Horoscope for the week of Aug 16, 2008

As the Olympics continue to gain the attention of the world all eyes are cast upon medal winning performances of elite athletes. Of course, Gold is the medal of choice. Not surprisingly, Gold is symbolically associated with the Sun in Astrology. In turn, silver is linked to the Moon and Bronze is a combination of Copper and Tin which are associated with the planets Venus and Jupiter respectively. The Sun and Moon are the luminaries in Astrology and are not actually planets and are seen as more powerful and important than planets and this bears itself out in chart interpretation. In fact, the phase of the Moon, above and beyond the signs the Sun and Moon occupy is the basis of one’s character and destiny. The remaining planets do play significant roles and can factor very strongly as well yet remain less significant. Venus and Jupiter are considered in this order to be the lesser and the greater ‘benefics’. As Astrology is much older than the Olympics, it is easy to see how the Olympic medals have a root in Astrology. Not surprisingly, ancient Greece, where the Olympic Games were born is also the birth place for Astrology in the Western world where it was held in the highest esteem. It is also common knowledge that ancient Greece is the birth place of logical thinking and scientific rationale. So, there is an intrinsic link between the symbolism of Astrology and the Olympic Games. To win gold is to stand strong and proud in the glory of the Sun. To win silver is akin to the magic of the Full Moon. To win bronze is to be honoured as worthy of significant admiration and brings its own measures of prestige and opportunity.

Aries (Mar 21 – Apr 20)

The time has come to make some important and practical decisions. This includes changes in the quality of your relationships.

 The focus continues to be upon the quality of your lifestyle and your overall state of health. Expect this trend to continue for the next few weeks. At deeper levels, you are being called to rise above your own personal interests and passions and give to a bigger and/or greater cause.

Taurus (Apr 20 – May 21)

Combining efficiency with beauty continues. Both of these terms are open to your interpretation. However, training and practice for the sake of refinement of your skills and talents is implied. Sometimes to best find our place we must be willing to assert our position or carve a niche. Finding where you fit best and how involves an experiential and experimental approach. Be open to alternatives and let your star rise.

Gemini (May 21 – Jun 21)

The past is knocking and you must answer. Associate pleasure to whatever new tasks and endeavours you feel called to do. Your focus will be more practical and creative starting this week. If you have any ‘small’ renovation jobs to do, now is the time. You will soon be distracted by other affairs and responsibilities so get your play time in now! This may well include adventure or joint ventures of some kind.

Cancer (Jun 22 – Jul 22)

Who are you and what do you feel you truly want and need. The best way to answer this question is to be honest with your self. Consider that everyone is responsible for their own feelings and emotion and we each must be true to our own. Yes, this does produce drama Opportunity is knocking but will require discipline, effort and commitment. The determination to commit will become apparent very soon. The biggest issue to overcome is to know your direction. If so, clear the clutter both in your environment and in your mind. Too many thoughts will block progress. Trust your feelings!

Leo (Jul 23 – Aug 23)

Many opportunities are coming your way now. This is a good time to carefully review your options. Your willingness to entertain long term investments for education and training is ideal. Balance alternative approaches with tried and true methods approved by the mainstream. Going too far out on a limb will produce stress. The key is to associate pleasure to investments of time, energy and money about which you feel passionate. Often a lot of time is wasted in activities that offer little in return aside form light entertainment and distracting escapism. Live with passion!

Virgo (Aug 24 – Sep 22)

Creating a dream vision worthy of your time and energy continues. Balance your goals with practical considerations. Enjoy the process in the here and now by playing with different options without making definite commitments. While it is good to be here now, it can include looking down the road to prepare for tomorrow. Be open to alternatives and create contingency plans. All or nothing may be good in a pinch but is not a secure path. Get serious about your potential and a variety of inspiring possibilities.

Libra (Sep 23 – Oct 22)

Creating a more beautiful life with love and respect for all your relationships continues. You also have the right to request the same in return. Negotiation towards a win/win deal is a higher path than compromise which implies a win/lose deal and which often results in lose/lose. Shake things up as you can and must to create a new level of equal and fair. Sometimes it is we who must get out of our own way. Perhaps it is an attitude, belief or bad habit or two that is in the way of greater harmony. Step aside and look within.

Scorpio (Oct 23 – Nov 21)

Taking an independent lead to shake and awaken yourself and others to your value continues this week. Sometimes we have to speak louder, drive harder or simply step forth. Review your assets, experiences, gifts and qualities and make them known to those with the power to make a difference. The time to do so is now and by next week the opportunity and timing may not be as good. Get clear on your worth and clarify what you feel you need to advance to the next level.

Sagittarius (Nov 22 – Dec 21)

Bringing your creative initiatives down to earth for collective enjoyment and benefit is in the spotlight these days. This includes a willingness to learn and to teach. Looking to the future to secure a more reliable financial base is part of the plot. Be willing to take calculated risks. This implies applying for loans or grants or other such leverages. Your leadership stands to be increasing and with it so is a deeper sense of responsibility. Ask: how can I be of genuine service? Then be open to honest answers and strategies that come from both within and without.

Capricorn (Dec 22 – Jan 19)

Being open to new angles and perspectives continues as a central theme. This includes seeing the bigger picture. Gaining exposure to new knowledge and skills development is a good idea. Overcome avoidance by getting basic facts that you can easily manage and then move forward from there. Even the longest journey begins with the first step. Once it is taken a momentum begins and this can activate even more momentum. Affirm your desires and acknowledge your responsibility to make the first move.

Aquarius (Jan 20 – Feb 19)

Merging your energies, interests and passions with those of others continues. Destiny is filled with potential and possibility of choice. This may seem like a contradiction, but it is actually a paradox which means that life is both about predetermination ‘and’ free will. The secret is to be open to change. Staying in the tried and true for the sake of security often leads to living in a rut. Some call it life and others deem it reality but both are limitations. Be open to try new things and explore new horizons.

Pisces (Feb 20 – Mar 20)

Looking to the future to make better lifestyle choices for the sake of security and happiness continues. Pressures coming from others continue to be strong. But they are also making you decisive and may also be awakening you to new possibilities. This is a call to get creative and to be willing to make some investments towards securing the future. Liking what you do is very important. Holding on to positions that are not enjoyable or rewarding is a form of survival. Aim to live and thrive rather than simply survive.