Yearly Horoscope for 2008

Tip for the Year  (Sign entries below)

            In the history books 2008 will prove to be quite a pivotal year. The world is changing quickly now. Some refer to this rapid change as ‘the quickening’. This is basically understood as an increase in the rate of vibration on both individual and collective levels. Others would offer that the world is moving faster due to the increase of communications, especially the World Wide Web and transportation technologies. However you see it, most would agree that the pace of life is faster. Both the numerology for this year and time and the planetary aspects indicate that we are entering into a whole new chapter. Perhaps some of you readers would like to add your own insights about what you see and feel about this. In many cases it is necessity that seems to provoking change, while in others it is inspiration. Overall, it is the revolution of evolution in a now technologically savvy world. If you have insights to offer about changes and trends, necessities and inspirations that are adding to this change, please send me an email. This is the opportunity we now have. I also encourage you to read this entire introduction I offer you here as it will help you better understand what I am writing for each Sun Sign.

            I would like to remind you that because this Horoscope is for the whole year, and since the themes for each sign are general and condensed, I am looking to the transits of the outer planets, from Jupiter to Pluto as well as to the Nodes of the Moon which have just recently changed signs in the Tropical Zodiac of Western Astrology from Pisces/Virgo to Aquarius/Leo. I have written a fair bit about these transits over the past several months, and even began hinting at them last year and even the year before. I did so because the transits of the far planets span anywhere from 1 to 15 years, and because the build-up of planetary alignments has been progressively dramatic and are now achieving a certain culmination with the advent of 2008. The Weekly Horoscope and Quarterly Horoscope which is now featured with my Quarterly Newsletter, incorporates these larger themes, yet addresses them as smaller pieces of a larger puzzle. Hopefully, the picture you will get from this Horoscope for the year will effectively illustrate the larger picture for each sign.

            As for the Astrological picture, the fore shadow of this major turn we are currently experiencing, and will throughout 2008, began markedly in September 2007 when Saturn entered environmentally-focused Virgo. Saturn will transit Virgo for about 2 years (9/3/07 – 10/27/09) whereupon it will enter Libra, but will retrograde back into Virgo after just over 5 months in Libra and will remain in Virgo again for just shy of another 4 months. The best news about Saturn in Virgo is that it will bring more attention to the environment. With Jupiter and soon Pluto in earthy Capricorn, we will see more action than theory, alarm and appeal, as we are currently. The challenging part is that this stands to increase governmental authority. This may sound unfortunate but it may be our best chance to gain leverage over the greedy power mongering antics of some of the private sector – banks in particular. The big test will be what the strengthened and expanded government will do with this power. Will it yield to short term gain and apparently blind ambition, or will it take the wise, sober approach suggestive of Capricorn and implement new efforts that truly recognize environmental issues and concerns? The answer is probably both. However, it is quite likely that governments will succumb to the corruptive influences and pressures of the market, at first. The results will be more power given to the private sector. When the public feels this imbalance first hand in more obvious and possibly acute ways than ever, then the masses will retaliate and hopefully force the government to act with integrity, vision and authentic leadership. This public backlash will probably become more evident in 2009. As the game goes, people will have to feel the pain of the pinch before they take direct action. On the other hand, the ambitions of the private sector are generally more proactive and this will add to the drama as the private sector, big business and corporate power are initially given more power than they probably deserve and can actually handle, and then will resist when at least some of it is revoked due to public pressure, again in 2009. This is a rather old story and a classic legacy of social and political strife. Then it may take a few more years before a more equitable, realistic and sustainable mode of power and leadership steps forth to do what is necessary. This is where the 2012 focus comes into focus. Wrenching power and privilege away from the private sector could even be the recipe for prolonged struggle, violence and possible even warfare. It is a delicate process because after all, most people represent the private sector. Unfortunately, the greed factor creates imbalance and forces governmental involvement, and so the games continue.

            By New Years Eve 2008, a year from now, there will be a tight grouping of planets in Capricorn and Aquarius, and then the stage will really be set. By this time, powerful initiatives on the part of governments will already be underway and the process, as mentioned, will be poised for even more obvious action in 2009. Before I examine the trends as a whole, I will outline some of the movements of the particular planets and then I will shed some light on the numerological implications of 2008.

            Briefly, the chart for New Year 2008 indicates the push for more social freedom of speech, religion and expression. Dogmatic, traditional views will gain less appeal. People will be inclined to live out their own philosophy more than yield to that of tradition, which means the old guard could feel alienated and frustrated. Traditions change and this turning point could give birth to new ones as old patterns prove stale. New beginnings of this sort are often somewhat awkward as the hidden assumptions and expectations of tradition are disrupted, sometimes by key people and events with Aries strong in their nature. On a more practical note, new businesses will flourish as the market changes and people experiment with unique angles of approach. Many will probably not make it or at least yield the hoped for recognition and return, yet the process is important and could prove very stimulating. The key message here is that popularity does not imply quality and integrity, and without these no amount of flash and shine will satisfy market needs and demand. So, those who can balance good quality with popular appeal will, as ever, take the lion’s share.

Planet Focus

            On December 11th, Jupiter and Pluto formed a conjunction within 1 degree of the Galactic Center. (The actual center of the galaxy from the earth’s perspective, where many astronomers insist there is a black hole.) On December 18th Jupiter entered Capricorn, the Sun and Mercury in exact Conjunction aspect (0 degrees) aligned with the Galactic Center and the Lunar Nodes progressed from the Pisces/Virgo axis to the Aquarius/Leo axis. These events initiated in late 2007 are certainly featured in this brief overview. (The key to understanding these aspects is to realize that conjunctions especially indicate seed events while other transits reflect the evolutionary and growth processes of these seed events. If this sounds a little metaphorical and ‘organic’ as with seeds and growth etc, please consider that evolutionary processes are inherently organic, in an expanded sense of the term. Put simply, cycles implies birth, life and death, seeds, growth, culmination and harvest.)

            Next, Pluto made an exact Opposition aspect (180 degrees) to Mars at 29 degrees of Sagittarius and Gemini respectively on January 2nd. I mention this rather brief aspect because they are featured in the Horoscope for the year cast for exactly 12:00 midnight on January 1st. This charts hints at some of the themes that will unfold throughout the year. This is a very powerful, energetic and explosive aspect. The assassination of Benazir Bhutto and the death of 108 others in Pakistan on December 28^th 2007, gaining the attention of the world is an example of this energy pattern. Mars Opposition Pluto will again occur on March 7th 2008, but this time Mars will be in Cancer and Pluto in Capricorn, and both at the first degree. This next aspect could prove to be at least as violent. Pluto is the other major player in focus this year as it moves from Sagittarius after a12 year cycle to Capricorn, where it will do its transformational work for the next 14 years - more on Pluto in Capricorn in a moment. This opposition is very hot and implies the need for calm nerves and sober actions backed by practical considerations. Those who can harness it well could advance their positions in the world markedly.

            That Mars was retrograde on January 1 basically indicates the need for a great deal of freedom. This could prove disruptive in personal relationships, especially where traditional attitudes are challenged by the opportunities afforded by the revolving door opening that 2008 generally suggests. This theme is also emphasized by the fact that Mars is forming a close inconjunct aspect (150 degrees) to Venus which is in the early degrees of Sagittarius. This aspect basically implies the need for adjustments and improvements. With the Nodes of the Moon newly in Aquarius/Leo and at 29 degrees, a critical degree by the way, both Mars and Venus are in close aspect to them as well. This bodes well for individual self expression, yet will prove challenging for people to keep an open mind and not impose their ethical standards on those destined to break some of the restrictive bonds of tradition.

            This revolutionary impulse will lead people to new life styles habits and expressions as well. At deeper levels, the push will be for people to honour their and other people’s individuality and consequent choices, yet also to seek to make contributions to humanitarian need and humanistic movements and organizations. Everyone is aware that we cannot continue along with business as usual at the expense of the environment, and this remains a core pivotal theme.

            Jupiter in Capricorn (Dec.18, 2007 – Jan. 4, 2009) is an important cycle as Capricorn is a Cardinal Sign, a modality of initiation and new beginnings. This transit cycle stands to bring ‘expansive contraction’. In other words, institutions like governments stand to come down hard with excessive emphasis on the letter of the law. This will stir controversy and gain a lot of press. Journalists will be challenged to convey the facts for the sake of the greater good verses biased censorship. Jupiter in Capricorn is classically considered a challenging position, as the sober attitude of Capricorn can douse the flames of enthusiasm that Jupiter can stir. The counter balance of these energies, however, could prove to be a stabilizing influence. Given the shifting focus towards environmental concerns, this could prove to be of benefit.

            Pluto in Capricorn (Jan 25, 2008 – Mar 23, 2023) is quite a long sign transit cycle, yet its influence will begin this year. As is often the case with new beginnings they can be painful, full of excitement, exaggerated, attention-getting and naïve all at the same time. We should expect some of this generally at social levels. Personally, people will feel the shift, especially the more sensitive or those with planets in the early degrees of Cardinal Signs especially –Aries, Cancer, Libra and Capricorn. Since Pluto will hover at the early degrees of Capricorn and even re-enter Sagittarius (Jun. 13 – Nov. 2, 2008) it could take a little longer for many to feel the full impact of this energy pattern. Pluto is the transformer and it clears, cleans and purifies whatever it touches by way of bringing the old, decayed and corrupt to the surface to be removed.

            The Moon’s Nodes in New signs occurs approximately every 18 months. When in Pisces, the North Node influenced a good deal of soul searching, pushing people to review what holds true and lasting value and importance. Fortunately, the tide for environmental awareness earned some key victories – the Canadian government’s pressure from the public to approve the Kyoto accord for reduced emissions by 2020 count as one of the more significant shifts. Now in Aquarius, the North Node will push us all to reassess our individual and secular separateness and self-importance. Giving more to larger social concerns in any positive way will win public approval and reprisal from resistance. Individuals and institutions will enter into an accelerated awakening of consciousness due to the placement of Uranus, which rules Aquarius, in Pisces (Mar.21, 2003 – May 27, 2010). It will push us all to review the dysfunctional and unsustainable beliefs and patterns of previous generations, regarding ecological and environmental concerns.

Numerology Focus for 2008

            2008 marks the first official Universal 1 year of the new millennium. The millennium began, of course, at midnight on January 1, 2000. While there are other calendars, this date count is the standard in use in the world. 2 is a feminine number and 1 is male, our very anatomy reveals this association. Number 2 is symbolic of the Moon and 1 is of the Sun. This numeric archetype will have an over riding influence on the next thousand years. This means that the feminine will gradually rise to meet and match the masculine. Admittedly, an age last an average of 2,150 years so it will take time yet we can also see the signs as women reclaim and regain their full status and dignity as equals. This trend will occur with gender equality as well as in other subtler respects. 2 is a number of nurturing, service, equality and balance in relationships, is fair, just and giving. This fundamental human behaviour is ever active yet the scale has been tilted towards the masculine for literally 5,000 years. Back then other calendar systems were used and the world was not virtually unanimous regarding dates, though now it is. Whatever we may think about the Gregorian calendar it is actively in use, at least now and probably well into the future. However, the vibration of 2 stands to give closer attention to 13 month lunar calendars as well.

            The number 1 is the maestro, the director of activities and events. 1 is a number about beginnings and new initiatives of all kinds. At best, 1 symbolizes leadership and can get a lot done. At worst, number 1 energy of itself can be aggressive, cruel and even violent due to its pointed, narrow focus and approach. In the negative, number 2 energy can prove indecisive and needy or dependant and victimized. Understanding these basic vibrations can help to manifest the positive attributes and recognize and overcome the negative. There is much more that could be said about this primordial, primary pair, 1 and 2. This basic mode of understanding is based on Numerology, a close sibling of Astrology, so to speak. Both systems offer qualitative perspectives as is the way of Metaphysics, rather than the merely quantitative perspectives of material science. The quantitative and the qualitative serve as polar opposites, ends of the same pole, the male and female, Yin and Yang of dynamic interplay and balance. Need this realization be discussed? So, 2008 marks a powerful turning point year because it is the first official 1 year of the millennium which is now symbolized by the number 2, thus it’s over riding theme.

            From here sub-cycles begin and that is the basic rationale for 2008 being the first 1 year of the 2nd millennium of the modern calendar. Yes, this calendar count may be challenged in time but for now it is prominent in the world. Some may argue that we are in the 21st century which equals 3 which is correct by this numerological mode of symbolism and logic. Yes, we are in a 2 millennium, a 3 century and a 1 year in 2008. Interestingly, the 1900’s was the 20th century counted this way and the number 20 is strongly associated with seeing the bigger picture. Given the progresses, particularly in transportation, communications astronomy and nuclear power as some of the more pivotal themes, we can safely say that we have learned to see a bigger picture and have come to realize how relatively small in size is our world and we ourselves as a species. Due to our rapid progress, our collective ego and pride is large, yet our vision and humility and sense of communion as a global community must grow to match and to counter balance the boundless aspirations of the past few centuries and especially the last one. Numerology and astrology can be used to study, weigh and reflect upon the past yet it is the now that is ever our concern as the key point between the past and the future and so we return to 2008 as the number on our calendars and hopefully make wise and practical use of the guidance it can offer to us on both individual and collective levels.

Conclusion

            Now our challenges include the need to counter this quantitative perspective and come to appreciate that despite our relative insignificance, in terms of size compared to our galaxy alone, we each and collectively are, in fact, qualitative beings based on the fact that we are souls incarnate. Astrology works and it is its own form of proof of the inherent intelligence of life. All aware and evolved souls know this to be true without question. Others it seems have forgotten or it is a part of the game for them not to perceive this evident truth that nature so miraculously and beautifully reveals. It seems that much of mainstream science does not acknowledge this as it serves the ambitions of the market place. Yet, advanced science especially that of quantum physics and mechanics does recognize realities that can be best described as magical and spiritual. This is where may who are very scientific in thought and approach yet who are also very religious and/or spiritual experience conflict. Of course many have and continue to offer poetic and talented illustrations of the two working together. The two, science that serves our practical needs and science that reminds us both of our spiritual nature and of the nature of our spirit, can and indeed must work together. From the one comes the two and from the 2 emerges the 3. This basic formula is the ground of geometry and math and reminds us that we must move forward away from the one as singular and to produce and multiply. In other words we are to create on the basis of right and left, male and female, logic and intuition, order and chaos, Yang and yin, conscious and unconscious. Learning to honour the nature and function of the conscious and the unconscious mind, the logical, rational ordered mind and the intuitive, psychic and chaotic mind is truly a marriage of heaven and earth. These are just a couple of examples of what the 2 vibration of this millennium offers and what our current reality demands. Yet, as qualitative beings we must each focus to become more conscious and empowered within our own right and destiny if we are to create the world we desire and which will sustain future generations. If we leave it to the so-called authorities such as governments then we will forfeit our quality as spiritual beings and succumb to the quantifying impact of governmental efforts to manage populations and economic, social and civic realities guided by an excessively materialistic perspective, an attitude we can no longer afford. Evolution for humans is about individuals working with other individuals on the basis of their common humanity. A truly spiritual individual is not a separate “I” amidst other separate “I” units; he or she is a being who functions in-tune with his or her personality nature and soul with balanced mind and heart, both apart from and apart of everyone and everything else in existence. Astrology as a spiritual cosmic science fully engaged with everyday life reveals and guides the realization of this collective destiny.

Helpful Hints

* Please Note the following points:

·        In the paragraphs below I mention how each Zodiac Sign will be influenced, but no person is a total expression of any Sign of the Zodiac. Of course, our Sun Sign does have a significant weight of influence on our orientations, relationships, inclinations and expressions, as you are likely to notice as you read you’re Horoscopes. It is the Sun we are speaking about, after all! You know that star that is the source of life on this planet existing 4.22 light years away from any other star. I remind you of this because humanity has learned to be blaze about the Sun and even look upon it as an enemy sometimes. Due to the complexity of Astrology in some cases people are more attuned to other Sun signs altogether and this is due to other factors such as planetary conjunctions and actual house placements etcetera. In other words, the insights offered in a Horoscope can be useful and offer insights and guidance, yet these do not replace an actual Natal Chart interpretation with an experienced professional Astrologer. If you think the Horoscopes are accurate, you will be pleasantly surprised at how accurate an actual quality reading can be.

·        Thus, there are 1 or 2 other signs of the Zodiac which you will find apply as secondary influences. To know for certain which they are for you, send me your correct birth date, place and time by email. I will reply to you and include your Birth Chart, free of charge.

·        Western or Tropical Astrology is Earth centered and based on the actual light of the Sun on our planet with the 0 degrees Aries on March 21^st, the Spring Equinox or the moment when the hours of day and night are exactly equal. Usually, signs and constellations are interpreted as one in the same, yet they are not. This error of interpretation is what pits those who favour the Sidereal Zodiac against those who observe the Tropical Zodiac. Can there be two Zodiacs? Yes! You can read more about this in Musings of an Astrologer in my winter 2008 Newsletter.

·        Persons born on the cusp of two signs may be confused about their actual sign. Again, send me your birth date, time and place and I will tell you what your actual Sun Sign is. From this you may also learn just how accurate Astrology is. Also, I have written an article on this and it can be found in the either in Horoscopes on the menu bar of my site where you can find About Horoscopes and Horoscope Related Articles.

Horoscopes for the 12 Signs of the Zodiac

Aries (Mar 21 – Apr 19)

            You will experience the start of a whole new level of power in 2008. This may bring with it added responsibilities and in some cases could prove disruptive. This process will begin with more professional and/or public attention backed by an ambitious determination. A challenge from the inside to make some very clear, conscious changes is indicated. The key is to be willing and in tune with the changing times. Pluto entering Capricorn will bring endings and new beginnings on professional fronts and to your overall scope of power. Fortunately, Jupiter is in there and while you will have to work diligently and be open to apprenticeship and study of some kind, there are some auspicious aspects to support your cause. If you accept and work with the change you could, in fact, break through to a whole new level of power and leadership.

            Refining your skills through practice, study and apprenticeship is very likely. You could become more sober and disciplined, yet also more cynical or express a dryer wit and humour than you did previously. Others in your life will push you to be more accountable somehow. If you heed this with positive response, your career should steadily improve and you will gain more confidence, reliability and popularity.

            There are two major keys to your success from the standpoint of the Horoscopes. The first is to become more aware of what is going on at subconscious levels. Awaken to your conditioned patterns of perception, belief and self-concept and do the inner work to clear conscious/subconscious conflicts. Even being aware this sort of thing exists could help. When the conscious and subconscious are in disagreement the result is self sabotage. This is a very common occurrence yet modern psychology is now aware of it and more and more service to awaken and change this situation to create more inner and outer agreement are readily available. Invest in them!  The other important key is to dedicate more of your time, energy and focus to special interest groups, clubs or to more humanitarian concerns, needs and interests. Those who take matters into their own hands and do their homework and begin early in the year will fair best. You could produce some of your best work to date starting in 2008 or at least launch into it. Balancing inner awareness growth with outer reality checks will prove the most rewarding. Alignment with your inner authority and possibly by way of running your own business, on one hand, and increased association, responsibility and both social/cultural and professional involvements with others, on the other hand, will bring a steady, if arduous climb to power and recognition. If, however, your approach is self-serving things could backfire in a big way so be diligent and conscientious.

Taurus (Apr 19 – May 21)

            Change is a fundamental law, the one you may like least. Since everything in the manifest universe exists by virtue of movement, change is simply a natural process. Take a philosophical approach as necessary and aim to see the bigger picture this year. This includes society and the world in general and your participation in it is particular. Our traditions and habitual perceptions and approaches are being shaken-up. This process will become even more noticeable this year and should continue for another decade and a half or so! In certain respects, there is no rush and proceeding more slowly while everything in the world speeds-up could prove to be a healthy contribution to balance, as long as you do not resist the flow of change altogether. Travel opportunities may arise especially linked to practical pursuits like business ventures and education. If you do go purely for pleasure, plan to hike or trek and allow it to be something of a pilgrimage or a vision quest.

            You may still not feel like you have found your place in the world. Rather than stress about this, consider that you are meant to simply be with others – one with and for the people. Aim for long-term skills development, yet do whatever you can or want for the sake of the material game in the meantime. Allow yourself to take a maverick approach. This could mean that you will try something completely new or that you will introduce new possibilities and products or services to others. Move with the times!

            At deeper levels, you could become more philosophical, spiritual, cultural and aware of larger issues this year. You may want to investigate the foundation of facts, rational and proof supporting popular claims and/or apparent trends. You will recognize that many traditional beliefs, attitudes and approaches are outdated. This will push you to creatively begin to build a more solid foundation of knowledge and factual truth to support a more sustainable yet flexible foundation, in harmony with our rapidly changing world. You may also see more clearly that many are either quite unaware or deluded by false beliefs. On the other hand, you may also be challenged to keep an open mind about what is true and right. “The lord works in mysterious ways.” Yet, everything works with the purpose of evolution and this implies a more complicated stage than one that yields to strict logic, for example. You will be challenged to think deeply and with clear vision rather than reactively defend the status quo to avert needed change. You may want to begin to reconcile the current rift between science and mysticism and of the difference between right and left brain thinking for the sake of a more balanced philosophy to live by.

Gemini (May 21 – Jun 20)

            In 2008, one of your major lessons will be to learn to embrace deep change and transformation. Endings and deaths on one hand and mergers and new associations on the other will become increasingly apparent. This does not necessarily mean a family member will die, it may happen; this simply implies a change of status quo somehow. If someone told you that you were soon to face certain key fears, would you want to know? Some would, others would not. To live life centered and ready for anything is ever wise and respectful. Joining forces with others somehow could prove to be very mutually beneficial.

            In certain respects you could become more famous or infamous. Your home life could require more discipline and effort to organize and manage. You may have to face certain fears, so do some inner work to feel secure - deeply breathe in the reality that life is spirit and you are an eternal soul, as is everyone else. Yet, change is the eternal law. Hold on tightly and let go lightly as the flow commands. On the other hand, new coalitions begin - powerful mergers and spiritual deepening. Inheritance is possible, and who knows you could win the jackpot, but you have to play to win. However, don’t push your luck with the law or court battles without clear confidence.

            Your love life will probably undergo changes and could well demand more presence and respectful involvement from you. There are some good indications though and new relationships, while deeper and more intense than you may be used to, could prove to have a staying power that nurtures deepened confidence.

            A deepening of your commitment to yourself as an individual is the other side of this story. This could come with the paradox that your unique style is to bring others closer together. Communal gatherings will require your leadership and appreciation that there is power in numbers. To be fully present, counted and effective yet transparent, fluid and simple is a task suited to your nature. Ask yourself how you can you bring people together yet respectably draw out their individuality more fully, at the same time. Humanity is on a quest to discover a new spirit of unity and others will benefit by your clear and conscious intent in this regard. Do you feel the call? Unexpected inheritances and rewards are likely, yet you may have to see through dust, fog and possibly some tears to enjoy them. Take these in stride as features of a full life. Intend to take control of your imagination and make it work for you, amidst change.

Cancer (Jun 21 – Jul 22)

            New opportunities will present themselves in 2008. These may come as a mixed blessing. They imply the need for education and training of some kind. This may take you abroad or at least away from home and familiar places and faces for a while. If that door knocks, you will probably open it. This could produce strain and stress on relationships and only those anchored in true love stand to survive. New involvements will include a new measure of scope of intensity, however. If you thought things were challenging before, they may prove to have been a warm-up. On the other hand, your challenge may simply be to adjust to your new status. Often it is our habitual, comfortable and familiar patterns that cause us grief when it is time to adopt new ways.

                        These changes on relationship fronts may be personal or professional, and probably both. The good news is that these represent new opportunities and they stand to gain your attention and focus. Of course every beginning stems from something else changing. Is it your habitual perspectives or approaches or attitudes? Is it your location in the world or position in your company, or is it time to start your own company? Perhaps certain relationships no longer fulfill you, or you would like to enter into a new relationship. Is there enough love to make room for improvement or has your heart moved on?

            You are in search of your power yet may not be clear yet as to what it actually is or how to best express it. Visits to foreign places and/or encounters with foreigners or strange concepts, cultures and philosophies are also likely in 2008. Find your center within, aim to travel light and say yes to adventure in both body and mind. Powerful experiences and expressions could be the result of your willingness and ability to forge more powerful alliances. Learning to improve how to be in relationship with existing partners may prove to be the most important and powerful decision of all. The real work should probably begin with you; assessing your heart and integrity and willingness to negotiate cooperatively and be here now - all core life lessons linked to making important decisions. Perhaps the more important one of all is allowing the flow of life’s currents and yielding to the changes that you feel it is time to honour.

Leo (Jul 23 – Aug 23)

            How strong is your faith? You may have to exercise it a lot this year. This could include taking leaps of faith and calculated risks to increase your skill level and earning potential in 2008. You will learn to pay closer attention to the details in your work and in your overall lifestyle as well. This could mean creating a more consistent and reliable health focus. On professional fronts you may have to work harder for success. The good news is that you will probably feel inspired to do so. Refining existing skills and talents is very probable and weighs in more than pursuing new directions – save that for later on in following years. Slow, cautious, diligent, prudent effort is in the stars for this year. You may enjoy the perks of travel, especially linked to your profession. Yet, avoid wanderlust and frivolous activity this year. Breathe deep, set your intentions and focus every day upon health, self-development and skill improvements.

            Your health may also become an important focus for you in 2008. Would you say that you have some health needs or goals? It is important that you make it a priority and invest whatever money and effort creating a more healthy constitution may require. Follow through with appointments and good diet and regular exercise as you can. Aim for a long term program that you can sustain, one that you actually like and will not burn out on. There are a lot of things we can do to exercise, but sometimes we have to exercise to even do those things. Whatever it takes, is a good attitude. Also, remember that whole health includes your physical, mental, emotional and etheric bodies. The etheric, by the way, is strengthened by plenty of sun light and maintaining steady focuses on projects and daily rhythms. Make yourself as healthy and beautiful as you can and make your whole health your new hobby.

            2008 could also prove to be the beginnings of creating a more solid foundation in your life somehow. Practicality is implied. Perhaps it is an education or choosing to run a business that will lay the ground for you. In any case, intend to take a slow but sure approach. Refine what you already have as well as pursue new ambitions. Marriage is a distinct possibility but you are wise to take a very good and clear look before you leap. Seeing people as they are, free of the spell of romance or rose coloured glasses which, on the surface, can spell out to be assumptions and expectations, is important now. Meditate upon this statement because it is the way of the ego to defend, project and blame in order to perpetuate habitual patterns.  Further, a willingness to see your own blind spots and create an equal, conscious relationship with someone special is more than a nice idea; it may be a veritable need. If you feel disillusioned with certain people, or approaches, or organizations etcetera, open yourself to alternatives. Further, engage yourself more fully with those people and situations that claim your attention rather than take a passive approach. This way you can exercise a healthy measure of critical analysis so that you can decipher what holds true for you versus what appears to be, or presents itself, as authentic or authoritative, yet is actually akin to a wizard hiding behind a curtain. Like the lion in the Wizard of Oz recognize that all the courage you need is within and builds as you face your fears. After all, true security and peace of mind is to be found within.

Virgo (Aug 23 – Sep 22)

            You are entering into what could prove to be a very powerful and creative cycle starting in 2008. It will require focus and discipline and consistent effort. The other good news is that it could lead to a variety of expressions in their own right or lead to the discovery of new talents or opportunities. Balancing playful interest with a pragmatic approach will do the trick. Your popularity is ever changing yet probably rising. Others will recognize your earthy spiritual nature more. Be careful that this does not become a dry wit justifying a cynical or narrow attitude and approach. You could become even more committed to refining your skills and taking them to a whole new level. It is a practical destiny and as an earth sign you will absolutely love that, as long as you receive the recognition and recompense you feel you have earned.

            You will also have to pay extra attention to your overall state of health. Make it a priority and invest wisely; because, on the other hand, you could be heading for one long series of healing dramas. This trend began a few years ago and will continue for a few more yet. Create a healthy, regular rhythm by way of steady focus. This includes diet, exercise, time for fun and play, and an open mind. You do have the free will to choose how you meet your destiny, meet it well! The status quo should prove stable on personal relationship fronts, yet will also require extra energy and attention to maintain health. Record your list of dreams, plans and goals for as many years into the future as you can or feel inspired, and then work backwards with what you must do until you return to the present, then get going!

            In 2008, circumstances will push you to produce some fancy foot work and express some creative handy work as well. Certain interests or areas of opportunity could dry-up and compel you to take new approaches and investigate new opportunities, locations and markets. This is a good time to make some prudent investments with a diverse approach. While spreading your energies may not produce as big a return in the early stages, it should produce a steady flow. It may take a couple of years of diligent effort and focus before the returns are really noticeable. On the other hand, you are coming into a time of expanding your range of skills and earning potential.

Libra (Sep 23 – Oct 22)

            Confidence amidst change is a strong theme in 2008. In certain respects the old ways don’t work, maybe not at all. A proactive yet flexible approach is required. Perhaps the work you do no longer does it for you. Perhaps your children are now at school and you are considering re-entering the work force. Education, perhaps especially by correspondence would suit your mood. Your living situation may enter into a prolonged state of flux. Whatever you do, building confidence within, despite changes without, may be your golden key to victory this year. It seems you have some work to do, however.

            Since you may not feel as energetic as you used to these days, you may be wise to be open to instruction from others to streamline your skills development. This cycle may only last a couple of years but it is upon you now. Gaining the confidence to share knowledge or to take an active lead whether at home or at your workplace is also possible. Work on yourself; be aware of your strengths and limitations as well as your balances and imbalances. Start early in the year to be flexible yet focused.

            Wisdom knows that change is the law and yields to the flow; in fact the wise prepare and plan for it. Hopefully, that is what you are doing. Your ability to demonstrate centeredness, flexibility and non-attachment stands to be tested. Be open to change in your regular routine and habitual patterns. Expect and plan for movement and flux. If it proves to be a false alarm you will be more lucid, agile and flexible anyway. March could well prove to be a major month in this regard so clear the clutter now to be prepared.

Scorpio (Oct 23 – Nov 22)

            Exercising leadership in a variety of ways and areas of your life is in the spotlight in 2008. Variety will become your spice of choice. The biggest issue could be the consequences of too much of the spice. Delegating your energies and focus with discipline and purpose could lead to many new powerful expressions, connections and associations. In any case, you will learn to see the world and yourself in it in new ways. Be open to this, let life coerce you into a more open mind. This will include your ability to exercise a more sober and realistic state of mind. Connecting within to awaken more fully both to who you are and are not is part of the plot. Challenges to who you think you are and how you think and perceive reality is up for change.

            Rewards and retributions are coming in now, subject to your choices and actions over the past few years. Perhaps the time has come to get to know yourself better and to give more attention to your creative, imaginative and inventive side. Aims for fame and recognition are possible, yet you are wise to truly be your own best friend, whatever others may think or want of you. This implies respecting your choices and setting intentions to raise your overall vibration. The search for a muse, someone or something to inspire your imagination, could prove to be a compelling determination. Open your mind and eyes and see the world afresh!

            Entertaining a wide array of experiences and disciplines is likely. Creative and flexible thinking about who you are and what your role is will prove to be a major focus. Intend to push through and beyond. Open minded and flexible, yet independent and committed is the paradox you are to reconcile this year. Whatever is happening, make efforts to embrace the reality that is demanding your time, focus and attention. You will earn some stripes this year – rarely an easy feat. Seek and be open to inspiration where you can, perhaps by embracing nature. See the bigger picture and be at peace in the crazy pace. 

Sagittarius (Nov 22 – Dec 21)

            Are you ready to get really focused? Hopefully you are because circumstances will push you to concentrate. The time has come to exercise some discipline to create a more reliable structure in your life. For many the issue is that their life is too structured yet for you it may be the other way around. Perhaps you simply want a new and better and more reliable foundation. This could well imply a whole new approach. This sort of desire can prove to be a major undertaking over a long period of time, yet you may be in the mood for just that. You probably have some real work to do right now to succeed. The next few years will prove to be very pivotal for you. Will you aim for a higher road with a more reliable structure, or will you take the lower one? The lower means that you will resist making the efforts to create this new foundation. Take full responsibility for every experience in your life and overcome the demon of blame. Watch closely to determine if it is distorting your perception. The mind is tricky and blame may be active yet you may be in denial of it.

            Investment into knowledge and skill rather than property and other weighty holdings is likely to be your best bet. You can also learn to invest. If you do, remember the environment and support humanistic purpose beyond sheer profit for the greatest returns. A core aspect of your destiny includes learning to render a genuine form of service. As a sign of intelligence, this should probably include specialized knowledge. This will bring out some hidden leadership qualities. This leadership implies humble, genuine service on one hand and your hidden resources and multi-talented abilities, on the other. This includes laying full claim of responsibility to whatever is happening or has happened in your life.

            At deeper levels, the time has come to bring your wisdom and visions of justice and equality for all to hear, know and share. This includes realizing that true law is both spiritual and natural. Societal laws can only be as virtuous as the societies that make them and clearly we have work to do in this area. This could provide an apt example of the signs in the heavens for you to deepen your studies. Invest into knowledge, especially the sort that will allow you to serve, teach and heal more effectively.

Capricorn (Dec 21 – Jan 19)

            Power and plenty of it is the key word for you in 2008. The tricky part is that this power will require full diplomatic effort. With Jupiter and Pluto both in your sign this year, you are on the threshold of massive change and transformation. This could prove to be very positive indeed and expansive. However, you will have to exercise more responsibility. This could also prove overwhelming for others especially and perhaps you as well. As the sign that represents the status quo, you can perhaps see how something has to give in the public attitude towards creating a sustainable future. The key word is attitude.

            A new quality of leadership is being born in you, for better or worse. If you yield to ‘might’ as the expression of right, things could get intense. Your greatest feat would be to promote a clearly fair, just, and accountable cause. Be careful of over emphasizing the letter of the law, yet use your mind in constructive ways. Your greatest challenge is to keep a very open mind with a will and determination to negotiate for win/win deals. If you are not pursing some form of higher education, then consider it, seriously. A new course of study and interest or focus and ambition like a great ‘participaction campaign’ would harness all the power pouring in for productive re-direction.

            Expanding your horizons and overall scope of influence is the right thing to do now. This will require new knowledge and skill. Creating networks and increasing your capacity to communicate effectively and with the right people is a big part of the lesson. Your leadership potential is increasing and this will require well-timed initiatives. Contraction for the sake of expansion could literally imply the signing of contracts and other such documents. Generally, the timing to do so is right so be open to such leads and openings. By March, key players will provoke decisiveness and probably cause you to take new approaches. If your vision is to contribute to the building of community, create new networks and expand your horizons then you are right on track.

Aquarius (Jan 20 – Feb 19)

            A very important and powerful spiritual journey is beginning for you this year. As the sign of humanity, you may notice there is need for that. The good news is that learning to trust the flow and guidance of the spirit is where it’s at. Still, you will have to make extra efforts to dig deep into your well of optimism and faith in your choices and direction. This could prove to be your greatest challenge of the year. In certain respects you are already in the cocoon phase of a metamorphic process. Something has already begun and you can never, and will never be quite the same again. In fact, you stand to change quite considerably and with awareness and trust in the flow it will be for the better. A new and much more beautiful you await, yet you will have to work for it. The work will require that you surrender to the extensive changes that must occur and you commit to do whatever it takes, reinforced by intelligence, inventiveness and cooperation and guided by vision and hope.

            The time has come for humanity to recognize itself as one whole species and it may well be your spiritual mission to contribute to this process. This is a call to honour your allegiance to your true soul’s path rather than yield to popular social attitudes perhaps especially about your choice of vocation. “Thy will be done…” means deciphering what is your true destiny beyond name, fame, money, power, glamour, convenience etcetera. If any or all of these are part of your destiny then great but aiming for them based on ego gratification is one of the reasons why our society is so imbalanced. The time has come to awaken from the American dream which has become something of a nightmare. This is not a criticism of people rather it is one of shallow social trends that lack true integrity and vision.

            This major transformational process is accelerating and will continue throughout the year. Your roles and the ways you used to express your personal power will no longer suffice. The new momentum may take until March to really get going and it might be best to pace yourself until then because you will want to get a lot done this year and a sure, steady pace will yield more productivity. Learning to let go of old attitudes and habits and accessing your inner authority for guidance is your spiritual challenge. You are in a cycle that could be described as a metamorphosis and it will continue for 2-3 years, at least! It will prove to change your perceptions, priorities, attitude and approach measurably. Choosing to flow and cooperate with this momentum will bring peace, liberation and success. Yielding to the tried and true of habitual perspectives and approaches will prove uninspiring and stressful and probably create a downward spiral of some kind. Tune-in, accept the changes and work with them. Endings especially of career positions could prove to be a very good sign. Aim for authentic self-expression.

Pisces (Feb 19 – Mar 20)

            A revolutionary momentum is already stirring and will continue throughout 2008. You are ready to break through limiting attitudes and will act deliberately upon your dreams and goals. The time has come to increase your power, popularity and influence. Reach for higher ideals and look to what could happen yet make sure you do not start imposing ‘shoulds’ on yourself and others that are out of tune with needed simple practical measures. This act of not minding your business could prove costly. Increasing your scope of contacts is part of the process. The more committed you are the better. This includes gaining new knowledge and contacting people who possess ideas, information and especially skills that you do not have. This, in turn, implies effective delegation and/or asking the right questions. In order to do so you will have to meditate upon your goals, visions and actual direction. It is quite likely that your career will take off in unprecedented ways; are you ready for that? Being mentally and emotionally ready for change helps significantly and allows you to consciously cooperate with the process by making appropriate intentions. Alternatively, it could simply prove to be the beginning of an expansion of your vision, scope and awareness of larger realities.

            2008 also is a year that you will embark upon yet another soul searching journey. Leave it to the Gods to give you this dual task – material and spiritual advancement - at this powerful turning point. How will you strike this balance? A golden key is to remember and acknowledge that you are a soul, connected to a divine source and willing to be guided by your heart-felt intuition in order to identify a deeper sense of purpose for your life. At deeper levels, healing the connection you have within may be needed. Ask yourself sincerely how you can achieve this and be open to the synchronicities of guidance and answers that will occur if you are sincere, alert and faithful. Simply learning to listen and feel within for soul guidance may be enough.  

            So, increasing your scope of influence such as in business is a practical way to make positive contributions. Using well-earned popularity is both a privilege and a responsibility. Not all celebrities appreciate the importance of this, yet you can learn to. The biggest danger is that you will become fearful and dogmatic and righteous, imposing more ‘truth’ than wisdom can bear. True leaders lead by vision and by example, by what they do and not just by what they say. On the other hand, words can deceive yet they can also heal. Take the lead towards cooperative actions. Overall, aim to succeed both materially and spiritually, the marriage between heaven and earth.