© 2017 - Reprinted with permission from Shining Lotus Metaphysical Bookstore newsletter January 2018
by Sally Shotwell
We’re no doubt feeling propelled to get down to business as the New year arrives and it’s very understandable. The influence of Capricorn pervades the scene with its practical, responsible take on things, especially because the Sun (our consciousness), Venus (love and values), Saturn (boundaries) and Pluto (transformation) are all busy helping us put in place the ambitious agenda we’ve been considering. This earthy sign’s motivation is to create sound structures which our society may count on and we feel safe. One of its symbols is the Mountain Goat who shows fortitude and skill in reaching the summit of a high mountain peek. It’s polar opposite is watery, Cancer who also has it’s own agenda to insure our well being but it entails the nurturing and protection of those we cherish in our personal live. Our assignment is to integrate both of these urges in order to balance our own urges and relax in peace of mind. With relaxation we’re able to receive and absorb subtle influences which aren’t immediately evident. Enter the January 1 Full Moon in Cancer which offers us the opportunity to address our situation.
The Sabian Symbol states “A Chinese woman nursing a baby whose aura reveals him to be the reincarnation of a great teacher: The revelation of latent worth in an experience once it is seen in its deeper meaning.” We’re encouraged to look beyond appearance and discover the innate in ourselves and others, beyond judgment and glamorization. Are we spending time with ourselves in stillness, allowing Cancer’s healing water to pour through us?
Let’s hold on to that image as we consider the excitement January 2 brings with innovative Uranus turning direct in fiery, assertive Aries. He’s been leading us on an inward journey and it’s now time for us to regroup and forge ahead and overtly deal with his insistent call for us to shed what’s inauthentic in our lives. That’s why he’s know as the Great Awakener. As we accept the changes we’re going through, new doors are opening but let’s take advantage of the Saturnine stability we have on hand to keep us grounded. January 6 Mercury (our thought processes), in fiery adventurous Sagittarius, joins him to brainstorm and we may be stimulated to venture into unknown territory. January 8 the Sun and optimistic Jupiter, in watery Scorpio, join the scenario and contribute a reality check since when Scorpio is involved, deep scrutiny prevails. The action continues into the 9th so let’s keep our equilibrium by remembering, should things seem overwhelming, to deep breathe and go along for the ride.
January 10 Mercury (communication) enters already crowded Capricorn and our interactions may take on a still more serious tone. We now want to put in place the inspiring ideas cooked up during his stay in expansive Sagittarius and Saturn shares his sound advise with him the 12th. Uranus, meanwhile, is irritating Venus and the Sun on the 13 and 14 and we may feel a bit edgy but the support of New Moon in Capricorn on the 16th is reassuring. This New Moon (new beginnings) is supported by his compatriots the Sun, Mercury, Venus and Pluto. This line-up encourages us to persevere in our efforts to increase our self-understanding. The Symbol states “Pilgrims climbing the steps leading to a mountain shrine: The ascent of the individualized consciousness to the highest realizations reached by the spiritual leaders of our culture.”
Isn’t it fortunate that we have so much wise and useful material at our disposal to guide us as we explore our own unique approach towards self-realization.
January 17 Venus, Goddess of Love, Beauty and Money, enters airy, intellectual Aquarius and we may become more interested in big picture issues beyond our immediate lives. This may entail our joining with others in a group effort since this sign’s perspective is broadly inclusive. The 19th the Sun joins her and we’re reminded of the Water Bearer who pours down from a jug upon the earth the knowledge, or, in some interpretations, energy/electricity which sets humankind free. Quixotic Uranus is the sign’s ruler and let’s remember to temper the lure of the intellect which can lead us away from our feeling nature. We’re all part of a whole and the individual wellbeing of each of us is what makes it complete.
January 24 Mercury and Pluto, God of the Underworld, contribute their efforts to the ongoing process of revealing what has remained hidden. Since they’re in Capricorn, the sign of authority and prominent institutions, we may as well resign ourselves to more disquieting revelations. We realize that while this is a trend which continues to gain steam, we have a responsibility to ourselves to find reassurance in our genuine relationships with others and inspiration where ever we can find it. Mars comes to the rescue the 26th when he enters fiery, forward-looking Sagittarius and, through his dynamism, assists in fueling our joie de vivre. Are we taking the time relax and have fun with no other goal in mind?
The Full Moon Lunar Eclipse (change) in fiery Leo January 31 may help us answer this question. Leo is ruled by the Sun and is heart-centered, helping us to tap into the purity of the Divine Child who shares his love and joy with us. Mercury is simultaneously entering Aquarius and accentuating our mental processes and here we have another opportunity to create balance between the heart and mind. Being a Super Moon and an Eclipse ramps up the message of the Symbol which is “An evening party of adults on a lawn illuminated by fancy lanterns: Group relaxation in fashionable surroundings as an escape from work routine.” We want to enjoy ourselves and enter into festivities but Dane Rudhyar comments that we don’t want to succumb to social fashion or “intellectuality or wit” and miss the boat on sincerity. With all the work we’re doing, we don’t have time to be sidetracked by the superficial!
Blessings!
Sally Shotwell is a life-long student of esoteric spirituality whose focus on studies in Astrology have spanned decades. She has entertained and informed our readers with her articles for a few years now.
