Snake Charm Astrology
One of the most amusing follow up questions I am asked when people inquire about what I do for a living, and I mention my expertise in interpreting Astrology charts, is: Oh, so you actually believe in all of that stuff? I am guessing that a few people are wondering if I must be either a little nutty or a very clever con artist. One thing that I can always tell about someone who feels this way about Astrology is that they have never had a competent astrologer interpret their natal chart. If this were the case, then the question of believing in Astrology would be similar to questioning the existence of air. I take no offense when I hear this type of perspective because the majority of what people know of Astrology is the crap they read in newspapers and magazines. Most publications that have an Astrology column use a lot of cute, witty statements to entertain their audience. If they are making predictions, the predictions are, at best, based on solar Astrology. Solar Astrology is based on the very limited idea that every Virgo or Cancer will have this experience today or this month. They are assuming that the individual is also the same Ascendent or rising sign. This being the case, I really understand why many people think Astrology is a bunch of baloney.
One of the first things one must understand about how Astrology works is through a recognition of the importance of birth date, time, and location. Astrologers look at the specific mathematical placement, angles, signs and house placements to determine your place and purpose in our solar system. Every individual birth is a unique cosmic event of importance that influences the world and is also influenced by the planets. Astrologers refer to all the major celestial bodies as planets even though the sun and moon are actually a star and satellite, respectively. Planets, signs and angles between them represent specific focuses and characteristics of the human psyche and personality. Your Astrology chart is a chosen (by the Higher Self) event that sets into motion behavioral characteristics, inclinations, challenges, and areas of primary interest in your life. The movement of the planets mirrors back the movement of our own internal emotional, physiological and physical evolution.
Most people are aware of what their Sun sign is. I hear people say things like; “Yeah I think I am an Aquarius, so basically I am very emotional and a water sign, whatever that means.” This, like many other comments about Astrology is actually inaccurate. Aquarius is a fixed air sign, definitely not a water sign. The water signs are Cancer, Scorpio and Pisces. Water signs are sensitive by nature. They are often nurturing, creative and intuitive. They absorb the qualities and energy of people around them. This can make them seem more emotional than other signs. They can be sentimental in a positive, loving way, but also sometimes too sentimental and overly sensitive.
The Earth signs are Taurus, Virgo and Capricorn. Earth signs are practical by nature. They are often solid and reliable. They are less apt to make rash decisions and tend to want to mull over their options before taking action. On the negative side they can be stubborn and uncomfortable with change.
The Air signs are Gemini, Libra and Aquarius. Air signs are analytical by nature. They often enjoy thinking and exploring multiple perspectives and points of view. Communication and exploring the world of ideas is where they shine. On the negative side, they can be flighty and scattered, and struggle with making decisions.
The Fire signs are Aries, Leo and Sagittarius. They are enthusiastic by nature. Fire signs can be inspirational and charismatic, and they leave a strong impact wherever they go. On the negative side, they can be opinionated, easily-angered and controlling.
What many people do not know is that all of the signs of the zodiac are in each and every individual’s chart. Even if you are not a Pisces, you will find a part of you that is Pisces-like in approach in your Astrological chart. All of the planets in our solar system represent different elements within us. The planets will be in different signs and places in our charts and show where these particular signs and elements are most noticeable in our personalities or influence us in our daily life experiences. The month you were born and sign you say you are is actually only your Sun sign. The Sun is a major and notable influence. It represents that part of us that is bright and powerful and often most noticeable to others. When we do what our Sun sign prompts us to do we “plug into cosmic central.” This is energizing and makes us feel like we are following the course that is right for us. The Sun sign is only one of the major planetary influences in our charts. Exploring the characteristics of your sun sign and its impact is valuable, but there are many other aspects to consider. When you explore more of your Astrological chart on your own, by reading books or working with a competent Astrologer, you will really begin to understand the diverse influences that make up our unique characteristics and the life path we walk.
Jim Ventura 3-2010