This eclipse will mainly affect those with planets or angles (ascendant, descendant, IC and midheaven) between 9 and 19 degrees in the mutable signs (Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius and Pisces). 

You may also be affected if you have planets at 30 degrees (semi-sextile), 45 degrees (semi-square), 60 degrees (sextile), 120 degrees (trine), or 150 degrees (inconjunct) from 14 degrees Sagittarius or Gemini.  However, the effect will most likely not be as dramatic with these aspects.

Moon Opposing the Sun/Venus Conjunction

There is an inherent tug of war in all oppositions.  A lunar eclipse will always point out conflicts between the head and the heart.  Here, with the Moon in Sagittarius, there is a need for deep reflection and understanding, perhaps on a spiritual level.  The Sun in Gemini wants more facts, more information, more stimulation, but doesn’t really want to take the time to understand anything on a deep level. 

The Moon’s opposition to Venus asks you to reconcile the difference between the external appearance and the inner, emotional knowing.  Also, are your deep, emotional needs in tune with the value system you are using?  The Moon shows what we need emotionally, while Venus reflects our values.  It is very easy to get caught up in the values of the external world to the extent that we ignore our own inner voice.

Venus Transiting the Face of the Sun

On June 5, 2012, immediately after the eclipse, the Earth, Venus and the Sun will be conjunct  at 15 degrees Gemini and we will be able to see Venus crossing the face of the sun in silhouette.  These unique Venus transits come in pairs eight years apart, but the pairs only occur every 100-plus years.  The last time this happened was in June 2004. The next one will occur in the year 2117. 

This adds considerable Venusian energy to the eclipse dynamics.  Though it is happening a day after the eclipse, it is still very strong.  With Venus retrograde, relationship dynamics are under considerable strain. 

Sun and Moon Square Mars in Virgo

Though this eclipse is somewhat mild compared to others, there could be definite upsets in the area of relationships.  The Moon and Venus rule women and the Sun and Mars are masculine.  Mars in Virgo square the Gemini Sun and Sagittarius Moon could bring angry, picky fights, with emotional hurt feelings and with neither partner taking the time to understand the other.  My best advice would be to avoid hasty words and quick, biting retorts during this eclipse period.

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Historical Information of Saros Series 14 South

The May 20, 2012 eclipse belongs to the Saros Series 14 South.  Every eclipse belongs to a “series.”  The eclipse that started this series occurred on August 29, 984 A.D. An eclipse carrying the signature of Saros 14 South will occur every 18 years. 

The original eclipse featured Jupiter on the midpoint of the new Moon/Pluto, with the new Moon on the midpoint of Mercury/Pluto and also on the midpoint of Mars/Saturn.  A planet on the midpoint of two other planets acts like a conjunction, combining the energy of all three planets. It is important to understand the planetary energy from the eclipse that started this Saros Series, because the energy carries over into the present eclipse as an overlay. 

Planetary Contacts of the May 20, 2012 Solar Eclipse

The current, May 20, 2012, eclipse sun and moon fall at zero degrees Gemini and are square Neptune in Pisces at 03 degrees.  Gemini’s ruler, Mercury is at 22 degrees Taurus conjunct Jupiter.  In addition, the eclipse falls on the fixed star Alcyone, which is at zero degrees Gemini in the Pleiades star cluster. 

This solar eclipse will especially impact those with planets at early degrees of the mutable signs (Gemini, Virgo, Pisces and Sagittarius).  Because the eclipse is at zero degrees, it will also impact those who have planets around 27 to 30 degrees of the preceding fixed signs (Taurus, Leo, Scorpio and Aquarius).  In addition, those with planets around 22 degrees of Taurus may feel some effect, especially as it relates to communication and/or earning money from some sort of communication.

How the May 20, 2012 Solar Eclipse Will Affect You

We must first start with the energy from the original eclipse of Saros 14 South:  Because of the Jupiter contact (expansion) with the New Moon (fresh start) and Pluto (power), this eclipse family tends to bring success after a period of hard work (Saturn contact).  The Moon-Mercury-Pluto contact brings the possibility of an obsessive (Pluto) idea (Mercury) finally being accepted (Jupiter).  During this eclipse, pushing for your ideas (even ones that have been ignored over and over) could bring an eventual breakthrough.  For instance, now is the time to rework that resume or business proposal and present it once again to finally have it noticed. 

Some caution is in order because of Mars in combination with Pluto.  Push too hard and you could have a case of “immovable object meets the brick wall” (Pluto) with overtones of anger (Mars) and even violence (Pluto).

Both solar and lunar eclipses denote a time of change.  Every solar eclipse falls on a new moon, so every solar eclipse is about starting something new and beginning a time of growth.  However, in order to start something new we must give up that which is no longer working for us.  This is where the pain often comes in.  For instance, a relationship that is no longer working must either be completely rejuvenated and rebuilt (Pluto) or it must be left behind to make room for a new relationship (new Moon).

Because the eclipse falls in Gemini, there is a very big emphasis on communication.  You are being called to communicate in a new way.  The way you have been communicating in the past may not be working.  Or, maybe you need to put more emphasis on communicating.  For those of you with a strong Gemini/Sagittarius emphasis in your chart—it may be time to go to the next level with your communication skills (writing, speaking, teaching, publishing, etc.).  Gemini’s ruler, Mercury (communication), at 22 degrees Taurus (a money and security sign) conjunct Jupiter (expansion) also gives the green light to such activities. The planetary wind is at your back and will help you along to the degree that you are willing to give up the habits or thoughts that have held you back.

The eclipse sun and moon are square Neptune at 3 degrees Pisces.  With a square to Neptune (illusion, delusion) things may not be as they seem.  Be especially aware of self deception and of others who want to deceive you.  Be sure that your anti-virus software and your computer firewall are working. Drug and alcohol use is most definitely not advised at this time. However, it is an especially good time to meditate and to get in touch with your spiritual side. 

The eclipse conjunct the fixed star Alcyone in the Pleiades cautions you to only be concerned about your own progress­, ­­­ not what others are or are not doing.  The story of the Pleiades is a story of seven sisters who were in competition with one another to the extent that it brought the downfall of all of them.  It also speaks to letting go of our attachment to the people, places, or situations that have passed from our lives and to move on and to forge better and stronger bonds in a new way.  For instance if you are still emotionally (Moon) tied to a relationship that ended a long time ago, now is an excellent time to let go of it and to move on (Alcyone).

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Obviously, the days around the eclipse are not a good time to hold important discussions, especially those in which hurt feelings or righteous anger could result. 

It is much better to use this time to become aware of your own truth to yourself.  Many of you are going through rather difficult Pluto transits (deep transformation) that often involve loss of all your carefully built structures such as jobs, relationships and a clear sense of self.  Though Pluto transits can be devastating, they are useful in getting rid of those things in our life that no longer serve us or that have served their purpose.  

This lunar eclipse is an excellent time to deeply consider how you wish to rebuild the structure of your life.  That is, what worked in the past but no longer works?  What can I salvage and what should I let go of.  What would I really like my life to look like now and in the future?  How can I take baby steps toward that life? 

Need ideas on how to make your life better?  This lunar eclipse highlighting the Gemini/Sagittarius axis is ideal for finding new inspiration.  Spend some time meditating on new ideas.  When Mercury becomes direct after December 14^th you can begin to try these new ideas and to put the good ones into action. 

New Years eve will be a powerful time when Mercury transits over the eclipse point of 18 degrees Sagittarius.  When an eclipse point is activated by a transit the power of that planet is added to the eclipse dynamics.  In this case, it is an even stronger emphasis on communication and truth.  However, on New Year’s eve Mercury is direct, not retrograde as it was previously.  It is time to put your ideas into action. 

Remember that square of the December 10 lunar eclipse to transiting Mars?  By December 31, 2011, Mars is partile (within one degree) of an exact square of the eclipse point.  It would be wise to continue to watch your words and actions so that you do not stir up unnecessary trouble.  However, the good news of a Mars square is that you will be challenged to put your ideas into action.  Good ideas along with action can go a long way to propel you toward your goals!

The November 25 Solar Eclipse falls at 02:36 degrees of Sagittarius with a polarity to 02:36 Gemini. This eclipse belongs to Saros Series 14 North, which started on April 29, 1074, with strong Neptune/Saturn and Venus/Uranus/Neptune energy. That first Saros 14 North eclipse brought in a time of great confusion (Neptune) and unexpected (Uranus), sometimes daunting energy (Saturn), which affected personal relationships (Venus) among other things. For those of you who have read my previous eclipse articles, you know that the energy around an eclipse at its beginning (that is on April 29, 1074) must be blended with the energy of the current eclipse.

The current eclipse continues the Neptune and Uranus energy. The Sun and Moon are square Neptune, Mars, and Chiron and inconjunct Jupiter and trine Uranus. The Moon is also parallel the North Node by declination. This eclipse continues the somewhat confusing energy started at the first Saros series (Neptune) and has a bit of unexpected, wild card energy (Uranus). However, it also has a spirit of optimism because the eclipse takes place in Sagittarius, which is ruled by Jupiter, the planet of optimism and abundance.

The Sabian symbol for the eclipse degree, “Two Men Playing Chess,” gives helpful clues about how to navigate this eclipse. Before, I explain that symbology, let’s first break down the planetary energy:

• Sun/Moon square Neptune – This eclipse aspect highlights our dreams and our psychic abilities but also can bring confusion, delusion and illusion. A very positive outcome can be had by really tuning into our dreams and by being aware of synchronicities and messages from our subconscious. The trick is to be aware of the danger of self delusion and to be on guard against delusion toward us from others. Read the fine print and remember that “if its too good to be true” it probably isn’t true.

• Sun/Moon square Mars – We may be more prone to anger and angry outbursts. The positive way to handle this powerful square to Mars is to transmute our anger into positive actions. What a wonderful time this would be to start an exercise program!

• Mars square Neptune – A Mars/Neptune square could bring a lot of anger around others’ perceived misdeeds; or it could bring a sort of free floating anger/anxiety with no known cause. A good use of this energy is to convert it into action towards something that will help humanity (even in a very, very small way).

• Sun/Moon square Chiron – What hurts and unhealthy habits have we been hanging to that are making our life challenging? Chiron is an asteroid that brings the message that disease, dysfunction and disorder, are our teachers. Chiron has a special affinity to Mars (see above Mars aspects). This is a good time to heal ourselves by using our Mars energy in a more positive way.

• Sun/Moon inconjunct Jupiter – An inconjunct aspect (150 degrees) is like a constant friction. It feels like something needs to be fixed, but we can’t seem to fix it. We need to think about this one in more detail. The Sun and Moon are in Sagittarius. Remember that Sagittarius is ruled by Jupiter. So here we have Jupiter energy causing friction to Jupiter. The Sun and Moon are called the “lights” because they shine light on everything. This aspect is asking us to shine light on our problems and frictions in order to reap the benefits of the positive side of Jupiter. Similarly, we must be aware of the negative side of Jupiter which is out-of-control expansion with no regard to the outcome. Think of the housing boom and bust – a very Jupiterian phenomena.

• Sun/Moon trine Uranus – Here the planet of freedom, individuality and revolution is highlighted in a flowing trine. Ask yourself, “where do I need to break away from that which is confining me.” Just remember that the confinement is often self imposed. It is also important to be aware of the Mars square mentioned above. You could be very prone to break away from something in a fit of anger that you would later regret.

Okay, back to the Sabian symbol, “Two Men Playing Chess,” and how it can be used to navigate the eclipse. Good chess players concentrate and plan their moves carefully. Even so, sudden upsets are common in the game. Competition can get out of hand and escalate causing angry feelings. Therefore to navigate this eclipse in the best possible way:

• Think before you act.

• Flow with any upsets, tomorrow is another day.

• Monitor any angry feelings. Is the target of your anger really the cause?

• Think positively, but be aware that ungrounded, out of control optimism can be detrimental.

• Assert your need for freedom and individuality if you feel it is appropriate, but do it carefully and mindfully.

• Above all, keep your focus on the big picture. Will your actions bring you toward your long-term goals or will they only bring temporary gratification?

I highly recommend a more in-depth, personal reading Schedule an Astrology Reading or call me at (720) 362-3305.

I encourage you to leave a comment by posting your comment in the comment box immediately below this article. Though, I will not be able to respond to all of your comments, I will reply to as many as I can.

The early summer season promises to be quite eventful. It starts with the forward motion of Saturn on July 13, 2011 after its 4-1/1 month retrograde journey from 17 degrees Libra back to 10 degrees Libra. Saturn at 10 degrees Libra will make a square aspect (challenge) to the Sun/Moon eclipse conjunction at 9 degrees Cancer. In addition, the eclipse Sun and Moon are in square aspect to Uranus and in an opposition aspect to Pluto. These orbs (the difference in degree between two planets placement) are quite tight, which gives the eclipse added power.

Picture the Sun and Moon having a party. They have invited some very heavy hitting guests–Pluto, Saturn and Uranus. Actually looking closer, its probably not a party, but a business meeting held in the home (eclipse in Cancer)—a business meeting where each of the parties are challenging each other and each wants to be heard. The Sun and Moon seated at one end of the table are listening to everyone forcefully present their needs and trying to make sense of it all. Let’s take a look to determine what is really going on at this “business meeting.”

The Sun is the active, life giving light that represents a purposeful, directed and proud being. Let’s picture him setting at the head of the table. Next to him is the Moon, the light that contains our deepest personal needs, our intuitive, sentimental, introspective side. She doesn’t seem to be as strong as her partner, the sun, but her subconscious is very powerful. She gets things done through the emotions and uses her intuition to make sense of things.

At the far end of the table dark Pluto sits retrograde in Capricorn (opposition to the eclipse). He is all about control and transformation. Capricorn is about business, career and public appearances. Pluto reveals secrets and wants transformation at any cost. He is intense and has extreme will power.

Uranus at 4 degrees Aries is to the left of the eclipse. Uranus is a wild card ready to act, possibly in a volatile way. He says, “freedom is everything.” “Let’s just do something!” His hair is standing up and his eyes are a little wide. He is volatile, but inventive, and sudden change is his signature.

Dour Saturn at 10 degrees Libra is sitting 90 degrees (square) to the left of the eclipse. Saturn is careful and limiting. Work is his mantra. “Let’s slow down, work harder, keep our nose to the grindstone. We don’t want to jump to any conclusions.” He is the authority. Can you see how he would challenge the control that Pluto is wielding? Can you see how he is in opposition to everything that Uranus stands for? Oh my!

What are the Sun and Moon to do? They are sitting right in the middle of a grand square with the other very powerful planets. The Sun exerts considerable power but certainly has some powerful voices to contend with. The Moon may get moody or emotional and will make a heartfelt appeal to the other powerful guests. She will use her intuition to solve the puzzle and may change things several times.

The above was a quite whimsical way of explaining the eclipse dynamics, but there is a lot of truth to this silly little story. This eclipse is all about challenges toward bringing the warring parts of ourselves into alignment through a sometimes arduous process of self transformation.

This eclipse will set off some powerful energy that will raise conflicting needs. Emotions will run high, but they may not always be visible. Challenges abound. But as the Sabian symbol implies, we and our life’s work are like a diamond in the rough. Through the challenging energy of the eclipse we are being called to use the planetary energy to make our life the best possible. The planets are giving clues about navigating the energy of the eclipse:

Sun – stay purposeful, be yourself and appreciate yourself.

Moon – use your intuition and heart to guide you toward what you want.

Saturn – keep working hard, even when things are discouraging.

Pluto – use your will power to let go or transform what is no longer serving you.

Uranus – use your inventive mind and never be afraid of change or of being different.

I highly recommend a more in-depth, personal reading  Schedule an Astrology Reading or call me at (720) 362-3305.

I encourage you to leave a comment by posting your comment in the comment box immediately below this article. Though, I will not be able to respond to all of your comments, I will reply to a few.

The June 15, 2011 Full Moon Lunar Eclipse Calls for a “Letting Go” of Something

The June 15, 2011 Lunar Eclipse on the Sagittarius Moon/Gemini Sun axis brings an emotional time, possibly having to do with endings of some kind. The Moon is about change and she is often a trigger to set things in motion that have been “lounging in the wings” waiting for a call to action. Additionally, with the Moon in the shadow of the Earth feelings from the subconscious and unconscious are often brought to the surface for us to look at. Emotions and concerns that have been ignored for oh-so-long, will fight their way out of the darkness to be heard. It is time to examine what has been hidden. Time to examine and sort the people, things, and emotional attachments in your life. Are they positive or negative? Can they be changed? The tighter we hold on to the outworn aspects of our life the less room there is to allow new empowering energy to come in.

The June 15, 2011 Lunar Eclipse Calls for a Deepening of Communication

This June 15 lunar eclipse positions the Sun conjunct the South Node in Gemini. The South Node always pertains to the past in some way. It highlights those things that once served us but no longer are of benefit. Thus, the South Node conjunct the Sun in Gemini points to ways of thinking and communicating that are no longer serving us as they should. Gemini energy is fast thinking, fast talking, and multi-tasking with a sometimes rather superficial gathering of facts. A somewhat exaggerated saying with a grain of truth is that a Gemini “never met a piece of information that he/she didn’t love.” The downfall to this frantic gathering of information is that the brain becomes weary and the stress level sky rockets.

The Moon is conjunct the North Node in Sagittarius. This is an indication that it is time to channel our mental activities into a higher spiritual or philosophical purpose. It could indicate an advanced study such as college or foreign travel. However it manifests, the remedy is to channel the thinking into a purpose and strategy.

The June 15, 2011 Lunar Eclipse May Bring Someone Into Your Life

On a mundane level if the Sun/South Node eclipse conjunction falls on one of your personal planets (Sun, Moon, Mercury, Venus or Mars) you could have someone from the past re-enter your life. This person could embody the characteristics of Gemini. That is, he or she may love to share ideas and may be great communicator.

The Moon/North Node conjunction in Sagittarius could bring someone new into your life. That person will stimulate you to question the bigger questions of life or they may be a teacher to you in some way.

Summary of the Meaning of This Sagittarian Full Moon Lunar Eclipse

Bringing the above ideas together, we have the theme of change (Moon) and communication (Gemini) and the need to let go of that which is no longer serving us (Moon). We also have the theme of a deepening of our thoughts in a more purposeful, focused way (Gemini Sun opposing the Sagittarius Moon).

Because each of your charts are different, this lunar eclipse will affect you in different ways. The essential meaning I have given will need to be blended with the house in which the eclipse falls. The houses that the eclipse falls in will point out the areas of your life that will be affected. You will also need to consider the planets it contacts. Also, I have not delineated the aspects the Sun and Moon make to other planets on the day of the eclipse. All of these are vitally important. Just remember to add the theme of the need to release those things that are no longer serving you. Then, add the theme of communication brought to a higher level to any of the other meanings that show up in your own chart.

Hopefully, that will give you some ideas of how this eclipse will relate to you personally.

I highly recommend a more in-depth, personal reading  Schedule an Astrology Reading or call me at (720) 362-3305.

I encourage you to leave a comment by posting your comment in the comment box immediately below this article. Though, I will not be able to respond to all of your comments, I will reply to a few.

This blockage of the Sun by the Moon can only occur when the transiting Moon is within a certain orb (distance in degrees) of the North or South Node. Thus a partial solar eclipse can only occur when the new Moon is within 15 degrees 21 minutes of the degree of the North or South Node. A total solar eclipse can only occur when the new Moon is within 0 degrees and 9 degrees 55 minutes of either Node. Because the new Moon is at 11 degrees Gemini and the South Node is at 24 degrees Gemini the Moon and the South Node are approximately 13 degrees apart. This is within orb for a partial solar eclipse but too far apart for a total solar eclipse.

This June 1 partial solar eclipse is part of the Saros 13 Old South series of solar eclipses that feature a Jupiter/New Moon conjunction and Mars on the midpoint of New Moon/Saturn as part of its signature energy. That is, it carries this energy as part of its essence. This old, carried-forward energy then combines with the energy of the current transiting New Moon in Gemini trine Saturn retrograde in Libra and square Chiron and Neptune in Pisces.

What does all of this mean to you? Let’s put it all together.

• Jupiter (from the old Saros series) conjunct the eclipse new moon/sun carries a spirit of optimism regarding something new. A time to start something in a spirit of optimism with a possible happy outcome.

• Mars (from the old Saros series) on the New Moon/Saturn midpoint brings emotional feelings of inhibition or inferiority, but can also provide the desire to overcome difficulties and the stamina to see a tiresome project through to the end if sufficient self control is applied.

• Saturn now retrograde in Libra forms a close trine to the eclipse in Gemini. This aspect will bring form and structure to any changes that we implement at this time.

• The Moon/Sun duo squares Chiron and Neptune in Pisces. At the time of the eclipse there may be some confusion or you may have trouble sorting out your thoughts (Neptune). However, it is a great time to meditate on any desired changes. A clear mind (Gemini) is essential for bringing about the moon changes indicated by the eclipse. The Sun/Moon square to Chiron urges you to dare to express your individuality, which can bring great healing to your psyche.

• The moon is always about change. The New Moon relates to starting something new–a new project, job, relationship, etc. The New Moon in Gemini specifically relates to those matters having to do with communication. That is, writing, speaking, emailing, etc.

• The New Moon trine Saturn retrograde in Libra lets us know that we are supported by easy energy (trine) as we put a foundation (Saturn) under our new ideas. Also, because Saturn is retrograde we will be supported in resurrecting an old idea or project and trying to bring it to fruition in a new or novel way. Once Saturn turns direct after June 12 we will be able to move forward with gusto on any change implemented at the eclipse. However, we must be mindful that trines only work if we work them. That is, in order to get the blessing of the trine we need to do the hard work called for by Saturn.

Putting it all together, the New Moon solar eclipse is an excellent time to pursue new ideas and to move new projects forward through communication and working the plan. It is an excellent time to look for a new job or to revamp an old job. Look to the house in your natal chart where the eclipse occurs to get more specific information to determine what area of your life these changes will occur. For instance if the eclipse falls in your 7^th house of relationships, it would be a good time to find a new relationship or to revamp an old one. You would be aided in this effort by using good communication skills (eclipse in Gemini) and to put forth the effort needed to bring about a change.

I hope this helped you understand the June 1, 2011 partial solar eclipse in Gemini.  I would love to hear any comments or questions you may have. If you wish to have a more personal reading please Schedule an Astrology Reading or call me at (720) 362-3305.

It would be wise to assess your own birth chart for your ability and need for such resolutions. Then use that knowledge, along with knowledge of the transiting planets in relation to your birth chart, to decide:

1. What is my likelihood of sticking with my resolution?

2. How can I pick a resolution that will really fulfill me as a person—not a resolution that is based on other people’s expectations of me?

 Let’s look at each of these questions, one by one:

1. What is my likelihood of sticking with my resolution?

This question asks that we look at two issues. How calm is your birth chart at this time? Are you being overwhelmed with planets transiting your birth chart. In particular, if you have several outer planets (Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune, and Pluto) transiting key points in your birth chart, you are probably very busy just keeping up with those energies. If you were to make a lot of resolutions you are just setting yourself up for quadrupled stress. That stress can lead to various health issues. A much healthier approach would be to resolve to learn all you can about the energies evoked by the outer planets and how you can work with their energy. Maybe it would be better to wait until things have quieted down in your chart to make new resolutions.

Second, some sun and moon signs are better at sticking to resolutions than others, for example:

Earth Signs. If you are a person with many planets in earth signs you have a greater chance of sticking to any long-term commitment to a New Year’s resolution.

Capricorn will stick with a resolution because they absolutely hate to fail and to lose face. If you are a Capricorn tell everyone you can about your resolution so that you have something to live up to.

Taurus will stick to a resolution so long as it is not too demanding. It is important that a Taurus Sun or Moon generously reward themselves as they move toward completion of their resolution.

Virgo can be quite focused and can be very good at making and keeping resolutions. Their downfall comes when they perceive that they have not been perfect. The thought of that imperfection can so upset them that they abandon their resolution altogether. Virgos must build a small cheat factor into their resolutions—that is, “even though I wasn’t perfect, I can still complete the resolution.

Water Signs.

Scorpio (and those with many planets in Scorpio or a strong Pluto), out of all the signs, has the best chance of sticking with a resolution. For absolute will power no one can compete with a Scorpio. They will stick to something that is important to them against all odds. The key is for them to completely commit. Once they have done so, get out of the way, because chances are they will complete their resolution with flying colors.

Cancer as a Cardinal water sign has the ability to be very strong in starting something. It is important for Cancer to implement a resolution when they feel emotionally centered. The biggest obstacle to a Cancer in completing their resolution lies in their emotional ups and downs. A key strategy for Cancers is to track the movement of the transiting Moon around the zodiac. When the Moon is closely aspecting a natal planet (especially natal Moon), they need to be careful not to abandon their resolution.

Pisces will often find it hard to stick to a resolution. They would do best to see the resolution in broad, universal terms and to frame their resolution as working toward the ideal rather than as a hard, pinpoint target. They do much better when the resolution is framed in that manner.

Air Signs.

Gemini can be easily distracted from their goals. Always curious, and always seeking new information, it is not easy for a Gemini to stay focused. Geminis do best in keeping a resolution when they pick short term goals. That is, instead of saying I will lose 20 pounds this year, it would be better for a Gemini to set a goal of one pound in two weeks. When the two weeks are up they can set a new goal (and possibly a new diet).

Libra can be somewhat wishy washy when deciding between two options. They are also the sign most likely to let others influence them. However, once they set there minds on a goal and are fully committed to it, they are often very good at accomplishing their goals.

Aquarius as a fixed air sign is usually very good at following through to reach their goals. Aquarians do especially well if they work with a friend or in a group that has a common goal connected to their resolution.

Fire Signs.

Leo as a fixed fire sign can really become enthusiastic about their goals. However, to keep their resolution over a long time span, they need to keep a spirit of play, fun and creativity within their goals. It would also be very helpful if they had a cheering section to applaud their every move.

Sagittarius do best in meeting their goals by following their intuition and higher mind on what goals to set and how to achieve them. When they can attach a higher meaning to a goal, it serves to give them the push to reach whatever goal they set for themselves.

Aries as a cardinal fire sign is very goal oriented and has no trouble enthusiastically taking up a new cause or goal. The trouble lies in being able to sustain the enthusiasm over time. Aries are the best in the zodiac when it comes to starting things. However, when things get boring or routine, they would really much rather go marching off to the next challenge.

How can I pick a resolution that will really fulfill me as a person—Not someone else’s expectations of me?

Look to your natal moon and your progressed moon (the sign, house and aspects) to find the area of your life where emotional fulfillment is imperative. Next, look to your ascendant and first house (natal and progressed) to determine what your expression of yourself is, and is evolving to be. Be especially wary if the proposed resolution is something that shows up in your 7^th house (relationships), 11^th house (friends) or 4^th house (family). It may be something that the people in your life wish for you, but may not be exactly what you wish for yourself.

Because many of you are concerned about doom and gloom reports on eclipses, I have decided to post more information on the nature of eclipses. I hope it eases your mind.

1. A very important thing to remember about all astrological interpretations regarding transits, progressions, solar returns, eclipses, etc. is that nothing can happen if it isn’t first contained in the birth chart. What this means is that unless a transiting body aspects a natal planet or point, its effect will be negligible or nonexistent. Furthermore, it is necessary to look at the type of aspect that is being made. Conjunctions, squares, oppositions, semi-squares and sesquiquadrates bring about action and could cause something to happen. Trines and sextiles are easy energy. They just sort of flow and seldom cause a significant event unless action is taken by you.

2. A lunar eclipse is often more emotional and internal. A lot is going on but it is within your own psyche. Therefore, quite often the events brought about by a lunar eclipse were brought about because a person impacted by the eclipse felt antsy and “just had to do something.” That action then brought about an event of some sort. Because they are so internal, lunar eclipses can be quite uncomfortable. The lunar eclipse of June 2010, was a good example. That eclipse fell on the cardinal T-square and generated a lot of emotion in those who were affected. However, uncomfortable is just that, uncomfortable. It doesn’t mean they are “bad.”

A lunar eclipse may bring sudden awareness of things that you were previously unaware of. Revelation, culmination and completion are other keywords that can be used to describe a lunar eclipse. They may impact relationships (because of the emotional component). But you do have some control over that. It might be wise not to discuss “charged” issues during an eclipse, etc.

1. Solar eclipses are more external. They may bring in events that take us by surprise in some way. Again, this event could be either “good” or “bad.” As in transits generally, at a solar eclipse something that another person does, an external event or something in the news can have an impact on us. The important thing to remember is that, in most cases, the energy is coming from outside us. Solar eclipses can bring a lot of progress if we are able to harness the energy and use it to our advantage.

2. Eclipses, whether “good” or “bad” often bring things to light that you have tried to keep hidden. It may be time for soul searching. Have you been above-board in all matters?

3. Often the thing that makes an eclipse memorable in your life, is not just the immediate energy from an eclipse season (the lunar and then the solar in a couple of weeks), but the impact it has as time goes on.

4. The difficulty of a particular eclipse depends on the Saros series to which it belongs. Each eclipse carries energy from the beginning of the series. Some of the series are quite difficult. Others are not. The particular series we are now dealing with in December 2010 and January 2011, are not a particularly difficult series.

5. Eclipses have power ratings depending on the intensity in the location where you live. If a solar eclipse is total in the area where you live, it is considered to be more powerful for you.

6. Most things that happen have a benefit in them somewhere. Sometimes it is very hard to find it, but it is there. I can attest from my own life that some of the hardest times took me to a much better place.

7. One of the biggest values of astrology is that it offers a timetable for when you can expect better times. It may not be as soon as you would like to see it, but it still gives you something to hold onto to make it through the rough times.

I hope this helps, blessings to all.

I appreciate all of your comments to my recent eclipse articles. Just wanted to let you know that I will reply as I can. I am getting an amazing number of comments and simply can’t keep up. I will get back to you as soon as possible though. Many thanks. Astroherb