© 2015 - Reprinted with permission from Shining Lotus Metaphysical Bookstore newsletter December 2015
by Sally Shotwell
As December arrives, we’re becoming aware that the natural world is preparing for a major transition. The increasing shortness of our days (as in daylight) will be replaced by the advent of the return of the light” on Winter Solstice(December 21). Before this event, we find ourselves experiencing a Sun(or consciousness) bathing in the optimistic glow of fiery Sagittarius the sign whose symbol is a centaur shooting his arrow to the stars. It’s ruling planet is expansive Jupiter, who is sometimes known to forget that there can sometimes, actually be too much of a good thing. Mercury(our thoughts) is tagging along until December 9 and may be tempted by unrealistic thoughts himself. Serious Saturn, not totally comfortable in Sagittarius, comes to the rescue in offering a moderating influence on any tendency we may have to over-extend ourselves, emotionally, materially or physically.
This is extremely helpful as we assimilate the December 4 entry of relationship-oriented Venus into intense, secretive Scorpio. Her natural partner, Mars(action), is in beauty loving, airy Libra. She, herself rules Libra and with her help, his aggressive approach may be channeled into a harmony-based demeanor. For our purposes, it’s good we keep in mind how we are interacting with others during this emotionally charged season. This may be particularly evident as Mars finds himself in a stressful situation December 6 clashing with transformative Pluto in earthy Capricorn. From that skirmish, he is confronted with a Kabuki drama December 10 involving erratic Uranus in fiery Aries. Aries in is Mar’s home base so this could be a strange encounter. As these transits are taking place, we’re being given the opportunity to re-calibrate our reactions to the unexpected. Saturn represents stability and boundaries and let’s consider where our perceptions are enhancing our peace of mind.
Do we need to make adjustments to accommodate changing realities?
Are we arranging for down time during which we may relax?
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| ...men cut the ice of a frozen pond for use during the summer... |
The December 11 New Moon(new beginnings) in fiery Sagittarius carries the ambiance of the sign and also something else, too. It reminds us of the vision needed to further the well-being of our communities which has come down to us from ancient times. The Sabian Symbol states “In an old-fashioned village men cut the ice of a frozen pond for use during the summer; the foresighted use of natural resources to supply future human need.”
Loving Venus and transformative Pluto connect December 17 to offer us conditions conducive to opening up ourselves to greater intimacy in our relationships. This is good since this season is calling of us to deal with togetherness successfully. Let’s always remember this requires us to employ discrimination. We’re vulnerable right now as the darkness surrounds us. We may benefit from lighting a Himalayan Salt Lamp or candles to promote the feeling of coziness.
How are we nurturing ourselves?
Being kind to ourselves prepares us to welcome the December 21 Winter Solstice with open arms. Since ancient times i’s been considered a sacred time when the Sun is reborn. There have long been festivities galore, whither it be Scandinavians celebrating the god Thor, or Romans throwing themselves into Saturnalian feasting. Our own Christmas date of December 25 was derived from early Christians picking up on the Mithrian idea. For us, this is important because the “Light” symbolizes our own inner radiance which is also reborn now. We replenish it by our commitment to continue to become more self-aware.
The Sun in earthy, practical Capricorn supplies us with the persistence we need to pursue our goals. The motivation to achieve can be of personal benefit to us while it facilitates our ability to contribute to others. The sign’s symbol is the goat fish, a mythical creature who aspires to connect body and spirit. Let’s carry this cosmic connection in our consciousness as we immerse ourselves in the holiday season.
December 25 brings us the Full Moon (culmination) in watery, sensitive Cancer, Christmas Day and the forward motion of individualistic Uranus in fiery Aries. This combination portends real interesting energy swirling around the emotional terrain. Having a grounding mantra or affirmation to silently repeat may go a long way in staying detached. Let’s also not forget to have an exit strategy as a back-up plan.
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| A cat arguing with a mouse... |
The Full Moon’s symbol addresses the inner dialogue we may be holding with ourselves, sorting out contrary information which has risen from the depths of our psyche. We’ve been making inroads growth-wise but changes cause shifts and require re-balancing. It stated “A cat arguing with a mouse; an attempt at self-justification.” We’ve already made a lot of progress!
Loving Venus enters sparkly Sagittarius December 29 and let’s parlay this promising placement to a lovely experience, welcoming in the New Year.
Blessings and Joy!
P.S. As we review the year which is passing, what do we wish to retain to pursue further. What experiences, commitments and relationships must we release to become a more whole person?
Sally Shotwell is a life-long student of esoteric spirituality with a super-natural curiosity and an undying thirst for knowledge. Her focus on studies in Astrology have spanned decades, and have included studying with Mario C. Veo, John Joseph, Mark Husson and C. A. Brooks.
