Discover the cosmos! Each day a different image or photograph of our fascinating universe is featured, along with a brief explanation written by a professional astronomer.
Explanation: Beautiful, luminous decorations on this pinyon pine tree are actually bright stars in the constellation Scorpius and the faint glow of the central Milky Way. Captured in June from the north rim of the Grand Canyon of planet Earth, the shallow, close focus image has rendered pine needles on the tree branch sharp, but blurred the distant stars, their light smeared into remarkably colorful disks. Of course, temperature determines the color of a star. Most of the out-of-focus bright stars of Scorpius show a predominately blue hue, their surface temperatures much hotter than the Sun’s. Cooler and larger than the Sun, and noticeably redder on the scene, is giant star Antares at the heart of the scorpion. In focused, telescopic views the whitish disk at the upper right would be immediately recognizable though, reflecting the Sun’s light as ringed gas giant Saturn.
Near-Earth asteroid 2003 SD220 will pass safely, at more than 28 times the moon’s distance, on Christmas Eve. Will it cause earthquakes? Of course not.
This month, astronomers have been observing a large asteroid approaching the Earth-moon system. Near-Earth asteroid 163899 – also known as 2003 SD220 – will come closest to Earth on Christmas Eve (December 24, 2015). At that time, it’ll be about 28 times the distance to Earth’s moon; in other words, it’s not coming particularly close. Don’t believe any media suggesting that this space rock may cause earthquakes. Those assertions are misleading and incorrect. Even if 2003 SD220 were passing closer, it’s doubtful earthquakes would result. There’s no scientific evidence that an asteroid’s flyby can cause seismic activity, unless the asteroid collides with Earth. In this case, that clearly will not happen.
This asteroid isn’t a newly discovered object. Its name – 2003 SD220 – indicates its discovery year. The Lowell Observatory Near-Earth Object Search (LONEOS) program in Flagstaff, Arizona discovered the asteroid on September 29, 2003.
Scientists have been watching this asteroid this month because they knew about its Christmas Eve closest approach well in advance. Thus the asteroid was included in observing schedules for various observatories. The NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory’s Goldstone Solar System Radar and the National Radio Astronomy Observatory’s Green Bank Telescope and Very Long Baseline Array conducted observations of 2003 SD220, as did the NASA-funded planetary radar system at Arecibo Observatory in Puerto Rico.
A notable feature of this asteroid is its elongated shape and large size. Astronomer Edgar Rivera-Valentin from Arecibo Observatory – the largest and most sensitive single dish radio telescope in the world – told EarthSky:
We were able to observe this asteroid (with radar) for more days from Arecibo and we still estimate SD220 is about 1.25 miles (2 km) long.
Radar images obtained from Arecibo show some details including small craters on the irregularly shaped space rock.
The asteroid is now also known to rotate very slowly, taking more than 11 days to complete one full rotation.
Patrick Taylor, Group Lead for USRA for Planetary Radar at Arecibo Observatory, said:
Because it comes close to Earth, it is of interest to NASA as a possible future robotic or human mission target.
Data from all of the various observations are used to determine the asteroid’s shape, rotation, and surface properties as well as allow for refinement of the asteroid’s orbit, which can be used to better assess its future impact hazard. A December 23 statement from Arecibo pointed out:
This year’s close approach is the first of five predicted encounters between Earth and 2003 SD220 in the next 12 years. High-precision measurements now will help better prepare for future passes.
At the 2015 pass – at its closest – asteroid 2003 SD220 will be some 6,787,600 miles (11 million km) from our planet’s surface. That’s more than 28 times the Earth-moon distance. It’s so far away that only professional and advanced amateur astronomers are likely to capture optical images of this space rock.
That is unlike some other asteroids such as 2015 TB145 (the Halloween asteroid) and 2004 BL86 (January, 2015). Those asteroids were visible using 8″ telescopes.
The Christmas Eve asteroid will be much more difficult to see because of its distance.
This space rock – whose shape can be compared to a chicken tender – will make its approach to Earth on December 24, 2015 but will return again next in 2018.
NASA has verified that the space rock will not pass at any dangerous distance during the next two centuries.
By the way, asteroid 2003 SD220 is not the only big asteroid passing by Earth on this month. Asteroid 2008 CM, a space rock with a diameter of 1.5 km, will safely pass our planet on December 29 at more than 22 times the Earth-moon distance.
Bottom line: Asteroid 163899 – aka 2003 SD220 – will pass safely, at more than 28 times the Earth-moon distance, on December 24, 2015. This Christmas Eve asteroid will pass too far away to be visible in small amateur telescopes. Media reports suggesting that this space rock may cause earthquakes are misleading and incorrect.
Eddie Irizarry of the Sociedad de Astronomía del Caribe (Astronomical Society of the Caribbean) has been a NASA Solar System Ambassador since 2004. He loves public outreach and has published multiple astronomy articles for EarthSky, as well as for newspapers in Puerto Rico. He has also offered dozens of conferences related to asteroids and comets at the Arecibo Observatory.
There are numerous photos of this asteroid, if you would like to view them, just follow this link, EarthSky
Ace of Pentacles
Prosperity, pleasure and beauty can be realized.
Berkano
Berkano is the Rune of birth and rebirth. This may symbolize a time when you are capable of great personal growth. Love may be in the air as well.
Scorpio the Scorpion
This aspect of your life will be strongly influenced by a person who is determined, forceful, emotional, intuitive, powerful, passionate, exciting and magnetic. This person is probably an acquaintance you made at work.
Your Daily Influences represent events and challenges the current day will present for you. They may represent opportunities you should be ready to seize. Or they may forewarn you of problems you may be able to avoid or lessen. Generally it is best to use them as tips to help you manage your day and nothing more.
Today’s Meaning:
Now is an ideal time to learn. Your mind is particularly keen at this time for the study of witchcraft, divination and esoteric subjects. Knowledge affects this aspect.
General Description:
The Hei Tiki amulet is used by the Maoris of New Zealand. It is carved in jade, the sacred stone of the natives. Worn as a neck ornament for good luck, and to protect from witchcraft and evil spirits. These charms are regarded as valuable heirlooms, and are carefully handed down from father to son, as the talisman was believed to possess all the good qualities and virtues of their forefathers. The Hei Tiki is a curious and distorted representation of the human figure in the attitude of listening, the head leaning on the shoulder.
Are you going through life carrying old grief, pain or hate? If so, Dove (sometimes known as Mourning Dove) encourages you to let go of your emotional baggage so that true healing can take place. It’s time to forgive, release, and move forward. And, know that healing Dove is flying right beside you.
Consulting The Ancient Symbol Cards for What The Past, Present & Future Hold
Past Influence whose impact on your life is waning.
The Believer
The Believer represents Faith and the realization that you have an important place in the workings of the Universe. Although The Believer may not always understand why things are the way they are, they none-the-less feel an underlying cosmic rhythm which is moving events in a direction that is good. The Believer rejoices in their celestial role, because they realize their life has purpose on a grand scale.
Present Influence whose impact on your life is very strong.
Alturism
Altruism denotes the noble act of giving to those in need without the expectation of a return. The act of giving has been seen as one of humankind’s greatest attributes throughout history. It is honored in nearly every culture. To give is a gift to both those who receive and those who give. Giving is usually associated with addressing the material needs of others, but the gift given can take many forms such as wisdom or protection or simply a shoulder to cry on.
Future influence whose impact on your life is growing and will be very strong in the future.
Solitude
Solitude is represented by a single person standing at the end of a boardwalk staring out at a vast, empty panorama. They are truly alone, but may not feel loneliness. They are at a place in their life where the need to withdraw from the our secular world is strong, because their focus should be on their inner self, their morality, and their dreams. The view before them is empty, but it is a canvas on which they may paint their future–a future restricted only by the size of their imagination and courage. For them Solitude is a choice. They chose to take the walkway that distances them from the rest of us. It is also a choice that can be undone. Just as they chose to take a path that leads them away from us, they may choose to turn around and come back at anytime.
A very very few of us are fortunate to be born wise. For most of us our Wisdom evolves, grows as we move through life gathering experience and knowledge. Wisdom denotes your thoughts and feelings derived from the melding of your life experiences with all that you have learned. Our Wisdom can get us through the difficult moments in our lives as well as provide the mental and spiritual tools we need to succeed.
As a daily card, Wisdom indicates a time when you should rely heavily on past experiences and knowledge attained to make important decisions in your life. This is a time where reflection and planning should guide your actions. To act rashly, on impulse at this time may well cost you in the future. Go slow, think things out, weigh all of your options carefully and then proceed.
Meaning: This is a rune of difficulty and negative influences will rule your life for a time, but as all difficulties are a learning experience it will lead to improved personal perspective and progress on your life’s path. Always consult the surrounding runes with this stone. If it lies with a positive stone, it indicates that the pain of this experience will lead to a beneficial change in circumstances
The Lovers indicates both the most powerful of unions and the most of challenging conflicts humans must face. On one side The Lover’s embodies love and union on a cosmic scale—a love so strong, so inherently good that it actually makes the lovers better, more than they really are. All of the elements are there for the perfect union. The Lovers represent all powerful unions in general, and the elements that create/sustain them. The problem The Lovers face is temptation and the decision to act morally or abandon their ethics to take advantage of other opportunities that would be defined as transgressions.
Raidho may mark the coming of a physical or spiritual journey. Whichever the case, changes in your life are soon to come. Spiritual or material goals may be attained.
Additional information about Today’s Rune, Raidho
raiðo : journey
Phonetic equivalent: r
DIVINATORY MEANINGS: journey, pilgrimage, change, destiny, quest, progress, life lessons
MAGICAL USES: protection for travellers, to ease or bring about change, to reconnect
ASSOCIATED MYTHS & DEITIES: the Norns, Sigurd’s journey
ANALYSIS: Raiðo represents the path of a person’s life and how it intersects and interacts with other paths. In Norse mythology, these paths are seen as threads of fate, and are regulated by the Norns. The Norns are three sisters who live near the first root of Yggdrasil, which they tend with the water from the well of Wyrd. They also spin the fates of Gods and men, which is important when understanding the mechanism of runic divination and magic.
The complex network of relationships formed by these threads of fate can be thought of as a web. Every chance encounter forms another connection in the web, and by tugging on one thread you affect everything else in the system. Most people do this completely unconsciously, but by becoming aware of the pattern of the threads surrounding you, it becomes possible to recognize and follow up on the kind of catalytic events that seemed to happen to us randomly back at fehu. In this way, we can find our way more easily along the path of our own journey, thus deriving the greatest benefit from its lessons. Otherwise we tend to get distracted and end up on detours and dead ends.
Raiðo reminds us that, although it may seem that we have accomplished our goals at ansuz, life and change continue and we must always go on. We will eventually end up where we began, but on a higher level and with a better perspective. The journey never really ends.
The Hierophant represents the protector of a culture’s heritage and traditions. His purpose is to defend and teach the established ways and beliefs a group embraces. He is inherently conventional and a true believer in the power of the group. He loves the structure of the group and its values. It is the task of The Hierophant to bring new members into the group—to prepare the uninitiated to take their rightful place in his culture. In this sense he is very much like a teacher or a priest. He also acts as the repository of his group’s history. The Hierophant is certainly not one to buck proper authority. However, he is staunch and worthy defender of the tried and true. He represents the positive aspects of conformity.
When The Emperor is among your personal cards, the influence of The Hierophant may be increased. Having The Fool or The Lovers in your personal cards may diminish the influence of The Hierophant.
The Lovers
The Lovers indicates both the most powerful of unions and the most of challenging conflicts humans must face. On one side The Lover’s embodies love and union on a cosmic scale—a love so strong, so inherently good that it actually makes the lovers better, more than they really are. All of the elements are there for the perfect union. The Lovers represent all powerful unions in general, and the elements that create/sustain them. The problem The Lovers face is temptation and the decision to act morally or abandon their ethics to take advantage of other opportunities that would be defined as transgressions.
The Lovers’ influence is increased when The Empress is among your personal cards. Having The Hierophant or The Hermit in your personal cards may diminish the influence of the Lovers.
What has traditionally been known as the Sun card is about the self — who you are and how you cultivate your personality and character. The earth revolves around the sun to make up one year of a person’s life, a fact we celebrate on our birthday. The Sun card could also be titled “Back to Eden.” The Sun’s radiance is where one’s original nature or unconditioned Being can be encountered in health and safety. The limitations of time and space are stripped away; the soul is refreshed and temporarily protected from the chaos outside the garden walls. Under the light of the Sun, Life reclaims its primordial goodness, truth and beauty. If one person is shown on this card, it is usually signifying a human incarnation of the Divine. When two humans are shown, the image is portraying a resolution of the tension between opposites at all levels. It’s as if this card is saying “You can do no wrong — it’s all to the good!”
What’s your favorite part of the holidays? Whether you celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa or Winter Solstice, you’ve got plenty of traditions to choose from. Here are some of each zodiac sign’s favorite ways to make the season merry.
Aries (March 21 – April 19)
You’re in luck, Aries, because most holiday traditions include your favorite element — Fire! Both Kwanzaa and Hanukkah have candle-lighting rituals that last seven days. On Christmas day, you can take charge of burning the Yule log, an ancient custom that originated in pagan winter solstice Fire festivals.
Taurus (April 20 – May 20)
With all of their delicious traditional foods, the holidays are made for your discerning palate. Christmas party hosts would be wise to check with you when it comes to fine-tuning their spiked eggnog. And if you’re Jewish, surely your latkes are the tastiest.
Gemini (May 21 – June 20)
Some people complain about the holidays being too busy, but this time of year is perfect for your short attention span. You love keeping your dance card chock full as you flit from shopping spree to social gathering. Don’t be surprised if your family nicknames you “the Blur.”
Cancer (June 21 – July 22)
From twinkling lights to boughs of holly, you excel in making your home a warm and comfy haven for intimate gatherings, often decorating with your own handcrafted items. Your friends and family rely on you to create the perfect atmosphere for their best holiday memories.
Leo (July 23 – Aug. 22)
With your big heart, giving thoughtful presents is key to a happy holiday. You also love to hang with the kids because they bring out your playful side … so you’re usually the one on the floor helping them open, assemble and play with their new toys.
Virgo (Aug. 23 – Sept. 22)
You love the miraculous story of Mary’s virgin birth, so you look forward to setting up a creche each Christmas season. Since white is your color, you surround the manger scene with billows of cotton snow. Spraying white frost figures on your windows is another one of your favorites. And if it snows on Christmas day … ecstasy!
Libra (Sept. 23 – Oct. 22)
You have a blast picking out ribbons, paper and other baubles for wrapping presents. It calls on your artistic abilities, satisfies your love of beauty and gives you practice in overcoming your personal bugaboo — indecision — since you’ve only got so many shopping days before your gifts must be wrapped and ready.
Scorpio (Oct. 23 – Nov. 21)
For you, dear Scorpio, it’s got to be mistletoe. Adopted from Scandinavia, this tradition gives you the perfect excuse to amp your favorite flirtation up a notch. One can never tell what will come of a kiss in a doorway … but you could have a very happy New Year!
Sagittarius (Nov. 22 – Dec. 21)
You’re a big fan of getting away for the holidays, but if you must stay home, gambling with your cronies on a Christmas football game — or playing a competitive game online — can satisfy your restless nature. For Jewish celebrants, try a bout of the traditional Hanukkah betting game and spin the dreidel.
Capricorn (Dec. 22 – Jan. 19)
Family traditions of all types make your nostalgic soul happy as long as they follow the same patterns you grew up with. The Christmas dinner table must have all of your favorite dishes, and everything else, from decorating the tree to opening presents, must be “just so” as well.
Aquarius (Jan. 20 – Feb. 18)
Some families have developed a tradition of volunteering to help the needy during the holidays. Whether that means donating toys to children or helping out in a soup kitchen, you and your community-oriented soul are on board. Sending a hefty donation to your favorite cause might also be on your list.
Pisces (Feb. 19 – March 20)
Even though you usually describe yourself as spiritual rather than religious, you make an exception for Christmas when you look forward to attending a midnight Mass. The dimly lit cathedral with twinkling candles, chiming bells, magical singing and chanted prayers feeds your mystical soul.
A Full Moon occurs in your family and home sector this morning, dear Aries, and can stimulate deep feelings, new awareness, and appreciation for your personal life, loved ones, and home life. It might also bring a problem area to light so that you can handle it. There can be an epiphany about security, family, and how to manage your personal life now. Today is strong for practical thinking, even though emotions are highlighted. There can be exciting plans or a more positive attitude towards a work or health matter. Making plans for finances, business deals, and problem solving are all favored now.
Taurus
Taurus
The Full Moon occurring this morning illuminates your communications sector, dear Taurus. While this might prompt a rush of activity, it can also be a time of important news or recognition of a need surrounding educational, legal, or travel matters. Whatever does emerge now, it’s meant to push you forward, even if at first it slows you down! Watch out for processing too much information or for sensory overload now – be discriminating with what you take in. Today is strong for presenting your sharing ideas, expressing yourself, and having a good sense of future trends, such that making long-term plans can be successful and enjoyable now.
Gemini
Gemini
A Full Moon happens this morning, dear Gemini, illuminating your sector of values, resources, and finances. A financial matter may come to light, or an issue revolving around sharing, support, values, or possessions can figure strongly now. Full Moons sometimes bring on a little bit of chaos or heightened feelings, but in the long run, this one is about bringing more predictability to key areas of your life. A favorable Mercury-Jupiter connection points to a nice flow of thoughts and ideas. You might also find it especially easy to agree and cooperate with a partner or friend, and they with you. Support tends to be there.
Cancer
Cancer
The Moon enters your sign early into the day, dear Cancer, and then a Full Moon occurs in Cancer this morning. This can bring a personal matter to a head, perhaps in the form of an epiphany or other form of revelation, perhaps surrounding a relationship. There has been more attention to your relationships recently, and if this has been to a point of imbalance, circumstances are such that you’re reminded to take care of your own emotional needs. Today is very strong for conversations about a relationship or with a partner. There is willingness to entertain new ideas and others’ perspectives. You are not caught up in petty matters now, and more interested in cooperating and sharing common goals.
Leo
Leo
The Moon reaches Full this morning, dear Leo, marking a culmination, possibly of a work, service, or health matter. A reminder to attend to your spiritual, emotional, and mental health needs can arrive now, or an epiphany that propels you forward. You might discover that you have support available from behind the scenes or an unexpected source, and even if you don’t take it, it’s good to know you have some backup. There can be the opportunity to share a bit of your private self, or to help guide others towards better living. Today’s energies are good for sharing ideas and problem solving. You might thoroughly benefit from, and enjoy, making plans related to money, work, and health.
Virgo
Virgo
The Full Moon this morning lights up your sector of aspirations, ideals, community, and friendships, dear Virgo. There can be a sudden need for your help or support, or a culmination of a friendship matter, group project, or romantic relationship. Whatever comes to light now provides you with important insight into a brewing problem, and you are likely to feel purged and empowered as a result. A partner could be supportive, or the matter can strongly relate to close relationships. Good energy is with you for feeling valuable and valued as Mercury and Jupiter connect to one another, and in good relation to your sign. It’s a fine day for personal influence and creative self-expression. It’s also a time for rising above small problems and seeing life for its positive points.
Libra
Libra
A Full Moon occurs in your sector of career, reputation, and public standing this morning, dear Libra, bringing a project to a culmination, new light to a matter, and emotions to the surface. You may be in the position to show off your professional and responsible side, and possibly even thrust into the spotlight or into a leadership role. There can be revelations about your career and responsibilities. Watch for displays or outbursts, as they can be more impactful now than usual. There is good energy for discussions about personal or family matters, as people are especially reasonable, fair, and thinking in positive ways. An attitude that any problem can be resolved with willingness and effort can boost your spirits and relationships.
Scorpio
Scorpio
A Full Moon occurs this morning and illuminates a matter of spirit, adventure, or learning, dear Scorpio. For some of you, a project turns a corner or you are ready to publish or announce an endeavor. An idea that you’ve been working on might blossom now. Wise counsel figures strongly today, even if emotions are running high. There can be breakthrough, positive thinking, particularly with or about friends and groups, as well as long-term plans that put a spring in your step. This is an excellent time for writing, particularly about your feelings toward someone or for professional aims, such as promotion or publicity work.
Sagittarius
Sagittarius
A Full Moon occurs this morning, dear Sagittarius, and this can bring a revelation or illumination of a matter surrounding intimate or financial matters. This is a good time for rediscovering your roots and for getting in touch with your innermost wants and needs. With Mercury and your ruler, Jupiter, in positive aspect, problem solving is enhanced, particularly with regards to work, financial, and other practical or mechanical matters. Your vision of an issue is large, and with a broader perspective, the details of any plan seem to fall into place. With more faith in your abilities and in your worth now, it could be a good time to attract positive experiences.
Capricorn
Capricorn
A Full Moon occurs this morning, dear Capricorn, bringing a relationship matter to light or a personal epiphany. Something that’s been brewing inside of you, perhaps left unacknowledged, reaches a head. Some of you could be moved to make an announcement, and in fact, you have quite a bit of impact now. If your close relationships have been lacking your attention lately, this is a time when you’ll be called upon to balance things out. It’s another day for being generous and forthcoming. This is a strong day for communicating, sharing, and expressing your ideas and beliefs. Learning, publishing, and transportation are favorable. There can be a new look at an old problem.
Aquarius
Aquarius
There is a Full Moon occurring this morning, dear Aquarius, and it can stimulate or bring to light a service-related or spiritual matter. Information surfacing or feelings stimulated now help to push your life forward, towards making important improvements and adjustments. This can be a time when you feel motivated to change your lifestyle for the better or to improve your work and daily life. This is also a good idea day in general, particularly related to matters of the past and how to learn from and move past them. You may be turned to for advice. While private time is desired and beneficial today, you can also feel some need to connect with others, so that you may end up playing a supportive, helpful role.
Pisces
Pisces
There is a Full Moon this morning, dear Pisces, and this lunation can act to pull out personal revelations or new awareness of an old matter, likely revolving around romance, personal goals, friendships, or creative matters. You might become aware of your feelings for or about someone. There can be a strong urge to create, share, and express yourself now. It’s a strong time for celebrating, creating, and sharing your feelings. There can be quite a focus on the exchange of ideas. A rewarding conversation can happen now, and you may be mapping out a long-term plan that is motivating and exciting.
You are extremely caring and responsible with those you love. You are determined and stubborn at times, sometimes struggling with worries and insecurities. You have true respect for anything that has withstood the test of time, and for (most of) those older than you. You are excellent with design and anything that requires order and balance, as you have an eye for these things. You have all of the ingredients for attracting financial success.
Famous people born today: Ava Gardner, Ricky Martin, Stephenie Meyer, Mary Higgins Clark.
You are looking for harmony today, dear Aries, and you’re more likely to get it as a result, and with the help of a Venus-Jupiter influence today. There is a greater love of mystery, investigation, and intrigue today but not necessarily the self-discipline or focus to really get involved. People are giving you the benefit of the doubt, and vice versa. The Moon is building towards Full, exact early tomorrow, and it will fall in your home and family sector, amping up emotions and making it a wonderful time to honor and pay more attention to family.
Taurus
Taurus
Today, opportunities open up for sharing your happiness with others, dear Taurus, with your ruler, Venus, in harmony with Jupiter, both in your relationship and love/creative sectors. As well, we are building to a particularly sociable, communicative, announcement-friendly, and celebratory Full Moon. It’s a great time to inject positive energy into your relationships. There can be realizations and epiphanies about love and friendship now.
Gemini
Gemini
It’s a strong day for personal appeal, dear Gemini, as well as for family, work, and service. Your open mind and open heart are both strongly in focus now, and it’s quite natural to want to cooperate and connect. The Moon is again in your sign all day, putting your emotional needs and connections at the top of your list. We are building towards a Full Moon, exact tomorrow morning, that can illuminate these needs even further. It’s a fine time to celebrate, enjoy yourself, and connect with the world of the five senses.
Cancer
Cancer
There continues to be a rather retiring quality to your personality and emotions today, dear Cancer. However, you seem to be able to get a lot of things done rather quietly with the Moon in your privacy sector in harmony with Mars in your family and home sector. As the day advances, we build towards a Full Moon which will occur tomorrow morning in your own sign, awakening your emotions to something that you’ve buried or avoided. The desire to share your good feelings with people you love is strong again today.
Leo
Leo
The Moon is in your sociable sector all day and harmonizing with your sign, dear Leo, awakening your innate friendliness and humanitarian inclinations. A Venus-Jupiter aspect this morning inspires your spirit of generosity, and awakens a desire to enjoy a feeling of security and abundance. As the day advances, you can very much enjoy new ideas and connections. We are building towards a Full Moon, which will illuminate a private matter or spiritual feelings in you. Seek out ways to refresh and heal yourself emotionally.
Virgo
Virgo
This is a strong day for communicating, connecting, and socializing, dear Virgo. You can be a little competitive now, but in a fun, healthy way. There is good energy for togetherness, personal appeal, and home life. There can be a desire to handle problem areas in and around the home, or with family, and much of the day, you’re in a good position to take the lead. Your sense of community is big tonight as the Moon moves to full in your social sector. There can be more demands on your time and the need to help others out, but an ease to your ability to meet others’ needs. You seem to be the go-to person now.
Libra
Libra
Strong energy is with you on practical levels again today, dear Libra, but it’s also a strong time for enjoying the world of the five senses, comforts, and pleasures. There can be a feeling of peace with the past. You may be feeling quite positive about your capacity to earn a living and connections you make now can help further your desires. Alternatively, you may be enjoying a wonderful feeling of abundance now. You are feeling generous, although a little insular. The Full Moon that occurs early tomorrow can be a time of epiphanies revolving around business, career, life path, and direction. You may be in the position to take the lead.
Scorpio
Scorpio
This morning is excellent for personal appeal, dear Scorpio, and coming to a sense of calm through consciously letting go of tensions. Your mood is still quite insular, but you are also quite willing to socialize and cooperate. We are building towards a Full Moon, and this one will occur in your adventure sector tomorrow morning. This is a good time for announcements, celebrations, and epiphanies. It’s emotional now, and quite pleasantly so.
Sagittarius
Sagittarius
There can be some privacy or a retiring quality when it comes to your love relationships or feelings and pleasure-seeking activities, dear Sagittarius. This is because Venus is in your soul sector. Today’s Venus-Jupiter connection emphasizes the good feelings associated with this position, and also increases your personal magnetism, even if you are a little mysterious. A feeling of inner peace and joy tends to boost your appeal. A private or anonymous act of kindness might lift your spirits as well. The Moon is almost Full, with a Full Moon occurring early morning tomorrow. This can be a time of heightened awareness of your intimacy needs.
Capricorn
Capricorn
Life seems to wind down early today, dear Capricorn, when it’s easier to take things as they come and to feel calm and at peace. Venus and Jupiter are in happy relationship, and this encourages cooperation and positive thinking. It also encourages sharing ideas and coming to happy conclusions about the future and where you feel you’re headed. You are connecting with others through ideas, visions, and ideals. Social and leisure activities can thrive. The Moon is moving towards Full in your opposite sign, and will be exact tomorrow morning. This can bring feelings to your awareness, an epiphany, a plan to fruition, or a relationship to a turning point.
Aquarius
Aquarius
This can be a strong day for getting to a happy perspective of recent problems, dear Aquarius. It’s a good time for big-picture life plan thinking and strategy. A sense that there’s time to achieve what you’d like to achieve is with you now, and this is comforting, and interestingly, quite motivating as well. It’s a powerful time for big-time problem solving – as in long-term, big-picture, life plan thinking. It can be easy to find support today, if you need it. We are building towards a Full Moon, which occurs exactly early tomorrow. This lunation brings realizations and feelings to awareness, particularly related to health, wellness, and work matters.
Pisces
Pisces
There can be a wonderfully free, creative and joyful energy to the day, dear Pisces. You could be releasing small burdens or otherwise expressing your feelings quite happily. It’s a good time to circulate, connect, share your ideas, and even for romantic overtures. Not only is a Venus-Jupiter connection enhancing relationships and shared ideas, we are moving towards a Full Moon in your playful, celebratory solar fifth house, making it a strong time to enjoy and share yourself with others. Be generous, forthcoming, and open now.
The holidays are here again — time to think up some fun gift ideas for your friends and family members. Try consulting the zodiac this year! Considering the astrological signs of those on your gift list is a great way to get your gift-giving spirit in gear.
Aries (March 21 – April 19)
Active Aries is always looking for ways to stay in shape, even during the winter months, so athletic equipment is usually a good choice. People born under this zodiac sign are also fond of the color red, so a cranberry scarf or a scarlet hat could win their favor. If romance is in the air, let Aries know that you put his or her needs first. Buy tickets for two to a sporting event you loathe, or make a playlist of an artist you can’t stand to win big points with your favorite Ram.
Taurus (April 20 – May 20)
Taurus appreciates any gift that appeals to his or her sensual side. A box of gourmet chocolates, a richly colored tapestry, or a soft cashmere blanket are all great options for Bulls. This sign also enjoys having money to play with, so a gift certificate to their favorite store is a welcome option. Always remember that quality is more important than quantity — Taurus would rather have a small bottle of expensive cologne than a carafe of the cheap stuff.
Gemini (May 21 – June 20)
Quick-witted Gemini enjoys gifts that appeal to their sizable intellects. An engaging book is always welcome, as is a magazine subscription. This sign rules the hands, so some scented hand lotion or a sparkling ring might delight. Geminis also love to entertain, so a set of glassware might fit the bill. If you want to splurge on a special Twin, give them the latest cell phone or i-device, so they can keep in touch with their gazillion friends.
Cancer (June 21 – July 22)
Sentimental Cancer loves gifts that have personal meaning. Handmade items always delight, whether it’s a finger painting, angora sweater, or mincemeat pie. This sign also has a special affinity for silver — a monogrammed hand mirror or picture frame would be very well received. Since Crabs have an affinity for liquids of all kinds, a special bottle of wine, a fancy cappuccino maker, or a shiny tea kettle are also good possibilities. And don’t forget that these Moon children love the domestic arts — a cookbook specializing in comfort food is another sure winner.
Leo (July 23 – Aug. 22)
Lions love gifts that make them look and feel terrific. Hair accessories, cosmetics and grooming items are all good choices for this image-conscious sign. Leos love drama, and enjoy presents that involve a bit of flair. Opera tickets, gold jewelry or animal print lingerie are right up this cat’s alley. Leos also love to gamble, so a sheaf of lottery tickets or a weekend getaway to the casino could make them purr with delight. When shopping for clothing, remember that Lions have a special affinity for red, gold and purple.
Virgo (Aug. 23 – Sept. 22)
Virgins love practical gifts … so avoid dust-catching baubles. A bread-making machine or a power drill would be welcome, but these folks are also known to pride themselves on their impeccable appearance. Scented soaps, lotions and shampoos made by an earth-friendly company might be just the ticket. Virgos are also incredibly organized and might appreciate a good watch or a leather-bound date book. Or try a health-conscious basket of organic foodstuffs.
Libra (Sept. 23 – Oct. 22)
Libras have a special affinity for music, and always appreciate a good new artist to add to their voluminous collection. If you want to do something really special for a Libra friend, splurge on a two concert tickets — this zodiac sign hates to do anything alone. Born beneath the sign of the Scales, they also need plenty of balance in their lives, so a pair of candlesticks or bookends might appeal. If you’re still stumped for ideas, have a lavish bouquet of red roses delivered accompanied by a loving handwritten note.
Scorpio (Oct. 23 – Nov. 21)
Scorpios are secretive by nature and enjoy gifts that obscure their appearance in some way. A pair of designer sunglasses, a filmy scarf or a slouchy hat are all great choices for this sign. These mystery-lovers also enjoy moody, atmospheric stories. A collection of film noirs on DVD are sure to go over well with your favorite Scorpion. The rumors concerning this sign’s sexual appetite are happily true, so seductive lingerie would get plenty of use. Since Scorpios also like to get beneath the surface; a gift certificate for a deep-cleansing facial will be appreciated.
Sagittarius (Nov. 22 – Dec. 21)
As far as Archers are concerned, half the fun of getting gifts is ripping them open! If Sag doesn’t like a present, though, he or she will tell you outright. Avoid awkward scenes this holiday season by giving this outdoor enthusiast some camping equipment. Hiking boots or a waterproof parka would also be appropriate. These animal lovers adore any gift associated with their pets. A calendar filled with pictures of dogs or horses is sure to elicit a big smile. Finally, you can always feed this sign’s wanderlust with a comprehensive atlas.
Capricorn (Dec. 22 – Jan. 19)
Career-oriented Capricorn always enjoys gifts that will boost their job status. A leather laptop carrier or monogrammed briefcase would be welcome. Contrary to popular belief, though, Goats aren’t all work and no play. This sign is blessed with a wicked sense of humor, so try the “The Office” or “Parks and Recreation” series on DVD. Capricorns also love luxurious presents they’d never buy for themselves, like a silk bathrobe.
Aquarius (Jan. 20 – Feb. 18)
You never know what this unpredictable zodiac sign will be doing from moment to moment — one week it’s skydiving and the next it’s yoga! Still, this quirky sign always appreciates technological gadgets, whether it’s the latest i-device or gaming system. If you’d like to choose something a little more personal, why not make a photo album detailing all of your exploits with your favorite Aquarius? Aquarius may not show it, but they harbor a special fondness for their friends. Still stumped for ideas? A basket filled with brand new socks is both weird and practical enough for this sign, which rules the ankles.
Pisces (Feb. 19 – March 20)
These mystics love gifts of all kinds, but especially ones that help them escape the harsh realities of life. A bottle of champagne, a kaleidoscope, or a book of fairy tales will appeal to your Fishy friends. And because Pisces is a Water sign, it’s a good bet they’ll appreciate bath salts, foaming cleansers and shower gels. If you’d like to give something really special, a digital camera will make a big hit with this natural-born photographer. Looking for a romantic gift? Choose a gilt-edged volume of love poetry.
Ace of Pentacles
Berkano
Scorpio the Scorpion
The Believer
Alturism
Solitude
The Hierophant represents the protector of a culture’s heritage and traditions. His purpose is to defend and teach the established ways and beliefs a group embraces. He is inherently conventional and a true believer in the power of the group. He loves the structure of the group and its values. It is the task of The Hierophant to bring new members into the group—to prepare the uninitiated to take their rightful place in his culture. In this sense he is very much like a teacher or a priest. He also acts as the repository of his group’s history. The Hierophant is certainly not one to buck proper authority. However, he is staunch and worthy defender of the tried and true. He represents the positive aspects of conformity.
The Lovers indicates both the most powerful of unions and the most of challenging conflicts humans must face. On one side The Lover’s embodies love and union on a cosmic scale—a love so strong, so inherently good that it actually makes the lovers better, more than they really are. All of the elements are there for the perfect union. The Lovers represent all powerful unions in general, and the elements that create/sustain them. The problem The Lovers face is temptation and the decision to act morally or abandon their ethics to take advantage of other opportunities that would be defined as transgressions.
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