Sun into Capricorn, Change Taking Root

Snow covered cars stranded on white roads in the Midwest, icy tree limbs buckled across frigid streets in the Northeast and even a roaring fireplace to stave off the unusual cold here in Los Angeles herald the onset of winter.  Though the Solstice is still a few days away, on December 21st at 4:04A.M. PST, the annual pull inward into stillness is at hand.  And given that the Sun’s journey through somber Capricorn marks the ending and the beginning of the year and the return of Light, some quiet reflection on the past and the future is wise.  What have we learned during the past year?  What will we create in 2009?   Capricorn offers ambition, pragmatism and stamina, and this year six planets will gather in this cardinal earth sign.  We have a rare opportunity to experience the fullness of this enterprising dedicated energy and to harness its industrious and long-ranging powers.  

December 27th offers a new moon at 4:22A.M. PST and is the day on which six planets will meet in Capricorn.  This is an extraordinary day for contemplation, prayers or ritual for what we want to see manifest in the short and long term.  Remember that now that Pluto is in Capricorn our deepest drives and dreams can meet reality, or reality checks.  This Pluto cycle is 15 years long, so the plans you activate internally or externally at this time can have very long lasting effects.  Assisting this down to earth magic will be Capricorn’s ruler Saturn in fellow earth sign Virgo.  

While the hefty economic changes the world has undergone since this Saturn transit began in September of 2007 may have given it a bad rap, it has been such a crucial and necessary journey.  This has been an exceptional time to get our business in order, to learn money lessons and to consider the impact of our materialism.  And in case we have more to understand or refine, Saturn goes retrograde December 31st through May 16th.  We’re going over the facts and figures, and the books, thoroughly, one more time.  By the time Saturn goes direct we should begin to see the light at the end of this economic downturn tunnel, and 2009 will see Saturn move into Libra in late October. In the meantime, with Pluto now firmly lodged in Capricorn, and Mercury (January 1st) and Jupiter (January 5th) heading into humanitarian-minded, innovative Aquarius where they will join spiritual Neptune and healing Chiron, the higher good that these sea changes are ushering in is in evidence. 

Have you ever turned on the “news” and wondered what entity could possibly describe our world with such vulgarity and distortion?  You’ve likely tuned out the unyielding stream of war, human depravity, suffering and division.  You’re not alone.  Last week the Tribune Company, owner of 12 major daily newspapers and 23 television stations, filled for bankruptcy.  The story behind the story is that on a very large scale, we the people are rejecting this appalling and unbalanced view of ourselves and our lives.  We’ve migrated to the Net, to our social networks, to images of hope, help and connectivity.  And have you been noting the appointments to the incoming Obama cabinet?  This will be the greenest administration in U.S. history, and it will be greeted by a welcoming world eager to heal the planet.  While the fount of fear and violence was being turned off, European leaders were formally embracing the 2020 initiative.  This is a comprehensive plan to obtain 20% of all energy from renewable sources by the year 2020.  

The moon is full on January 10th and the first of 2009’s four Mercury retrogrades begins on January 11th, lasting through the 31st.  The Sun enters Aquarius January 19th and Inauguration Day is of course on January 20th.  Why do I bring this up now?  Because now is the time to begin thinking about the future.  No doubt our world is experiencing colossal changes.  We voted for change.  Our consciousness is our key and our compass for navigating these peacefully.  Are you clinging to an outmoded paradigm or shifting with the tide?  Some believe that a Divine hand paints our world, much like an artist with a canvas.  On Inauguration Day trickster Mercury, ruler of thoughts, dips back into Capricorn, the sign it is in as we begin this winter.  Much like commissioned artists of a bygone era who put little jokes into their work for amusement, Spirit paints Mercury into our current sober scene, asking us to think about what’s going on in our daily lives and in our wider world, and to begin designing balanced paths for ourselves and our planet.  And if we honor winter’s call to look within, these awesome and honest Capricorn energies will help us begin bringing harmonious visions into reality.

The Astrology of the 2008 Election: The Election of Change

Hello,

This article was co-written by my very talented colleague Astrologer C.A. Brooks. She is one of the newest additions to our prestigious staff, and I had the pleasure of meeting her when I visited Denver last month. During an exhausting week that saw my sweet and dear cat Boris both turn 14-years-old and become terribly ill again, one too many drama trips in my home and other assorted upheaval, I cannot put into words what a touch a grace C.A.'s eloquence, kindness and appreciation were. It was such a pleasure to write with her and I look forward to doing so again soon. This article is dedicated with love to change.

The Election of CHANGE
(C A Brooks, Elizabeth Pendleton)
 
                It’s no wonder each of the top presidential candidates in the U.S. 2008 election has adopted the slogan “Change”.  Historic planetary aspects are taking both on Election Day itself and in the broader background leading up to and following this momentous day.  From the Spring of 1964 through 1966 Saturn had a series of oppositions to Uranus.  In short hand, Saturn represents tradition and structure while Uranus challenges the status quo.  These two powerful outer planets begin their next series of oppositions on November 4th.
 
                Both Virgo and Pisces are mutable signs which are known for their ability to see more than one side of a situation.  Mutable signs tend to break apart or dissolve the fixed energy of the signs preceding them (Leo and Aquarius in this scenario) and paving the way for the new energy of the cardinal signs to follow (Libra and Aries). In a nutshell, the mutable signs represent Change.
 
                At its best, Saturn represents maturity, wisdom learned through experience, self-knowledge leading to self-discipline and accepting responsibility for our lives and our choices.  At its worst, Saturn feels like external rules and regulations, structure, and oppression – the ultimate outside authority constricting our lives.  Without periodic and sober reflection it is true, the structures we create and accept in our lives can become outdated and cease to function as originally intended.  
 
                Sitting on the other end of the astrological teeter totter is Uranus, the rule breaker, representing rebellion, the independence and sometimes genius of adolescence, and forever the seeker of change, the novel and the new.  This rebel is all too willing to challenge the status quo, fly in the face of convention, and force us to reevaluate every value we hold dear whether we want to or not.
 
                The tension of these two forces in opposition to each other is easily recognizable in the campaigns dominating this election.  While it would be totally unfair and unrealistic to characterize either candidate as representing just one end of this continuum, as we step back and view the “stage” we see the action taking place.  The John McCain critics accuse him of being “too old and crotchety, out of touch” and wanting to use all the old methods and structures for solving problems (Saturn).  The critics of Barack Obama claim he is “too inexperienced, too radical and even dangerous – palling around with terrorists” (Uranus).  McCain’s campaign encourages him to draw to his strengths by highlighting his experience, and long history of serving his country (Saturn) while cautioning him to avoid emotional outbursts and “erratic” exclamations and behavior (Uranus).  Meanwhile Obama’s advisors encourage him to demonstrate calm and assertive leadership (Saturn) and avoid getting “rattled” (Uranus).
 
                As usual the truth is usually found in the middle ground. This is actually an exciting, if uncomfortable time.  Both planets are change makers in their own ways.  Saturn likes to clear the clutter – anything deemed not useful or functional and set up new boundaries and rules.  Uranus is usually flashier – wants to create some chaos, fight the establishment, and break things apart – which may be warranted at times.  Uranus change is not the soothing predictable and slow evolution like the tides moving in and out.
 
                And just like the election is not the end, but rather the beginning of something new, the storm (or is it fun?) of this planetary oppositional pairing is far from complete.   Over the next two years the two planets will each move along in their designated courses, both continuing their dance of opposition as each planet moves in both forward and retrograde motions. In fact the two will be in direct opposition in February and September of 2009, and in April of 2010.  If we have done our homework – examined our lives, our beliefs and been open to new information, the July opposition in Aries and Libra will allow us to give birth to something new.  No doubt we will see the fruit of our labors as a country as well.
 
                While Saturn and Uranus may have the greatest influence on Election Day itself, Saturn, Jupiter and Pluto are also set to play important roles in the shapes of things to come during the next Administration. 
 
                                Beginning on September 2, 2007 Saturn entered Virgo which is when stories of the current mortgage crisis began to surface.  Saturn’s stern and sober review of the books coupled with earth sign Virgo’s relentless attention to detail will continue to leave no stone unturned in the world of financial affairs through October 29, 2009 when Saturn enters Libra.  Saturn in its highest aspect is one of life’s greatest teachers.  It gives sound structure to realistic goals, provides consistent strength and encouragement to worthwhile endeavors and rewards work well-done.  But it will not tolerate sloth and dishonesty.  That the fatal flaws of a financial boom built on unhealthy lending practices fueled by unprecedented greed from the bottom up are having a serious reality check now is no surprise.  Saturn simply won’t stand for cooking the books nor self-indulgence.  Add Virgo’s meticulous approach to life, particularly the material world, and its devotion to service, and the irregularities and faults of our economic system will continue to be exposed.   Saturn will demand that the next President help us get our fiscal houses in order, personally and nationally.
 
                Also making the economy the ultimate focus this election year has been the planet of Jupiter in Capricorn which began back in January.  Capricorn is an earth sign ruled by Saturn.  So our national examination of the financial facts and real value of assets has been subject to this second heavy dose of reality.  In January 2009 Jupiter will move into  humanitarian minded Aquarius.  Under the right leadership, this is an excellent aspect for political change that serves the common good.  An example of how this could manifest would be government spending on infrastructure improvements and tax incentives for investments in green technologies.
 
                But the most subtle yet significant aspect of all in the 2008 election is Pluto’s movement into Capricorn in late November, a trend that will last until March of 2023.  The last time Pluto went through Capricorn was 1762 to 1778.   One only needs to recall the Tea Taxes of the early 1760’s and resulting American Revolution to understand the powerful implications of this placement.  In short, it is a generational opportunity to reshape business, government and our other major institutions under Capricorn’s no-nonsense vigilance. The good news about this ambitious sign is that he gives us both realism and the stamina for long-term goals. He is not interested in being an overnight sensation. And given the magnitude of the problems we now face, his endurance, pragmatism and willingness to roll his sleeves up to do what needs to be done are well-timed.   So, as we can see, the consequences of our selection on November 4th are profound and far-reaching.  2008 is indeed a time of “Change”.

Sun into Scorpio: Tide of Profound Change

As we journey into this year’s Scorpio season, the pressure of the building Mars square of Neptune on November 3-4 and more significantly, Saturn’s opposition to Uranus, on Election Day mounts. Tradition is being confronted by a push for revolutionary change, illusions of security are giving way on a daily basis to new realities and we may often feel we are walking a tightrope with hope at one end and a staggering abyss of fear beneath us. With a nation’s future direction hanging in the delicate balance and historic economic changes afoot, these are to say the least exciting times we’re living through. Halloween’s familiar procession of ghosts, skeletons, and annual reminders of death may be a little more unnerving than usual in 2008. But really, would intensity seeking Scorpio have it any other way?

According to author and astrologer Mark Husson, November boasts 2008’s largest group of planets changing signs in one month. Add Neptune turning direct on November 1st, which will snap a whole other set of misconceptions into reality, and the only certainty in the days ahead is change. The Sun enters under-worldly Scorpio on October 22nd at 6:09 P.M. PST, and the new moon in Scorpio begins on October 28th at 3:14 P.M. PST. Mercury delves into the dark Scorpion depths on November 4th where it is joined by provocative Mars who will be in the heat of a battle with newly realigned Neptune. But the astrological blockbuster is on Election Day when stern conventional Saturn in Virgo will be in exact and direct opposition to radical rebellious Uranus in Pisces (Virgo’s opposite sign). This is the event that is most responsible for the deep sense of dramatic change permeating our lives collectively and individually.

What this Scorpio cycle urges us to do is to wholly embrace these transformational energies by living our lives based on what we “feel” the most deeply and strongly. That can be a tall order amidst these sea changes. So here are some ideas for restoring a sense of calm and centerness. Attune to the 10.10.10 vibration. 2008 in numerology equals ten, which breaks down to one, a symbol of new beginnings. And in the tenth month of October we have three 10.10.10 alignments, on the 10th, 19th and 28th. Lightworkers around the world are holding special mediations on these days to assist our planet with its new alignment to higher frequencies and vibrations of Light. Connecting with this group energetic of peaceful renewal can give one a profound sense of well-being. Work with the crystal Chrysocolla. This blue-green stone is renowned for instilling a great sense of inner strength, dispelling negative energies and restoring our energy systems to a tranquil state, especially in the midst of seeming chaos. Call upon the Angels. Azrael, Raquel and your guardian Angels are here to assist you through times of change. And if you’d like a little extra support from the Angels, be sure to leave your prayers at the 12Angel Prayer Board. I have the privilege of co-moderating this very special and loving space on November 1st and 8th.
But you can leave your prayers there anonymously at any time.



As the saying goes, when one door closes, a window opens. The same could be said of Scorpio. He just doesn’t like saying it in such a flowery manner. But his scare tactics are only here to compel us to live more fully. His obsession with death is a mirror of Truth about our lives, one he absolutely relishes in holding up to us. Are we living our Soul’s Contract? Are we doing what we really came here to do? When you contemplate those questions honestly, fear and resistance give way to understanding and a renewed sense of purpose. Things that appear to be losses are suddenly seen as the proverbial blessings in disguise or needed reforms they truly are. So the new, even if only in the form of awareness, is born. And that, is the gift of our dark magical friend Scorpio.

To that end, here are some births to be celebrated this November. 12Listen turns two-years-old, 12Angel turns one, Souls Journey Radio, a new metaphysical web-based radio network, will launch and Cristof, a very gifted healer and workmate of mine. has a birthday. Being a Leo, I certainly can’t resist an invitation to a party. So my contribution to the festivities will be a free detailed astrology report with every reading of ten minutes or longer during this year’s cycle of Scorpio (October 22 - November 21, 2008). Other launches are in the works and I’ll be blogging about those very shortly. But while we’re still in October, be sure to take advantage of our Saturday sidewalk sales when all readings are on sale from 1-6 P.M. PST. Next week look for a special edition article about the Astrology of Election Day 2008 that I’m co-writing with one of our newest Astrologers C.A.. That piece will detail the astrology influencing the candidates and the election. Finally, be sure to come trick-or-treating at 12Listen.com and 12Angel.com on Halloween to find out what goodies we have in store.

And because this is my blog, I’ll leave you with a Tim McGraw lyric that underscores my sentiments about this momentous time we’re sharing.

Live Like You Were Dying

He said: "I was in my early forties,
"With a lot of life before me,
"An' a moment came that stopped me on a dime.
"I spent most of the next days,
"Looking at the x-rays,
"An' talking 'bout the options an' talkin’ ‘bout sweet time."
I asked him when it sank in,
That this might really be the real end?
How’s it hit you when you get that kind of news?
Man whatcha do?

An' he said: "I went sky diving, I went rocky mountain climbing,
"I went two point seven seconds on a bull named Fu Man Chu.
"And I loved deeper and I spoke sweeter,
"And I gave forgiveness I'd been denying."
An' he said: "Some day, I hope you get the chance,
"To live like you were dyin'."

He said "I was finally the husband,
"That most the time I wasn’t.
"An' I became a friend a friend would like to have.
"And all of a sudden goin' fishin’,
"Wasn’t such an imposition,
"And I went three times that year I lost my Dad.
"Well, I finally read the Good Book,
"And I took a good long hard look,
"At what I'd do if I could do it all again,
"And then:

"I went sky diving, I went rocky mountain climbing,
"I went two point seven seconds on a bull named Fu Man Chu.
"And I loved deeper and I spoke sweeter,
"And I gave forgiveness I'd been denying."
An' he said: "Some day, I hope you get the chance,
"To live like you were dyin'."

Like tomorrow was a gift,
And you got eternity,
To think about what you’d do with it.
An' what did you do with it?
An' what can I do with it?
An' what would I do with it?

"Sky diving, I went rocky mountain climbing,
"I went two point seven seconds on a bull named Fu Man Chu.
"And then I loved deeper and I spoke sweeter,
"And I watched Blue Eagle as it was flyin'."
An' he said: "Some day, I hope you get the chance,
"To live like you were dyin'."

"To live like you were dyin'."
"To live like you were dyin'."
"To live like you were dyin'."
"To live like you were dyin'."

Sun into Cancer: Going with the Cosmic Flow with Love

Remarkable as it is to realize, we are nearly halfway through 2008. On June 20th the Sun shifts into Cancer, marking the Summer Solstice. Presently the large outer planets Jupiter, Neptune and Pluto are retrograde, and on June 27th Uranus joins them. The Sun, Venus and Mercury are all heading out of the intense mental energy of air sign Gemini into watery Cancer. Planetary fireworks are around the corner with August’s eclipses (the 1st and 16th), and tangible options are being made ready to manifest once the Sun moves into earthy Virgo and Jupiter and Pluto turn direct in early September. This year’s passage of the Sun through intuitive and nurturing Cancer is our Cosmic opportunity to chill. Introspection, reflection and ease are the order of the days to come. In embracing the energies and insights of the forthcoming conditions, we are very likely to access the pearls of personal wisdom that will inform the eventful times to follow. Relax and receive.

First, on the significance of so many of the influential outer planets being retrograde simultaneously, most people understand retrogrades through their experience with Mercury, who can be quite the prankster with gadgets and timetables when he goes backwards. He goes direct on June 19th, and fortunately for all of us, having most of the powerful outer planets retrograde for the next several months does not mean that we are going to have to keep rescheduling appointments, replacing tech toys and leaving voicemail messages. Each of these planets has its own unique attributes and they are quite different from those of familiar Mercury. The pertinent aspect of retrograde energy that will be helpful to keep in mind is that it pertains to a time of review. We get to go over things. The retrogrades of the immense outer planets suggest that it will be the big picture aspects of life that we deal with at this time. Fellow heavy weight and taskmaster Saturn, though direct, will also contribute amply to this no stone left unturned process because it is moving through meticulous Virgo. For the resistant and impatient, this could prove to be a very challenging time. For the openhearted and receptive, the “answers” will be generously given. These truths will be empowering and will create a profound sense of peace. Issues that may have been troubling us for months can be laid to rest, for good. And decisions taken at this time can come with the greatest serenity. This is why listening to one’s inner knowing with trust and openness during the Sun’s journey through caregiving Cancer is so important. The path to tranquility and joy can truly be revealed to us.



On August 1st we begin the next set of eclipses. While these will be especially significant for Leos and Aquarians, they alter things for all of us. Eclipses shed light. And this time, as the Sun will be in attention-demanding Leo, the realities they illuminate will simply be impossible to ignore. If we allow our deeper wisdom to emerge during this season of Cancer, the eclipse energies can be harnessed and directed in support of our intentions and Purpose, so long as those are in alignment with the Higher Heart and Divine Will. On September 7th generous Jupiter, still in pragmatic Capricorn, will go direct, and on September 8th Pluto, now in spiritually sensitive Pisces, will also go direct, enabling some of those bigger pieces of the puzzle to fall into place in the physical plane. So as we initiate this summer season with Cardinal Cancer, know that cosmic reality checks will continue as often as the solutions to problems will appear.

Earlier this Spring, through her work with author and teacher Eckhart Tolle, Oprah laid some solid groundwork in the collective cultural conscience for the days on the horizon. For ten weeks she and Tolle taught millions of people throughout the planet how to experience and practice more presence. Whether you participated in the online event or read “A New Earth” is not important, though they are excellent resources. What this cycle of Cancer offers us is the opportunity to practice the awareness of presence and to experience its gifts. In this deeply loving, healing and intuitive sign, we can get to the heart of all matters and align ourselves with Divine Guidance and Purpose. Dive in!