By Michael O’Connor

Tip of the week

The natural year is rapidly coming to a close and a new one is poised to begin.

This alpha and omega meeting point is called Winter Solstice. From this day forth the hours of daylight will begin to increase again. It is something of an irony that this gradual increase towards longer days begins on the first day of winter. Christmas day is symbolically linked to this re-birth of the ‘Sun’ and when the increase of daylight is first noticeable.

This is a generic cycle common to all. The science of measuring cycles and their probable expressions of events and timing can also be applied to our personal lives. Where are you at in your life cycles? With the assistance of Astrology and Numerology I can help you to know.

What is extra special about Winter Solstice this year is that it coincides with an exact New Moon and counts as the third of four in a row that occur at 0 degrees of their respective signs: Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn and the Aquarius. Zero degrees marks new beginnings. This is especially true of Cardinal Signs – Capricorn, Aries, Cancer, and Libra, which are the ‘signs’ linked to the Solstices and Equinox – the natural quartering of the year and advent of seasons which in turn constitute the basis of Western Astrology.

Looking at the current state of the world, the plummet in the price of oil presents a strong synchronicity that suggests that things will not return to the way they were anytime soon. Yes, some big turns, trends and events are brewing and 2015 will prove to be remarkable in many ways. I will devote this portion of the column to continued updates of planetary alignments and their synchronicities.

Although there is nothing new about change, some turns are sharper than others, some much more. Mercury, Venus, Pluto and in a few days the Sun in Capricorn and then Saturn entering Sagittarius on December 23 where it will remain for three years, will add to the deepening plot and leave their stamp on the chart for New Year 2015. Read all about it in my New Moon Newsletter – free sign-up on my website.

Dec. 19 – 25

Aries (Mar 21 – Apr 20)

It is common to feel the extra weight at this time of year. Thus a mix of enthusiasm balanced by a dryer and more sober attitude will likely describe your current mood. Saturn’s shift into your fiery cousin’s sign of Sagittarius will activate a renewed spirit of adventure. It will activate a search for deeper answers and inspire creative determinations to advance to the next level.

Taurus (Apr 20 – May 21)

You are on a creative and powerful role. Yet these do include some rather deep changes that have already begun. Not usually a big fan of change, these are compelling you to stand strong in your confidence based on all you have achieved these past few years. What stands to change most are inherited beliefs, convictions and philosophies.

Gemini (May 21 – June 21)

Amidst an expanding social cycle, you also feel drawn inward. Some deeper and more serious thoughts, feelings and reflections about what you consider important are underway. How to balance the two is the question. Rich exchanges of communication with someone you trust to provide sound and unbiased feedback, perhaps over dinner, just might satisfy both.

Cancer (June 21 – July 22)

Often this time of year is serious business. This is true whether you are actually in business or simply engaged in the efforts required to make the festive season just that. Whispers and secrets don’t sound very jolly but they are prevalent now and there are other reasons yet why you feel the weight. Find reasons to feel grateful to uplift your spirits.

Leo (July 22 – Aug 23)

Mixing business with pleasure feels especially right at this time of year. Yet, like a private investigator or even a spy there is mission and purpose behind your cheers. With an eye for detail you are determined to get everything just right. This includes contending with the individuality, special circumstances and antics of certain key players currently on your stage.

Virgo (Aug 23 – Sep 22)

Sometimes the more serious turns in life actually work well for us. This may be one of those times. The challenging tone, pace and implications of changes are activating your leadership qualities. Since true leadership is based on a genuine and deep sense of service, you may be a good candidate. However, expect to earn the confidence required.

Libra (Sep 22 – Oct 22)

Attending to a host of details and tasks and on a variety of fronts is likely now. This includes creating an atmosphere of beauty, inspiration and celebration close to home. Words like security, integrity and confidence can be added to the list. Clearing the old to make way for the new is featured whether it is clutter, or the props of old interpretations, attitudes and perceptions.

Scorpio (Oct 22 – Nov 21)

A process of taking stock and inventory continues. At this point, beyond possessions you are re-evaluating all that you possess or have access to in terms of talents, opportunities, connections, affiliations and so on. You are entering a time which will require you to re-imagine and re-invent yourself somehow once again. Change your own mind and leave the rest as it is.

Sagittarius (Nov 21 – Dec 21)

Saturn entering your sign this week should be enough to get your attention. It may feel a bit like coming to shore after a long while at sea. Imagine this metaphor was true and you landed on an unexplored island. You would first have to ‘get your legs back’. Then wisdom would guide you to secure a basecamp. Explorations requiring courage would follow. Land ho!

Capricorn (Dec 21 – Jan 19)

A new chapter is beginning for us all and beyond simply being aware you can feel it in every cell. It is and will continue to push you into your sense of leadership. A new kind of commitment is required. Old interpretations of security will have to be replaced by new ones. Although this process will take time you have arrived at the turning point.

Aquarius (Jan 19 – Feb 19)

Much is stirring behind the scenes in your world, not least of all a barrage of thoughts and questions. A few concerns may be woven in as well. You are entering a time of returns. All being well, you have invested your time and energy well over the past few years. New associations, involvements and commitments are implied.

Pisces (Feb 19 – Mar 20)

Saturn enters your solar career house this week. This will require extra measures of discipline and patience to handle. At best it will bring forth new levels of power and authority. This is a long cycle but it begins now. Focus to refine your knowledge and updating outdated models, approaches and perspectives.

– Michael O’Connor is a professional astrologer with an international clientele.  He has 30 years of study in Astrology, Numerology and related metaphysical and spiritual modalities, over 20 years of full-time practice, is an entertaining and inspirational speaker, and writes a popular New Moon Newsletter and Horoscope Column. To learn more about Booking an Appointment, attending one of Michael’s Workshops or Webinars or one of his inspiring Visual Presentations, please visit his website or contact Michael directly. www.sunstarastrology.com or (250) 352-6871 or [email protected]

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