I’d like to thank you for having taken the time to check in on my New Moon commentaries here at the NCGR San Diego website and/or on my New Moon L.A. blog.  It has been my pleasure during this past year to share with you my ideas about the time honored oracle found in the astrology of the New Moon.

Ah, but all good things must come to an end.  It is not without great reluctance that I sign off at this time though.  The astrologer in me has certainly learned and grown through the monthly process of writing about the always fresh New Moon.  Nevertheless, the astrologer in me also recognizes that it is time, now, for me to retire this public persona, in this cycle at least, and shift into my vita umbralitis, life in the shade.  However, as I lay down my pen, it gives me great pleasure to recommend you to the website of a wonderful astrologer, a dear friend and our outstanding webmistress, April Elliott Kent.  Her own site, Big Sky Astrology, features a regular New Moon column that I have found to be both informative and inspiring.  And, of course, I continue to recommend my great Aussie mate, Linda Hill’s always appropriate Sabian Symbols commentary. I leave you with my best wishes for your happiness in a blessed life, and with love and admiration for who you are.  ~ Johnny

Our warm thanks to Johnny for his great work this past year, and good wishes in everything!

We hope to offer an alternative column in the future (let us know if you’d like to contribute something!), but in the meantime, here are a few choice offerings from other NCGR members around the web.

Terry Lamb’s July Forecast, “Tsunami of Consciousness”
“(During an eclipse period) we may find that some aspects of our life are suddenly removed; they have slipped from the world of form into non-form. Although they were on their way out of our lives for some time, we could not yet detect it. Other things appear in their place as soon as our consciousness opens to them, but often after an uncomfortable interval. These have come into form in the physical world from the invisible realm, where they had already been in development.”  Full article here

New Moon Financial Forecast from AstrologicalInvesting.com by Kaye Shinker (NCGR IV-CA)
“This eclipse directly affects the public’s opinion of the Dollar. Whether it is deflationary or inflationary the dollar’s value will change. Inflation might pay off the debt, but it puts every worker in a new tax bracket. Fixed income folks will be upset, and likely to blame the Government, the Federal Reserve, the IRS, and Wall Street. The solar eclipse will effect quite a few commodities and their charts are available in The Textbook for Financial Astrology Book IV. The issue for the next six months will be supply and demand of basic agriculture products. Current supplies appear to be abundant, but weather is of course the deciding factor and in this case flooding in critical areas could hamper supply.”
Full article here

Michael Lutin’s Monthly Forecast - here.

New Moon blessings,

NCGR San Diego

“…nothing is good or bad, but thinking makes it so…” Hamlet, Act II, Sc. II

This New Moon in Gemini certainly casts an intellectual shadow over the coming moonth.  How we think about the circumstances that will arise over the next four weeks will be key to seeing our way through them.  Here’s what that chart for the Southland looks like:

Governed by Mercury, this Gemini New Moon gets a strong dose of the “Messenger of the Gods” at his best as these weeks (June 17 – July mark one of his tri-annual Peak Week periods that are sandwiched between each of his retrogrades.  Further emphasizing the Mercurial qualities of this NM is the fact that Mercury, as the Final Dispositor of each of the other planets, holds great influence over the chart.  The intellectual component of each planet’s nature is thereby stimulated.  In short, this means that all of the other planets, in as much as they all represent a specifically intellectual quality of energy, will be imbued with something to think about also.

As Dipali asks on her interesting Celestial Space Astrology Blog, “What new information is buzzing in on the airwaves?  Does it expand your Consciousness?  Stimulate new ideas?”  Yes, this is a new moonth and with it comes a new set of circumstances, with new promises of hope, if we can think through the various situations that will come bubbling to the surface.

The New Moon: Two Takes
Well, what did you expect, with a Gemini Moon?  But, seriously, with any New Moon one can look at how the event impacts the world or how it affects us personally.  Of course what affects the one affects the other, but in this case we are looking at two different astrological systems: personal and mundane.
Let’s look at the personal side of this first.  As I’ve said many times, it would be most helpful if you were to obtain a copy of your own chart so that you can see how and where the New Moon falls in it and, subsequently, how it can affect your life.  Nevertheless, there are some things that can be pointed out that may help you navigate the troubled waters of the coming weeks.

Let’s start with Lynda Hill‘s positive, forward looking version of the Sabian for this New Moon at 21° Gemini 21’:

The Image: This Symbol shows the need to regularly celebrate life and its bounty and harvest. When the work’s been done, achievements have been made and there is a sense of security and ‘Harvest’ in the air, it is time to celebrate with one another.  Gathering people together, there is a need to get back to a simple, conservative level of enjoyment.  There’s a sense of being in tune with seasonal rhythms and taking some time out to enjoy and de-stress.   The feeling of a healthy heart and a healthy mind, while taking a break from the struggles of providing, can bring joy to everyone.  See if you can take time out to celebrate and to enjoy your environment.

Keywords:  Celebrating the warmth and providence of the Earth.  The joy of nature’s harvest. Joining others to celebrate.  Rhythmical or seasonal adjustments.  Dancing.  Barns and dance halls.

The Cautions:  Being the wallflower, not participating. Waiting for a special invitation rather than volunteering to be involved.  Resentment.  Isolation.  Anti-social behavior

So we see here that the symbol wants us to be social animals during these weeks, to reach out to others in a collective “coming together” of sorts.  And of course, the Gemini proclivity to converse (some would say non-stop) with others  is one way to make this happen, to develop a mental rapport with others and to take care of the hum-drum details of life with aplomb and good humor.

As suggested above, Gemini is nothing if not a communicative sign, representing something essential about your manner of communicating your ideas, thoughts, and opinions.  The Twins are also insatiably curious, with a thirst for knowledge, learning, and new experience.   As has been said elsewhere, the New Moon is an ideal time to turn this intelligence, curiosity and thirst for new experience in on itself.  And this is a good thing as we are enjoined, by the Delphic Oracle, first and foremost, to “know thyself.”

But Gemini is about more than yackety-yak.  If you will recall, in my NM column for May I encouraged you to dig into your “soil,” to root out all the unnecessary and growth-stunting dross so that you might better plant a new crop of seed during the moonth of May.  Literally, digging into the rich Earth of your heart is the only way to get to the fresh furrows of your subconscious where the new seed can take root.

Now, at the Gemini New Moon, it’s time to take charge of your thoughts.  So many of you are aware of the productive influence of “Affirmations,” or as Shakti Gawain calls them, “Creative Visualizations.”  These are spoken about in such old nuggets as “The Power of Positive Thinking,” and in recent best-sellers such as “The Secret” and “The Law of Attraction.”  Indeed, Jan Spiller, has subtitled her New Moon Astrology, “The Secret of Astrological Timing to Make All Your Dreams Come True.”  Each of these writers and thinkers, and many others, speak about methods of using one’s MIND to project the mental images of the people, places, things and circumstances that we would call into our lives.  And there is perhaps no other Moon which so strongly encourages us to use our power of positive thinking to project, especially in ceremony, the specific and detailed image(s) that we would draw to ourselves.

In terms of those details of our daily routine it’s a good time to take tests, fill out forms, start a new course, write letters, make phone calls, and to energetically take care of routine tasks.  Remember, Mercury, the guy all the other planets are answering to this moonth, is working under optimal conditions.  Be still and listen so that you might learn and then be ready to share your newly acquired knowledge in the classroom of life. As mentioned above, Gemini is nothing if not a communicative sign, representing something essential about your manner of communicating your ideas, thoughts, and opinions. Likewise, the Twins are also an insatiably curious sign, with a thirst for knowledge, learning, and new experience.   As has been said elsewhere, the New Moon is an ideal time to turn this intelligence, curiosity and thirst for new experience in on itself.  And this is a good thing as we are enjoined, by the Delphic Oracle, first and foremost, to “know thyself.”

The Southland’s Second House New Moon

There is a heightened sensitivity to the world of the five senses, to your physical environment, and to the security you gain from the solid ground you have built for yourself.  At this New Moon you may start fresh in terms of how you arrange your life in order to feel a sense of value and worthiness. Financial issues come into focus. Setting realistic financial goals, as well as formulating such things as budgets and other sensible financial planning projects, will be favored during this time. Exploring new ways to increase your income is also featured.  And it’s also a wonderful time for taking moments to pleasure yourself through earthy, tactile, and comforting endeavors. As for using the power of positive thought, attunement to, and appreciation of, the physical world of the senses would be an appropriate direction in which to turn your energies.

As Beth Koch suggests, in her terrific little book, Equal Houses, with the Twins on the second house cusp, the Gemini drive towards making logical connections would  best be employed by exploring all of our options in the material world that pertain to our individuality and emotional nature.  In this case, the second house issue of possessions would be best thought of in regards to “self-possession.”  As the New Moon always implies a turning inwards, this moonth offers a time to make a mental inventory of that one and only person we truly “possess.”  An honest self-examination now can not only tell us about the quality of our inner values and how we pursue them in the world, but also will shed the light of the New Moon on how that pursuit affects our emotions.

Two New Moon Aspects

This New Moon is affected by two significant aspects, an applying Square to Saturn and a partile (exact by degree) Quintile to Mars.  The success or failure of this Gemini Moon in fine tuning our communicative skills and intellectual understanding will depend on the quality of its communication with these two otherwise contentious astrological archetypes.

Mars adds a charge of vitality and high energy encouraging us, as does the Sabian Symbol, to reach out in friendship and community.  The impulse to act on and to communicate who we are is strong.  This is just the kind of circumstance in which, during a gathering or perhaps as part of a group ceremony, it would be most appropriate to share what it is that we have come to know about ourselves and the ways in which we have arrived at this understanding.

The Square to Saturn is more problematical as it inevitably produces a tendency towards self-doubt and defensiveness.  However, given a supportive group environment, this reticence can be overcome, encouraging the emergence of the inner teacher.  It is also a good chance to develop trust in others and to break through barriers of self-doubt.

And Now for Something Completely Different

And here is where we come back to the mysterious Dane. The comment Hamlet makes to Rosencrantz and Guildenstern, that nothing is good or bad but the thinking makes it so, refers to Denmark, which for his two friends is a paradise, but to him it is a prison.  Here is where we turn our attention to mundane, worldly events.

There are several other astrological factors other than the New Moon that will project themselves onto the landscape of the Gemini moonth. In my last blog here, I made mention of the Out Of Bounds Venus and suggested that it might bring Israel, a nation whose Libra rising chart is ruled by that planet, into high focus.  Well, can you say “Flotilla?” So for this moonth, how about an Out of Bounds Moon?

The Gemini Moon OOB emphasizes that there is something outstanding to be learned with the Moon “popping up” as though to be seen and distinguished apart from the Sun, and asking for attention to feminine issues.  These include nurturance, maternal love, the home, family, empathy and the awareness of one’s needs.

On the other hand, as Stephen Forrest points out in his outstanding essay appearing in the June/July 2010 issue of The Mountain Astrologer, “The Out-of-Bounds Moon:”

The out-of bound Moon, like everything else in astrology, has an unpleasant, dangerous side as well as a divine purpose. Its dark side is sociopathic, even criminal – or merely selfish and insensitive to others. It can be cold, even inhuman.

And speaking about the feminine issues that this Out Of Bounds Moon brings up, we can add into the mix two other feminine archetypes who are also OOB at this New Moon, Ceres and Pallas.  I have already discussed the attitudes of an OOB Ceres.  Much like an OOB Moon can be very “out of sorts” an OOB Ceres indicates her unnatural detachment from the protective, nurturing role which she usually would assume.  Throw in a disassociated Pallas, the “Warrior Queen” also associated with the Serpent of Wisdom, and we have a lot of pissed off feminine energy afoot.  Additionally, even the aspects between these three feminine energies are divisive.  Not a good thing in troubled times such as these.

Considering the “flotilla event,” might we see the Middle East once again come to the fore of the world’s attention?  Perhaps.  Turkey has a Moon ruled, Cancer Ascendant, and it has been in the recent headlines right alongside of Israel.   Then there’s Michael Baigent who advocates the Cancer ruled chart of what he calls the Middle East Mandate of the League of Nations as a “master chart” and central reference point when examining events centering in that region.  Looks to me as though that whole region is in for yet more stormy weather during this moonth.  Other Moon ruled countries that might step into the spotlight include Scotland, Holland,  Paraguay and New Zealand.

Are there other indications that the coming weeks will see additional tensions rise to the surface?  Wish I could say no.  But there are two other warning beacons that grab my attention.  One is the configuration between Mars, Mercury and Chiron, that in astrological parlance is called a “T-Square”

which is formed when there are two planets in opposition and one planet square (at a 90° angle) to the opposition.  Here we have a Mutable signs configuration that usually indicates a situation in which people are at odds in their opinions, ideas and ideals.  In short, it is a pattern which indicates extremes of opinions, and being quick in verbal reactions to others while at the same time, having a great compassion for the oppressed and being moved to fight injustices.

The second is what we call a “Yod” taking in the energies of Venus, Saturn and Neptune and, because of what is called a “reaction point,” Mars is also involved by its opposition to Neptune.  It is another stressful pattern.  Look at Neptune, the “focal” planet in the Yod.  Al H. Morrison maintained that Neptune ruled petroleum, oil, energy liquids of all kinds and pharmaceutical products.  Saturn, of course, wants to teach us lessons, and usually mild-mannered Venus, in a closing Sextile (60°) aspect to Saturn, does imply a degree of emotional stamina.  However, the relative ease of this combination can lead to taking things for granted and thereby overlooking the details that make things run smoothly.  With Neptune on the point of this “true” Yod, issues related to the above mentioned commodities are bound to be of a continuing interest.  And with the active, angry Mars at the reaction point opposite Neptune, we might assume that we haven’t heard the last of the BP drilling disaster.

Our Southland Sabians

Each location has different Ascending and Midheaven degrees  With this in mind, here are Lynda’s comments on each for the Southland:

THE ASCENDANT:
13TH DEGREE OF TAURUS

A PORTER CARRYING A MOUNTAIN OF HEAVY BAGGAGE

Commentary:  This Symbol implies someone who tends to carry the load for others. They often feel responsible for everyone and everything. The ‘porter’ will usually spring to attention when asked to help or to shoulder the burden of others luggage or baggage. In fact, you may be doing a lot to help others, but not getting much appreciation or thanks. Be wary that you are not just helping people to hang on to their extra ‘baggage’, through your desire to be useful and helpful. This can weigh them down when you are no longer available. Grinning and bearing the weight only works for so long before one tires of it.

Keywords:  Self-reliance. Being reliable, responsible and helpful. Owning people’s ‘garbage’. Shouldering people’s baggage. Being weighed-down. Bad backs, knees or posture.

The Caution: Being busy with peoples’ problems, not working on your own. Not knowing when to say “no”. Bearing family guilt. Not knowing when to say ‘no’.

THE MIDHEAVEN:
28TH DEGREE OF CAPRICORN

A LARGE AVIARY

Commentary:  This Symbol shows the ability, or the need, to be able to take in a lot of information, to be social, yet have some time alone. The “Large Aviary” has a lot of citizens, all buzzing around, all interacting and full of life. There is a lot of chattering and flitting from one thing to another going on and while there is no harm being done, perhaps, sometimes, there’s nothing much really being achieved. Is this because there is a level of mental confusion happening? At the least there is likely to be a feeling of brotherhood and not being alone. Finding time alone can be difficult.

Keywords:  Clairaudience. Many inner voices. Lots to say – little true content. Communicating only in the immediate environment. The Internet. Bird songs. Confined spaces. Psychic.

The Caution: Mental confusion bringing a lack of discernment. Chattering, not doing. Gossip and intrigue. False sense of freedom. Abandoned living spaces. Caged birds.

A Brief Summing Up

The outstanding issues in global affairs do not seem to be going away, and the outlook on the horizon does not offer much encouragement.  Things will, with a fair amount of certainty, get a good deal worse before they get better out there.  Which is why I urge you so strongly to build you thoughts and inner landscape on controlling your own intellectual and emotional responses.  Project serenity, be peace and live in the comfort of loving kindness and compassion.  In so doing, and one by one, we each contribute to a healed and whole multiverse.

Johnny Mirehiel is a 40-year student of spiritual, metaphysical and astrological ideas. Internationally known as the discoverer of the astrological chart of the Harmonic Concordance, he is a member of the San Diego chapter of NCGR and he has been accredited by The International College of Astrology as both an astrological practitioner and teacher. He now plies his trade in the high desert of Southern California.

If it is so, as T.S. Eliot says in his magnum opus, The Waste Land, that “April is the cruelest month…” then surely must May be the loveliest: flowers blooming upon carpets of green, gentle zephyr breezes under clear blue skies. Yes, May is lovely and filled with promise, or so it would seem. Here’s what the Southland’s New Moon chart looks like:

The Taurus New Moon

This New Moon, in the sensual and contented sign of Taurus, is a time of rebirth, a time when we are given a chance to start fresh.  In Taurus, it presents an excellent opportunity to commit to personal goals that express the positive energies of the sign of The Bull: enjoying life’s simple pleasures: savoring good food, being in touch with nature and our bodies; cultivating patience, “stopping to smell the roses” (which could easily be a Taurus motto, especially if one considers the archetypal Taurean bull, Ferdinand) and re-evaluating our relationship with money and possessions and in so doing to discover what it is that makes us happy, fulfilled and at-one with our own innate values.

It’s also a time to do something new about checking the baser qualities of Taurus.   At any new Moon, in order to securely implant our seed into freshly turned furrows, we must clear the field.  Metaphorically, during the Taurus New Moon, we have the energy and insight to look at, and root out, the causes of our lazy, pleasure seeking and acquisitive tendencies.  But complacency is an ally to fixity, and Taurus is a FIXED sign.  It does not like change and can indeed be stubborn and “bull headed,” overly materialistic, possessive and given to spates of jealousy.

May is fertile, and demands new seed.  Time to shake things up at the root level and make way for new growth.  While we’re down in the dirt, digging into things, let’s not forget that Taurus is an EARTH sign (and, according to a Rob Hand supposition, also the PLANET which really rules – the Earth.  But Of Course!) Might we not remember to honor the body of that Mother, as she is the source of that of which our own bodies are made?  For indeed, the very atoms within us were first in her, and it is her to whom they shall return.

And while we’re down at that fertile level during this Taurus New Moon Cycle, down where everything is molecular and all is one, it might be appropriate to place your conscious intent into a healing for our beloved planet. She has had to endure, in fairly rapid succession, two 8.2 earthquakes, a huge volcanic eruption and a catastrophic rupture in the sea bed that is causing a continuing massive expulsion of raw and fouling crude oil into the oceans.  Please, send your conscious healing intent Her way.

The Taurus New Moon Planets

Jupiter Hot on the Tail of Uranus (Sorry, couldn’t help myself)

But it’s true, I tell ya! At the moment of the New Moon Jupiter is some 03° behind Uranus in the last degrees of Pisces. And on June 5th, just as the Moon catches up with them, they all reach 00° Aries. An interesting mix, that. Uranus wants to be free and unfettered (for good or no), Jupiter wants to expand the consciousness of any planet it contacts, especially by conjunction, and the Moon’s emotional state (and the general public too) is in position to be showered with the fallout from the clash of the two planetary titans, all in the  “hurry up I can’t wait”  Fire sign of Aries.

Lynn Koiner has an excellent article that details the Jupiter/Uranus Conjunction. She also gives a description of what we can expect to happen during this transit dance (that actually plays out over the next six or so months) as it occurs in each of the twelve houses. She tells us:

“Where this Conjunction falls in the natal horoscope shows where we feel compelled to take a risk with our lives, to experience adventure, to explore our creative potential and to overcome the fears in our lives…It is the Conjunction at 0 Aries – the World Point – that will portend a great scientific breakthrough and the world will be impacted by this (this is the influence of Aries but especially 0 Aries, a very powerful position).”

What Lynn is referring to is the fact that 00° Aries is the first of what are called the Critical Degrees. The concept is heavily used in Eastern astrology, e.g., the Arabic, Hindu and Chinese systems and are based on the Moon’s average daily speed of 12°51’. The influence of the energies of any planets or points that lie within one degree of these “Mansions of the Moon” is much amplified.

Two other key points here: one, we would be remiss if we didn’t notice that in this New Moon moment Saturn bears down on the Jupiter/Uranus pair over the energy circuit of an opposition. Just a little reminder from that august heavyweight that we better take what’s happening now very seriously. And point two: The North/South Nodal Axis stands at 12° Capricorn/Cancer, two more Critical Degrees, perhaps marking a time of critical destiny. Something really big and new is a’brewin’ out there.

The New Moon Square Neptune

With the New Moon squaring Neptune, the sensual side of Taurus will be emphasized. Neptune also has a tendency to cloud over matters, a condition which conflicts with the normally very practical considerations of Taurus. Therefore, during this New Moon cycle, it would be wise to “measure twice, cut once” as the old carpenter’s saying goes. In other words, be as sure as you can that your decisions are based on practical considerations as opposed to whim.

Venus Out of Bounds

In addition to the regular movements of planets along an East-West path through the sky, they also travel North and South of the Celestial Equator (the Ecliptic). This measure is called DECLINATION. When planets reach a declination greater than that of the Sun’s north or south extremes against the Ecliptic (23N28 or 23S28), they are considered to be “out of bounds.” When this happens, they are seen to act beyond the norm of expectations for that planet; there is something exceptional about the behavior they represent in our lives. The action of the planet is manifested either internally (South Declination) or externally (Northern). At 24N35 we might expect to “see” how Venus “acts out” in our lives during this moonth.

When Venus, the planet of love, beauty and harmony is out of bounds in a natal chart, there is an urge to live in a harmonious and beautiful environment without arguments and disputes.  In a mundane chart such as this, it represents women’s issues, artists, peace and diplomatic relationships.  It gets an expansive push from a hard aspect (square) to Jupiter on the 17th but, as Venus remains out of bounds until June 8th, the effect might appear almost any time during the moonth, especially between May 21st and 24th when it reaches its maximum North Declination of 25°N01’.

In the world’s mundane sphere, perhaps we might see something of significance regarding Israel, as that country’s chart is governed by Venus. On a personal scale it might be well to curb our enthusiasm as this is one of those times when our “eyes are bigger that our stomachs.” In other words, moderation should be our watchword for much of this cycle.

Pluto and Ceres, Again

As pointed out above, the Earth has been experiencing an unusual amount of physical trauma recently. In my last New Moon post, I said we might expect some kind of ruckus between Pluto and Ceres which would manifest as a “…discomfiture of the Mother (Ceres) […causing…] him (Pluto) to shift things around and blow off a little steam himself.” Can you say, “Iceland?”

These two mythological and archetypal characters continue to travel together through the early degrees of the Earth sign, Capricorn. But remember what I said about Out of Bounds planets above: they can be expected to “act beyond the norm of expectations” for that planet. Well, Ceres goes out of bounds on the 17th, and continues there until early next year. I am reminded of a mother bear aggressively protecting her cubs. Better just get out of the way. Remember, “It’s not nice to fool (with) Mother Nature?” Get ready for some more blow-back.

The New Moon Sabian

Once again with a nod to Lynda Hill, here is the Sabian Symbol for 24° Taurus and Lynda’s commentary on it:

You can be recognized for your abilities as a successful leader who is prepared to put themselves at risk to be successful.  The risks you have taken are marked by rewards that are admired and respected. Claiming one’s soil and one’s due. Fighting for one’s territory. Trophies of conquest. Aggression. Basic instincts. Territoriality. If negative – displaying success so as to intimidate others. Domination and ruthlessness.

Perhaps the aggression spoken about in this Sabian relates to that Out Of Bounds placement of Venus, mentioned above, in regards to the situation affecting Israel.

The Moon and You

In the left hand column of my New Moon LA blog you will find a statement entitled “A Note on the Southland New Moon Commentaries.” In it I explain my use of the Parallax Moon and a comment on how I have determined the geographical coordinates used in erecting the charts that I present for your consideration.

Also in the left hand column, at the top, you’ll see links to seven additional regions. The Planets in each of the eight locations, including this one for California’s Southland, remain fixed in their positions relative to each other.  While they may seem to move around the face of the Zodiacal clock through the Houses, the reality is that where the planets are in any chart is based on the different locations from which the observer sees them.

One of the major consequences, astrologically, of calculating these various Parallax perspectives is that the house position of the New Moon will often shift from east to west with the observer. An even more subtle change that happens in the charts from location to location is that the degrees for the Ascendant and Midheaven change significantly. Using New Moon House placement and the two “local” Sabians as guides, we might better fine tune our intent and focus during the Lunation period and/or in ceremony.

As always, I would encourage you to get a copy of your own chart(from my mates at Alabe.com) and put the New Moon chart “on top” of it. See where its energy wants to be planted in your chart/life. The following comments are more or less specific for California’s Southland.

The 7th House New Moon

Negotiations and diplomacy are highlighted during this Lunar Cycle, as it is a favorable time to begin new relationships or to re-define existing ones. Issues of sharing and partnership come to the fore. Increased awareness of the need for someone significant to lean on or to rely on is often associated with this position. Working on, or resolving to work on, relationships that are mutually supportive is a good idea at this time.

If you find yourself feeling of lacking support from partners, this may be a good time to ask yourself how companionable you are, and to work on developing yourself in this area of life. You might just find that this is a period when you are at your most gracious. It is also a good time to make contacts and to make something public.

The Local Sabians

The Ascendant

The Ascendant (or rising sign) is the mask one wears when meeting others. Perhaps it is most aptly thought of as the automatic responses to one’s environment. It shows our natural defenses and how we cope with day-to-day issues.  The energies of the sign and condition of the Ascendant are most overt and obvious to others.  The Ascendant shows an individual’s first, natural reaction to new people and situations.  In the Southland, the Ascendant is 26° Scorpio, the Sabian for which is:

A MILITARY BAND ON THE MARCH

There is occasionally a need to make a show for society to remind ourselves of successes and achievements. You may find that this will take up a great deal of your time for no real return, but the morale of those around you will benefit and that is the true goal. Noisy announcements. If negative – a lot of volume can be a bit too pompous.

The MidheavenThe MC (Midheaven) often indicates social and career status.   It is the most public point in our chart and relates to our career or “life path” and suggests our social standing and reputation.  It also represents our most visible achievements in the eyes of society, our public “face,” our accomplishments, and our overall sense of responsibility and standing in the world/society.  In the Southland, the Midheaven is 05° Virgo, the Sabian for which is:

A MERRY-GO-ROUND

You may find that the situation keeps returning to the same place and not progressing. But each time you return to the same point, you have had the opportunity of looking at all the other possibilities, you must make a decision: do you want to keep going around and around? Ever repeating circles of activity. If negative – repeating the same mistakes OR bouncing around from one thing to another.

Johnny Mirehiel is a 40-year student of spiritual, metaphysical and astrological ideas. Internationally known as the discoverer of the astrological chart of the Harmonic Concordance, he is a member of the San Diego chapter of NCGR and he has been accredited by The International College of Astrology as both an astrological practitioner and teacher. He now plies his trade in the high desert of Southern California.

Talk about new beginnings! Just like the beginning of Spring when life seems to reappear after another cold and barren winter, the Aries life force trumpets a very self-focused lunar cycle with a New Moon that offers the “I’m on fire and and rarin’ to go!” attitude. It’s a time to exercise self-discovery, and independence and to act courageously in every endeavor.

This April’s New Moon chart is replete with discrete conjunctions that spread its energy over half of the chart, while the other half of the chart awaits a dynamic confrontation between the two malefic bad boys of the planetary pantheon, Mars and Saturn.  Just the kind of energy to kick start Spring.  Have a look at the chart:

In last month’s blog, I encouraged you to find that within you which is not working and to target it for elimination. Once again, a New Moon is a time when the Lunar light is blocked by our (Earth’s) shadow and is thus turned inward.  It offers us a regular and wonderful way to tap into what is happening in the dark shadows our emotional life.  It is once again time to clean out the old self and seed that new, unencumbered you.  Forceful, eager and head strong Aries would have us head butt that knot of will and emotions that metaphorically comes together within us now just as the Sun and Moon meet every month.  For us today, we are interested in how does Aries approach this archetypal union?
Jungian astrologer Cathy Pagano has a nice take on Aries as:

“…the scout of the zodiac, the adventurous one who would rather just do something than think about it another moment…[whose]  energy is good for the soul…the fire that moves through the soul, …creates new life, new experiences and new psychological patterns.”

Naturally enlivening Aries is a forceful energy to start anew, to burn away feelings of disquiet, to fearlessly reach for your true purpose and take that first step into the new Self that you would become. Yes, the energy of the Aries New Moon can be a much needed springboard into the days ahead.

Well, that’s all nice and encouraging info about Aries, but what about this particular chart?  For starters, how about if I present the same chart as the one above only with a little of the peripheral data, the non-planetary “white noise,” taken out. Then the chart would look like this:

With one exception, that of Ceres, the largest of the Solar System’s asteroids, all of the symbols shown are planets.  The salient point here is that ten of them are distributed within five sequential houses and come together in pairs to form five distinct and separate conjunctions.  This is indeed a rare grouping.  The only two non-conjunct planets, Mars and Saturn, are closing in on what is called a Septile aspect.  (More about this later.)

One of the first interpretative tools taught in Astrology 101 is to look for the planetary distribution between the hemispheres, North and South, East and West. In the case of this chart, erected for California’s Southland, the emphasis is decidedly in the Eastern (Ascendant-sided) hemisphere.  This heavy Eastern imbalance is said to be a sign of self-assertiveness and a drive to shape the environment.

However, that self-assertive drive might be considered a two edged sword when seen in context of an Aries New Moon.  On the one hand, it would seem to support the basic characteristics of an Aries Lunar cycle, as suggested above: forceful, courageous, independent, but self-focused.  Those same self-focused qualities can run amok and leave a scorched Earth in their wake. Remember, Aries is Fire: the forge in which our white hot mettle is hammered razor sharp. Aries likes to act.  And when one is consciously on a path of self-discovery/actualization it is, after all, necessary to act on it.  But take care of how you wield that sword that it is not unleashed on any innocent by-standers.

While we’re looking at the hemispheric distribution, we might also notice that, in terms of the Marc Edmund Jones (et.al.) planetary pattern school of thinking, none of the basic eight are applicable here. What is there is a pattern that is suggestive of a sextant.

For what is a sextant used?  Why, it is an aid to vision for finding one’s location via the stars. An apt analog for the type of energy that is visionary, precise and broad based such as might be found in the chart of one of the 20th Century’s most realized visionary geniuses, Gene Roddenberry.

According to Sister Ray’s brilliant analysis of Roddenberry’s chart found in the May 2009 edition of Dell Horoscope:

An astrologer would expect an unusual person to have an unusual chart, and Gene Roddenberry does not disappoint.  He has a remarkable chart.  His eight planets and the two luminaries are arranged in five pairs in the shape of a sextant…

The point being that the same structure of the energy flow found in Roddenberry’s chart of genius is found in the energetic pattern in this Aries New Moon. Roddenberry was a Renaissance Man, a visionary who saw “beyond.” Look at the mythic world he created and the true science and technology that has arisen which reflects that vision. That is the flow that is in the Aries New Moon. This can be a moment that “births” a vision with the personal impact of a “Roddenberry Moment” of brilliance.

But the “sextant” of this New Moon chart is specifically zeroed in on the mid-point of the aforementioned applying Septile between Saturn and Mars, exactly at 03° Virgo 00’.  If I might go to yet another “show and tell:”

Now why is that significant?  Well, as you can see from it’s placement, 03 Virgo falls in the chart’s seventh house.  While Aries is largely a “go it alone” energy, nevertheless, that position in the chart suggests that in order to actualize the highest potential for this New Moon we must remember the important role played by relationships in our own self-actualization.  As a matter of fact, the whole chart may be seen to be “dangling” from this rather inconspicuous but significant degree.

And not for nothing, but in light of my particular brand of astrology[i] I happen to be partial to its Sabian Symbol:

TWO GUARDIAN ANGELS BRINGING PROTECTION

You will notice that I have not employed the almost standard procedure of advancing the Symbol to the next highest degree, a practice which I whole hardheartedly support.  My great Aussie mate, Lynda Hill, is a rather vocal supporter of this application. Yet there are other voices.  Dr. Jones, himself, indicated that if the degree was exactly XX° and 00’ that the symbol of that exact degree should be applied.  It is also my understanding that the Sabian Assembly, founded by Jones, remains just as adamant: use the symbol of the exact degree.  So I’ll compromise and also give you the symbol for 04° Virgo, as presented by Diana E. Roche, and as taken from MEJ’s hand written note:

A CHOCOLATE CHILD PLAYING WITH WHITES ^[ii]

In either case, the implication is that the outcome of this moment promises to provide a significant opportunity for an Arian journey into self-discovery.

But before we leave the Sabians, let’s have a brief look at what, according to Diana, Elsie Wheeler saw when MEJ held up the index card for 25 Aries, the degree of this New Moon:

A DOUBLE PROMISE

Lynda would add, “…reveals its inner and outer meanings,” while Dane Rudhyar saw: “The possibility for man to gain experience at two levels of being.”  Thus this Aries New Moon offers the “double promise” of the two Lights (Sun/Moon) focusing within so that they might illuminate our individualized inner meaning, that we may manifest an outer life on two levels of consciousness, one devoted to our service to others, the other to service of our own self-actualization.

And we haven’t even looked at what the Planets have to say about this New Moon yet.

The Aries New Moon Planets

By now you should be familiar with the general distribution of the planets for the New Moon this Wednesday, April 14th.  As has been noted, there are five pair and two “aspecting singletons:”

The Sun and Moon conjunction, of course has been discussed in Part I in the comments on the Aries New Moon.  In brief, while every New Moon is the start of a new cycle and a time to set new intentions and begin new habits, the New Moon in Aries is especially strong.  It’s a time to exercise self-discovery, independence, and to act courageously in every endeavor you take on.  The I Ching calls it the reunification of the two primal powers for the sake of a great creative endeavor.  It is a very powerful time.  We’ll come back to this pair brief mention when the Septile is up for discussion.

The Mercury and Venus conjunction, however, is different story altogether.   Tucked away in the Southland’s Taurus ruled third house, they each have something to be happy about and something that makes them somewhat uncomfortable here.  As the house’s natural ruler, Mercury really feels at ease there.  From that base he usually exhibits his facile and curious mind and is open to communication on all levels.  However, at this moment his speed is slowing, preparing to turn retrograde on the 18th, a mere four days after the New Moon.  He will be in that state for virtually this full Lunar cycle.  Add to that the fact the entire retrograde will be in slow moving, grounded, stubborn and introspective Taurus, all qualities that are one or two sizes too small for Mercury’s restless and fast paced nature.
His house mate, Venus, on the other hand loves being in Taurus, one of the signs of her rulerships.  At home here, she can feel free to gather friends to her side, put out a delicious looking and tasty spread for them, and indulge her appetite for the finer things in life.  But for one snag; she’s not particularly fond of a trip to the third house, ruled as it is by the non-emotional, and somewhat asexual Mercury and the Airy Gemini, which always cool her normally hot blood.  So the pair are comfortable, but not; eager to please, but restrained.  All in all, I’d say that the energies for Mercury and Venus during this Moon cycle are at least somewhat muted.  IOW, not the best time to be hooking up with Mr./Ms. Right.

Neptune and Chiron have been hanging out for some time now, going back, really, to February a year ago, so their energetic and spiritual healing energy ought to be feeling familiar.  As Jan (astrogrrl) says:

“Chiron now extends a helping hand in finally releasing fears, healing past hurts, letting go of mentally wounding thoughts/ideas, and giving up old ways or bad habits. At the same time, Neptune gives us her gift of hope and insight, showing us the truth and reality that go beyond what we can mentally process, visually witness and audibly experience.”

I know that I could use some of that blessed spiritual healing myself.  Couldn’t we all?

Pluto and Ceres What is it about the the myth of the curious triangle between Pluto, Ceres and Persephone that continues to fascinate us?  What do we feel about the primal pair and the object of their affections?  the briefest of recounting:   Persephone is a beautiful, lithe young woman.  Pluto spots, wants and grabs her and carries her off to the depths of Hades.  Ceres, the damsel’s mother, can’t find her and becomes distraught.

Now Ceres is a pretty powerful personage herself, being the Goddess of the Earth.  She is the archetypal Mother figure and ranks first in stature among the asteroids.  However, in spite of her status, she is helpless to recover her precious daughter.   Crushed and angry, she withdraws and in so doing robs the Earth of all its warmth.  The Earth froze and experienced its first winter.  Long story short, Pluto agrees to let the lady go, but since she ate those seven pomegranate seeds Pluto had her hooked for half the year and thus the Seasons.  But here they are, back in the news, so to speak.  And this time we might expect some kind of ruckus between them.

In the first place, they have that bad blood between them, but most of the times they come together their rather infrequent meetings are brief.  They only bump into one another every five or so years and when they do the parlay generally lasts for less than two weeks.  But not this time.  You’d have to bet on it during this dynamic astrological year.  During the passage they retrograde past each other and stay within conjunction close rang of one another for an almost staggering 54 days, from April 6th until May 27th.  Then on October 9th she catches up to him again for a two and a half week period, as if to say, “You better get it now, buster!”

But Pluto is a power broker himself and not one to back down easily.  Remember, in your chart, where Pluto says you will go, you will go.  And remember too Pluto lives in the depths of the earth, where the discomfiture of the Mother can cause him to shift things around and blow off a little steam himself.  Given what just happened in Mexacali, I’d know where the nearest door jamb is, were I you.  Or me.  Oh and yes, in case you missed it, that is a Square that is being sent their way by our other “Earth” friend, Saturn, who is not feeling so comfortable right about now considering the face to face eye contact/challenge that he’s having with his father, Uranus, via the opposition between them.  That generational confrontation has, as Jamie Funk notes, “…something…cranking into action for more confrontation between old style monotheism (Saturn) and progressive spirituality (Uranus).”  Families.  Sheesh.  Go figure.  Please see Jamie’s crackling good comments on the Asteroid confrontations going on during this New Moon cycle as well.

Along with the Mexacali bump which heralded the opening of the conjunction orb period on the 4th, we must add the shock and grief resulting from the loss of the upper echelons of the Polish government in the April 10th plane crash that took the lives of President Lech Kaczynski, his First Lady and dozens of others political and military leaders.  Pain is an international donor.  Under the December 1981 Pluto/Ceres conjunction a Yugoslavian airliner crashed into a mountain on Corsica, killing 178.  In the July 1977 passage flooding in Johnstown, PA, caused by massive rainfall, killed over 75 people, costing billions of $ in damage. And in September of ‘72 there was the “Munich Massacre.”  Nasty do, that.  Just sayin.’

Jupiter and Uranus are in a wide, but applying conjunction that won’t be exact until early June, but as with most things associated with Jupiter, the “largeness” of the orb does not entirely rule out its effectiveness.  This is particularly so when the orb is applying and to a planet that is currently in a face to face confrontation with Saturn.  For a terrific take on this once every fourteen year conjunction, may I refer you to Anne Whitaker’s interview on this coming event in which, she tells us, among other things, to expect the unexpected during this turbulent and out of the ordinary planetary interlude.  And taking a peek ahead, as this New Moon turns to Full, the confrontational elements of the Saturn/Uranus opposition increases exponentially with other stressors kicking in.  That chart looks like this:

You will no doubt note the plethora of red and black lines crisscrossing the chart’s open center space. They are, of course, the aspect lines and show the energetic pathways over which the planets communicate with each other.  Red and black generally indicate lines of stress and/or tension between the thus “connected dots.”  Coming as they do at the Full Moon, which often sees the seeds that we have planted at the New come to fruition, we might better know to keep or New Moon promises simple lest they bare fruits of discord.

Mars and Saturn, on the other hand, although not in the same conjunctive aspect as the others, are intimately connected by a approaching an important, if little used Septile aspect.  The Septile is based on the division of the 360° circle by 7, which gives the difficult to see 51°25’42.9” Septile / 102°51’25” BiSeptile / 154°17’08” TriSeptile aspects.  The series expresses itself just as the number 7 does in numerology.  It  It is often associated with spirituality, mysticism, wisdom, studiousness and success.  Australian astrologer Alice Portman has put up an excellent page on this often ignored aspect and of course our friend Rick Levine and his partner Jeff Jawer have been writing and speaking (in this great audio from 2005, for instance) about them for years.

As mentioned above, these two masculine archetypes are often referred to as the planetary “malefics.”   Whenever trouble starts to rear its ugly head, we can usually spot one, or both, of them at the scene of the crime.  Not that I dislike them.  I am a big fan of Saturn’s never fatal, but always solid brick to the temple.  A bit like a (pre do-do) Mike Tyson left hook, it’s difficult to see coming but very effective in getting us to make the necessary changes in service to our personal growth and self-actualization.  Saturn’s lessons may be difficult to endure, but when we do we emerge on the other side in a better place.  Yeah Saturn!

Mars is sort of like a “Mini Me” to Saturn in as much as he too kicks up dirt, but seldom does he throw a knock out punch.  But he’s much quicker than Saturn.  He makes the Zodiacal circle in a little over two years as compared to Saturn’s 29.  He beats you into submission with repeated jabs.  In boxing, it’s called the “stick and run.”  In astrology, it called Mars.  As the Septiles are acknowledged to be associated with spirituality, mysticism and esoteric wisdom Mars can is fully capable of donning the armor of the Spiritual Warrior that he can be.

Earlier I mentioned that I would be coming back to the Sun and Moon in connection to the Septiles.  Now’s that time.  You see, the Luminaries, by virtue of their conjunction are both BiSeptile to Mars and at the same time TriSeptile to Saturn.  I’m calling it a Septile Grand Trine incorporating the whole family. Oh, I almost forgot, There’s another Septile there too, between Mercury and Jupiter.  Get the picture?

That’s 6 [iv] of the ten planets, a clear majority you’ll notice, whose energies are open to the flow of Spirit, Wisdom and The Mystery among them.  And it’s really good that the planets involved can really make things happen,  Just look at how the Sun and Moon support Saturn and Mars.  It’s actually a closed circuit loop of the Will and Power of the Sun, the emotional and psychic energy of the Moon, Saturn’s call to change and Mars’ urge to action flowing between them over the Septile circuits that open the interchange of Spirit, Wisdom and the Mystery beyond.  And do remember that that same energy passes between Jupiter and Mercury.  It’s like someone throwing the switch in the Big House in the sky.

[i] Which sees astrology as but one tool in our self-discovery/actualization tool boxes.

[ii] Roach, Diana E., The Sabian Symbols, A Screen of Prophecy, Victoria, BC: Trafford Publishing, 1998, p. 184.

[iii] The number 6 has continued to be prominent for me astrologically since I discovered the 6 pointed star pattern of the Harmonic Concordance in 1998.

Johnny Mirehiel is a 40-year student of spiritual, metaphysical and astrological ideas. Internationally known as the discoverer of the astrological chart of the Harmonic Concordance, he is a member of the San Diego chapter of NCGR and he has been accredited by The International College of Astrology as both an astrological practitioner and teacher. He now plies his trade in the high desert of Southern California.

by Johnny Mirehiel

Beware the Ides of March!
~ Julius Caesar, Act I, Sc ii

It was Shakespeare who coined the soothsayer’s infamous words of warning to Caesar on the fateful day of his assassination, more than two millennia ago. They may also apply to us too, now, with a slight twist:

Be Aware, this Ides of March!

I am reminded of another famous Shakespearian reference to astrology, when, later in scene ii, Cassius comments to fellow conspirator, Brutus:

“Men at some time are masters of their fates:
The fault, dear Brutus, is not in our stars, but in ourselves”

I might submit that, for we mere mortals at this Ides of March, the choice lies not within the stars, but within ourselves, that we may be masters of our fates.

Here is the astrological picture of the Southland’s stars this Ides of March:

No, we are not about to meet a tragic end, a la old Julie. However, what this Pisces New Moon does portend for us Southlanders is a significant moment of choice. To understand why, let’s begin with the symbol for Pisces. It is a representation of two fish swimming in different directions, connected by a starry strand. In most contemporary representations of the symbol the fish are depicted as swimming in different but parallel directions, many showing the connecting strand extending between either the fishes’ tails or, in some images, even their mouths.

Actually, the constellation shows that the fish are swimming perpendicularly to each other; one headed north, the other west at a 90° angle to each other. The starry strand which winds through the empty space between them comes together at a symbolic “knot’ marking the fork in the direction ofthe two fish.(see below) This New Moon presents us with a lunar cycle during which we may make a choice between which of these two Piscean wakes we wish to swim in.

The Pisces Stellium

The chart shows a cluster of five planets in the 8th house of our Southland’s chart. In addition to The Sun and Moon, at 25°, we find Uranus and Mercury at 26° in an ultra tight partile conjunction
to each other while also conjunct to the New Moon, and trailed by Jupiter at 13°, all in Pisces. Such an alignment is called a stellium. This particular gathering in Pisces at a New Moon suggests a concentration of much thought directed inwardly towards the center of our God consciousness.
In the 8th house, naturally governed by Scorpio (and Mars), our attention is directed to the deepest levels of Self, the purpose of which is to be able to clearly see those elements which we must discard so that we might
move, unencumbered, in either direction suggested by the Piscean fish.

A Tail of Two Fish

So who are these two fish swimming under the same sign and why are they so different in orientation and temperament? Well, in terms of their orientation, we might suppose that the two fish have entirely different objectives. The west swimming one, being at the end of the Zodiacal belt, swims towards the first degree of Aries in an attempt to complete that circle. In so doing, he closes on the ceaseless rounds of incarnation that the zodiac itself suggests.

His counterpart, the northerly swimming one, seems to be heading up, away and out of the wheel. This directional notation fits nicely with the seemingly other worldly association of Pisces. In this case, it suggests that the way to escape the Karmic round of interminable lives is to swim away from it, to steer clear of worldly concerns or towards the higher realms to which the Christ figure, so often associated with Pisces, beckons us.

Two Rulers, Two Faces

As you may know, Pisces is ruled by two planets: Jupiter, its ancient lord, and Neptune, its modern ruler. As a matter of fact, astrologer David McCann has referred to them as a “duet.” Perhaps a quick look at some
of the things that these rulers represent can more clearly illustrate my point.

One of the three modern planets which are considered “impersonal” or generational planets, Neptune was discovered in 1846. Astrologers have since come to associate it with the seas, idealism and compassion, religions, spirituality and mysticism, the mass media, creativity in art and music, extreme sensitivity, fantasy and imagination, or in other words, just about anything that’s hard to pin down.

But there is another side to this (sea) blue planet. Yes, it represents the seas, but ask any sailor and he will tell you that the sea can be a cruel mistress as the source of violent storms, typhoons and tsunamis (can you say, “Spanish Armada?”). Hospitals, prisons, and mental institutions, also under Neptune’s governorship, are hardly the happiest of places, nor are illusion, confusion, deception, alcoholism, drug addiction and escapism desirable conditions.

Jupiter, like Neptune, also has a twofold nature. This “king of the Gods” is most often depicted in astrological literature as the “Greater Benefic.” According to Rob Hand it is “…the planet that most signifies success and achievement, good luck and every conceivable benefit that life can offer…and has always been considered as the sign of positive results in every endeavor.” Indeed, the astrological literature is chock-a-block with praise for Jupiter’s beneficial effects.

However, while I am usually in agreement with the estimable Mr. Hand, I have personal experience of the other side of this energy. The very week that Jupiter was transiting conjunct to my Moon, my father died. While it was not terribly impactful for me (he and I had been estranged for quite a number of years), it did have a rather deleterious effect on my mother, (astrologically, the Moon) who suffered through an extended nervous breakdown as a result. Believe me, there was nothing beneficial about that. And remember too, that Jupiter is the god associated with the liberal use of lightening and thunderbolts.

The point here is that there are really two Piscean paths, the darker, destructive one associated with the westward swimming fish, and the lighter, more beneficial qualities connected to the one headed north. Because of the powerful effect of the five planet gathering in Pisces at the New Moon, this lunar cycle highlights the divergence in these paths.

Jupiter in Oriental Appearance

As a result of Jupiter’s inclusion in the stellium, he projects his influence on the moment in more than one way. In the first place, he is empowered by being in the sign of his rulership. To be in the sign of its rulership makes any planet feel at home. In feeling thus at ease, planets tend to express themselves without restraint. This can be for the good, or not.

According to the late Robert C. Jansky, the oriental planet, the one that rises across the eastern horizon (the astrological Ascendant) just before the Sun, gives a valuable clue as to what often motivates the subject of the chart to take some action. Michael R Meyer says it shows the practical channel through which solar will and vitality is expressed. In this chart the planet that would reach the Ascendant just before the Sun is Jupiter.

Jupiter expects us to face the situation optimistically and to take things as they come, with a philosophical frame of mind. He also gives us a certain “scope” of vision, generosity, keen judgment and a capacity for constructive self-awareness. This idea would be a perfect compliment to any naturally inward turning New Moon. In the moment of this lunar cycle Jupiter is fully capable of swimming down to the depths of our collective consciousness (Pisces) to find the substance of the needed awareness to focus on the inner path to enlightenment (the 8th house). Or it can produce an excess of its Jovian urge to expand, show his famous wrath or wield his famous lightening bolts.

Mars Awakens

Mars assumes an important role at this New Moon for several reasons. According to Wikipedia, first-century Hellenistic astrologer, Dorotheus of Sidon, considered Triplicity rulership the most powerful and demonstrable of the several essential dignities of a planet. Mars is the Triplicity ruler of the Water sign of Pisces. This is a rather technical way to say that Mars, now in Leo, an agreeable Fire sign, will be an important planet in shaping the fate suggested in this chart. After being restrained in retrograde for almost three months, he is now direct and raring for action. As usual, he will muscle his way into the conversation about how this lunar cycle will play out.

Secondly, in the chart for the Valentine New Moon we can see that Mars was running retrograde in Leo. According to Rob Tillett, Mars in Leo is usually fearless, independent, generous and honest in any dealings with others. Now that he is direct, we might expect a return to his usual fearless independence, especially as he sits so strongly in the first house of our Southland chart. This is important as it will give us a month in which we will see agitation towards one or the other of the two opposing paths offered by the Pisces New Moon. And Mars, the traditional ruler of the 8th house, is sure to urge us on to act on our choice, whichever it is.

Finally, although the software that I use to erect my charts, Solar Fire Gold, calls the planetary pattern found in this one “unclassified,” I see it differently. My friend, and contributor to my old Harmonic Concordance web site, John Townley, says, “[n]ot all charts fit easily into just one pattern.” Such is the case here. For me, the pattern is one that we have seen in several of the past New Moon charts called the Locomotive. In this case, Mars assumes a prominent role as the lead (first to the Ascendant) planet. Motivated, sometimes to the point of being overbearing, Mars is once again the leading planet in this pattern. We know that Mars is an aggressive, “can do” planet who wants action. This will be especially true for this chart in as much as he has just turned Direct on the 11th. Although not fully himself (he is still in a shadow period until mid-May), he has enough renewed energy to press the issue.

Saturn is STILL square to Pluto

And will be until Mid-June. Astrologer Jim Shawvan reminds us that during this period:

“…this combination is about as close as it comes to…a confrontation in the real world. Conflict of wills, and conflict of our human will with the nature of reality, take center stage. Don’t block the road – that bulldozer won’t slow down just because you’re in the way. This aspect is happening in the earliest degrees of Cardinal signs, which some astrologers call ‘the World Axis’ – and that means some of the huge changes coming up will be highly visible and will affect millions or even billions of people.”

The question raised by Jim here, for me at least, is just how the clash of these powerful forces will become “highly visible.”

The Mercury/Uranus Connection

Many of us like to think of ourselves as working on the path towards what I loosely refer to as “enlightenment.” One of the more significant characteristics of this enlightenment is our capacity to receive, interpret and translate the “broadcasts” of the Greater Consciousness that stands behind all of Creation.  Astrologically, to a large extent, this is the function of the interplay between Mercury and Uranus.

Mercury is traditionally associated with all forms of communication, analysis and perceptual understanding in the mundane sphere.  When functioning at its best it is stimulating, candid, open, and a clear voice of the expressive and creative flow of ideas.  Astrologer Robert Wilkinson refers to its androgynous energy, as “…the Magician who knows the hidden forces in Nature and matter.”

Uranus, which is commonly known as the higher octave planet of Mercury, stands as an apt partner for their “communication” at this New Moon.  While Mercury represents the creative flow of ideation in the mundane sphere, Uranus represents those same functions on the higher mind levels.  All of which is to say, as “octave planets,” that Mercury operates on the personal, physical and third dimensional plane while Uranus operates on a more universal, metaphysical, and higher dimensional level in matters of social and intellectual exchange.

Robert Pelletier’s classic, Planets in Aspect, describes the Mercury/Uranus conjunction as being “…bright, articulate, curious, intuitive…mentally courageous…[and] futuristic in attitude.” Being positioned in the exact same degree in this chart, Mercury, which really has little power of his own to make things happen, is ideally suited to fulfilling his role as the “hollow tube” through which the intuitive, courageous and futuristic “broadcasts of the Greater Consciousness” of Uranus can come to the surface of our awareness and so have an affect on the mundane affairs of the world.

Uranus is making a rapid departure from Pisces and will be into Aries before we know it, before the end of May as a matter of fact, only to return via a final Piscean retrograde to this exact degree (26° Pisces) on November 8th (the seventh anniversary of the Harmonic Concordance, BTW) where it will be stationary until January 2, 2011. In other words, Uranus will give us one final and rather long lasting opportunity to tune into his Piscean message of the transcendence and surrender of the self to the collective consciousness of the all.

A Most Relevant Sabian Symbol

If this one doesn’t draw your attention, nothing will. Our Aussie mate, Lynda Hill, has it as:

A New Moon Reveals THAT IT’S TIME FOR PEOPLE
TO GO AHEAD WITH THEIR DIFFERENT PROJECTS.

And Dane Rudhyar adds this as the “keynote” for the degree:

A keen appreciation of the value of individualized responses to any challenge of life.

Among Lynda’s keywords are: “people splitting up and splitting off” and “the beginning of a new age.”

Did anyone say something about two fish?

The New Moon and You

Once again, might I suggest that you place this very powerful New Moon chart on your own to see how it might play out and affect your experience. If you need a copy of your chart, may I direct you to our friends at the Astrolabe website who produce free and easily accessible charts.

And finally, for a quick reference to the area of your life which may be impacted by the eclipse, let me direct you attention to Annie Heese and Adam Banks’ tidy summary of the New Moon in the houses at Café Astrology.

Johnny Mirehiel is a 40-year student of spiritual, metaphysical and astrological ideas. Internationally known as the discoverer of the astrological chart of the Harmonic Concordance, he is a member of the San Diego chapter of NCGR and he has been accredited by The International College of Astrology as both an astrological practitioner and teacher. He now plies his trade in the high desert of Southern California.

Much more than an event created by Hallmark, Valentine’s Day is a celebration dating from ancient Rome where February 14th was designated as a holiday in honor of Juno, the Queen of the Roman Gods and Goddesses. The Romans also knew her as the Goddess of women, marriage and romance. This year’s Aquarius New Moon checks in within very near hailing distance of that date. As such, we might look at the Juno symbolism in the context of the energy presented to us in our Southland Valentine New Moon.

Perhaps you will remember that last month’s New Moon was accompanied by a close conjunction to Venus. There is a similar effect for this Valentine New Moon as Chiron and Neptune, the higher octave planet of Venus, are both within a 01° conjunction of the New Moon degree. This four planet dance can clearly be seen clustered in the Southland’s fifth house (above) where they are joined by a finally direct Mercury.

One of the significant fields of experience which the fifth house embodies is the expression of romance. Since all New Moons are the start of the moonthly cycle – the seed planting stage if you will, our attention in this chart is directed to the beginnings of romantic considerations, either within an absolutely initial stage, or in the re-commitment to an ongoing romance. The New Moon urges us to look within for that starting point. This internal quest is accompanied by Chiron, who ensures that, after a bit of a bumpy ride, the moment emerges on the surface as a romantic healing, one which, by its position in Aquarius which might best be served through group work. New friendships can go to deeper levels and Neptune, the Sea God, representing the deep unconscious as well as our spiritual qualities, brings the necessary depth and the “higher” element of our Love for and from Spirit to this communal Aquarian moment.

You might also note that the Asteroid Goddess Juno, herself, at 25° Aries, is in a very favorable, energetically creative and exact sextile (60°) aspect to the degree of the New Moon. And right along side of Juno is Eros, stationed at 26° Aries.  Aphrodite’s son, (now known to most of us as Cupid) was tasked by his Mother to shoot mortals of her choosing with his magic Love arrows. Juno, that Goddess energy of women, marriage and romance, also enhances the already supportive and spiritually healing Chiron/Neptune conjunction, and Eros is in the perfect position to send his darts of Love into the heart of this Aquarian stellium.

Sounds very nice, huh? Well, under normal circumstances, I’d be jumping up and down with excitement, telling those of you not in a relationship to run out and grab the first guy or girl on the street and prepare for a really good time. But not so fast. This is Aquarius we’re talking about here.

While Aquarius is the sign of fellowship, friendship and the idealized brotherhood of Man, on a personal level, and as the stage setter for a moonth, it is not quite so friendly as it sounds. Considering the planets which rule this 11th sign, Saturn and Uranus, one might expect that the turf (read: sign) which they govern might not be such a comfortable location for the introspective New Moon. On the other hand, and to borrow a phrase,if a New Moon can make it here, it can make it anywhere.

Prior to the discovery of Uranus, and for some time following, Aquarius was ruled by Saturn; not exactly the friendliest of next door neighbors. Saturn was NOT the first “King of the Gods.” That status belonged to the “Sky God,” Ouranos. However, this first Father God had this one flaw: he ate his children (out of fear that one of them would one day replace him). His wife, Gaia, the mother of the devoured “Godlings,” hatched a plot to dispose of him. And the son she chose to castrate, depose and then replace his father as King? Why it was none other than Saturn. A real stellar pair, huh?

Together, Saturn and Uranus impart a decent measure of cold aloofness to Aquarius. Adding to this is the fact that this very different Uranus, unlike every other planet, rotates around the Sun on its side inclined at a 90° angle. Strange. Uranus is nothing if not different. Is there any wonder that there is a natural disconnect between head and heart that occurs in Aquarius, which is perhaps the most “intellectual” of the intellectual Air Signs?

Speaking of Uranus, up there near the 3 o’clock position, at 24° Pisces,it is completely unaspected, meaning that as far as the other planets are concerned, they can’t hear Uranian energy, nor can they help rein in his wilder side. The Uranus energy (eccentric, radical and/or divinely inspired change) is not plugged into or in communication with any other planet. In other words, it’s like a loose cannon. If I didn’t know better, I’d look for a rash of “Love at First Sight” happenings.

Venus and Jupiter

It was only a few days after the last New Moon, on January 18th, that Jupiter made its first crossing into Pisces. His Piscean energies were enhanced when, less than three weeks later, on the 12th, he was joined there by Venus. The fast applying conjunction between Venus and Jupiter is a definite blessing in this chart. Known classically as the greater and lesser Benefics, they are more often than not the harbingers of good things. One of the characteristics of Venus is the element of passional love, while Jupiter often brings expansion to the things it touches. In Pisces, they are both operating at very high levels, Venus being exalted there and Jupiter as this sign’s traditional ruler.

In any kind of a chart a Venus/Jupiter conjunction shows optimism, generosity, an appreciation of beauty and a good sense of humor. This conjunction in Pisces, and especially in our Southland where it falls in the 6th house, asks us answer to its directive to serve. The blessing of loving kindness and compassion so beautifully expressed in Pisces may now find an outward expression through our service to our fellow Man.

Mercury and Mars

Add to this mix a burst of Martian testosterone expressing itself through the opposition between Mars and Mercury. This very dynamic pair can also be very argumentative, which may lead to sloppy thinking that fails to look deeply enough into the details of the moment at hand. Considering the context, it would be wise for those of you who embark on a romantic Valentine’s weekend with a new lover to be wary of an affair that is “too hot not to cool down.”

It would also be wise to remember that Mars remains the lead planet in this chart’s Locomotive pattern, in much the same way as he was last month when I wrote: “…that it’s his energy that drives this moment to become self-actualized. And he’s just bursting with energy, being a Fire planet in a Fire sign (Leo).” That message holds true in this chart with the exception that adding Mercury to the mix will make him want to tell everyone about it.

The Sensitive Mars/Uranus midpoint

Perhaps the most sensitive point in this chart is the Mars/Uranus mid-point at 29°30″ Taurus/Scorpio. In the first place, this degree lies mid-way between the two encompassing planets in the Locomotive pattern which automatically brings it to attention. Secondly, it is the mid point between two “Malefics,” Mars and Uranus; one might say, smack dab in the middle of the proverbial “rock and a hard place.” Thirdly, I would ask you to consider the individually volatile status of both of those planets in this chart. I mention this as a caution to those with a planet or sensitive point at those degrees in their charts. With the opposition from Mercury helping set Mars off (often found in “accident charts”), were I you, I might not stray too far from home this weekend.

Saturn and Pluto

The tight, long term square between Saturn in Libra and Pluto in Capricorn continues to be in effect in this chart. Known as the Lord of Karma and the Lord of Death respectively, when these two powerhouses conflict with each other they sound a background chord of a struggle to re-shape the world in which we live. This struggle might not be seen as “to the death,” because Pluto happens to be in Capricorn, the sign ruled by Saturn, in a sense, softening that blow. But the cycle does coincide with major shifts in the global landscape as an outmoded structure is replaced with something new. Of course, the Old (Saturn) doesn’t really want to change or transform (Pluto), so this is seldom a time of smooth
transitions.

For the individual, there is often an internal shift that creates a new way of seeing the world, perhaps creating the necessity to let go of something so that transformation can occur. Our personal challenges will force us to face those issues that aren’t working in alignment with our deeply held values. In this context it might be understood that entering into or reshaping an emotional involvement is an appropriate undertaking sometime during this long lasting transit, which will be in effect until late August of this year.

When is a Yod not a Yod

A word about the two non-yod patterns that appear in this chart. A so-called Yod is formed when there are two planets, 60° apart from each other, each pointing towards a single planet 150° away from both. (Note: 60°+150°+150°=360°) In much astrological literature the Yod is referred to as a “Finger of God” pattern, implying that the chart’s “owner” is somehow endowed with a forward moving, driving force pointed to accomplishment, as indicated by the planet “on point.” In such a case the individual is driven to action with no moment of indecision.

In this chart we see two such apparent Yod patterns. (Mars in Leo Sextile [60°] Saturn in Libra, both Inconjunct [150°] to Venus/Jupiter in Pisces.) The second pseudo-yod is between Pluto in Capricorn, which is approximately 60° from Venus in Pisces, while Pluto and Venus are both Inconjunct [150°] to Mars. Look carefully at the chart above and you may be able to discern the two patterns.

The problem is that in neither of these two patterns is the “heavier” or slower moving plant the one that occupies the “point.” One of my early teachers, the irascible Al Morrison, was very insistent that for the energy of a yod to work the energy of the two planets at the “base” positions must flow toward the point planet.

According to Morrison, the Quincunx (150°) energy naturally flows from the faster to the slower planet. Therefore, the Yod, which is made up of two Quincunxes must follow the same rule. In doing so, the “true” yod provides quick, decisive and uncompromising thought.

A Quick Look at the Sabians

26 Aquarius: A Garage Man Testing a Car’s Battery with a Hydrometer. Dane Rudhyar gives the following for his “keynote” for this degree:

Skill in applying Knowledge of natural laws to the solution of everyday
problems resulting from life in our technological society.

Simply, we must apply our mind, knowledge and discernment to the situation at hand.

And as usual, please allow me to direct you to my pal Lynda Hill’s excellent page on the Sabians for this New Moon.

Again, if you do not know your own chart and would like to see which house is most likely to be affected by this New Moon, might I once again recommend Astrolabe’s quick, easy and accurate chart calculation page. Having a copy of your own chart will enable you to see which house this Valentine New Moon, or any other set of transits, appears in your chart for a suggestion of how you might best employ its energy.

In Summary

Take the time during this New Moon, perhaps in meditation, to look at the ways in which your heart and your head can work together to activate the LOVER WITHIN, so that you may find the love of another and for yourself.

And a Final Note…

to say thank you to my outstanding wife, partner and friend, Jan, for giving me the 10 best years of my life. Happy Anniversary, sweetheart.

Johnny Mirehiel is a 40-year student of spiritual, metaphysical and astrological ideas. Internationally known as the discoverer of the astrological chart of the Harmonic Concordance, he is a member of the San Diego chapter of NCGR and he has been accredited by The International College of Astrology as both an astrological practitioner and teacher. He now plies his trade in the high desert of Southern California.

Eclipses in Capricorn:
The Buck Stops Here
by April Elliott Kent

I took a short vacation over the holidays that included a near-total news blackout. My only source of information was through my friends’ Facebook postings, which is how I learned about the failed pants-bombing attempt on Christmas Day. When I tuned into NPR a full ten days later, this was still the top headline and comprised the majority of the news coverage. Between rolling my eyes (get back to me when you’ve got something new to report on the situation, media!) and dialing to the local jazz station, I overheard President Obama’s invocation of Harry S. Truman’s famous declaration of presidential responsibility: “The buck stops here!”, itself a riff on the concept of passing the buck (passing blame onto others).

Because I’m an astrologer born just one day after Obama, I’m intimately familiar with his chart and know at any
given time exactly what planetary activity he’s up against. And because I’m an astrologer who is especially interested in eclipses, my ears pricked up at that particular quotation – because in it, I heard the upcoming Solar Eclipse in
Capricorn (January 15, 2010) preparing to fall precisely on Obama’s natal Saturn.

In my Moonshadow Eclipse Report, I describe eclipses in aspect to natal Saturn, in part, like this:

The buck stops here! This cycle often leaves you feeling pushed up against a very solid wall, blocked and frustrated at every turn, and feeling victimized. With eclipses in aspect to natal Saturn, the key is to determine where your responsibility truly lies in a given situation, and then accept it – but don’t accept a scintilla more or less of the praise or blame than you deserve.

Saturn describes the universal rule that says you create your own reality. If you refuse to accept your responsibility for authoring your current situation, someone else will likely come along and make you do it, blaming you for a lot of stuff that really isn’t your fault; nothing gets you clearer about what really is your responsibility!

That bit about responsibility sticks in some people’s craws. But I don’t mean to suggest that the awful things that happen to you are a function of your nasty karma or your failure to think positively enough. Rather, I consider Saturn’s message empowering, not punitive. The very word “responsible” implies that you are able to respond. Nowhere in that word will you find the concept of “blame.” Responsibility is not about assigning blame, either to yourself or others; rather, it’s about finding the most useful way to frame a given situation, and to accurately assess the ways in which you are able to respond to its challenges and opportunities.

This year, with two eclipses falling in worldly Capricorn (Solar Eclipse January 15, Lunar Eclipse June 26), ruled by Saturn, I suppose all of us are, to some extent, grappling with the question, “Are you living the life you want to live?” And whether the answer is yes or no, the buck ultimately stops with you.

Let’s put on our magical time-travel beanie for a moment and check in with yourself at age six. Ask this kid, “What do you want to be when you grow up?” and see what kind of reply you receive. You probably didn’t have a precise idea of where you would end up – most likely, your answer was drawn from the relatively shallow pool of possibilities that you saw around you – but from those choices you probably selected the one that seemed most interesting and involving.

Regardless of your life circumstances at that age, it’s likely that it was the most secure you will ever feel in your life. Assuming the norm – that a kid’s food and shelter are supplied by someone else – your only job was to perform well in school, do your chores, and prepare for the future. The possibilities you could imagine were limited, but your freedom to choose from them was vast. As you got older and farther along the path, and your responsibilities grew, did your direction in life grow clearer, or become clouded by fear, obligation, and limitation?

It’s not necessarily a bad thing if you didn’t realize your childhood dream of becoming a rock star, an astronaut, or a doctor. Maybe you found other dreams that have filled you with joy – dreams that had nothing at all to do with a career, and everything to do with building a home, family, and sense of belonging to your community.

Wherever you ended up, it’s natural to occasionally experience doubts and insecurity about the choices you’ve made. Often, the ability to experience these feelings is the first step to making new, more satisfying choices.

Eclipses falling in Capricorn mark a critical juncture at which you realize what you want to become is in direct conflict with the support structure you’ve built for your life. Basically, it’s time for a renovation. Imagine your life as a modest bungalow. It has everything you need – but let’s face it, a little extra closet space would be nice. Perhaps you’d like to build a second story with a master suite and walk-in closet – but in order to do this, you’ll first need to reinforce the foundation.

Similarly, your challenge this year lies in finding where you are able to respond – identifying ways to reinforce the structure of your life so that it will support you in achieving your new goals, without destroying the foundation on which your dreams are built.

© 2009 April Elliott Kent
All rights reserved

April Elliott Kent is an astrologer and writer whose work has appeared in The Mountain Astrologer magazine and on AOL Horoscopes and Mooncircles.com. Her book Star Guide to Weddings was published in 2008 by Llewellyn Worldwide. Her website is www.bigskyastrology.com.

Let’s start with this New Moon chart itself. 3° of Scorpio is rising indicating a “young” Scorpionic world view. Indeed, the Sabian symbol for this degree reinforces that notion: A youth carries a lighted candle in a devotional ritual. This implies an energy that, while willing to look beneath surface issues, is not necessarily equipped to delve too deeply into them, in spite of the Sagittarian call of the Sun, Moon and Venus to seek the truth at all costs.

The 2nd house placement of the two “Lights” along with Venus, our brightest “star,” usually emphasizes the importance of our finances and resources. However, on a deeper level, it speaks directly to the core values which underpin our financial needs. It suggests, therefore, that we should ensure that our values are based in truth. In securing such, we can support the bonds of deep affection that the Scorpio ascendant proposes for this “moonth.”

Another point of interest in this moonth’s New Moon is that there are NO Retrograde planets in it. This is a highly unusual occurrence has been in effect since December 1st and will continue through the 20th. According to the work of the late John McCormick, we can expect to see no Retrogrades in fewer than 8% of all charts. Applying this circumstance to this New Moon chart, it forecasts a “moonth” in which we will see the rapid development of things that have been previously been set in motion.

Three Recurring Astrological Signatures

As the final New Moon of the year this moonth contains three recurring astrological signatures which carry over from last month’s.

1. the Bucket pattern with Mars as the lead planet,
2. the Saturn to Pluto Square that continues to hold its shape and intensity, and
3. the ongoing Jupiter/Chiron/Neptune conjunction in Aquarius.

This Moon’s “Bucket” pattern continues to carry the energy of a social and/or intellectual problem needing to be solved, in an exceptionally practical manner. With Mars as the lead planet, ruling war, military men, fires and disputes of all kinds, and appearing in the 10th house of the government, ruling powers, society and the public in general, we might expect to see some kind of “hot” confrontation break out into the open.

The Saturn/Pluto square (from 03° Libra to 02° Capricorn) continues to suggest the clash between the immovable object vs. the unrelenting force.  This combination is a powerful one that forces us (Square) to face up to hard truths (Saturn) and let go of anything that is holding us back (Pluto) so that transformation can occur. In regards to mundane affairs, the Square continues to insure that the issue of our nation’s involvement in Afghanistan will remain on the front burner. For all the apparent good that President Obama has seemed to bring, he is committing this country to yet another quagmire which is destined to remain a sore point for the immediate future, at least, as this Square will hold sway, through Saturn’s Retrograde, well into next summer.

In regards to the ongoing triple conjunction of Chiron, Jupiter and Neptune, I refer to my friend and Chiron whiz, Joyce Mason, who says:

I believe this transit simply hollers healing, merging in a positive way, and big blessings. In the sign of Aquarius, networking and community are the context. We have finally discovered that we’re all in this world together and how to make the most of it. I call the triple conjunction an Aquarian Sandwich—Neptune and Jupiter are the bread, Chiron is the filling.

What’s New?

Letting these themes represent the background circumstances which will permeate the moonth, I would like to look at some outstanding astro-events which fall under the shadow of this New Moon: They are:

1. Mercury begins its direct-shadow period on December 19th. It will remain Retrograde in effect until its post-Retrograde shadow ends on January 27th (see this article for an explication of Mercury in its guise as “The Wretch during his rather ugly Retrograde days).
2. Mars reaches its Retrograde Station on the 21^st at 5:27 am, at 19°41’ of Leo, and within 5 hours of:
3. The Winter Solstice on December 21, at 9:47 am (see this chart set at Washington, DC)
4. And then, on New Year’s Eve, there is a Lunar Eclipse.

Now that’s quite an interesting line-up, all occurring in just over two weeks and setting the stage for a unique set of mundane circumstances, an altered environment and a new YOU to emerge in 2010. Are you ready for the ride?

The Retrograde Mercury is always problematic. As experience has taught us, although the actual Retrograde doesn’t begin until December 26th at 2:40 pm, that when it enters its shadow period¹ at 2:25 am on December 19th, the Retrograde effect does actually begin. During Mercury retrograde weeks thinking either somehow lacks clarity or it is turned inwards, becoming introverted.  In the outer world, while Mercury is retrograde, familiar channels of communication become tangled and confused. In this case, the normally seriously minded Mercury in Capricorn becomes even more so. On the bright side, it also offers the opportunity to review documents or ideas that previously failed. And coming as it does in the weeks just prior to the New Year, it can give us a chance to reconsider all those failed New Years resolutions from years past or to take a new approach to them.

The fact that Mars turns Retrograde, just some four hours before the Solstice is interesting. It means that the normal Martian energies of assertiveness, aggression, ambition, competitiveness, courage and overt sexuality will naturally be checked ² and turn inward during the run of its Retrograde period. It’s a while before He gets back up to his old combative ways – not until March 26th of 2010. While it may not be as easy as usual to get things done during this period, and we may not be terribly clear about our desires and goals, when Mars is Retrograde, its’ excited, active energy becomes covert and calculating and its usual motives are hidden. However, there is the chance that an inwardly turned, outward-bound energy, such as Mars usually displays, can become toxic! But a Mars Retrograde is not all bad. Positively, it can give you a chance to think before acting, to assess your motives and aggression before reacting, allowing you to find your inner demons and send them packing before they do any serious damage to your life.

And then, also falling under the umbrella of the New Moon, are the Winter Solstice and the New Year’s Eve Lunar Eclipse:

The Winter Solstice

Astrologically speaking, the new year begins, not on January 1st, but rather at the Winter Solstice. This year that date is December 21st. It marks the year’s turning point, the precise moment when the Sun stops in its southerly movement, as seen against the backdrop of the Zodiacal Belt, and turns northward to begin its climb in the sky, gradually increasing its daylight time above the horizon.

It has always been my standard practice to look at the Solstice chart as it would fall on my own in order to see what the year ahead might look like for me. Invariably and correctly it points to the field of experience, as represented by the House(s), which will be active in the coming year. However, the standard practice in Mundane astrology is to look at the Solstice chart for the country in which one lives to see what general influences will be active for the nation. For those of us in America this is commonly done by casting the Solstice chart for Washington, DC.

In Mundane astrology The Sun represents a country’s President, King, Prime Minister, Chancellor or ruling despot. We can often tell how successful or unsuccessful he or she will be from the strength or debilitation of the Sun as it is aspected by the other planets in that chart. We may also be able to see how the rest of the world will see us in this year by looking at the way the other planets fall
into that chart and affect the Sun.

Unfortunately for our President, things do not look too brilliant. He will be under attack from a conservative bureaucracy and infrastructure (the Square from Saturn) which will successfully attempt to control him nationally, while in regards to foreign affairs (7th house) he can expect opposition, delays, international conflict and even out and out war. For his part, the President (Sun conjunct to Pluto) will attempt to call upon his own political, business, financial and perhaps even underworld (undercover) connections, to counter this inevitable confrontation.

He does have strong emotional support and might even be able to bring healing to the situation through the offices of the 11th house position of the Moon/Jupiter/Neptune/Chiron planetary picture. The Part of Fortune in the 3rd house tells us that he will once again be able to effectively use his well known ability to communicate his message by broadcasting an appeal to the nation’s highest goals (the 11th house triple conjunction) of democracy and individual freedoms (Aquarius). He also has the energy and will to act on what he sees are creative solutions (Mars in the 5th) for the nations Ills. No doubt though, it will be a hard, up hill slog for him.

The New Year’s Eve Eclipse

I dwell on this Solstice in Washington chart for a specific reason though: the pattern and planetary house placements are much the same for the Washington Solstice chart as they are for us under the Lunar Eclipse here in the Southland.

The implication here is that we may be able to perceive the outcome will be for us this year by watching how things play out in Washington for the President. By-and-large, the way things work out for us will be presaged by how things work out for Mr. Obama and the nation. Seems reasonable, I know, but more true in some years than others.

As a matter if fact though, there are two major shifts from the Solstice
chart to our Southland Eclipse chart:

1. the Moon has moved from the 11th house to the 4th, and
2. Uranus has, at long last, reached that dreaded 23° of Pisces.

The moon in the 4th house is at home as at home can be. It rules there and rules the sign governing the 4th, Cancer, as well. It projects a congress that, for once, might actually act in accordance with the popular opinion and actually work for securing our basic needs. At long last Health Care?

Also, by its shift from the 11th to the 4th, it has changed to chart Pattern from a “Locomotive” to a “See Saw.” The implication here is that there will be a tendency to act, in a world of conflict, “under consideration of opposing views or through sensitiveness to contrasting and antagonistic possibilities.” ³

This can only be to the good. And about time too! Not to dump water on anyone’s parade, I must in all good conscious, allude to that degree of Pisces as “the degree of sorrow.” Now before anyone leaps from a tall building, let me say that it has been my experience that it is disappointment which accompanies that degree much more so than any out and out “sorrow.” And being that it is Uranus which is at that point, we can safely say that it will be a sudden and unexpected turn of events. So if at all possible, stay in for this New Year Eve’s celebration, or at the very least have an emotionally secure designated driver.

Using this information for yourself

In your personal horoscope, the house in which the New Moon occurs indicates the area of your life that will be highlighted for the coming month. The effect of the New Moon lasts until the next New Moon, approximately four weeks.

If you know your own chart, take a look at where the Solstice chart sits on it. The house in which it falls will suggest the area of life experience (house) that will be prominent for you this year. There are several places on the net where you can get a copy of your chart if you know the date, time and place of your birth. My favorite is Alabe.com

Do please check into Lynda Hill’s notepad pages for her update to the Sabian Symbols for this month.

And finally, Jan and I would like to wish each and every one of you the very best for this holiday season. We look forward to having you back next year.

Blessed Be,
Johnny

NOTES

¹Its daily motion falls below +1° per day.

²Actually, Mars, like Mercury, and every other planet and system body for that matter, has a “shadow period.” Such phases may be discernable by its daily motion as it approaches a Retrograde period, and in its acceleration after it turns direct again.  in the case of Mars, a reasonable estimation of these shadow periods is based upon the speed of ±00° 10’.  This translates to approximately 15 days on either side of the Retrograde and adds some 30 days to the already lengthy 80 days “sub-rosa” stay for Mars, meaning that Martian activity can be expected to be muted for more than 3 ½ months all toll.

³Jones, Marc Edmund, The Guide to Horoscope Interpretation, The Theosophical Publishing House, Wheaton, IL: 1972, p. 91.

The New Moon in Scorpio is out of this world.  Potent to begin with, this passionate and instinctual New Moon is tightly trine the Uranus/Juno conjunction in Pisces, aspects which speak of opening up a radical awakening of a new way of being in partnership and commitment that may become enduring across time.  Any New Moon is a time to begin things.  Here, it impacts the Uranus/Juno conjunction in spiritually oriented Pisces, representing the sudden and unexpected in relationships.  We may be drawn to a new or very unusual partnership, seek excursions into other, more spiritual, dimensions or look for a re-definition of our roles within an already committed relationship in ways that allow more personal freedom and individuality.

The reference to partnership is also noteworthy due to the very recent (10/29) entry of Saturn into Libra, the sign most associated with partnerships, and the sign of its exaltation.  It marks the start of a two and a half year period in which it is possible to create a partnership, either intimate or business oriented, that is built to stand the test of time.   On the other hand, Saturn will eliminate any partnership with feet of clay.

It is also significant that this is the first New Moon in 27 years, almost to the day, during which Saturn is in Libra.  The chart for that New Moon (11/15/1982) showed a tighter than one degree conjunction between Saturn and Pluto.  Worth mentioning about this is the fact that during the month of November, 1982, the old Soviet Union began its invasion of Afghanistan.  Now, as this column goes to press, and while Saturn is making a “partile” (exact by degree) Square to Pluto, it is the President of the United States who is contemplating sending thousands more troops to that same country.  The more things change, the more they remain the same.

Squares Dancing

Notable too is the presence of no less than eight squares (90° angles) between the planets: the Sun and Moon each square Jupiter, Chiron and Neptune, Venus squares Mars and finally there’s that aforementioned Saturn in partile square to Pluto.  The general interpretation of a square is that it denotes an obstacle of some sort, although many Astrologers often refer to the square as “The Aspect of Manifestation” because the obstacles in our lives are designed to make us active in the pursuit our growth.

The squares to the Aquarius stellium of Jupiter, Chiron and Neptune are also suggestive of an impulse towards the manifestation of the “healing” properties of those planets, which in turn are linked very strongly to spirit and the spiritual realms and their healing possibilities.  If there were ever a time to connect the spiritual with the instinctual, in partnership, this is it.  Take note of deep feelings and say goodbye to whatever feels out of place so that you may create the space to attract things more suitable to who you are.  The trick is to be patient in refusing all that is not appropriate, and to welcome that which is.  It’s Instinct meets Vision meets Inspiration and Freedom, all offering an opportunity to create that sacred relationship – use it or lose it.

The Saturn square to Pluto represents a clash between the immovable object and. the unrelenting force.  Here is a battle between two planetary heavyweights.  Squares are gear grinds, producing either a braking action, a release, or a rounding of a corner.  With this so very tight square (4 minutes from exactitude) coming during the New Moon the moment is ripe for a new turn of events.

Pluto in Capricorn will want to change or dissolve structures it deems unsound, to stealthily delve deeply in into what is currently in place and from there to undermine what it sees as unnecessary.  But Saturn, champion of the status quo, in Libra, makes it difficult to overthrow relationships that are already in place.  Indeed, it will want to crystallize relationships and work hard at creating the structures through which a relationship can flourish and deepen.

Inevitably, therefore, when we look back on this lengthy Saturn/Pluto square (it actually has been in effect from the end of October through the beginning of April and then will be again from the beginning of August until early September), we will see it as having been one of significant, if uncomfortable change.  But change nevertheless.

However, as British astrologer Tony Vowles notes on his Astrology Blog, Libra and Capricorn:

“…do have some things in common – they are both cardinal signs (signs that generate action and movement).  They are also both interested in quality, in things being correct and being presented in the correct manner.  In other words, image is important.  Finance is also an area of commonality for them and points to further difficulty and news in regards to the current global financial crises.  We have been seeing a propensity for keeping up appearances, suggesting that everything is ok, and a disinclination to show the mess beneath the surface.”

This Scorpio New Moon suggests that something that has hitherto been a hidden “mess” will eventually break through to the surface.  Therefore, we will have to look elsewhere for relief.

Finally there’s the Venus applying square to Mars.  Adding this passionate, emotional transit to the already deeply passionate and emotional Scorpio New Moon may seem like throwing gasoline on a burning bonfire, propelling you into that proverbial “too hot not to cool down” relationship that we’ve all heard about.  This Venus/Mars combination often manifests as the conflict that arises from differences between romantic and sexual needs.  It may, however, be just the right ingredient to prompt you into pursuing an important vocation or creative hobby.  In any event, this highly physical energy can be very tricky as you attempt to get the right balance between what you want and what will suit others.   In the end it will be a time to air hostilities and seek responsible understanding.

The Locomotive Chart Pattern

Speaking of Mars, it is interesting to note that it is the leading planet in what Marc Edmund Jones identified as the “Locomotive” pattern.  According to Jones, this pattern indicates a “…a lack or a need, of a problem to be solved, a task to be achieved in the social and intellectual world [and a] self-driving individuality [that] exhibits a dynamic and exceptionally practical capacity.”  In Jones’ view then, Mars would be the one planet vital in the analysis of this chart.  Positioned in the eighth house in our Southland chart, Mars supports the Scorpio New Moon as Scorpio is that house’s natural ruler and Mars is the traditional ruler of Scorpio.  Here, Mars wants to lead the action, especially with its Leo flair for showmanship, and that action is directed to the resources available through, once again, partnerships.

As suggested before, this Scorpio New Moon chart points to a moment of spiritual depth.  This too is all the more reinforced by the 8h house Mars in as much as in spiritual terms the eighth represents the “doorway” into spiritual consciousness.  And this is the direction in which this Mars would lead us if we were but willing to enter there, especially within the auspices of a New Moon meditation.

New Moon in the Eleventh House

For us in the Southland, the New Moon occurs in the eleventh house.  This is the sector associated with networking, making contact, group activities, income earned from business and, most importantly, with our highest goals and aspirations.  In this latter sense, it represents those associates who we have chosen to help us attain those highest goals.  In metaphysical terms it corresponds to our “soul group,” those who we are meant to connect with both in physical form and in the spirit world.  With the New Moon here, focus is on making contacts and reaching out to others in the spiritual, social and/or professional sense.  Heightened awareness of your position in life within the context of the group, rather than through self-centered focus, is attainable with this position of the New Moon.  Goals that involve networking, making connections with others, joining or strengthening ties in a group project/activity, and nurturing good will are the focus this “moonth.”

An Out of Bounds Moon

Our psychic nature is in rhythm with two important Moon cycles: the familiar lunar phases, and a second cycle – the up/down or North/South movement defined in terms of declination or distance from the celestial equator.

This month’s New Moon is also rather unique in as much as it is the first one this year in which it is “Out of Bounds” (OOB).  This term refers to the Sun’s annual movement which sets the “boundaries” of the Zodiac from the Tropic of Capricorn (23 deg South 26 min) at the Winter Solstice, to the Tropic of Cancer (23North26) at the Summer Solstice. While the Sun always moves within these boundaries, the Moon and the planets can, but rarely do, move “Out of Bounds.”

When the Moon is Out of Bounds we experience more latitude imaginatively and creatively.  When the Moon is Out of Bounds, South of the celestial equator, it is “in the underworld.”  This is a good time to go beneath the surface of things, to do in depth research, change habits or renovate the inner world.  It marks a period of time when we may experience emotional challenges relating to any area of life where we are being blocked or where we are hiding something from ourselves.  Long held secrets may be revealed – intentionally or inadvertently – when the Moon is Out of Bounds South.

When the New Moon is “riding low,” as it is here, our inner world is illuminated and the unconscious is energized so individual, group, and global patterns of thought are brought to awareness and may be reformulated.  This is of particular significance during this psychically rich New Moon in Scorpio, also known as Lunar Samhain, making it a great time to be still and tune into higher wisdom.  Traditionally, this is time to relinquish the hold of the past year, to let go of all the things that you want to discard and to open yourself to the vision of how you want the New Year to be.   With no lunar light and the Scorpio New Moon OOB South, the veil between worlds is at its most crossable, making all kinds of spirit communication possible, allowing us to turn our “vision” inward, to take a look around the personal interior, and ponder realms we can’t see with our eyes.

The Sabian Symbol for this New Moon

This is an incredibly perceptive new Moon, not just because it is in Scorpio (which is enough in itself) but because so many of the Symbols speak of getting below the surface of what’s going on.  This New Moon is very much about digging; emotionally, mentally and spiritually.  The Sabian Symbol is Scorpio 25: An X-Ray Photograph Helps With The Diagnosis.  This speaks of penetrating insight piercing through external appearances, pure understanding, incredible insight and revelations.

In closing, may I direct your attention to Lynda Hill’s page which delves into the symbology of this degree as well as another thorough look at its portents for the month?   Linda’s work is always impressive and informative.

See ya next time
Johnny