These natural affinities offer us natural attractions to people of like mind and type and provide opportunities to share similarities.

Antipathies are equally natural to us and many will agree to have had the experience of an instant dislike when meeting a stranger of whom little is known. It may be simply two people of different signs clashing because of diametrically opposed points of view, of themselves and of the universe around them. It may be our feelings only that are involved, or a mutual antipathy that is sometimes a subconscious recognition of the souls’ previous contact as enemies in past lives.

It is well acknowledged that opposites also attract and different personalities can stimulate exchanges that can be to our advantage or to personal growth. We find that natural attractions generally present opportunities to feel comfortable with others and if it is mutual, then a basis for constructive relationships and friendships.

Antipathies are there to be overcome by understanding or as a lesson of avoidance and a warning that there are unknown elements or potential dangers in an association with a fundamentally different personality. When a really strong antipathy is felt, it is best to listen to one’s intuition if the soul whispers that avoidance is the best policy.

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Yet the symbol tells us of these in the human part looking with aspiration to the stars and the earthy, animal four feet that are retained on the ground!

People born in this sign are physically aware and have a practical nature as well as very high minded seeker for truth, usually through philosophy.  So we find some tend to develop their physical skills in sport and love of nature and others  become keen intellectual students with an appetite for knowledge.

Seldom to you find this person to be short of interests and usually, if other factors in the chart indicate it, an easy conversationalist. They are naturally drawn to teaching.

The tendency to be outspoken, although an indication of honesty, is often found to be a negative in social life, so avoiding clumsiness in speech or in action is a common necessary discipline. However, it is rare that such a sign, ruled by expansive Jupiter, is found to be mean and are rather renowned for their magnanimity.

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The basic symbol used for each zodiacal sign is still in use today, although there have been minor changes over time.

Aries – the Ram

This is drawn to represent the horns of the ram designed to represent the power of the militant fighter and leader who depicts the dogged courage and energetic force of the planet Mars – the pioneer.

Taurus – the Bull

Shows the harmonious combination of the circular sun with the crescent moon as its crown – this was associated with the earth power of the bull as well as the goddess of all nurturing qualities including the arts and beauty – with Venus its ruler. 

Gemini – the Twins

Shows twins depicted as separate entities but united by a line above and below to show the dual nature that is characteristic of its influence upon the mind – Mercury is its planetary ruler.

Cancer – the Crab

The sign is created by two small circles, each with a tail and fitting together in a way symbolic of the shy crab or as some depict, of two spermatozoa. Each circle describes the moon phases to illustrate the emotional influence of this sign ruled by the Moon.

Leo – the Lion

This sign has changed somewhat over time when the circle representing the Sun, the ruler of this sign was more dominant but the mane of the lion, king of the beasts, remains under royal influence of the Sun.

Virgo – the Virgin

The universal M sign of the spiritual mother or feminine principle is here to represent the nurturing of all things of value in thought and studies. The energy is magnetic and introvert and associated with the purity of maidenhood. Mercury is its ruler.

Libra – the Scales

Representing equilibrium, balance and justice and the scales by which law is administered – still is retained in modern legal symbolism. Venus is its ruling planet.

Scorpio – the Scorpion

Again the M sign of the masculine sex symbol of extrovert expression and a reminder of the inherent danger in the use of sexual energy for self gratification instead of perceived as a sacred trust for creativity. Once considered that Mars is ruler – now generally considered to be Pluto.

Sagittarius – the Archer

The design is always an attempt to show half human, half animal – a generous combination of qualities that show an influence demanding choices between earthly pursuits and the heavenly goal of his arrow – Jupiter is its expansive ruler

Capricorn – the Goat

The ram’s horn and the curves that show tangled tusks of the mountain goat that can climb up to the heights of ambition should it keep free of entanglements. It indicates the power to overcome problems ever seeking to be of service – it is ruled by Saturn

Aquarius – the Water Bearer

Usually there is a little confusion here. Once water was considered the traditional power but now it is seen rather as electrical as we witness the gradual alteration from two horizontal waving lines to the vertical – Uranus the planet is its ruler for the Aquarian New Age

Pisces – the Fishes

Two curved crescent moons back to back and bound by a horizontal line indicates the emotional life and restraints of this zodiacal sign that allows supreme sacrifices to be made through selflessness –the planet Neptune is its ruler.

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It becomes evident, that, for whatever reason, we tend to be naturally grouped in a mould of talents and behaviour common to others born within the same zodiacal framework and birth time. To accurately draw up an astrological chart, it is important that we relate to the true moment of birth, to the minute if possible. This is calculated by reference to astronomical calculations published in an ephemeris and is readily available to professional astrologers. For those who are happy with a rather broader interpretation, there are many quick calculating systems to use as a beginners’ guide.

The satisfaction of studying the human psyche within the astrological system is that it recognizes the extreme complexity of human nature but gives us with a simple starting point to observe why we share a similar body type with others; why our circumstances share similar points with others of the same zodiacal sign; why our latent talents can be seen from a young age; where our weaknesses in character exist; and many other features that are inherent in our overall psychological pattern or ‘recipe’.

When we have absorbed the basic studies of the zodiacal signs we then learn to see that the placement of the planets in the heavens at our birth. The planets then focus the particular influences rather than the previous generalities of the zodiacal sun sign or birth sign. These activate the difficult energy patterns or advantageous ones relative to our health, wealth, relationships, emotional fulfilment or intellectual goals.

Further, beyond the physical personality, the ancient science of astrology is complete in recognizing the attributes of the soul and the spirit of the individual that inhabits the psychological mechanism known to modern psychology.

The most potent reminder through astrology is that you, as an individual are unique and so will experience life uniquely and can offer a rare gift to the world.

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The general properties are well known in this way, but there are subtler influences beyond material comforts and pleasures. To relate Venus as the planet of Love we must embrace the range of this emotion if we are to be able to interpret an individual’s chart so that we can apply our knowledge appropriately.

To some people, love is equated with sensory excitation, sexual pleasure and a general affection towards others. Those who experience the consuming nature of passionate love it is as an emotion more related to fire.  There are many other expressions such as the gentle love of a mother to child, the tender feeling of a child to its parents, the satisfying balance of shared friendship and a thousand opportunities life presents to us to love, to give and to share.

In realization of the highest spiritual form of love expression we extend beyond any particular focus of love into a degree of embracement of all life and this is the most refined gift the planet Venus can bring us. But it is rare. We must first prove our integrity by becoming incapable of defiling or debasing this most sacred emotion by being motivated by self satisfaction or self interest, and demonstrate that love is in the giving.

The placement of Venus in your Chart will certainly indicate where your material good fortune lies or the ease you experience in relationships, creative arts and home decoration. But beyond this, we bear in mind it is the symbol of that elusive harmony of energies we see as Beauty and feel as Love.

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If you are born under this sign, or have it Rising at your time of birth, you will feel that there is an unknown or mysterious influence that seems to pervade your life.

If you can accept this Scorpio gift somewhat as the Good Fairies bless the child in the Sleeping Princess fable, and translate its energy wisely, it will help create great success in your constructive undertakings and in your personal understanding of life. It can equally be devastatingly successful in its employment in negative actions and be capable of creating inner turmoil and drama in your personal psyche (and relationships) should your choose unwisely.

It is a matter of recognizing your inherent power that you have – as a potential, or as a tool if you already have a current channel for its energy in your life. But to remember the responsibility that is always attendant to this gift and to temper your sense of ego and power with the gentleness that you also possess, is important. Others may not have come to know you well.

Be kind to yourself, and to others.

Other factors in your chart will always add to the mix of your character traits but rarely does a Scorpio fail to possess intensity, whether it is interest in sexual expression of their emotions, ambition in their enterprises, or a capacity to research the depths of human nature, or to investigate the higher truths of the heavens.

To moderate your inner intensity is necessary for your inner peace.

Meditation helps you to realise how to best use your will and find the truth you seek.

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Libra has the sign of the scales symbolizing this focus upon balance and justice and many who are attracted to the legal profession or in an environment where they can satisfy their refined aesthetic sense of decoration and proportion.

Each Libra dominated personality will have a romantic streak and a need to share in marriage or in friendships, on an equal footing in social life. Their strong values about marriage usually result in idealistic hopes of a faithful and trusting relationship that will last ‘for ever and ever’. This wonderful love relationship that endures may be rare but is most likely to involve members of Libra’s starry influence.

Love, balance and beauty are the harmonious gifts from the planet Venus that rules this sign.

It is hoped that all who are blessed by these wonderful qualities will find plentiful planetary energies to fulfil them or be able to maintain them by withstanding any influence that threatens their expression, both in the outer material world as well as the inner being.

Libra ruled people have the opportunity to channel love, peace and harmony and so make a quiet but positive contribution towards our future state of peace and brotherhood of our planet.

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The segment that touches the horizon from below on the left hand side, is the Rising Sign that occupies the first house. In their natural sequence, and going anti-clockwise, the rest of the twelve zodiacal signs follow to find their placement.

When beginning to search for indications about yourself, it is of course best to do so in consulting a profession and experienced astrologer, one who has had some years of study of the subject.  However, even with elementary knowledge, we can learn a few points if we become familiar with the traditional meanings, qualities and circumstances related to these twelve areas of the heavens and the planets that occupied them at our time of birth.

This map registering our Natal Chart influences remains a constant reference throughout our lifetime, although of course must be changed and modified as time goes by and we ourselves determine our life course and make personality changes.

The First House will indicate a strong factor regarding our body, general appearance and type of personality expression.

 Not only the zodiacal sign (your Rising Sign) that is coming above the horizon at your time of birth but also any planet in that 30 degree segment of the circle will influence interpretation and so must also be considered. For example, if your Rising Sign happens to be Aries which is strong and wilful, and you also have the planet Mars situated in that sign, you will be bound to be a very active or even combative person, and your appearance will tend to be dark and body slim. There will be an element in your nature that may be either courageous and strong in adversity, or you may express it differently in an aggressive, selfish tendency.

 As Astrology is a science that deals with energies and its language is not one that claims to judge human choices, none but the finest astrologers will make prediction concerning any individual’s ultimate decisions or outcomes.

So we must approach self analysis through our chart as just a discovery of one piece in the jigsaw after another as we seek for the complete picture that represents us.

 Second House (going anti-clockwise, remember) is an indication of your type of possessions, material estate, your investments – finances – building – collecting -physical destiny or karma -  inherent good fortune – emotions – desires 

Third House by its ruler and planet will show your intellectual interests and studies, or lack of same and your inclinations to travel in your mind as well as physically- brothers and close relatives- early schooling – writing – speech – adaptability- short journeys -electronic age education and interests – activity – intellectual talents, wit

Fourth House is your home or place of security, early upbringing and comfort zone -your home – parents- domestic situations- real estate and property-home life- inheritance -environment – harmonious factors in life- also family matters and environment in latter years – inherited tendencies

Fifth House points to your choice of pleasures – sexual appetites -creative talents – entertainment- offspring – children – speculation – risk taking- gambling – education – teaching of all kinds – disappointments in friendship – or regarding children

Sixth House relates to matters of health and good or bad indicators may tell of any weaknesses – service – dedication – devotion to duty – work- sense of responsibility-nursing – medical – rectification – adjustments – healing – relationships with family aunts and uncles

Seventh House shows partnership in marriage or in business enterprises and is important when considering any wisdom that astrology may offer regarding compatibility issues… (before any commitment is best!) spouse – marriage – partnerships – individuality – enemies -sharing bonds – public in general – litigation – contracts and agreements

Eighth House will register your type of long term life path and any material or intellectual legacies you may inherit – matters related to death – endings and finalities -regeneration- payments-losses – fatalities –consciousness -  reflections on meaning of life and seeking answers

Ninth House is the area to look for your innate philosophy and religious or spiritual beliefs and whether you have any intensity or lack of interest in deeper issues – long journeys and travels of the mind – aspiration -imagination – expansion -  philanthropy – legal profession- visionary -science

Tenth House points to career and your success, reputation and acclaimed status in the world- worldly achievements – citizenship – honour – profession – reputation- work – standing in the community – power in the social order – public affairs

Eleventh House points to our enduring friendships and our social inclinations- ambitions – altruism – sympathies – sense of brotherhood- step children – social affiliations – attitude towards people – inner hopes and wishes

Twelfth House It is the area that tells of loneliness and suffering- secrets- inhibitions-negative karma – any withdrawal from the world – exiles – hurt by secret enemies.  It deals with the restricting factors in circumstances, failures, limitations and difficulties.

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Spiritual evolution is another matter. It works upon the increase of consciousness and intelligence. The aim to encourage the growth of the spark of intelligence that resides in each living creature and in the forms of all species in the vast kingdoms of nature, from the first slow stirrings in the minerals, to all plant life, insect, bird and animal, to the independent mind and intelligence that possesses the power of free will and resides in human form.

Although spiritual evolution may also be based upon our learning and our ability to adapt to human circumstances, it is concerned with the advancement of our immortal soul. This is slowly achieved by the gaining of wisdom and life’s truths and by the constructive expression of the noblest qualities we possess. This is provided in a system that provides opportunity for the human soul to learn and to grow gradually, through a succession of incarnations.

This is where the understanding of Astrology comes into consideration as to the manner whereby we as individual souls can learn all the lessons earth life has to teach us….the courage of Aries, the strength of Taurus, the power of speech of Gemini, the compassion of Cancer, the power of love of Leo, the exactitude of Virgo, the balance and beauty of Libra, the passion of Scorpio, the aspiration and wisdom of Sagittarius, the perseverance of Capricorn, the universality of Aquarius, and the willingness and sensitivity to sacrifice personal ego for the general good that is best known to those who understand Pisces.

This sketchy outline of the life curriculum for human learning is only a hint as to the deeper issues involved. But we can begin to see a better reason for our birth chart with its defined encouragements and cautions if we use it to help focus upon our personal disciplines for this present personality and circumstances.

As far as already confirmed, astrologers, both by astronomical progressions and by historical examples and known world teachers, that humanity as a whole evolves in what seems to be the reverse order of the zodiac from our present standpoint. For example, Jesus Christ the great spiritual Avatar exemplified the teaching of the Piscean era with the symbol of the fish being dominant. The anticipated teacher for the Aquarian Age with its symbol of the water bearer, will guide us in a different fashion to suit our present needs, 2000 or so years later. And after that our earth history will be subject to the Capricornian energies of a future millennium.

It is necessary that eventually each of us personally experiences all that earth life has to teach us, through experience of all energies represented in the twelve signs of the zodiac. This is accomplished through a succession of incarnations some as a male and others as a female as determined by Karmic or spiritual law.

Regarding the order in which individual human beings progress through life’s school, there is some considerable interest. For instance, if born under Leo this life, does this mean that next life we will be under Cancer or do we move from Leo into a Virgo incarnation?  Some would argue that to be forewarned is forearmed!  Personally I do not know the answer nor do I presume to think it is wise to seek so ambitiously. Rather to apply what we already know would seem wise.

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Providing their critical ability is reserved for self improvement and is moderated regarding the efforts of others, a Virgo person is successful in helping create order and also adding aesthetic properties and improvements by making practical aspects of life also decorative. In a female this often leads to interior design, fashion, and many tend to find work in writing and reporting, including the scientific sphere if this is their chosen interest and males can excel in architecture and the exact sciences.

Virgo children are not devious and usually show a high degree of integrity and intelligence at an early age and have a natural interest in hygiene – a characteristic that perhaps was once instrumental in directing many girls towards a career in nursing!  Health remains a focus in Virgo people of any age throughout their lives – health of both body and mind.

Others have to remind these wonderful people to take the pressure off themselves and not to expect too much from others who will show resentment if they are not diplomatically persuaded to co-operate in any venture or goal. Family life presents ample opportunity to exercise understanding.

Virgo is usually very discriminating in choice of friends or lovers and although not externally seen as warm in their affections, are often passionate and faithful in their private life and relationships.

All the qualities of such a perfectionist influence from the stars are decreased, magnified or modified by the other zodiacal energies show in the birth chart unique to each person.

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