(This article includes Horoscope entries below outlining the Influence of this Node Transit for each Sign)

This article offers a summary overview of the impact that the cycle of the Lunar Nodes in Capricron (North Node) and Cancer (South Node) will have on each sign of the Zodiac. Although we are all a composite of all the signs, your Sun Sign holds the greatest weight and is the first one to consider, as ever in Astrology. I realize that most readers do not know what the Lunar Nodes are and so I offer a link providing a brief explanation here. Keeping it simpler, just read the entry for your Sun Sign below.

There is a marked difference between the transiting Nodes, which is what is covered in this article, and the position of the Nodes at birth in ones Natal Chart. This is an important point because to gain the real story behind what any transit implies, it is a fundamental rules and understanding among Astrologers that the birth chart must be thoroughly assessed and weighed. In other words, without a solid foundation of one's own Natal Chart, interpretations of any transit or progression can only offer approximations. Yet, these at least offer an introduction to the concept at all and the interpretations as below will lend some useful insight. So, if you consult an Astrologer for an update of your transits etcetera, it is important that you understand that the responsible approach for accuracy is to look back to your Natal Chart as the basis upon which the whole picture of current events can be best understood.

In general, the South Node in Cancer basically implies child like innocence, at best, and selfish childishness, at worst. persons with this Node are learning to progressively mature and gain a more sober estimation of themselves, others and life in general. In light of our times, this transit will serve to awaken us all to the harder realities of our times. Of central conceren is our attitudes toward the environment and the political laws and social perspectives that support it. With Saturn, the ruling planet of the North Node in Capricron currently in Libra, we can expect new laws to be activated. Fortunately, Saturn in Libra is well placed and given the dire realities of our jeapardized environment, the new laws may be that much easier to accept.

The Moon’s Nodal Axis moves from Aquarius/Leo to Capricorn/Cancer on August 21. This will activate a more sober and serious tone overall. Capricorn and Cancer generally refer to father and mother or at least to parents in general. Themes of conditional father love – Capricorn and unconditional mother love – Cancer will come into play more noticeably in our lives. At best, the roles of parents serve to protect, nurture, guide and direct ‘children’ to what the parents to perceive and believe to be good, safe, right and sensible action amidst simpler joys, fun and play. When this parental intention comes from society in general, it can take the form of new rules and laws, norms and customs. Safety, protection and the welfare of people in general will come into sharper focus. Current aims to reform the medical model in the U.S. are one example of synchronistic events representative of this theme. The heavier aspects of this ‘parental’ theme are likely to produce more authoritative attitudes coming from governing institutions. Since, the North Node is Capricorn; a core emphasis will be placed upon maturity, discipline, duty and integrity. Positively, the next 18 months that encompasses the duration of this cycle will contribute to a more mature and responsible attitude in society in general. At worst, it will produce a more serious and sober mood that dampens otherwise playful attitudes. Much depends upon the attitude of the children as the parental forces are moved to rear upstanding children who are willing to contribute more of themselves to collective needs. This week’s Horoscope will devote special attention to new 18 month cycle of the Moon’s Nodes.

Aries (Mar 21 – Apr 20)

The North Node in Capricorn will activate you to take yourself and your roles more seriously. You will want to get things done more than you used to, especially over the next 2-3 months. After that, you will begin to climb a new mountain and commitment will be the central theme. Overall, new levels of leadership and responsibility are likely.

Taurus (Apr 20 – May 21)

A deepening of commitments to cultivate your individuality will become an active theme during the next 18 months.

Gemini (May 21 – Jun 21)

Thoughts and feelings about security are probably apparent now. What you feel you want and need are questions in your mind. Financial realities are likely factors. You want to play but you may feel blocked to fully express yourself as you would like. Yet, you are also in pioneering mood and are willing to explore new territory and approaches. Acknowledge fears. Then, focus on the joy and the outcome your desire, with deep feeling.

Cancer (Jun 22 – Jul 22)

Reviewing priorities is a part of life from time to time and up for you now. Knowing where best to put your energies and investments to work is on your mind. Your ability to focus on the details now is strong, perhaps to the point of feeling oversensitive and critical. Issues surrounding finances may include laws and courts, or at least legal documents. Balance faith to act intelligently with courage to act decisively.

Leo (Jul 23 – Aug 23)

Bold and dramatic expressions of your creative visions and potential are clear for all to see now. Fixing, improving and beautifying are core orientations. Your energies are running high and you are in the mood to challenge and stretch the rules, at least. Fortifying and refining your foundation continues. Feelings of unconditional love are flowing through you. Acknowledge the love and feel the joy!

Virgo (Aug 24 – Sep 22)

Exercising creative command is the call now. Variety is the spice you desire. Working behind the scenes is more likely than being on stage. This will change soon. This is a good time to learn and teach ‘how to do it’. Your focus is sharp and bent on both practical yet also alternative insights. Your confidence overall may be challenged these days. Success demands faithful perseverance supported by critical analysis and practical adjustments.

Libra (Sep 23 – Oct 22)

Your sights are set on the future. You are making ready for measurable changes. Deepening your commitments close to home is emerging as a top priority, again. For the sake of security, you are eager to gather new tools. You will push as hard as is necessary to succeed. This may include softening your position based on empathetic understanding. Balance a firm resolve with diplomatic efforts.

Scorpio (Oct 23 – Nov 21)

Taking an active lead to direct your career and public status to new levels, expressions and places is in the spotlight. To succeed you will have to summon a full measure of self-confidence. This will allow you to dream deeply and to re-invent yourself somehow. Aim for the higher road by cultivating a vision worthy of your precious time and energy.

Sagittarius (Nov 22 – Dec 21)

The creative culture of summer is a source of inspiration for you now. You may be dealing with some deep feelings and possibly some measure of depression so any amount of playful distraction will be welcome. Certain players may be pushing hard challenging you to respond with strict realism. Ideally, you are gaining rich insights that are lending to deeper maturity and strength of character.

Capricorn (Dec 22 – Jan 19)

Drawing upon the creative resources and energies of others is a central focus now. You want to explore the possibilities. Seeing the beauty in others will help. Your willingness to work diligently and lead by example will inspire others to action. Gaining facts and knowledge that you can weave with imaginative intention is part of the plot. Take an independent lead to guide others to practical action.

Aquarius (Jan 20 – Feb 19)

Creating new connections continues. This requires your will to give to situations. Mixtures of playful expressions balanced with deep intentions are seeking expression. The time is ripe to take risks and leaps of faith. Your ability to manifest may not be as strong as you would like. Patience with this process is a wise choice as this process will endure for a couple of years, but will increase progressively.

Pisces (Feb 20 – Mar 20)

Nurturing and refining your creative expressions implies a deepening of your commitments. This will lead to changes in your involvement with larger, collective movements. You are on the eve of undergoing some deep changes that will help you to produce higher levels of mastery in your creative expressions. Share your thoughts and feelings with humble yet playful and passionate intentions.

Horoscope for the Year 2009

          Happy New Year! Before I begin this column I would like to remind you that I have written about 2009 in recent weekly Horoscopes, the Quarterly Horoscope for Winter 2009, My Monthly New Moon Newsletter and I will again here, especially. All of these are available on my website, yours to access for Free! The weekly Horoscope Archives can most easily be found on my site in Updates. Upon request, I will happily send the email of the Newsletter to you. Each will offer a slightly different angle of insight. I have also posted the Yearly Horoscopes for 2005, 2006, 2007 and 2008 on my website in the Library in the subsection Horoscope Related Articles. I did so to offer you the opportunity to quickly look at the Yearly Tips and Introductions to gain a quick review of the trends and perhaps also of changes and experiences that have occurred in your life and how the Horoscopes offered clues. Hind site is 20/20, as the saying goes. So, in addition to the Tips, you might even want to read your Yearly Horoscope entries. The Quarterly Horoscopes for 2008 are also posted in Updates. In my recent Newsletter, I offered anyone who requested to know their 2 other sign influences specific to them when reading the Horoscopes. If interested, send me an email with your birth date, place and time and I will send you your Birth Chart in Full Colour by email for FREE! Also in the Library, you will find an Article outlining the Numerological significance of 2009. The year adds up to 11/2. 11 is a master number and so pose challenges of overcoming. In the following outline I will shed more light on what these basic challenges imply.

            The big news right now is Pluto in Capricorn. Most of you probably are aware of this by now, but just in case…. Pluto first entered Capricorn back in late January 2008 but soon retrograded back into Sagittarius where it remained until late November 2008. So Pluto has now permanently entered Capricorn where it will remain until it completes its cycle in 2023! This will most certainly be marked by major social, economic and political changes. Pluto is the planet of purification and transformation. All being well, a lot of the corruption and wasted resources that currently plague governments all over the world will be purged. This will occur because people will demand it and there is reason to believe the changes will come from internal pressures and conflicts as well as external over the next 14 years or so.

            Yes, Pluto is far and, paradoxically in Astrology, that means its impact is more powerful than the closer, faster moving planets. It has to do with the slow pace, at least partly. Pluto, Uranus and Neptune are understood in Astrology to be the Trans-social bringers of change. Astrologers observe and recognize how the major currents of our society and the world in general synchronize with these long cycles of the far planets. For example, 1993 was the year that the World Wide Web was officially launched for public access at that is the year that Uranus and Neptune formed a rare conjunction in the sign of Capricorn. Uranus is linked to revolutions and computers and Neptune dissolves barriers and borders and Capricorn is symbolic of large social and governmental institutions. That is a brief example of Astrological synchronicity. The list is much longer of course. Understanding how the cycles work, includes realizing that there are many and they all overlap and converge. Since Astrology can be read at at-least 7 levels, not to mention a wide range of interpretations techniques and styles, there is much that can be said. Cities and nations and even legal enterprises of all kinds from businesses to clubs and organizations also have their own Astrology charts just as do people. Since the planetary influences share a different relationship with each one of the above mentioned, each is subject to their own unique experience. There are generalizations that can be made and this is where Horoscopes, for example, enter the picture. These are general yet offer a starting point and due to the holistic nature of reality, can actually offer some very accurate and useful insights and guidance. I think when you read the entry for your sign and perhasp look back to previous uears, you will agree. Even if they work at all, you will closer to realizing thst Astrology works.

            Since Pluto moves so slowly, it is the faster planets like Mars, Venus, Mercury and the luminaries Sun and Moon that will make aspects to it in real time rather than Pluto making aspects to other Planets. Mercury was first to make contact to Pluto back in mid December then it was the Sun the day after Winter Solstice 2008, then the Moon on Boxing Day and then 2 days later on December 28^th Mars formed a conjunction with Pluto. The influence of each has its importance but Mars especially is suggestive of a passionate push for change, especially given the wide spread anomalies in the weather bringing unexpected, unprecedented and severe patterns to people and places all over the world over the past few weeks especially. Changes in the ecological balance due to excessive pollution is a natural suspicion held by many. With this aspect active at the turn of the New Year, it is setting the stage and pace for things to come and addressing the environemnt will become official and important gusiness at govenment levels and internationally. These themes will be activated more noticeably when many return to work on January 5^th, the day Jupiter enters Aquarius! More on this later in this article….

            Any person or above mentioned legal entity with Planets positioned at 0 to 3 degrees 17 minutes especially and up to 5 degrees anyway, will experience the initial transformation power of Pluto in Capricorn. Most strongly affected will be those with ‘personal planets (Sun, Moon, Mercury, Venus or Mars) at the early degrees of any of the Cardinal Signs – Aries, Cancer, Libra or Capricorn. People will Planets in the early degrees of Gemini or Leo will also feel the more difficult effects of Pluto this year. Those with planets in Pisces, Taurus, Virgo or Scorpio will also feel the power yet these may especially experience the benefits of the change and transformation Pluto will bring. However, even the more harmonious aspects, as with the 4 Signs just mentioned, the changes will be strong and definite and could prove to pinch at least a little, especially where there is resistance. Thus is the force of Pluto.  Since resistance comes from lack of awareness, consider becoming more aware by way of Astrology so you can work with these energies of change consciously for the greatest benefit and least amount of stress.

            The Lunar North and South Node axis is ever observed by Astrologers. Since these will change signs this year in late August, the 23^rd to be exact, we can all expect the subtle yet sure shift of their influence. Currently, the North Node is in Aquarius and the South in Leo. The North Node acts as a magnetic pull bringing an emphasis to the sign it is in and the South Node can be said to de-emphasize the Sign it is in. This is a simplistic interpretation really, but will be commonly accepted by most Astrologers. Each Node sign is ‘disposited’ by the planet that rules each Node Sign and the Sign that the ruling planet is in both contributes to and offers an energetic outlet for the expression of the significant themes implied in the aspect. So, Uranus which rules Aquarius is in Pisces. Uranus has been in Pisces since Spring Equinox 2003 – the exact date of the beginning of the war in Iraq. Uranus can bring illumination, awakening and sudden change. The removal of the Iraqi dictator, Saddam Hussein from power, was perhaps the most positive expression of this aspect. On the other hand, since then and especially since the Nodes changed signs about a year ago (The Nodal Axis has an 18 month cycle), people in general are rapidly awakening to the realities of deep seated corruption in the world, secret societies, global agendas and so on because more and more people are accessing information on the internet that was unavailable or not yet popularly acknowledged until just a couple of years ago. The D'avinchi Code book and movie is a popular example. However you wish to explain it, people are waking up quickly now and the hundredth monkey principle is taking care of the rest. Humanity is more awake and aware more than ever and this trend of awakening will continue and social change by demand and necessity is immanent!

            When The Nodes change Signs they will move from Aquarius/Leo to Capricorn/Cancer. When this first occurs, Saturn will still be in humble yet detailed and dutiful Virgo, until late October when it will enter Libra. The dispositing planet is important and is the planet that rules the Sign that the North Node is in. With both the Node and the planetary ruler in action oriented and initiative taking Cardinal Signs, we can expect the pace of things to accelerate noticeably. How it will affect each Sign and person will of course vary and I will bring more attention to it closer to date. Since there remains over 8 months of Aquarius/Leo to go yet, we can expect continued awakening, increased exchange of information and in fact, for measurable revolutionary action to begin. The devious and guilty will be working overtime to continue to and deepen the degree of deception upon which they function best. On the other hand, the vigilant and humanistic forces will be doing overtime in their efforts to bring more and more people ‘into the light’ of awareness and realization. The planets are poised to bring people closer together and to bring added measures of gratitude and humility to the fore. By late August when the Nodes change Signs many more people will be more aware of the score and the scoop about what is happening and how business as usual attitudes must change. This is especially true regarding the environment.

            Saturn is itself being disposited by a line-up of planets currently in Capricorn including the Sun, Mars, Jupiter and Pluto. Mercury will retrograde back into Capricorn on January 20^th and Jupiter enters Aquarius on January 5^th. Despite Jupiter’s exit, the remaining planets just mentioned will initiate some major assertions for change that will be quite evident to everyone by February. The governmental changes taking place in both the U.S. and Canada are good synchronistic examples. Mercury retrograde all the while as of January 11^th will bring forth added diligence towards proving one’s worth based on past performances. With Mercury retrograde in Aquarius still on January 20^th when the New U.S. President is scheduled to be sworn into office lends a hint that many of the new policies that will be introduced will be future oriented, innovative and idealistic. I will bring more attention to this theme in my upcoming New Moon Newsletter on January 25^th.

            Jupiter entering Aquarius (Jan. 5, 2009 – January 17, 2010) will significantly lend to increasing the intensity of the winds of awakening and change certainly in figurative terms and quite possibly literally as well. By this I am suggesting severe weather patterns.  Most noteworthy will be Mars forming a conjunction with Jupiter on February 17^th along with the North Node in Aquarius. This should prove to sound the trumpets even louder to awaken the many who are not yet quite aware of the massive changes that are brewing in the world at every level of society. Since these are needed, we have reason to feel hopeful and optimistic about this timely alignment. In the month of June, Jupiter will align with Neptune and Chiron at the 26^th degree of Aquarius. This aspect will prove to awaken the masses to the critical nature of the global ecological crisis that many almost seem to assume we can sustain. High ideals and charismatic appeals to enlist the cooperation of people everywhere to do whatever they can to finding solutions are very likely indeed with this rare triple aspect. Chiron represents the wound and Neptune is symbolic of denial and deception. Jupiter seeks justice and operates with high principles and ethics clearly outlined. At worst, fanaticism may result, but at best Jupiter’s presence here will inspire a deep sense of unity and cooperative efforts on many fronts. I consider this to be a very positive aspect given the challenges that humanity as a collective now faces in terms of the growing environmental crisis. It is worth noting that Uranus will also be positioned at 26 degrees of Pisces in June. Further, Jupiter, Chiron and Neptune almost simultaneously turn retrograde and so will hover together in close proximity for the remainder of the year from June onward! This could perpetuate deceptions and denials but will serve to ignite the efforts of those people and organizations destined to inspire and remind the masses to stay on track and to be willing to make the necessary mental, emotional and physical changes required for a more sustainable future.

Aries (Mar 21 – Apr 20)

Big changes and power moves in your public and professional life are scheduled for you this year. Sharing ideals and visions of the future with significant others is part of the plot. Expect your mood to be  amix of enthusiasm and determination balanced by sober caution. Your network of friends stands to increase measurably. Personal, professional and social interests and concerns will take on greater importance. By late summer, a new level of power and authority will begin to emerge. Training of some kind is implied. Once this begins, you will feel the need and hopefully the determination to commit and demonstrate your resolve to realize dreams and rise-up to meet new challenges and opportunities.

Taurus (Apr 20 – May 21)

Changes in your core philosophy and choices about the future are bubbling. You will want to make slow, well chosen moves in 2009. You will feel the inspiration to risk venture to realize pioneering dreams. While you are ready to take risks, you will also want more background and facts. This is no time for pre-mature judgments. Yet, the flow has its own say and there is wisdom in going with it as well. You will come to new and clear realizations about the importance of unifying your energies, efforts and resources with those of others; a power in numbers philosophy. The key message you may be hearing is: get back closer to the land! However you do it, get grounded!

Gemini (May 21 – Jun 21)

Purging, merging, clearing and claiming a news sense of freedom should be keeping you busy. What dreams, visions, illusions and fantasies no longer serve? Seek council with your higher mind to decide. There is power in numbers and the time is ripe to shares dreams and decisions. Investments made now may be slow on return, but will probably eventually. Finding security and solace in close ties and bonds implies healing rifts in friendships and other important relationships. You will continue to seek new and meaningful philosophies. There is reason to believe that 2009 could prove to be very healing and uplifting for you in a variety of ways. The greatest danger is that you will become fanatical about certain issues. Keep your sights set on the bigger picture in all matters and you will more likely keep your cool and even gain new levels of popularity.

Cancer (Jun 22 – Jul 22)

A new day is dawning in your relationships. Some significant forces, key players and events are activating change. Fortunately, these include opportunity. Travel in the short term and possibly linked to career, is highlighted. You are seeing a new world more clearly with each new day. Inheritances are quite likely in 2009 and if you must go to court your chances of winning are high. 2009 could well prove to be an excellent year for making important investments as well. Land sales figure prominently. You may have to face some very real fears in key relationships and in your career. If you missed your cue to get out of unsupportive relationships, employment and other roles in 2008, you may be able to squeeze out this year so pay close attention to your instincts in this regard. Look to the future now and accept that change is inevitable.

Leo (Jul 23 – Aug 23)

Do you notice how aware of the details you are already becoming? Your focus and vision is getting sharper. You will seek scientific precision and mastery in whatever is claiming your passions. This is a time of change and the audience is undecided. People want answers, but every source and angle seems to bear limitations. Therefore, it is a good time to evaluate where the trends are going. Be willing to see where you can improve your performance. This includes taking a good, long and clear look at what is not working either in your personal or professional life where dealings with others are important.  After all, your popularity stands to increase measurably. Pay attention and play along so that you can make the most of the many opportunities to refine your skills and offerings and expand your horizons and the scope of your influence in 2009. 

Virgo (Aug 24 – Sep 22)

A whole new level of creative power and charisma is emerging for you. Soon, more and more people will be seeking solid answers and reliable information. This is your forte’. Your ability to offer logical facts backed by solid research across a spectrum of disciplines will be rewarded handsomely. In other words, be open to a variety of approaches. This could be the beginning of new opportunities to demonstrate a wider range of your abilities. Take a prudent approach, nurture your skills with care and confront any lingering doubts with a willingness to take some risks in your work especially and in your lifestyle  where higher levels of health are concerned. Who knows maybe you will take on a new sport or two or establish a much more exciting yet realistic health focus. Positioning is important now and you may notice this is a strong current theme. Aim to be of service by offering solutions to humanities woes.

Libra (Sep 23 – Oct 22)

Some powerful shifts and changes are shaking things up close to home. Renovations, moves, plumbing or repairs of structural problems and so on are likely themes this year.  They are likely to get underway very early on in the year. If this is not apparent consider taking a proactive approach to deciphering where key changes, renovations and outright moves are perhaps needed. These may take on a purely physical form or they may affect you psychologically or your family life. The ground you stood on not long ago is no longer as secure as you may have supposed. Trust that there is a natural cyclic theme at work and nurture a sensible response. Associate pleasure to the process of working with the needed changes and be willing to be proactive where comfort, familiarity and security have somehow gotten in the way of a higher level of health and happiness.

Scorpio (Oct 23 – Nov 21)

Fixed notions, attitudes, behavior patterns and habits are up for review. Deciphering the difference between power, force and control will remain a lingering theme. The old ways will no longer work. This is a call to at least begin to re-invent your self, your style, image, approach and perspectives. If you dig deeply enough beneath yours or anyone else’s surface you will arrive at spirit. Once this is clear you can begin to build the new empire! At best, as old perceptions loosen, you will feel more confident, perhaps liberated. This could well lead you to introduce new attitudes and perspectives, allowing you to see and understand what were previously hidden. Debate and challenging discussions could prove to be very healthy, as long as you do not allow stubborn pride to close your mind. Accept that there is always another way of seeing and doing things and be willing to activate a more open minded approach and attitude on all fronts.

Sagittarius (Nov 22 – Dec 21)

A restructuring of your entire foundation is now underway. Personality is everywhere but character is not as established in society anymore. This will not due and personally and collectively life will now guide us to re-acknowledging the importance of strength of character. A grounded vision that supports simple values and core principles is needed. Discipline, logic, science and intuition will take care of the rest. Personal responsibility free of blaming attitudes is the key. You could well get very excited about a wide range of new interests and prospects. However, be extra careful not to spread yourself too thin this year. Avoid candid and carefree promises. Take your time to weigh and assess people, situations and especially commitments carefully in 2009. Changes close to home are likely and imply a range of possibilities and perhaps more than one move of residence. Before the year is done, you will find reason to commit to new interests and situations without the need or desire to look back.

Capricorn (Dec 22 – Jan 19)

Already you are taking some powerful new strides and the New Year has not even begun. Then again, the start gun for you was fired in late November. This week will be extra noticeable in terms of important key initiatives. The time has come to assert new directions. The environment, the economy and the social sphere in general is changing quickly now as a consequence. Humanity needs new answers and leadership that makes sense to a wider populace. You will feel excited by new innovations and investments. Educational pursuits, especially early on, are ideal. Perhaps you will be completing what you have been learning for the past couple of years already. If you feel that you are behind in this regard, make extra efforts right away to get back on track. By late summer, you will feel even more independent yet by autumn the stakes will be rather high and will require a full measure of discipline and determination to activate a more balanced approach, perhaps especially in public and professional arenas.

Aquarius (Jan 20 – Feb 19)

Many new assertions without, counterbalanced by many deep changes within, are underway. Looking to the current situation, the past and the future, you may find reason to take some exciting new risks, yet also feel challenged to keep the faith. This paradoxical situation may be a source of confusion. By the third quarter of the year you could well find yourself exploring new educational interests perhaps prompted by a deep call to do some soul searching about what is of true and enduring importance to you. Intend to take the time to meditate, retreat, sleep and dream a bright future for us all as you can amidst an otherwise faster pace. What used to be important is losing its appeal. At best, this will feel liberating and lead you to take the necessary risks and measures to explore new facets of yourself, the culture and the world in general. Once you do embark upon new interests, especially by autumn you will see the beginnings of a deep and determined commitment to create at a whole new level of success!

Pisces (Feb 20 – Mar 20)

Gaining stimulation from the social scene is the call now. This may mean networking or going out more or keeping up to date on the news and world affairs and events. 2009 will prove important in terms of clarifying where your commitments and focus are best directed. Gaining new knowledge and targeting your focus or market is ideal. You may feel a little unclear about things now. This will resolve itself by summer anyway. In the short term, establish an integral foundation with flexibility in the design.  By the end of summer, you will enter into a deep, powerful and important cycle of change that will continue through to 2012. Fortunately, this will coincide with a whole new level of faith and confidence coming from within. You may have to make some extra efforts to access this source over the course of the year, but once you do you will experience inspirations to focus and exercise a new level of discipline that was previously unavailable. 2009 stands to be one of steady progress and deep brewing changes for you that will prove expansive at least eventually on social and professional fronts.

Michael O'Connor

sunstarastrology@gmail.com

www.sunstarastrology.com

250.352.2901  or  1.888.352.2936

*Affirmation * Inspiration * Vision * Strategy*

Astrology, My Journey with it and Our Changing Times

The following is a response to a query from the editor of the Newspaper for which I write my weekly Horoscope column. As the story goes, more questions were asked so a rather lengthy article was the result and here it is.

I was in Nelson for 17 years, since 1992. My move to Vancouver was linked to my partner and for professional advancement. I remain closely connected to Nelson and the Kootenai in general. I have always ventured out about 4 times a year to visit other locations especially in BC where my Horoscope is also published. So, for the time being I have simply reversed the order and now I return to nelson about 4 times per year. Nelson is where I cut my Astrological teeth, as it were. It remains close to my heart as the precious and magical place that it is. I have a lot of history there and what I would call a lot of good friends. But I think it is a bit hard for people to be friends with people who fall under the heading of ‘seer’.

To me, Astrology is a science. Not a linear and purely material science. But then, neither is advanced physics and other branches of science. The basis of Astrology as a science is holistic, it is a holistic science. But most science is actually not holistic. It is materialistic and sadly, the mind set of science which is to reduce reality to component part become divisive and shallow and the evidence is pretty apparent. But the holistic movement is growing, largely in the realm of healing. Yet, Astrology remains active because that is the way truth works – it is hard to dismiss it idly, as people often do.

I started writing Horoscope in 1993 for the Express, upon request of Nelson Becker. It took me several months to decide because I felt Horoscopes were the bane of Astrology. However, after thinking about it I decided I would by way of writing in the format of an ongoing trend perspective. Further, I recognized that I could help people tune-in to a natural flow – Astrology is based in the rhythms and cycles of nature - and our psychology is woven into it. That is why I have always referred to Astrology as a Natural Psychology. Further, this experience has taught me a lot about Astrology and how to write better too. Perhaps most importantly, I have learned how powerful the Sun is and how paradoxical is this power. In other words, that the sun is a powerful physical force is pretty evident. However, from the stand point of Astrology, the implications of sunlight have a very deep psycho-spiritual effect and understanding it is, well, an esoteric endeavor. Esoteric means the answer lies within and is hidden more than without and obvious. The more one looks into, the more the answer derived is a spiritual one. Astrology is the best means of understanding this as it is based on a Mandala Map which is more than a linear construct. It is the evidence of the working of the planets mapped out and in motion reflective of people character and the corresponding trends, cycles and events of their lives that really convinces a person that Astrology works – even at the general level of Horoscopes. I might not have believed this had it not been for the fact that so many people over the years have come to me excited and astounded at how well what I write corresponds with their experinces. That is a very strong sort of proof.

Also, I requested that I ad a weekly tip so I could educate people about it and related subjects and as means of supporting it with any angle of perspective I can. Many people are credulous that anyone would ‘believe’ in Astrology, in light of the findings of science. Actually, Astrology is the first science of civilization. Further, integrity in the realm of science is to prove or to disprove but most people approach Astrology on the basis of belief as opposed to any science at all despite claims to the latter. Thus, it is not Astrologers who simply ‘believe’. Most Astrologers and I am one of them, have studied and observed and have come to realize that Astrology has validity, great validity. Not all of them know why it works, but simply that it works. In fact, many who have endeavored to refute Astrology and have shown enough integrity to disprove it have not and can not and have in fact become Astrologers themselves or at least quiet advocates. For may part, I am keenly interested in how it works and the journey of this discovery has lead me to look at consciousness and perception – psychological and spiritual considerations.

Interestingly, science itself is very theoretical and dogmatic – at least as much as any religion. I often refer to science as the ‘religion of science’. People assume that they are gaining purely objective knowledge in school when in fact, our educational system and any system of knowledge actually produces a mind set like a program. It’s as if Einstein never existed and his and subsequent claims that you cannot separate the experimenter from the experiment. The reference here is to our projected biases. So, many people who assume they are thinking objectively based on their science are actually computing reality according to their program. It is simple psychology really. Even hard skeptics and atheists and the like are very dogmatic, but they are not conscious of it – not honest or self -aware really.

Some would be surprised to hear that I am a ‘creationist’. Not in the strict, fundamentalist perspective, mind you. Simply from the stand point that I recognize that reality is consciousness made manifest. Rene Descartes is famous for his dictum, “I think therefore I am!” This helped lay the foundation for a materialistic world view that has endured for about 4 centuries but which is on the decline because science is now recognizing that actually it is the other way around, “I am therefore I think.” At this point this is old news but evidently some have not heard it and many of these are quite educated and intelligent, but simply not that aware, at least not aware of what is not convenient to their perspectives or which fits comfortably with their ‘education’. Thinking is an intellectual process. But consciousness implies an intelligence that transcends and pervades nature. The evidence is everywhere. And yes, a conscious creation implies a conscious creator. What that is, is another question and I am not referring to a man in the sky, the Zeus mythology, but to something beyond and within the creation/nature.

In simple terms it is evident that creation functions with conscious, intelligence, purpose, creativity and love. Love can make a stanch scientist jump around nervously. It may seem a little emotional to some. However, it best answers the why of creation. But science is more concerned with the ‘what and how’. Of course, nature works according to laws. That should be about the end of the story but science seems bent upon asserting that life, nature, creation in general and our very existence is arbitrary, accidental. Astrology can actually demonstrate an intelligent design working ‘within’ and so too can many other fields of human enquiry. But the battle between science and religion continues and Astrology and, more specifically, the world view that sustains it, is the child that lost out in the divorce, and it is a magical child indeed.

Not surprisingly, advanced physicists are left with terms like, Magic, mystery, matrix to describe the inner reaches of creation. I am saying creation because if I say ‘reality’ we enter into an arena of debate about what that is but to begin to argue that there is no creation, at least a creation of illusion or an illusion of creation…   How desperate a revolution is that? However, I do think that the revolution has and does serve many a purpose but now we are approaching the time when we must reconcile with the reality of our spiritual nature and the nature of spirit. That, incidentally, is the next great revolution and is what I am referring to with the powerful transits active at this time.

Now that advanced physics has proven that matter is not so material, those who lay claim to science must deal with the implications and this is a major factor in the revolution that is silently eroding the fabric of civilization. Yes pollution and population but also perception undergoing transformation is a major factor. In the short term we may see a break down as reason must contend with intuition and knowing that transcends empirical deductions and reductions. After all, these are contributing to the rational that more is better. As a clever quote I recently read on FB says, ‘there is no planet B’.  Astrology functions according to the laws of nature in a deep way, that is magical and mysterious and yes, something of a matrix. In some respects, as the first science of civilization, we are coming full circle to understand why and how it works. In so doing we just might survive our own collective insanity that stems from the shallow restraints of merely empirical thinking. Actually, many dedicated and intelligent people are doing this but they are not getting the attention they deserve largely because it does not directly yield to the economic machine – yes monopoly is a very real game.  

Many people would be surprised to discover how and why Astrology really works and it does. But while the dogmas of religion and science battle it out, the visionaries are largely ignored and the certain major players are free to pursue their dominions amidst the squabble – an old strategy. Regarding how Astrology works, here is a hint; it is not based on the constellations as Astronomers would have it. It is on the basis of the Precession of the Equinoxes that Astronomers rule out Astrology and deem Astrologers ignorant or insincere. The real problem is the assumption that Astrology is solely linked to the constellations. This would come as a big surprise to may. If so, I challenge them to first prove that Astrology is limited to the constellations then argue for how it should not work due to the Precession. A sincere look in this way would produce a lot of egg on the faces of many a proud Astronomer. Like many scientists, hubris and pre-programmed perspectives blind many that lay clam to the title as to how and why Astrology works and despite their claim of being scientific, they are very assumptive about how consciousness and creation works. I do appreciate Astronomy mind you, in fact, I love it. However, in as much as it stands proudly denouncing other subjects like its own sibling Astrology; it stands as a great fool indeed and a very arrogant one at that. Worse, it blindly leads others who will accept their conclusions without scientific investigation and all the while pave the way for the devious to guide the innocent. If you think that this might cause something of a stir, I hope you are right!

Darren:

Wow! That was quick.

I'll use some of this in tomorrow's column — or maybe even work it into a story!

Come to think of it, if you've got a few more minutes... had been meaning to do a story on all the Astrological events happening right now—given there are a few that are quite rare.

Do you think we could break it out in layman citizen-friendly language, and write a little something? I can cull some info out of the details you've sent.

Is this a particularly extraordinary time, astrologically?

Yes, it is quite extraordinary indeed - a real climax for our times. But like all good trend studies, we should not be looking simply for eventful examples. However, the HST is a good example in our sector of the world of the current aspects. In a larger perspective,  we are in what can now be referred to as Era 2012 which is 18 years – and + 2012  - so 1980 – 2016 about covers it. Contemporary historians may already be able to see evidence of this and I am confident that retrospective history will bear this out – these years will prove extra pivotal. The election of Obama is one example, but there are others. The Astrological aspects are there as well. The biggest one is yet to begin which is a Square between Uranus and Pluto and it begins in late spring 2012 and after 7 hits (90 degree angles due to both planets retrograding) ending in 2016, we will have entered into a whole new state of affairs and I can’t be confident they will be entirely good ones. In fact, I imagine world affairs socially, politically and economically will have come to a full boil.

What are the major astrological events that are happening or have happened in the last week or so, and what big ones are on the way?

Jupiter conjunct Uranus at O Aries, (June 8, 2010) then Jupiter will conjunct Uranus at late degree of Pisces.  Sept 19, Jan 1 2011. Then Uranus Opposition Saturn – the last of 5 aspects with the first on Nov 4 2008 (Obama…) and this last one on July 27 2010 takes place at 0 Aries and Libra respectively – these are indicative of new beginnings. However, the Opposition aspect is a culmination. It is all part of a natural process but these natural processes can be dramatic. Astrology is the study of the synchronicity of the planets in aspects and of both human “nature”, at the deeper reaches, and outer events as well. Below is an article that more fully covers it all. Then there is a final of 3 Square aspects (90 degrees = big turning point) between Pluto and Saturn in September. I link this to the big oil spill that is having its major play and continues to do so. It is hard to write about it in brief especially when people have little background then there is the collective bias against Astrology to deal with, this my previous email to you.

http://sunstarastrology.com/content/view/4558/284/

Here is a listing or more articles I wrote: http://sunstarastrology.com/content/category/20/161/284/

First — what do these events signify or suggest?

 Major societal change – revolution and it will actually have a strong spiritual component and perhaps religious as well, these are not necessarily the same. Spiritual means united while religion is often sectarian and, at worst and ironically, divisive. In many respects, social media is a new avenue for collective sharing and therefore can be seen to be spiritual – no dogmas and no real hierarchy, just some good rules that keep exploitation at bay.

Second — how are those predictions already being ramified in real-world events, politically, environmentally and socially, etc...?

We are at a great turning point in many ways. The tendency to refer to the cause externally is strong. Of course, all outer events have inner roots. What these roots are is the big question. If one looks deeply enough, we have to not simply look at history or precedence, but to consciousness, perception, and belief – to the human soul perhaps. Science has brought us to a place or a point in history, in many respects a good place, but now unless we transcend the limitations of science we are in big trouble – nuclear power and bombs is the most basic and wide reaching example. Fortunately, leading edge science is doing just that. However, science is a word like religion and we should not assume, though people commonly do, that all people who claim to be scientific agree on all things. Transcending science does not mean dismissing it, by the way, it means taking the best and rising above the rest. What is the best is a good question. We can now do a lot, how and why we do it are the next important questions and bring rise to spiritual perspectives. So, the ‘establishment’ the economic machine, must be turned to serve us instead of the other way around. This is the major issue. But, those who have a tight grip on power may not be so inclined and there is strong evidence to say that certain sectors of society, in the global respect, are moving things according to an ‘agenda’ Thus the basis of all the conspiracies. Generally these point to bankers and major money people. The question is who are they are where and do they care.

There would not be any conspiracy if there was less secrecy. But there is a lot of secrecy. We now collectively know that. Humanity in general, the masses, may not know the answer to the many secrets, but they know there are many secrets. Actually, I predicted this in 2002 on the eve of Uranus entering Pisces. Look back in your Nelson Daily News or at least The Weekender archives and you will see indications there in my Tips of the Week. The emerging questions are who and why. Invariably, these transcend politics and economics and become psychological and spiritual and moral too.

Yes, beyond pointing fingers and desires for lynching’s etc…we are challenged to look at ourselves in the mirror, at our own “nature”. There is that word again. But how can we best do that. Astrology offers an answer, it says look as though you are ‘a part of’ verses ‘apart from’ nature, you (we) are not simply ‘in it’ you (we) are an expression of and are one with it. The function of the intellect separates us from everything, interesting huh? Interesting because we revere our intellect and this reverence of our own capacity is destroying us. We have divorced ourselves from nature by virtue of worshipping our mind and the very capacity of mind that serves to divide, sort, categorize and separate us etcetera, from the very nature of our existence – very paradoxical!

So, there are many forces in the world from movie makers to authors, spiritual teachers, artists, innovators (WWW, internet, social media) and there are many other new psycho-spiritual trends and realizations, movements and leaders as well. It is all happening now. But although we are an expression of it, are ‘in’ it, we can and perhaps must also stand book and see ourselves in context. A lot of people are making a lot of efforts to help others to see this way. So, the revolution is happening. Thank goodness for the publically owned internet. While there is good media and good journalists, it is quite obvious that mass media of all kinds is ‘privately owned’!

Lastly, how do they all tie into the numerous theories out there? Planet X, 2012, the second coming, etc, etc...

Wow, it is hard to answer such questions quickly. 12/21/2012 is both a weave of fact and mythology – the mythology of the Mayans. Yet, it is also actual in terms of the Sun, from the Earth’s perspective, in alignment with the Galactic Center and which takes 36 years. 1998 was the mean point of this process. John Major Jenkins in his book 2012 Cosmogenesis and others has dedicated his life to explaining this as best he can. While he might not understand it perfectly, he does better than most. From the stand point of Mayan Mythology, and perhaps others that it is tied into like our own at its inception, is based on Astronomy. The Precession of the Equinoxes is based on an approximate 26,000 year cycle. Dividing it into 5 you get 5 world ages of 5125 years. Each is a world age, from this perspective. So, according to them, the current world age will end on 12/21/2012 because it coincides with the solar calendar, what is the Haab in this system. The Mayans use about 20 calendars and these can be seen to overlap. The Solar calendar naturally coincides with Winter Solstice – Dec 21. So, the Classical Maya certainly revered the sun cycle. That is what Western Tropical Astrology is based on basically, by the way. But Astronomers assume Astrology is based on the constellations. They would be quite shocked to discover that the signs of Astrology are based on the signs of the changing season. The point is that the Precessional Cycle makes the constellations of the Zodiac ‘appear’ to go backwards. There are two theories. Te main one is that due to the Earth’s shape, an oblate spheroid, it wobbles and this causes a sublte shifting of the timing of the sun rising against the backdrop of the stars – specifically 0 Aries!

I will leave it there but tying Planet X into 2012 is sensational. It is linked to the second coming in that people have longed believe that God Loves them better and that ‘he’ will return to reward them for their ‘beliefs’ and punish everyone else. A rather infantile, shallow and cruel conviction, I would say – like a child believing in its own innocence and hoping dad will come home and punish the ‘bad’ sibling.

The second coming is its own assumption that there was only one and that this will be the last one. Such notions are religious and are some of the reasons why science emerged to challenge the orthodox and controlling views of religion. As mentioned earlier, Astrology is the magical child that lost out in the divorce. Interestingly, many who call them selves scientists, like others who claim to follow the true God, see Astrology as the bad sibling. Hmmm, makes we wonder if there are not other forces that profit from this.

 So, do I think it will be the ‘end of the world’ no! Do I accept that it is the end of the world age from the standpoint of the Mayans, yes! Is it coinciding with our own cycles of change and the revolutions of evolution, yes! Can we see them as sharing a common basis, yes and no. Actually I have endeavored to understand this and help others to understand it as well. To do so, in addition tom writing a lot of articles which are here and there on my site in the library, and I have others, I have also created a series of slide show presentations. I have created several because the entire topic is larger than it might seem. The current one is called Astrology, Era 2012 and the Great Awakening. It is a weave of 3 others actually. I would be happy to show it to a receptive audience in nelson and despite 2 efforts to do so one last spring and the other this past April, I only get a small yet generally enthusiastic and appreciative audience (and the feeling is mutual). As an Astrologer with not such a big income I am challenged to host events requiring a lot of advertising expense and so on, yet I am dedicated to assisting people individually and yes, it is my hope that I can make a larger contribution as well. In a way, I am like the revolutionaries that helped usher in the scientific revolution against the corruptions of religion, but this time it is about a spiritual revolution aiming to overthrow the corruptions of the materialistic reductions of science. However, I am on a limiting When I come to Nelson I will have my presentation and my projector, but I did not plan to offer a presentation to what I am left to interpret to be a fairly distracted and/or apathetic and/or decided audience. My goal is simply to awaken people to new perspectives and not to share “the truth” which in many respects is more personal and subjective than we are lead to believe by religion and science in general. Even though leading scientists have made sincere efforts to demonstrate this, there remain many who seem to be quite oblivious to it.