New Moon in Aries: Between a Rock and a Hard Place

On the First Day of Spring, April 19-20, the Sun was at 29 degrees (anaretic/crisis degree)  Pisces.
Two days later, The Sun entered Aries. As these seasonal and lunar events were taking place, we

celebrated the Vernal Equinox  in the North and Autumnal Equinox in the South. And this morning,
March 24, we experience the New Moon in Aries, at 4/23 degrees. It is, to say the least,  a

mind-blowing time for everyone on the Earth.The New Moon arrives on March 24 this month. 

At the time of the Equinox, the Moon was in 9 degrees of Acquarius, Mercury was at 2 degrees of
Pisces, moving forward, and Venus was at 15 degrees in grounding Taurus. Mars was conjunct
Jupiter in earthy Capricorn. Saturn was in the last degree (29) of Capricorn, the anaretic/crisis degree
of Saturn’s long transit through this sign. Uranus was in 4 degrees of Taurus, so even though the Sun
was about to go into a fire sign, the abundance of Earth signs continues keeping the fires of Aries
cooler than usual. Neptune continues its long journey through Pisces at 18 degrees. Pluto is in
Capricorn at 24 degrees, moving very slowly out of a direct conjunction (but still in waning
conjunction) with Saturn. 

The North Node (gateway from past to future) is at 4 degrees of Cancer making safety, security,
protection a primary concern for all of us. Surprise, surprise. Chiron, the Wounded Healer, is at 5
degrees of Aries, so we may see an infusion of healing experiences and/or facing old wounds when
the Sun in Aries transits Chiron in the next week or so. The current crisis that is gripping the entire
Earth, is being gradually transformed as we end one major lunar cycle, and begin a new one.
Remember, the Sun moves one degree a day, so the longest a conjunction will last is 5 days on
either side of an exact conjunction. 

It is now 3 a.m. I awoke with a start at 2:28, at the exact moment the New Moon peaked in Aries.
A time we may normally feel propelled to take action, this New Moon feels more like we’re caught
between a rock and a hard place, unable to move one way or another.  If that wasn’t perfectly
obvious on both the collective and personal level, it certainly is apparent astrologically. This New
Moon in Aries (new beginnings, movement, action) squares the North Node in Cancer (safety,
security, tending to the home fires, protecting). 

We find ourselves struggling with obstacles and challenges that block movement (I’m not making
this up). At this point, we must meet the challenges we’re facing together in order to be free to move
and act.  On top of that hard aspect, the ruler of Aries, Mars is stuck between Saturn (the Great
Teacher) and Pluto (the Great Transformer), further inhibiting movement, action, decision making,
and growth. Furthermore,  making resolutions or finding answers to difficult and even some of the
most simple questions, is restricted.  

This New Moon in Aries affects us all particularly in the areas of life/chart where Aires and Mars are. 
For those with planets, aspects, and transits between 0-8 degrees of the Cardinal signs (Aries,
Cancer, Libra, Capricorn), this New Moon is especially powerful. While the unusual grounding of Aries
fires (and our own as we go deeper into physical and social isolation during this worldwide pandemic)
has the potential to be extremely productive. It all depends on how we use the energy and make use of
the opportunities that may seem hidden in hardship, challenge, loss, and grief. Grief for what was opens
a new road to what will be. The energy of the Aries New Moon favors independent, working alone kinds
of endeavors. Aries’ New Moon favors pioneering ideas and independent focus and direction by those
who face fear and set out to explore more deeply, the way into the complex nature of what is calling for
us to discover, produce, set forth in search of, and adapt to. We are stripped of the need to meet
expectations that others may have of us, and are free, indeed, forced to operate differently than we
might have in the past. The first decan of Aries (0-10 degrees) is where we find ourselves challenged
to discover greater emotional independence while at the same time, finding it hard who to trust or what
to believe. We’re charting a new course in unfamiliar waters.

Something about this time, this New Moon, and the changes we are going through both personally and
collectively, brings us to a point where we are very attuned to the mission, calling, or purpose we are
seeing ourselves called to. We may find greater purpose simply because the road we thought lay before
us, is no longer an option. We need to reconnoiter and make some new decisions. And we may be
freed from having to stick to one plan or another, and now have new options. It’s a time many will
perform heroic feats, make startling discoveries, and become passionate warriors for altruistic causes
that benefit others in much needed ways. We are after all, looking for heroes, leaders, and trusted
teachers and saints to help guide us into the dark pathways many of us are now experiencing. The
best in us and the worst in us are coming clearly into sight. 

We all become staunchly devoted to protecting and preserving our families, tribes, communities, and
shared identities (nations, regions, cultures). I would include in this, our areas of expertise, knowledge,
information, institutions/systems---all of which we now come to respect and demand the best from. If
we find something lacking in those relationships we depend on, we seek out ones that we can work to
strengthen and transform to work for the growing challenges we’re facing. 

This New Moon in Aries aligns with the fixed star, Deneb Kaitos. This fixed star is in the tail of the
Constellation of the Sea Monster. According to Elsbeth Ebertin’s interpretation, this star represents
“inhibitions and restraints in every way, psychologically and physically.”  Aries rules the head, and
so this fixed star may set off mental anguish, hot headedness, distorted thinking, and stubborn,
egotistical outbursts. Time to rely on some positive, grounding practices to keep ourselves less
argumentative, and more connected to what we can do right where we are. Avoid getting drawn into
battle (metaphorically or otherwise) at this time. Now is the time to find a healthier and less stressful
way to weather the storm. 

Each sign has the potential for both positive and negative expression. The fixed star, Deneb Kaitos, is
what gives Aries the reputation of being headstrong, argumentative, and rash. The challenge is to think
before speaking. Give yourself outlets for your more aggressive and for heaven's sake, think before you
speak so you avoid inadvertently wounding or dismissing others unfairly. This New Moon in Aries falls
in the area of the Zodiac where our basest and most undeveloped qualities are unveiled. The challenge
is to become more self aware and conscious of how our words affect others, how our actions impact
them, and how we are called to develop and hone our skills rather than making one blunder after
another, adding insult to injury in the process.   We can see this as we watch those in leadership
positions either command respect and credibility or fail in their attempts to lead because of their own
egotistical lack. We may find ourselves caught up in fearful mental fantasies, and may even observe
others acting out of that fear.

 The best thing we can do during this crucial time is to seek to observe how we are being affected.
Understand that our reactions and responses to the traumatic events we are experiencing are automatic.
We cannot help but be fearful or panicked at times. That is part of our natural response to trauma.
We can act on our own behalf by  developing some healthy ways of coping with the stress we feel.
Find ways to calm your body’s natural stress reactions through music, dance, art, poetry, concrete
activity, spiritual practices (prayer, inspirational reading, contemplation), meditation, yoga, or other
activities that help you reduce your stress responses. 

Since we’re all caught between the rock and the hard place, my suggestion would be to build yourself
a cozy nest right where you are, and give yourself some positive ways to focus your attention, energy,
and actions so that you are feeling more productive than distracted, more grounded than out of control,
and more inspired than distracted. When you do find yourself dwelling on negative thoughts/fantasies,
refocus your attention  through activating other senses and your attention. Many are looking for ways to
be more useful (making masks for medical personnel), be more prepared (stocking up; don’t hoard
though.Hoarding is fear-based, and though we are rightfully afraid, we need to temper the levels of
fear because that activates the negative, harmful release of chemicals like cortisol which are harmful to
our immune systems. 

Mars’ transit is making harsh aspects to both Pluto ( Great Transformer) and Jupiter (Abundance and
excess).  Saturn has moved out of close conjunction with Pluto and has entered Aquarius. The new
energy of Saturn (The Great Teacher) is in the innovative, altruistic sign where it will be for the next two
and a half years. We are learning new lessons in new ways, and are challenged to release whatever
greed or rooted beliefs and habits we have that keep us from learning, understanding, and acting in our
own best interests at the same time we act for the good of all. We are all connected now, in such  a
stark and obvious way. We can learn from this, a better way to live together. 

Mars’, Aries ruler, is the ‘star’ of this New Moon cycle. Mars conjunction to Pluto is described by Marina
(DarkStar Astrology) as “...the proverbial phoenix rising from the flames.”  This seems a very fitting
description of this New Moon lunar cycle. This aspect highlights our ability to rise above all manner of
obstacles and to meet challenges, successfully, but transformed. This is a time of alchemical change in
each and every one of us, and consequently, who we are as human beings and part of the Earth we call
home. 

Mars conjunct Jupiter gives us the courage of a lion and the bravery of the heroes who fill the classic
tales, and provide the sourcing for myths. We are in a cataclysmic time when we are transforming more
rapidly than ever. It’s as if a fire of spirit has swept across the face of the Earth and into each of our
hearts and souls. We are aflame with passion and energy. Let’s turn this into good, and take good care
of ourselves while expressing and sharing compassion, practical support, and love for one another.
Pray for forgiveness of those who seek to harm out of ignorance, fear, or evil intentions. And turn away
from whatever would seek to harm or bring you out of harmony with peace, compassion, and gratitude. 
Seek harmony where you are in body, mind, emotions, and spirit. 

Dreamy New Moon in Pisces: A Path Emerges from Within

At 10:32 a.m. EDT/7:32 a.m. PDT on Sunday morning, February 23, the New Moon peaks at
4 degrees Pisces when she aligns with the  Sun in Pisces. This New Moon in Pisces sextiles
Mars at 18 degrees of Aries and Uranus in 3/20 of Taurus.  Mercury in Pisces at 9 degrees is
retrograde. Neptune is in 17 degrees of Pisces as well. Mars in Capricorn trines Uranus in Taurus.


Jupiter, Saturn, and Pluto all remain in their long transits in Capricorn. Both Saturn and Pluto square
the transiting Uranus. Mars opposes the North Node in Cancer, while the North Node trines both
the Sun and the New Moon in Pisces. 

Notice the houses/areas of your life where Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius, and Pisces are, for that is where
your world will be most affected by this New Moon and the accompanying transits. Those most
significantly affected will have aspects, transits, or planetary placements within 0-8 degrees of these
mutable signs. 

The Pisces Sun and Moon conjoined at 4 degrees instills a deep sense of intuitive depth and feeling
in our lives. We feel a more heightened faith in Divine intervention and cosmic fatedness. We feel
guided, guarded, and inspired in ways that encourage us to dig down into our depths and back into
our memories for whatever sparked and enlightened us at challenging times in the past. When we
reach into our memories to remind ourselves of how we met other obstacles and difficulties, we gather
what we need to lift us onto a new path forward. 

Pisces energy emphasizes empathy, devotion, wisdom, and compassion. This is a time when the
prophetic sense and overall prescience are heightened. Selflessness can give way to its shadow side
of neglecting self if we are not focused on taking good care of ourselves at this time. We experience
more synchronicity and may have an active dream life, full of messages for our own conscious mind
as well as knowledge and wisdom meant to be shared with others. We need not be afraid to speak
our truth in shared relationships 

Where we may have felt stuck in the past or blocked (the slow methodical transformation process of
Pluto and Saturn)  in some way, we now find doors opening and new options before us. Mercury in
Pisces drawing from the past as its retrograde cycle and its depths through the deeply spiritual
realms of watery Pisces,  taking us back over old territory and giving us the fresh insight and a new
opportunity to see options, answers, and solutions with a fresh eye. . Where we have hesitated to
take the necessary risks in the past, we now may receive word that things have changed in ways that
could not have been foreseen. Such times call for us to rely not on our own understanding, but to
acknowledge that holy voice that speaks within our hearts and the expression of the Divine in all that
surrounds us. 

Mercury’s retrograde transit in Pisces opens the intuitive channels and both vision and imagination
are enhanced. Our communication is more emotional. Our thoughts and feelings are colored with
and infused with emotions, inspiring us to be more creative, visualizing and dreaming, and finding
beauty in imagery and visual stimulation.

Venus has been in Aries since Feb. 7, and will remain there until March 4. Expressions of love are direct,
full-throated, and spontaneous. Focus is now on being in the present, with little patience for dwelling on
what could have been or what might be the result of our risk taking in the future. There is a fresh, direct
approach to expressing oneself now, and meets challenges with a desire to win the race or catch the
prize.

Mars in Capricorn continues to set things off that have been long-brewing or been steadily falling apart.
Change is deliberate and persistent. Mars in an earth sign emits a cooler, more rational approach to
changes or alterations. Only thing we might want to consider is how to avoid becoming too set in our
ways to the point we are not open to what is fundamentally needed for real growth and change. Pushing
some limits, in a pragmatic manner, is the way to make some significant breakthroughs at this time.
Some surprising developments and the revelation of secrets, may throw a monkey wrench into plans
or expectations. However, in the long run, this will be beneficial. 

Uranus in Taurus (entered in 2018. And has been consistently there ever since. Uranus will stay in
Taurus until 2025-2026. During this period we are reevaluating how we value ourselves and our
relationship to finances, wealth, possessions, and self worth. Circumstances and changing needs
require that we make necessary adjustments and put a tighter rein on the way we handle ourselves.
We may notice a definite shift in what we value and who we value. What motivates and infuses us with
devotion, becomes clearer and we expect to be more authentic and practical in the way we live and work
and relate to others. Our whole approach to doing business is changing, and we are making choices
now that focus on expending our energy, time, resources, talents, and goodness in ways that are most
edifying, concrete, and pragmatic. 

On the evening of the New Moon, Venus squares Jupiter which fills us with a great depth of emotions
especially love, compassion, and generosity.  Temper your emotional expressions by not overdoing or
being too impulsive. Find ways to ground your emotions through making connections in the natural
world (take long walk, gather some flowers, get lost in some beautiful music, or prepare a delicious meal
and serve to friends. Celebrate and be of good cheer. Be grateful and listen for the whispers of Spirit
that guide and show you the way forward and the path to inner enlightenment. Blessings to all as you
begin a new path forward into uncharted territory. “Trust your imagination; it is a gift from God.”\

Take a Piscean trait, and make it your own. Give it your own style and mode of delivery, and treasure a
bit of stardust that turns to liquid gold within: Dreamy, Intuitive, Mysterious, Beautiful, Nurturing,
Sensitive, Devoted, Compassionate, Subtle, Wild, Loving, Adaptive, Romantic, Artistic, Elusive,
Changeable, Trusting, and Sweet. 

New Moon in Aquarius for a New Path Ahead

Tongue Point                                                         Catherine Al-Meten Meyers

The Aquarius New Moon 4/21 degrees peaks today (January 24) at  4:42 p.m EST/1:42 PST.. New moons bring us into a new lunar cycle, and this one ushers in a new lunar year on the Chinese Calendar, the Year of the Rat. It’s time to revise intentions, discard whatever old habits, patterns, or intentions you no longer need, and to invite in a time of renewal. An Aquarius New Moon (plus the Sun and Mercury in Aquarius) emphasize our desire to break out of old habits, patterns, routines, and outmoded ways of thinking and being. We may feel more moved to become involved in humanitarian efforts or some other form of working with others to make positive changes. We definitely feel more compelled to make significant changes in some area of our lives.

As the huge impact of the stellenium of the Sun and other planets,  in Capricorn begins waning, we start to think of ways to approach life with a fresh perspective. The Sun and the Moon in Aquarius allow us time to use some innovative and more enlightened ways of approaching challenges. Our minds are more active and we are able to see new ways of meeting old and new challenges. The urges rising up within us now in response to our own challenges and opportunities as well as those of the world in which we live, may make us feel a bit off center.

The New Moon in the first decan of Aquarius squaring Uranus in Sagittarius lends itself to anxiousness, uncertainty, and confusion.  Just an example of how this might play out, things might not go as planned. This morning I lost the first version of this column, and had to start from scratch.  I noticed the whole disaster scenario that started playing out in my mind, so I took a break and started anew. With this work, it’s worth it. Some other things we may be doing in our lives though, may not. It’s a good time to reevaluate what matters most in terms of our time, energy, commitments, and desires.What would you like to invite into your life as you begin this next leg of the journey, and what would you like to change, eliminate, or view from a different perspective? 

It’s time to gain some perspective. We look back now to discover what we can do without, and we look forward and make plans to break out of old routines and patterns. Time to take better care of ourselves. Take action toward healing. Move from recovery back into a more focused and directed approach to life. Personal health and hygiene are essential for our well being. Take some time to spruce things up. Time to get your hair cut or to try out a new style? Seems like a simple enough change, but how often do we resist doing something so simple? 

Notice how your habits are adding to or detracting from your sense of well being, your spiritual health, and your emotional/psychological balance.  Take some time to notice and make small changes that lead to a healthier more harmonious approach to life. For example, clear out the closets, reorganize, and recycle clothes, shoes, and other accessories that you do not need or use. Make room in your life, in both the physical sense (pick things up off the floors and clear and clean the surfaces) and the emotional sense (eliminate habits like too much media and add some walks, good reading, strong personal connections). Notice where you natal moon is (this is your hardwiring for emotional temperament), and see what you’re doing to create ways to bring more balance in those areas. For example, my earth moon looks for down to earth, pragmatic ways to bring peace to my life. If you’re moon is in a fire sign (Leo, Aries, Sagittarius), you may look for action, adventure, or some kind of physical expression to bring yourself to calm. Water signs might like to go for a swim, take a shower, go for a walk by the sea, river, or lake to calm themselves. Air signs may look for lively discussions with intriguing and innovating people or may get lost in a work of art, literature, or theater that propels them into a more harmonious state. What works for you? Go do something that brings you peace today.

Mercury in Aquarius is sextile Mars in Sagittarius, a harmonious nudge to respond to sudden changes and issues from a more intuitive, reflexive level.  Don’t overthink things, but trust that you know what is needed to protect yourself or others, and/or to save a bad outcome. As Lady Macbeth said when faced with disaster, “Screw your courage to the sticking place, and we’ll not fail.”  It is time in both our personal and collective lives, when we need all the courage and a sense of purpose we can allow ourselves to feel. Use your fighting spirit and courage to get as much done or planned or sorted out so that you clear the path and provide an opening for the change and healing you want and need. We, most of us, are capable of much more than we think we are. Push past self doubt and fear, and strike out in a new direction. 

Venus sextiles Jupiter, both in Pisces, and this lovely, deep soul aspect brings us some very good fortune and unexpected abundance of what it is we need. Mercury’s sextile to Mars also brings some sweet connections that provide attraction in ways we may have been missing for some time. This is also a calming influence, and yet another reason to build some calming practices into our daily routines right now. It will make the journey and challenges more bearable and easier to cope with.Seek warmth, express love, and gravitate towards whoever and whatever is uplifting and affirmative. Use your spiritual/religious practices to help you achieve this.

The New Moon in Aquarius also aligns with the fixed star, Dabih (4’19” Aquarius). It is a fixed star in the constellation of Capricornus. It is an aspect that signals crisis (as is apparent in the world around us and may very well be reflected in our own lives in some way). Notice where these aspects transit your own chart/life. What also comes along with the crisis, is the ability to cope with and grow through the experiences that come with change and transformation. 

All the aspects to the New Moon in Aquarius, signal a time when we can expect the unexpected. Sudden, shocking events that rock our world, require that we maintain the ability to cope and keep ourselves grounded in practical actions/activities, and that we gain perspective when we can, and maintain calm within, when we cannot change the causes of our angst or confusion. We have so many gifts within ourselves, available to us through our relationships and spiritual practices, and in our ability to remain centered and calm amid whatever storms rise. We know that we can trust our intuitive and instinctive responses and we can expand our thinking to rise above the limitations of our fears, anger, or anxiety. 

Build a life that helps you find pockets of peace, while maintaining the ability to reject that which is not life affirming and say yes to that which is. As the Old Deuteronomist (Deuteronomy 30:19-20) “Today I have given you the choice between life and death; between blessings and curses. Now I call upon Heaven and Earth to witness the choice you make. Oh that you would choose Life so that your descendants might live...I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses; therefore choose Life.” I can think of no better mantra or prayer to begin the new journey ahead. 

New Moon in Capricorn highlights Gathering of Earth Signs

Here in the Western Hemisphere, the auspicious New Moon in Capricorn arrives late on Christmas at 9:13 p.m. PST/12:13 a.m. EST. This New Moon in Capricorn conjunct the Sun at 4°7” joins to form  a gathering of this powerful Capricorn line up. Jupiter, Saturn, and Pluto, all outer, slow-moving planets that have long-lasting impact on our lives are being conjoined by the Moon and the Sun. .  Saturn and Pluto are building up in conjunction for what is laying bear, the areas in our lives where transformation has been taking place for the last few years. In areas where we’ve been tested and tempered, challenged, and question, we now feel the full effects.  This energy will continue to build over the next month and will have long lasting effects. 

New Moon and Sun in Capricorn:  With the New Moon and the Sun in Capricorn, our sense of responsibility, ambition, and attention to the guiding principles of law, order, and ethical standards  grows. Focus is on completion and the satisfaction derived from accomplishing our goals. We take time to create new structures, reassess and form standards, and make plans based on what we have learned from our past successes and challenges. A great time to set out a plan for any long-term goals you have been dreaming up or in the process of reevaluating.  

Mercury has been in Sagittarius since Dec. 9, and will remain there until the 28, just before New Years. It will then enter the congregation of heavenly bodies in Capricorn, During Mercury’s remaining days in Sagittarius, ideas are still being gathered. Conversations involve planning and discerning what is feasible and what is not, for future plans and ongoing projects. Sagittarius calls upon us to weigh and measure the benefits and disadvantages to a wide variety of ideas that may be swirling through our minds. Sagittarius always combines a good dose of pragmatism with  optimism, so notice what kinds of ideas, may be dancing in your head during this week. After the 28th, notice how the energy changes from dreaming up ideas to getting down to business. And with the abundance of planets in Capricorn, this area of your life should not be hard to spot. It’s where life is undergoing a complete transformation. 

Venus has been in Aquarius from December 20, and will transit the constellation until January  13, 2020. Themes of freedom, independence all make this area of our lives more unconventional than usual. In all areas of Venus’ realm (love,relationships,  beauty, aesthetics, harmony) expect to want life to be lived more on your own terms than on what works for others

Saturn in Capricorn calls on us to develop self mastery, and Pluto in Capricorn, conjunct Saturn, demands that we cope with issues related to power, our need for control, and abuses of either or both. Pluto is the Great Transformer, Saturn the Great Teacher. They work together, and have been for the last few years, to completely revolutionize some area of your life. Look to your chart to see what area Capricorn rules, opposes, and meets its challenges (oppositions, squares in a chart). Also look to see what you have working for you with both planets (trines, conjunctions, and aspects).  Even the so-called harsh aspects (squares and oppositions) can have a way of calling upon our higher angels. What appears as a loss, opens a new path. What has been challenging and frustrating, now reveals the gifts in the garbage and hard work you’ve been experiencing. 

All the Capricorn planets oppose the North Node in Cancer(what is growing, evolving, unfolding in our lives), which means they are also in conjunction with the South Node (what we have to overcome, learn, and face in our lives in order to grow). North Node in Cancer focus our growth on issues related to safety, security, feeling at home with ourselves and our lives (that which we’ve chosen and that which has happened to us). South Node in Capricorn focuses primarily on what innate issues are in need of becoming more aware of. As it is happening in Capricorn, we can be sure this pertains to very pragmatic, down to earth habits, choices, daily living kinds of issues and behavior. . 

This New Moon in Capricorn occurs with a gathering of powerful planets, the Sun, and the Moon plus the aspect of the South Node. Jupiter, Saturn, Pluto, and soon, Mercury are all conjoining the Sun and the New Moon in the cardinal (action, fire)  sign of Capricorn. All who have aspects, planets with 0-8 degrees of cardinal signs (Aries, Cancer, Libra, Capricorn) will feel the greatest energy from this new moon. All of us though, will feel the effects, and be able to take advantage of this energy if we are willing and aware of this powerful new moon time. When a new moon occurs in an earth sign, we can be sure that we will see and experience the effects of the New Moon in Capricorn in very physical, concrete ways. And there is sure to be a series of major events and decisions made during this cycle. 

The New Moon in Capricorn occurs at an annual solar eclipse, a very fortuitous one as it aligns with Jupiter, the planet of good fortune and abundance. The New Moon in Capricorn also aspects Uranus well, and that inspires positive changes and excitement. As with each new moon, all possibilities are before us. We can choose the direction, goals, and perspectives that will serve our purposes. Jupiter reigns over growth, expansion, abundance, prosperity, and good fortune so it’s wise to plant the seed of good intention as this New Moon in Capricorn approaches. There will be pleasant surprises, lots of serendipitous goodies, and fortunate relationships in store. Welcome the blessings of the season of Light and Hope. 

Jupiter trine Uranus also adds much sparkle to this very joyous and lucky time. Chance encounter, unexpected good fortune, surprise visits all signal a time for joyous good cheer. This is a time for great spiritual growth, and it is a time that encourages us to use our spiritual practices to ground ourselves in the light of Divine goodness and Divine will and timing. Often we think we have to do one more thing to make life work just right. While it is important that we be focused on letting our lives serve and love others, and find meaning and purpose in how we live our lives, we are still in need of the ability to surrender our fears, worries, and angst to have faith in what we cannot control or foresee. Our greatest gifts come in unexpected and surprising ways, from sources and experiences we could hardly predict. Allow yourself to bathe in the glow of the beauty within and the opening in the darkness, an opening which shines light on a new path ahead. A journey of discovery and of celebration for life in process, awaits us. All we need to do is show up and embrace each new step, each new day. 

Happy Hanukkah, Merry Christmas, Blessing for Kwanzaa, and Light and Peace to all people everywhere. May we dedicate ourselves to lessen the harm and cruelty we humans have inflicted on one another. May we work to feed the hungry, comfort the sick, free those in bondage and slavery, and cease from doing harm to anyone and to our planet. May we enter a new decade, 2020 with the Light of compassion alive in our hearts and lives. 

New Moon Sagittarius: Light on the Horizon

On Tuesday morning at 7:05 A.M., the New Moon occurs 4° Sagittarius a mutable
fire sign. The sign of the Archer, Sagittarius’ archetype represents optimism,
enthusiasm, adventure, honesty, independance and constructive action.
As the Sun and the Moon climb out of the depths of Scorpio (but not beyond Scorpio’s
influence and truth), we may feel a renewed sense of urgency for change and acting
on our deepest desires.

The New Moon in Sagittarius awakens us to new paths unfolding. We feel that urgency,
in stark contrast to feeling trapped or stalled as we have been for the last lunar cycle
in Scorpio and Libra. Readying our arrow in the quiver, taking aim we are swift,
but not rash as we now begin taking steps on a new path and in new directions. We
want to make certain that what we are aiming for is grounded in ethical behavior/purpose
and sound judgment. We  must operate from a sure and steady base. Some may feel
the push to act on impulse, but it is wiser to act only after we’ve taken the time to get
our footing and are prepared for the journey. Avoid going off on tangents, making false
starts (due to lack of preparedness) and breaking promises/vows/oaths to which we have
sworn a commitment. What might tempt us to stray off the path in the wrong direction?
Or to push ourselves too hard?  If our intentions are anything less than honorable and
fair, we may find ourselves creating obstacles and troubles. We also accrue some heavy
karmic debt if we use others or fall for a seductive line meant to hinder our soul
growth or steer us into areas where danger lurks. Beware the garish clowns who
through their gaudy disguise or jester-like performances, aim poison arrows at their
enemies and cause us to not recognize their danger until it’s too late. 

The New Moon in Sagittarius is conjunct the Fixed stars of Acrab and Dschubba. Meeting
Acrab at the doorway to Sagittarius, the Moon triggers feelings of relief as if we’ve
escaped from a trap or cell.  Ptolemy (Egyptian astrologer) equated the nature of
Dschubba with that of Mars-Saturn. Dschubba symbolizes sudden assaults,
shamelessness, immortality, shameless usury if this energy is misused.

 If we’ve allowed ourselves to face the truth of how we’re affected by our shadow sides
and how the world is reflecting the shadow, we can use this energy to do some
excellent research. For those involved in trying to discern falsehood from fact, and to
uncover what is hidden, the New Moon conjunct Dschubba can be highly revealing.
This is an excellent aspect for revealing what has been hidden and secret, for
identifying treasonous behavior, and for unmasking psychopaths.  We are in a struggle
to hold our own against the dominant cultural narrative that encourages and uses
corruption and violence to dominate and control. At the very least, but nonetheless
important, is a caution to be wary and patient.

The energy of the New Moon in Sagittarius is akin to having a scalpel or knife. Both
can be used to heal or to harm. Those who act in unethical or ammoral ways, harm
themselves and others. This is a crucial time for those who are seeking the truth, to
use their power for good, not evil. Detectives, spies, forensic scientists, researchers
now discover  answers and reveal what had been hidden. The symbol of the poison
arrow, using power to harm, may indicate the need for caution, and may show us
what has been covered up. Watch for news of friends as well as enemies posing more
of a threat to those in power.
New Moon in Sagittarius conjunct the fixed star Acrab (today, Monday) indicates
great power, honor, wealth, gifts, but difficulty in obtaining a sound or favorable
legacy. In order for the best to build, it is necessary that we have faced our shadow
side and made an effort to change for the better. Then we will feel the winds lift us to
higher ground, our impulses tempered, and our vision clear and strategic. As we seek
authentic truth, a light breaks over the horizon. A new path emerges. 

Jupiter, the beautiful bright body that has been conjoining Venus in the night sky, now
is in her last few degrees of Sagittarius. By December 2, Jupiter will begin her journey
through Capricorn. Horizons will expand, meaning will become clearer and more
intentional in our lives, and we will have the ability to see the bigger picture. As both
the fixed stars and the Moon are transiting the Axis Mundi (Galactic Center), we feel as
if we are receiving a powerful download of knowledge and energy. Receive with open
arms and a willingness to let this intuitive spiritual energy help shape your
understanding. 

Venus has already entered Capricorn. She sits at 0° of Capricorn. Venus steadies
Jupiter’s enthusiasm and channels it into beauty, harmony, and creative acts of
compassion, love, and art. The question we might ask ourselves at this New Moon is
“How do I want to restructure my life?” Align this with a love and connection with
all beings, and let that be a guiding force in what you do. 

Chiron, the Wounded Healer, is in 1°of Aries, squaring both Venus and Jupiter. Time
again to intentionally release where we have felt wounded in love. A practice of
forgiveness may help with this, but however you choose to identify this need in your
life, know healing occurs when we release ourselves from the traps where we find
ourselves still blinded, angered, and confused by what has passed.  The Sun and Moon
in Sagittarius remind us of the wisdom figures who often personified by the Divine
Feminine, demand that we use strategic and critical thinking coupled with intuition
and Divine Intelligence, along with grounded pragmatism to help heal and create
solutions for the issues we face. 

Uranus in Taurus accelerates the pace of movement and change now. Uranus opposes
Mars and squares the Sun and Moon (look to your own chart to see what areas of your
life Sagittarius and Taurus rule), making the battle between will and emotional security
find us feeling threatened just when we need to feel most strong. Remember, strength
does not mean we ignore our feelings of fear, anxiety, anger, or uncertainty. Rather it
calls upon us to “screw your courage to the sticking place.” Though we do not want to
use our courage to do what Lady Macbeth was urging her husband to do when she
says this. And that is the point of this New Moon in Sagittarius. We have a choice to
choose life or to choose death. To use our power and talents for good to better our
society  or to use it for ill, to only service ourselves with no regard for what is good for
all. 

Oftentimes we hold tight to ‘security’ or that which we think is secure, to give ourselves
meaning and to make ourselves feel okay or enough. No real growth, change, or
transition comes however, until and unless we are willing to differentiate ourselves
from what we’re being told is ‘good for us’ so that we can determine for ourselves,
what we believe is going to help us grow and evolve as a thoughtful, kind,
compassionate human being. As this month is about crossing thresholds, from one
month to the next, one year to another, and one decade to another, we are in that
annual movement through fire into earth. And once that movement is complete, at
each stage of this transition, the threat eases and we begin to feel more grounded in
what we know to be true and we then can define ourselves and align ourselves with
what grounds and stabilizes us, body, mind, emotions, and soul. 

Right now, Uranus, the planet that brings sudden and shocking news and changes, is
stationary, at a standstill. We in turn are in the depths of a dream-creating state and
essence which tasks us to surrender the old and receive the new. The Light is shining
above the horizon, in its ascendancy. My favorite prayer snippet, perfect for this time,
is what I pray for you and for all, “Give us grace for today; feed the famished
affections.
New Moon in Sagittarius Chart: November 26, 2019
This phase of the Moon occurs at 4 degrees and 3 minutes of Sagittarius, affecting
people born with personal planets and points at approximately 0 to 8 degrees of the
Fixed signs (Taurus, Leo, Scorpio, and Aquarius) most significantly.