet, no other form of divination, etc., is going to get in the way of Human free will—- YOUR DECISION or CHOICE TO ACT—- Okay! Of course, GOD can, of course. But then again, should He choose to do so, then He would be honoring His word of giving us FREE WILL, now would He? And GOD always tells the truth, and honors His Word.

Now this is what I can do and what Astrology does offer. We, as Astrology counselors, because Astrology was our first psychology, look at patterns of a ‘whole person’ in their birth chart based on a 12 house system. It’s an esoteric blueprint of their personality, a picture of the sky taken at their birth, and this picture can give an overall metaphoric view of who they are and what challenges they may face emotionally, as they grow. Just like psychologists look at patterns of behavior in a human and charts that behavior over a period of time for consistency and/or inconsistency, we astrologers look at energies, influences, and patterns in a person’s natal chart.

We are able to chart their life, lifestyle, relationships, and the like thru the chart, figuratively. Then using calculations, and process of elimination, using independent, specific & global research, offer advice on a given particular subject matter, whether it’s relationship, finance, career, family, health, personal, education, etc.

Just remember folks, that your choices and decisions are always your own, and the chart doesn’t ‘RULE YOU’… you RULE your chart! The chart can be a guide, if you will, to help you identify where you can see a potential burden or conflict or challenge, therefore, allowing you to ‘free yourself’ and more on to more solid, stable, safe, and prosperous ground!~

Historically, “cosmolabes” and other devices were used to calculate aspects.

How does Astrology help you figure out what’s going on in your life, and in the lives of romantic interests, coworkers, and family members? Well there are books and books on that, but one thing we do is look at “Aspects” in the horoscope. An aspect is the angle the planets make to one another in a particular horoscope. You can think of this as energies interacting in a personality (each planet represents a certain type of energy). This has been called “astrological harmonics,” and you can think of a chart as a sort of musical score for your life. What notes will you play with the people you work with, and the people you love? That’s where it gets very interesting.

Sometimes events in your life are in “harmony”, some times they are quite out of tune. It is very interesting when you look at all of the different character traits of someone you know well — it can be quite a long list. And your character traits, have to work well with those around you for your social self to be in harmony. That’s why Astrologers look at Aspects, and in particular Major Aspects revealed in one’s horoscope, and in the charts showing what’s going on daily, weekly, and monthly. Awareness of major aspects in your life — emotional awareness — can be used as an opportunity to change and alter your life that will benefit you.

“Understanding your energy blueprint and those of important people in your life can help you make wise choices.”

Is Astrology all about your Sun sign? No… there really is a lot more to it. Among other things, we Astrologers look at your horoscopes to determine different types of “aspects”, like Conjunctions, Sextiles, and Squares. These, generally speaking, have to do with the way the planets line up in different configurations within the houses of your horoscope. Conjunctions may be thought of as blended energies, and sometimes this can mean a blindspot in your life. Sextiles, may point to your talents, and Squares can create certain tensions within the personality — not necessarily a negative thing. Tensions can be just what’s required to motivate action. There are other types of aspects too, which combined, show a sort of energy blueprint for your personality. Understanding your energy blueprint and those of important people in your life can help you make wise choices.