Rebooting – Relationships, Revelations And Revolutions

I don’t want to achieve immortality through my work… I want to achieve it through not dying. Woody Allen

I feel my immortality over sweep all pains, all tears, all time, all fears, —and peal, like the eternal thunders of the deep, into my ears, this truth; thou livest forever! Byron

Hope is the expectation that something outside of ourselves, something or someone external, is going to come to our rescue and we will live happily ever after. Dr. Robert Anthony

Higher than the question of our duration is the question of our deserving. Immortality will come to such as are fit for it, and he would be a great soul in future must be a great soul now. Ralph Waldo Emerson

I argue thee that love is life and life hath immortality. Emily Dickinson

If a man carefully examines his thoughts he will be surprised to find how much he lives in the future. His well being is always ahead. Such a creature is probably immortal. Ralph Waldo Emerson

The beautiful drawing of ‘Avalon’ to the left by Isabella Sanburg.

August’s total solar eclipse falls on August 21 in the US, and, in Australia, on August 22. This is a big eclipse, and, the Symbols of it are rather extraordinary. Much has been said about this eclipse, as it is not only a total eclipse, but, it’s path falls right across the contiguous United States. Click here for eclipse maps from NASA. 

This eclipse (which, of course, is a new moon) is a very powerful one, and, it’s one that is causing a level of consternation and fear. It’s understandable, particularly with the current political and social climate, that people are worried: Everything is so uncertain now. It feels like an incredible turning point, and obviously, we hope that it’s for the better, although, also, obviously, we have a ways to go for things to turn out ok…

Mars has a very strong placement in this eclipse, so, we are facing some very real challenges. In the lineup at this eclipse we have Mars on Leo 21, the Moon’s north node on Leo 25 and the Sun and the Moon (the eclipse) on Leo 29. This means that Mars is going to transit over both the Moon’s node, and the eclipse point in the days following the eclipse. A lot of anger, dismay, upset and determination is likely to follow this eclipse for some time. Cool heads need to prevail, although that is a tall order at the moment. So, we are being asked to find some equilibrium in amongst what’s going on: We have to find a still point of trust in amongst it all.

Also, in the days following this eclipse, Venus will be squaring Uranus, and, we are likely to be making all kinds of decisions about our values, relationships, money issues, directions in the future, etc. A Venus/Uranus square can feel like a big pair of scissors being wielded to cut off those things that are no longer working in our life. This can also extend to our feelings, thoughts and emotions. We can be challenged to change our responses, especially if we’re finding that they don’t align with our true values. Venus, in Cancer, can bring up issues to do with home, family, emotions, homeland, belonging, our definition of our ‘territory’, etc. Furthermore, Venus is involved in three major aspects at the time of this eclipse. In the days leading up to the eclipse, Venus is opposing Pluto, squaring Jupiter, and then, a few days after the eclipse, squaring Uranus. This can lead to a lot of realigning with others, with ourselves, with our objectives. Some friendships, relationships and alliances could find themselves under a lot of strain and some will be jettisoned as we find ourselves growing and evolving, sometimes in ways that can be rather too quick for us to really keep up. In just over 24 hours after the eclipse, Venus moves onto Cancer 27: A FURIOUS STORM IN A CANYON FILLED WITH VALUABLE HOMES, and, we are likely to see some big events take place that require cool heads and cool responses. This is going to be a very interesting couple of weeks.

There’s a lot that could be said here about politics, the world, and, Donald Trump, and, recent events… especially as Trump’s chart is incredibly lit up by this eclipse. I don’t want to talk about him here, but, as a lot of other people have noted, this is an enormous time for him and the US and the world.

And, with Mars and Jupiter sextiling each other, and, Mars and Saturn in a trine aspect, there’s the strong possibility of feeling the need to get organised, get our ‘ducks in a row’, to make decisions in order to live a more authentic life. Even in amongst the challenges, fear and confusion of this time, if we concentrate on what is real, on what we really want, on what we value in our lives, we can instigate some real changes with Mars and Saturn trining. The trick is the right use of our energies, which can be an interesting challenge, but, a very rewarding one if we strive for that outcome. And, a week or so after the eclipse, Mars trines Uranus, which can add to the feeling of change and renewal and bringing in new realizations and realities.

Part of the muddle at the moment is Mercury, along with all the outer planets, being retrograde. This is made even stronger by Mercury going retrograde opposite Neptune, which can cause things to feel unclear, uncertain and downright confusing. Messages can get lost in translation and we can feel rather stymied and ‘held up’. The trick is to see through the fog of the confusing and sometimes bewildering messages or ‘news’ that we receive, read and see every day.

The core issue of this eclipse can be seen from the Sabian Symbol for it: Leo 29: A MERMAID HAS CLIMBED TO THE ROCKY SHORE OF A BLEAK COAST, SHE AWAITS THE PRINCE WHO WILL BRING HER IMMORTALITY. This can be about waiting for the ‘right relationship’ to turn up, and, this might be something that you are truly seeking – that true life mate, and, for some people, there will be the promise of someone special turning up.

However, I see this Symbol as bringing us the possibility of so much more. The true ‘inner marriage’ is more the point of this Symbol – the alchemical marriage with a higher force may be just what we need in order to strengthen our resolve to live a more authentic, fulfilled and worthwhile life. I’ve been listening to a lot of Neville Goddard’s lectures on Youtube, and, I’m seeing the need to relax into finding that true sense of ‘immortality’ within one’s own soul. Goddard’s work is extraordinary and I highly recommend him – his words have shown how we can realize and access the Christ Consciousness within us all. It’s a tall order to fulfill, but, extremely rewarding. Goddard speaks of how our ‘own wonderful human imagination’ creates everything. I sense that this eclipse can bring about, for many, a true revolution in consciousness.

BUT, the major aspect of this eclipse is the fabulous trine between the eclipse and Uranus. This gives us a huge opportunity to find our true authentic path, to tune into and release any negative energies around us, to feel a true sense of liberation and release. It could be that asking the question “what do I really want?” that we can bring much more of what we really want into our lives.

There’s more that can be said about all of this, but, it is covered in the list of Sabian Symbols for the planets below.

A solar eclipse is a much stronger than usual new Moon, and the new Moon each month marks a time of new beginnings and realisations. It’s like a birth after a time of gestation or being ‘in the womb’. Here, the light begins to return and we can see new beginnings and possibilities. A new Moon means that the Sun and the Moon are both together – bringing a synergy of their energies together. The new Moon is a perfect time to set your intentions for the future. This period is wonderful for planting seeds of whatever kind. What do you want to manifest in your future? Whether you write it down, sing about it or just hold the thought forms in your mind, doing this at the new Moon can realise some fabulous results around the things that you want to draw into your life.

The solar eclipse is on Leo 29: A MERMAID HAS CLIMBED TO THE ROCKY SHORE OF A BLEAK COAST, SHE AWAITS THE PRINCE WHO WILL BRING HER IMMORTALITY – the following is my interpretation from my book The Sabian Oracle: 360 Degrees Of Wisdom –

At this point in time particularly, many of us feel like we’re on the ‘Rocky Shore Of A Bleak Coast’, wondering when things will get better. When will things get back on a good track and improve? I sense an incredible sense of loneliness and longing in this Symbol, however, it is an incredibly powerful one of finding our ‘immortality’ within. This Symbol can speak of an alchemical marriage: We can find that part of us that is so perfectly complete, regardless of our more ‘outer relationships’, this can be one of the ‘inner marriage’. Interestingly, this is the Moon’s node of Princess Diana.

Commentary: The ‘Mermaid Has Climbed to the Rocky Shore of a Bleak Coast’, shows a woman who has previously felt like she (and this, of course, can relate to a male) merely existed in the waters of life and is now ready to emerge into a more conscious existence as an individual in her own right. She is willing to ‘Climb the Rocky Shore’ no matter how ‘Bleak’ the ‘Coast’ may be. She may have to leave her home and past behind in order to move into a new life, a new relationship or new beginning of some kind. She will learn to better communicate her emotions, thoughts and ideas. In being able to more fully verbalize and express herself and to “walk her talk”, she can find her place and sense of purpose: the ‘Immortality’ that can be achieved in this new reality.

Oracle: You must have belief in your ability to cope as an individual emerging into new arenas. ‘The Prince Who Will Bring Her Immortality’, can show the seeking of perfection in one’s self through relationships. Be careful not to project too much authority onto your partner(or, onto anyone). This can lead to feelings of insecurity and being out of one’s depth. You may be expecting others to acknowledge your existence, possibly feeling invisible until they do. However, other people, and probably someone in particular, may bring you insights into your capabilities, talents and attributes so that you can become more of what you’re meant to become. The female/mermaid, male/prince doesn’t necessarily always translate into these gender definitions. The ‘Mermaid’ may indeed be male, waiting for his “princess” to come to make his life complete. Whichever, how will the partner cope when the ‘Mermaid’ truly gains her own feet and voice? With this new sense of belonging, ideas can be brought into reality in a new world of experience.

Keywords: Coming into conscious form. New ways of being. Transformation. New forms emerging out of the past. Needing, and probably expecting, recognition. Feeling different from the crowd. Learning to stand on your own two feet. Problems with feet and legs. Longing to make an impression.

The Caution: Focusing on social or rational aspects before being ready. Naivety. Being thrown in the deep end. Relying on relationships too much. Looking to the other for validation of one’s existence. Co-dependent behavior..

The Karmic Degree for the Solar Eclipse is Leo 28: MANY LITTLE BIRDS ON THE LIMB OF A LARGE TREE – when I see this Symbol, I often think of Twitter and other forms of social media. 

This Symbol shows many people and voices and a gathering together with those of like mind. There seem to be so many possibilities or ways to go. Although the overall situation is secure and stable there will still be some confusions to resolve. Perhaps you’re forced to be with people who don’t share the same mindset or goals? You may be vulnerable to lots of chatter going on in your mind, or having too many thoughts or people, their voices or their needs to consider. Try to relax and gain some perspective; not all that you see or hear is going to be worth thinking about or pursuing.

Keywords: Gathering with people of like mind. Sharing ideas. Huge structures where people can get lost in the crowd. Big business, government and bureaucracy. Multilevel marketing. Databases. The Internet and chat groups. Books, tapes and cds. Publishing houses. Competition. Telephone switchboards. Trying to gain attention. Twitter.

The Caution: Many voices—some heard, some not. Being confused or immobilized by too much advice or information. Too many sounds. Having trouble hearing the essential truth. A scattering of energies. Not getting a word in edgeways. Everybody talking and nobody listening. Being one of many. Noise and distraction. Staying with the mediocre. The masses. Being invisible. Useless chattering or noise.

The Quest Degree for the Solar Eclipse is Leo 30: AN UNSEALED LETTER HAS VITAL AND CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION – I believe that this degree Symbol is the crux of the eclipse; the Moon moves onto this degree almost immediately after the exact moment of the eclipse and the Sun just an hour or so later.  What is likely to be revealed? What do we need to discuss? What ‘secrets’ need to come out into the open? What secrets are better kept out of sight from others? As many have noted, and I feel to make mention here, this is the Sabian Symbol of Donald Trump’s ascendant.

Commentary: ‘An Unsealed Letter’ is an image of words or thoughts, letters, notes or messages. They have been written, but as the ‘Letter’ is ‘Unsealed’, they have not been ‘Sealed’ in an envelope. ‘Vital and Confidential Information’ implies that important messages and information may need to be concealed from others. Being ‘Unsealed’ shows that it is possible that others would want to peek at (or be shown) what’s been said or written. There could be important papers lying around, or perhaps they are lost amongst other papers and proving difficult to find. It is possible that this ‘Information’ could be seen by the wrong eyes.

Oracle: Getting your thoughts down on paper can lead to greater understandings about people and situations. If there is a message that you wish to spread, you will be able to do it as long as you make the effort to put it into reality. When this is done out in the open anyone can, and will, benefit from it. Communicating in a trusting, carefree way leads to doubts being dispelled. However, are your ideas, thoughts and emotions feeling exposed because you have been too trusting and “worn your heart on your sleeve”? Pausing to reflect can be advantageous. Sometimes we have very strong feelings about a person or a situation, but caution is called for as these can change with time. You may regret someone having seen or learnt what’s been on your mind. The ‘Information’ in the ‘Unsealed Letter’ can be messages, thoughts or ideas that have been thought through and are now being translated to the written word. This also shows writing books, articles, e-mails along with verbal messages of all kinds. The ‘Vital and Confidential Information’ is obviously something important. Should it be shared with all or only a few? Remember to employ integrity in all that is said and thought.

Keywords: Wearing your heart on your sleeve. Shared thoughts and feelings. Declaring what needs to be said. “Dear John” letters. Laying one’s self on the line through writing things down. Diaries. Letters. Penmanship. Messages of intent. Things said out loud. Confidences.

The Caution: Playing games with information. Pretending to conceal for the purposes of deceit. Blurting things out. Not giving any indication of what’s thought. Being upset about having things out in the open. Passing on the secrets of others. Revealing things that shouldn’t be revealed.

The Moon symbolizes: Emotions, moods, mother, family, clan, domestic issues, relationship to home and country. Feelings, sentiments, nourishment, emotional nurturing, monkey chatter mind, lunar and menstrual cycles, clarity of emotions or lunacy. Female energy – yours and others.

 Mercury is on Virgo 9: A EXPRESSIONIST PAINTER MAKING A FUTURISTIC DRAWING 

This Symbol shows the talent or the need to make drawings or plans for the future, or for being able to see what’s coming up. Individuality and originality seem to be the uppermost requirements. Draw up your plans with an eye to what you want or what’s desirable. How do they look? Have you considered everything? Even against the pressure for a traditional response, it is your individual creativity and forward thinking that is needed. Although a wonderful degree often showing talent, the trick can be that you can get drawn into what you’re doing, dreaming things up to the point where you exclude other priorities in life.

Keywords: Creativity projected into the future. Seeing things ahead of their time. Taking chances. Having the dreamer’s disease. Talent. Seeing things in a different way. Being unrestricted by reality. Time machines and time travel. Artists, architects and engineers. Plans, schemes, blueprints. “When I win the lottery…” Forecasting and prediction. Genius. Sketches. Abstract art.

The Caution: Focusing on tomorrow not today. Not seeing the complete picture. Plans that often come to nothing. Being unrealistic. Losing touch with the real world. Losing enthusiasm. Thinking the worst will happen. Making things up that don’t reflect reality. Being stuck on one version of the future. Living for tomorrow, not today. Distorted reality. Getting lost in abstract thought. Being divorced from the real world.

The Quest Degree for Mercury is Virgo 10: TWO HEADS LOOKING OUT AND BEYOND THE SHADOWS – this Symbol can show the confusion and division that is rather rife in the world at the moment. People are feeling rather polarized, and, we may feel like we’re being ‘observed’, or, we may have arguments with others, or, we may feel like we need to see all sides to each story – something rather hard to achieve in this age of misinformation.

This Symbol implies the ability to see things from many sides, not just one. You may be able to, or need to, see things from two perspectives. This can be a marvelous asset, particularly with the Virgo ability to discriminate and make observations. This Symbol can also imply split personalities or not being able to make one’s mind up. Further, it can show situations where two people are checking each other out, but aren’t able, or allowed, to show themselves, they’re “Beyond the Shadows”. This Symbol asks that you look beyond situations and into the light. People may be afraid to take a chance, just ‘looking out’ and not moving forward.

Keywords: Duality of observation or thought. Being able to see both sides of a situation. Fear being the opposite of faith. People peering and peeking. Secret service and government agencies. Gunfights of the old west. Trench warfare. The media, the press, paparazzi, spies, private detectives. Conspiracy theories. Crossed eyes. Eavesdropping. Voyeurism.

The Caution: Confused by duality of thought. Failing to see the integration and cohesion of more than one perspective. Schizophrenia. Fear freezing up positive attitudes. Debates. Stalemates. Making assumptions without the relevant information. Quarrelling. Not seeing the light. Inability to agree. Bickering with others or with one’s self.

Mercury symbolizes: Mind, thought, communication, memory, expression, intelligence. News, exchanges, chatting, conversations, short journeys, connections with others, telephones, emails, siblings, neighbors, the reasoning mind. Day-to-day activities. Cars, keys, small animals.

 Venus is on Cancer 25: LEADER OF PEOPLE WRAPPED IN AN INVISIBLE CLOAK OF POWER – this is a very powerful degree, and, it can be very transformative and healing when we align with a sense of our own inner power. Of course, we will see instances of this shown to us in the outer world, particularly on the political stage.  This Symbol can show someone who is on the right path, incredibly strong and centered for right action, but, it can also show people who are ‘too big for their own boots’ – strong arming and showing off when perhaps showing humility and restraint may be the true order of the day.

This Symbol points to ‘Invisible’ levels of ‘Power’ that are cloaking someone. It could show someone who’s powerful, a leader, someone to be reckoned with. There is often an unavoidable need to accept powerful responsibilities and to respond rationally to anything that needs to be done. It is almost as though this has been thrust upon you, but it is as much because you have placed yourself in this position of power and responsibility and you both understand and accept the consequences of the role. Take care not to lord it over others. If this is not about you, it can be about someone in your environment.

Keywords: Leadership and its honors and responsibilities. Powerful descent of energies taking over one’s being. Feeling invincible-one can do nothing wrong. Hugging and being hugged. Sore shoulders. Shawls and cloaks that empower or coverup. Gurus. Quiet, unassuming strength. Charisma, strength and presence. Beautiful coats. Furs. Huge personalities. A man who lives right, and is right, has more power in his silence than another has by his words. Phillips Brooks

The Caution: Outer shows of superiority. Presuming oneself to be more than one is. Megalomania. Not owning one’s magnificence. Being pushy. The weight of the world on one’s shoulders. Abuse of power. Not owning one’s magnificence. Having the weight of the world on your shoulders. People on power trips. Lording it over others.

The Karmic Degree for Venus is Cancer 24: A WOMAN AND TWO MEN (OR A MAN AND TWO WOMEN) CAST AWAY ON A SMALL ISLAND 

This Symbol shows people seem locked into some situation, environment or relationship that pushes the boundaries of relationships. There could be too many people, as in relationship triangles, or there could just be too many people to take into consideration as sometimes happens, i.e., when a child intrudes too much into a relationship between adults. You may find that it is difficult to choose what you want as others may have something different to say. Your wants seem to vacillate from one extreme to the other. Perhaps there is a need to get away from those trying to confuse you with conflicting views, although this may sometimes be impossible.

Keywords: Feelings of being fenced in. Too little room to move. Lack of privacy. Relationship triangles. Claustrophobia. Isolation. Love affairs. Too many people or having no one. Having to schedule people’s needs. Competition and rivalry. Polygamy.

The Caution: Not seeing the whole picture. Fighting over ‘territory’. Having too many people to consider. The specter of ‘someone else’. Jealousy. Infidelity. Unacceptable relationships. Sexual infidelity. Misleading relationships. Being shut out of relationship. Fickleness. Not being able to choose. Having too many people to consider. Only being ‘the third wheel’ in a relationship.

The Quest Degree for Venus is Cancer 26: GUESTS ARE READING IN THE LIBRARY OF A LUXURIOUS HOME

This Symbol points to the desire, or the ability, to relax and retire into luxury, being able to do what one wants and to share quiet moments of reflection and sharing with others. There is an opportunity to relax and enjoy your self here and there is time to catch up on the attitudes of others without any pressure. Sharing your ideas, time and energy with others can be rewarding on many levels. This Symbol implies both luxury and indulgence. There does, however, need to be a caution against self-indulgence, as time can slip away if you’re not paying attention to what needs to be done around you.

Keywords: Sharing of thoughts and ideas in an environment of social privilege. Social protocol that says what one should be digesting, emotionally, intellectually or physically. Libraries. Hotel reading rooms. Chatting quietly. Books, magazines. Quiet, knowing atmosphere. Learning and sharing ideas. Having friends over. Relaxing. Taking time off. Study groups.

The Caution: Relating on a superficial level or not being able to relate at all because of social expectations. Being told to “keep quiet”. Not saying what one really feels. Focusing on the mind, not the heart. Not being invited to the inner circle. Special privileges for the few.

Venus symbolizes: Relatedness, cooperation, what attracts you. The experience of sweetness, beauty or delight. Social interactions, love, friends, how you reach out to people. Feminine persona, relationship with mother and females. Money, possessions, sense of values.

 Mars is on Leo 21: INTOXICATED CHICKENS DIZZILY FLAP THEIR WINGS TRYING TO FLY

The very best addictive drugs are produced by our bodies when we’re in romantic/erotic love. Barbara Sher

This Symbol can indicate the loss of reality or rational reactions. Often it shows not being in touch with what’s realistically possible and what’s worth trying. There can be an attempt to do too much or too soon or before maturing enough to be capable of doing it. Still, trying to do things that are outside one’s natural sphere can be a good thing, as long as you don’t overreach and cause damage. Sometimes, first attempts at a new experience may prove less than elegant or skillful. Soon you’ll look back with amusement at these early attempts. Find enjoyment in the “Intoxication”, but come back to earth when the feelings vanish.

Keywords: False courage. Inexperience. Trying to do something beyond the bounds of experience or possibility. Getting “out of it” in order to escape something. Getting all het-up over tiny or illusive prospects. Alcohol and drugs and the allure of escapism. Drinking binges. Ecstasy. Hangovers. Attempting to do the impossible.

The Caution: Giddiness, lightheadedness, unwanted side effects. Getting nowhere. Inability to ground things in reality. Making a fool of one’s self. Intoxication that inhibits seeing what’s really possible. Alcoholism and drug habits. Losing reality. Mindlessness that confuses or misleads. Going too far too fast. Forgetting who or where you are.

The Quest Degree for Mars is Leo 22: A CARRIER PIGEON FULFILLING ITS MISSION

This Symbol implies a clear sense of purpose and direction, even a sense of divine guidance. The ‘Carrier Pigeon’ may have to go through hardships and obstacles in order to deliver the message it is carrying or to complete the mission. This can be about bridging communications between people or conveying something that someone needs to hear or know. Pigeons were trained to deliver very important messages and some won honors and medals. Be sure that the end is in sight and there is a prize to be won in bringing a message to those who need it. Whatever this Symbol is speaking about, someone has a “Mission” that needs to be fulfilled.

Keywords: Bringer of good tidings and news. Creating lines of communication. Completing tasks. Feeling like one is on a mission. Finding out what’s truly going on. Having a sense of destiny. Receiving orders from a higher authority. Being magnetically aligned. Pigeons, doves. Not being put off the track no matter what. Mail. Flying home.

The Caution: Gossip. Messages that are not useful to anyone or are outworn and old. Needing recognition and applause for doing simple things. Useless information. Putting a lot of effort into something that is not worth it. “Stool pigeons”. Working until one drops from exhaustion. Being so one-pointed that you forget other parts of your life.

Mars symbolizes: Drive, determination or agenda, how you get to your goals. How you express and handle anger, ambition, assertion of self and ability to step forward. The male principle, sexuality, the ability to step up to the plate when one needs to. Fight or flight.

 Jupiter is on Libra 21: A CROWD UPON A BEACH

Nobody goes there anymore. It’s too crowded. Yogi Berra

This implies getting along with people with a live-and-let-live approach. People enjoy the outdoors and each other as they leave behind the stresses and strains of modern life in order to get more in touch with their bodies and their environment whilst having fun and relaxing. At times you may feel the need to get out into the open air or spend time with others or get in touch with your emotions. Joining with people of like mind in a natural setting, in a free and easy way, you can feel the release that can come from reminding yourself of the wonders of nature. Any feelings of what needs to be done should be put aside as you enjoy, relax and play.

Keywords: Simple gatherings and sharing in natural values. Watching people swim, run, skip and play. People getting loose and revealing their bodies. Remembering the basic elements of life. Marveling at nature. Getting back to the basics of life. Enjoyment. Relaxing social constraints. Picnic hampers, towels, sunblock. Wanting a tan. Queues and lines. Swimming in the collective unconsciousness. Leisure times.

The Caution: Avoiding close interaction with others. Being just one of many who desire their moment in the sun. Drowning –with others or alone. Sunburn. Sunstroke. Feeling like just one of the many. Dehydration. Traffic that hampers flow. Loneliness.

The Karmic Degree for Jupiter is Libra 20: A JEWISH RABBI IN A TINY ROOM FULL OF MANUSCRIPTS AND BOOKS, PERFORMING HIS DUTY –

This Symbol implies a person having the role of administering the spiritual and ethical laws and rituals and rules for living in their society. No matter how large or small the role is, this Symbol implies being in touch with one’s roots and studying and learning how to translate the lessons and the benefits for others. There is age old wisdom and established tradition which has survived to this day and you may need to access this knowledge though instruction or an inner search in order to deal with situations. There are “Duties” and ceremonies that need to be performed, either for your self of your community. Do what’s needed with faith and reverence.

Keywords: Connection with ancient sources of truth and understanding. Faith in abiding laws. Inherited wisdom. Ancient books. Fundamentalism. Rituals, social and otherwise. Initiation ceremonies. Book work. Studying and worshipping. Doing deeds on behalf of the community. Religious services. Writings that reveal rules for living. Lawyers. Advocates. Hidden knowledge.

The Caution: Religious dogmatism. Racial prejudice (given or received). Following the rules of “the book”. Sticking to what convention says. Losing one’s sense of individuality. Over-inflated sense of self. Distrust or hate of different religions, backgrounds or ethnic origins. Restrictive rules.

Jupiter symbolizes: The big picture, expansion, exploration, aspirations, religious and philosophical ideals, issues to do with traveling, foreign lands, people and traditions, culture, education, generosity, luck, abundance, support, optimism. Insight through knowledge and wisdom.

 Saturn is retrograde on Sagittarius 22: A CHINESE LAUNDRY

This Symbol pictures situations where people may not be taken seriously, are expected to perform in a stereotypical way or are shut away because of their culture, or language, or because of racial prejudice. In a “Chinese Laundry” people are often working very hard with little free time and expected to do the ‘dirty work’ for others for very little in return. Be careful not to shut yourself away as there can be the danger of closing your mind to other options, opportunities and possibilities. This can also picture situations where people are working closely together, speaking the same language, although here, too, there can still be alienation and loneliness.

Keywords: Restrictive expectations. Relations with others because of social duty. Performing tasks. Mediocrity, or the fear of it. Washing machines and dryers. Money and other laundering. Laws and legislation based on social and racial inequality. Issues of belonging. Cleaning up for others. The search for purity. Institutions that inhibit individuality. Convents. Stereotyping people. Work and the rewards it should bring.

The Caution: Giving in to prejudice. Self-inflicted sense of inferiority that can lead to missed opportunities for relating. Feeling trapped with no way out. Not being taken seriously. Doing menial jobs with little reward or real return. Slave labor. Lack of individual identity. Shutters to keep the world out.

The Quest Degree for Saturn is Sagittarius 23: A GROUP OF IMMIGRANTS FULFILLING THE REQUIREMENTS FOR ENTERING A NEW COUNTRY

This Symbol shows finding a new way of life, a new country or nationality, or new place to live and raise a family. It shows the possibility and hope for better things and a new way of life. Whether you are an “Immigrant” or someone looking to move onto new territory, you need to be prepared to venture out into new adventures for the promise that’s offered. Once you’ve “Fulfilled the Requirements”, you can move into this brand new life and reap the rewards. There may need to be adjustments about the way one communicates one’s thoughts and ideas – be receptive to this new way of life and you’ll learn much. Reorientation of self. Learning new languages or customs. Passing tests (or not). Asylum. Immigration. The Statue of Liberty. Papers. Qualifications. Refugees. Laws. Borders.

Keywords: Reorientation of selfhood. Needing to change things in order to accept a new reality. The necessity of learning new languages or customs to fit in. Visas, passports, papers. Illegal immigrants. Boat people. Customs officials and regulations. Baggage and luggage. Shipping. Qualifications and certifications. Identification. Asylum. Immigration officers. Papers and qualifications that include or exclude. Refugees. Laws. Borders. Ellis Island. Throwing away the known in pursuit of the unknown.

The Caution: Entering new situations with inflexible traditions. Issues of social or racial prejudice, or the suspicion of it. Red tape getting in the way of enjoying life. Those not living up to requirements. Not getting successfully through the paperwork. Being untrue to oneself in order to be accepted. Being rejected or sent back.

Saturn symbolizes: Authority, rules, discipline and obligation The heavy stuff. What we fear, loss, karma, aging, the establishment, orthodoxy, tradition, status, the concept of time, walls, boundaries, limits, older people, restrictions, patience, conquering difficulties.

 Uranus is stationing retrograde on Aries 29: THE MUSIC OF THE SPHERES

This Symbol speaks of the beauty of music and harmony and it is particularly intuitive. It doesn’t matter if things are going well or not, if you are in tune with the inner voice, this can show an inner accord with your path. Savor the lessons that come and know that everything happens in its own time and you’ll grow in wisdom. ‘The Music of the Spheres’ can show attuning to the messages of astrology, numerology, mathematics and science. Sing, tune into the planets, listen to music, dance and celebrate life.

Keywords: Voices bringing messages. Attuning to the messages inherent in astrology. Harmonies, chords, keys, octaves, tones. Things heard. Natural harmony of life. The beauty of the planets. The measurement of time. Circadian rhythms. Dancing to the wind. The humming of bees. Days of the week. The sound of water over rocks or crystals. The planets speaking through or to you. Sending love. The atomic clock. Harmonics. Musical ratios. Numbers. Numerology. Sound healing.

The Caution: Inflating rational ideas to appear to be inspired thought. Delusion or enlightenment? Getting lost in abstractions. Loving only the sound of one’s own voice.

Uranus symbolizes: The unexpected, things that are individual or ‘different’. Charged, energetic dynamics, electricity, light, lightning bolts, sudden changes, those who live on the fringe of society. Sudden turns and twists of fate. Rebellion, surprises, liberation, freedom.

 Neptune is retrograde on Pisces 14: A LADY WRAPPED IN FOX FUR

This shows being able to present an image that shows intelligence, cleverness, glamour and beauty, along with knowing how to move in social circles. The “Lady Wrapped in Fox Fur” is someone who’s sure of themselves, able to bend to situations and have situations bend to their own desires. It often shows getting out of, or into, anything they want. You can present an image that enhances your position in society. Intelligence and wit will probably see you through, with others noticing your beauty, grace or intellect. If, however, the guise was stripped away, would you still express the same qualities? You may have to display your capabilities because of negative prejudice, chauvinism, or being underestimated.

Keywords: Outer expressions of real inner worth. Animal magnetism and attraction. Intelligence and its display. Cloaks of feminine wit and sexuality. Beguiling minds. Animal totems and furs. Perceived beauty. The sense of having class and money. Beauty, fashion and talent. Being forward and upfront. Sense of personal style. Grace and composure. Elegance. Knowing what to say and when. Dressing up. Money spent on beauty. Tempting others with sexual signals. Perfumes. Pheromones. Taxidermy.

The Caution: False fronts and expressions of wealth. Selling out for momentary, or monetary, gain. Wrapped in intellectual superficiality. The fatal allure of beauty. Scoring points solely through charisma. Being so caught up in fashion and glamor that one loses a true sense of self. Being overdressed.

Neptune symbolizes: Mystical, “out there,” spirituality and con artists. Dreams, mysteries, mystics and religious issues. Intuition, clairvoyance, seeing into the invisible. Addictive, chaotic, charming, deceptive, illusory, co dependent, sensory awareness.

 Pluto is retrograde on Capricorn 18: THE UNION JACK FLIES FROM A NEW BRITISH WARSHIP

This Symbol talks about supervision, border protection and control. There can be a feeling of having to oversee a large ’empire’ where reliability and leadership are vital. This can be a tiring responsibility, but there can be an awareness of the protection of ‘all who went before’. However, political and social restraints from the past could be causing you to feel that you’ve somehow got to ‘wage war’. Issues to do with the government can come up, whether you agree with what they do or not. You may be confronted with having to make your presence felt and guard your territory. Effective supervision will help you to relax.

Keywords: Colonialism. Protectionism. The government, big business and the media. Class-consciousness. Power and political displays. Displays of “law and order”. Border patrols and protection. Strength and might. Nationalism. Royalty. The ruling elite. Supervision. The armed forces. Patrols. Pitting people against each other. Empires. Victory bringing riches. The mother country. The struggle against decline. Flags. Imperialism. The Commonwealth. The rule of law. Brexit

The Caution: Artificial shows of strength. Bullying from the “big guys”. Being armed “to the teeth”. Strong-arm tactics. Disrespect for authority. People or institutions that throw their weight around. Anarchy. Traitors. Being anti-establishment. Social disintegration. War games. Civil wars. Feeling squeezed by authority. Rebellion. Civilian lives lost for political causes. Governing forces that deny individual rights. Invasions. Being defensive.

Pluto symbolizes: Unconscious motivations, depth psychology, history. Sex, procreation at a deep level, intensity, profound emotions, taking hold of one’s power. Being king or queen of one’s underworld. Strength, survival mode instincts. Big money. Big power. The Plutocracy. Power vs power struggles.

 Chiron is retrograde on Pisces 28: A FERTILE GARDEN UNDER THE FULL MOON

This shows enjoying nature and the fruits of your life, your country, your culture. There’s often a sense that one has all that’s needed, and emotions can be running high. The “Fertile Garden” signifies that you have things that you need at your disposal. This Symbol has a strong clairvoyant sense to it, with the ability to pick up on subtle energies and life forms in the environment. You’ll get a lot of opportunities to enjoy the moment, but keep a sense of equilibrium, as soon the energy will be on the wane and you’ll have to get back to more practical, everyday tasks.

Keywords: Fullness and fertility. Peak of energy and experiences. Brilliantly active unconscious life. Cycles. Waiting for the right time to approach or handle a situation. The effect of the moon. Astrology and predictive practices. The time for harvesting the rewards of hard work. Nature sprites. Vegetables, herbs and nature’s bounty.

The Caution: Too many possibilities. Psychic confusion. Difficulty sleeping or shutting down the mind. Missed opportunities. Night shadows. Jealous protection of possessions. Not being able to make one’s mind up because of the number of possibilities. Emotions that get out of hand.

Chiron symbolizes: Our wounds, Chiron is known as The Wounded Healer. The wounds are The Stories That We Tell Ourselves, it is where we have to focus on healing, it can show things that are out of shape or misplaced or in need of repair.

 The Moon’s North Node is on Leo 25: A LARGE CAMEL CROSSING A VAST AND FORBIDDING DESERT

Only those who risk going too far can possibly find out how far one can go. T.S. Eliot

The Promised Land always lies on the other side of a wilderness. Havelock Ellis

This Symbol implies the need to push ahead in difficult times, going alone and coping even in the most difficult circumstances. It also shows being self-sufficient, or someone with a big journey to complete. You may find that your situation has been like an arduous journey, but there could still be further to go. Be confident that you have the reserves to survive and the endurance to succeed. Although you may like the company and assistance of others, in the end, you can really rely only on yourself. Self-sufficiency and mental self-control are necessary as is a commitment to get to the other side of your issue.

Keywords: Completing a journey. Protecting oneself from spiritual “sunstroke”. Tests of karma. Taking on daunting tasks. Taking one step at a time. Feeling totally at home. Provisions that nurture and satisfy. Camels, caravans, oasis, mirages, water, deserts. Stamina and fortitude. Crossing to the other side. Endurance. Thirst. Survival against the odds. Transport. Bad backs. Back packs. Cargo. Saddling up.

The Caution: Not preparing properly and running out of reserves. Feeling weighed down and in danger of not making it through. Not seeing the big picture. Lack of sustenance. Big plans with no backup. Taking on huge tasks when one shouldn’t. Being daunted by huge projects. Mirages that confuse objectives.

The Moon’s North Node symbolizes: This is known as quite a ‘karmic point’ (although all planets and points in a chart can be’karmic’). One’s destiny in this life. The things you are meant to integrate, move towards, become. Destined relationships and relationship issues can show up here.

 The Moon’s South Node is on Aquarius 25: A BUTTERFLY WITH THE RIGHT WING MORE PERFECTLY FORMED

Let us take things as we find them: let us not attempt to distort them into what they are not. We cannot make facts. All our wishing cannot change them. We must use them. John Henry Cardinal Newman

This Symbol shows the ability, or the need, to find balance, to find your center so that you might be more effective, stable and organized. As the “Butterfly” has a “Right Wing More Perfectly Formed”, you may be applying your rational logical mind out of balance to your intuitive and creative wisdom, or, vice versa. It is often harder to understand your intuitive messages, but reliance on logic can limit your possibilities. However, not applying logic can lead to big problems as well. There can be physical handicaps which may prevent one from truly doing what one wants, or strange imbalances on the spiritual level.

Keywords: Rising above life’s distortions. A need to bring some type of balance to situations. Injuries or problems with hands or arms. One side being more ‘Perfect’ than the other. The ‘Right’ being better than the left. Mutations. Handicaps. Challenges. Disabilities. Impediments.

The Caution: Imbalances and physical distortions. Asymmetry. An imbalance of functions leading to involuntary flapping around. Distortions of reactions or of the truth. Lopsidedness. Hindrances. Being at a disadvantage. Feeling incapacitated. Judging beauty on external appearances.

The Moon’s South Node symbolizes: Past karmic patterns to be overcome, can be habits that are good, but can describe things, relationships, issues that you need to let go of, or, hold you back from manifesting your true destiny. Relationships that feel karmic and difficult, memories from the past.