CAPRICORN & the Cardinal Cross of the Central Spritual Sun ~ Evolution through Initiation ~

Capricorn & Capricorn Asc ~ Evolution through Initiation

4^th Solar house Jupiter/Uranus Aries (3^rd Pisces when retrograde)

7^th Solar house Moon in Cancer

10^th Solar house Saturn-Mars-Venus in Libra (August 2010)

1^st Solar house Pluto in Capricorn

For the cosmic overview click on the 
Cardinal Cross of the Central Spiritual Sun 

Capricorn, at the best of times, is a powerful authority. And because the planets line up in an amazing formation, these coming years, including the Cardinal Cross of the Central Spiritual Sun could turn out to be the most potent of your life. Wow. While there is every chance you experience extremes of fortune, by coming into your own power, what will this mean for the rest of us as politically influential Pluto transits through your sign? Probably it will be more of the same energy: extreme with difficult decisions to make, but without any Capricorn know-how to ramp-up authority, especially when playing with the Big Boys.

So how you get the best out of yourself during this time will very much depend upon how you are feeling about a) co-operation within your career (profession is always a Capricorn concern), b) emotional fulfilment in relationship, c) freedom within family environment, and d) having personal confidence to deal with the previous three – and all without feeling as though the weight of world is on your shoulders. While you could be developing super hero qualities, with Uranus and Jupiter in the 4^th solar sphere of family, unexpected problems could arise from your home to throw you off track. The occasional power outage could stress us all out, but try not to let a naturally serious mood descend into feeling suppressed, oppressed, or generally lacking oomph should anything truly out of the ordinary happen, which demands you firmly take hold the reigns of responsibility. Others depend upon you, as signified by the two planets you have a personal connection to who are major players in the Cardinal Cross: your ruler authoritative Saturn, who is in direct square to controlling Pluto in Capricorn (August 21^st). Both planets suggest you will discover immense strength of character; but is how you wield this personal power, i.e. fairly and squarely, without offending or dominating others, which will count towards a deposit in the karmic merit bank. For these two planets bring about evolution through profound and often secretive action (so you don’t need to shout about it): Collective new beginnings are about to be explored, which may not be obvious to everyone as we steer through Samsara’s choppy seas. But one thing is for sure: you are at the helm.   

To give matters a certain hint of mystery, there are fascinating thresholds to cross, even in love and romance. These exciting times have many planets in your favour, revealing a hidden magnetic attraction. This could make joining up with someone or something you like totally compelling. And when the emotional Moon makes her monthly opposition to both sexy Pluto in your sign, and Saturn Libra, in the sign of partnerships, a single Capricorn could connect with someone who presses all your buttons. As the planets continue throughout the year to form this very strong and very rare ‘cross’, all Capricorns could sense how your purpose in life is not only to achieve and do well in the material world, but that you can also feed a deeply spiritual part of your being, particularly through a balanced and loving relationship. As Saturn, your Sun’s ruler meets up with the planet of love, Venus, this month (in August) you may feel the power of love encouraging you to examine the way you have related in the past, where you are right now, and what you anticipate in the future; its like having a dancing Dakini of the three times sparkle in your presence. In relationship or not, you’re warned to watch mood swings; either too overbearing or too fearful, too unpredictable or too emotional, too obsessive or fixated.  Be aware that projecting or transferring negativity could destroy the very thing that you want to co-create. Exerting a modicum of self-control will go a long way in helping you to discover deeper psychology; you may even have insights into spiritual secrets.

Generally speaking Capricorn is more practical than idealistic, thriving on work and achievement; not only are you more ambitious than most but on a relative level you’re also more organised and practical to attain your goals. You could draw upon this resigned and responsible part of your character throughout this year as your ruling planet Saturn, is also the planet of recognition, residing in your house of fame and glory. This powerful combination of Pluto and Saturn can work in several ways: you could ruthlessly push ahead in any situation, at work by getting the promotion you seek, within relationship by hitching up with a trophy partner, at home living in a high security desirable block, or you could be dealing with delays, jealousy, broken promises, stroppy bosses, and hardened offenders. You, however, are advised to be a shining example of patience and perseverance. It takes bravery to show a mastery of personal transformation, and to take on a re-birth that restores a world to balance through love and care. Co-creation and co-operation are the way to discover everyone’s unique talent, which they bring to the table for collective and global renewal. 

Financially with deceptive Neptune sill retrograde in your zodiacal bank, you may have to deal with annoying bank errors, or costly unexpected expenses that take time to unravel and understand. But this is not your area of major transformation: if you are honest with yourself, you may have noticed how over the past year you started to present yourself in a much more convincing manner.  When influential Pluto crossed into your sign it brought with it a formidable and dominant energy that cannot be abused or treated lightly. While Pluto in Capricorn also makes a challenging aspect to expansive Jupiter in Aries, your solar sphere of the fourth house of home and family, it will magnify events within this very familiar space for the next. Remain strong and stable to be able to adjust and move at the drop of a hat.  This could be challenging for you with Uranus activating the same domain. Your foundations could feel quite shaky, chaotic even.  Rules and regulations could also be thrown to the wind. Be it family encouragement, your actual home or a circle of friends, whatever you thought was going to support you forever and a day, is now in the process of a major shift. So you may no longer be able to count upon this old secure guard in the same way. This means instead of holding onto tradition for dear life, by looking at the same-of- way-of-doing-the-same-old-thing, you will need to awaken the windows of the soul and look through new eyes to bring new ideas and creative insight to the fore. Given time you will be able to implement these to not only bring greater security to you personally, but also to others, whom you consider your global family.

There really is no escaping how this is a most significant time for Capricorn; with so many aspects of your world now on the celestial stage, and all of them in the spotlight. This means the Cardinal Cross could be a demanding year on many fronts. So be prepared to open up your heart, mind and spirit, and grow – BIG time! You’re now the guardian of hidden glory – a secret Holy Grail – from which only the brave and qualified Spiritual Warriors are allowed to taste victory. It may well that you so work hard to get to where you want to get to that you’re not going to let go of any attainments so easily. But with Pluto in your sign you do need to be in a constant process of renewal, by digging into the depths of your being and, if necessary, uprooting all that no longer serves you, so you can accomplish with a light heart.  Remember the more you hold on to harmful thoughts, feelings or actions, the more you are bound to be challenged. Note, though, how you are actually in a better position than most to deal with difficult situations: Choose to wield this considerable power wisely, and consider the welfare of others carefully for your Spiritual Sun to shine with love, and you will surely enjoy the status, love, and respect you seek.

Jupiter opposition Saturn ~ August 16th 2010

The mandala here is the pattern created by the interactive cycle of Jupiter and Saturn, from a helio perspective. With Michael Erlewine's encouragement, I've recently been looking at helio charts, which are scopes from the Sun's p.o.v., as opposed to the normal geocentric. It seems that Helio scopes may well be integral to awakening the Central Spritual Sun.

Today, as Jupiter opposes Saturn for the second time in a series of three, and from the geo p.o.v., we are at the second petal marker of that cosmic looking trefuille, three-leafed clover right in the middle of the mandla. From a Helio perspective, however, Jupiter is already back into oceanic Pisces, overflowing with compassion, kindness & love ♥¨`*•♫.•´*.¸.•♥¨`*•♫.•´*.¸.•♥¨`*•♫.•´*.¸.•♥¨`*•♫.•´*.¸.•

AQUARIUS & the Cardinal Cross of the Central Spiritual Sun ~ Evolution of the MIND ~

Aquarius ~ Aquarius Rising

3^nd Solar house Jupiter/Uranus Aries (retrograding into 2^nd)

6^th Solar house Moon in Cancer

9^th Solar house Saturn-Mars-Venus in Libra (August 2010)

12^th Solar house Pluto in Capricorn

For the cosmic overview, click on the

Cardinal Cross of the Central Spritual Sun

“Change is the only constant” is the clarion call for Aquarius, the progressive sign of innovation and universality. With your ruling planet, eccentric Uranus, in the solar 3^rd house of communicating data, and digesting said information before releasing it again, the way you’ll be fast changing is through the media, mind-science and neighbourhood networking.  Understanding the nuts and bolts of how the mind works, from reward to threat, providing the tools you need to create the altruistic humanitarian state you idealise. Knowing how the mind works helps you to comprehend your own motivating desires and aversion, as well as appreciate how everyone’s mind has the propensity to hop about doing all kinds of acrobatic mental machination; this is also an aid for being more forgiving when working with others.

With both expansive Jupiter and co-operative Uranus in the 3^rd house of diversity, Aquarians need to freely exchange a variety of ideas and thoughts; while having Saturn (Venus & Mars) in Libra in the 9^th, expansion of consciousness and elevated spirit comes through teaching, learning, and focusing upon philosophical aspirations.  Libra is the sign of partnership; by having this sign activated in the sphere of life’s bigger concepts, relationship becomes a means of communicating heady objectives.

Generally speaking an Aquarian is a ‘people person’, who requires sharing daily life to be on an equal footing - but with Aquarius in charge (only a rare few can compare to Aquarius’ organisational ability!); and this could be the premise that you purport right now.  Yet as the planet of confusion, guilt, and letting go, Neptune, is still retrograde in Aquarius (going forward on Dec 6^th 2010), it could therefore be difficult to put purely personal feelings into words. So while certain situations (e.g.travel) may not be moving as fast as you would like, and the inertia makes one feel tired and slow, you could encounter resistance if you try to push ahead at any cost.  Concentrate on presenting yourself clearly. Awareness through controlled breathing and focused thought (even on emptiness) brings about much-needed insight. And while Uranus goes retrograde back into Pisces into your zodiacal bank (finances could be tricky (again)) you’re advised to see the immediate value of spirit. Meditate to stay cool and keep the welfare of others’ in mind

Loving partnerhip will continue be a serious focus for a couple of years with karmic Saturn in your area of liberty and expansion. The very idea of love frees your soul. Dreaming of tenderness and all things beautiful: Romantic affairs may seem like Maya, an illusion lost to some far-away place -  yet so important to reach out to. What may hold you back from achieving your heart’s desire could be the fear of exposing heart and soul to another.  Saturn here says ‘wise up’. (Besides, the Water Bearer is going to need this wisdom when Saturn moves into your solar 10^th in 2012). Any disappointment of unmet expectation should be shrugged off leaving a single Aquarian able to appreciate how active human kindness positively illuminates partnerships.  Seeking harmonious relationship is much easier when you’re less emotionally wound-up – Aquarius rules the nervous system. When Uranus returns to Aries in March, you’ll able to communicate even your most profound feelings with your usual consummate ease. The Aquarian already in relationship could make the most of having disciplined Saturn in the sign of balance, peace and harmony, responsibly placing open-hearted love as driving force of the relations, which encourages both partners to be in optimistic moods, serious but amorous.

As this Cardinal Cross can literally nail one down, be careful not disempower anyone in the blame game.  Aquarians tend to come across as extremely self-confident. For those who don’t know you, this can be misinterpreted as bossy and/or intolerant - indeed, unconscious arrogance can mask a multitude of insecurities. Asking for help gains more support during this period, when a little humility goes a long way. Truth and freedom are crucially important to you. Afford others’ the respect they deserve, leaving them at liberty to value your opinion too. Co-operation is the way to co-create.

The heaven’s are behind you in so many ways, Aquarius, urging you to formulate both a spiritual and professional strategy. Formulate a plan if you also want to get ahead at work. Start now, with careful preparation. Make lists, keep notes, study how others do what you’d like to do. Make time for spiritual practice, clean your sacred space regularly, and dedicate the work you do for the benefit other others. Do this for an entire week and Aquarius will have convinced anyone who has a watchful eye upon you (including yourself – from your mind’s eye) how there is no need to worry about your commitment to anything or anyone. With powerful Pluto in your solar 12^th for the coming years, spiritual transformation could be deep and secretly dramatic. Even so, with the moon making a monthly aspect of the Cardinal Cross activating your daily routine, practice makes perfect - perfect bliss. When the moon opposes mysterious Pluto with its monthly cycle, activating the area of the subconscious, its worthwhile to note your dream world; any message of the night could reveal pertinent information shedding new light on difficult matters, including legalities. There is much to be said for following your bliss. 

If this means you lunch-out over domestic affairs, or even business, for a couple of days every month during the time of the Spiritual Cross, you will get more than just your housework done for the rest of the month, as there are opportunities indicated that you can enjoy community events that not only help you feel connected but also change your mind on several issues. Being with kindred spirits restores your faith, not only in humanity, but also in yourself, as you appear to have had quite a tough time of it recently, possibly having to cancel long-term plans and make cut-backs all over the place. Take heart Aquarius: Follow your destiny and encourage the light of your Central Spiritual Sun to stream with awareness, from one moment of change to the next.

Heartfelt thanks, as always, to visionary Bill Brouard, Visual Alchemist, & Anya Langmead for the beautiful Buddha & other unknown but much appreciated artists.

Week 15th-21st August '10 ~ ♥ ✩ ☄ ✩ ♥ ~ Harmonious Lovers & the T-square

This week the skies again activate the Cardinal T squares (to become Cardinal Cross 3rd Sept). Expansive Jupiter still in autonomous Aries, conjuncts Uranus, planet of dramatic change who is revisiting compassionate Pisces. Both planets are retrograde, indicating an internal shift through greater spiritual self-awareness. A challenge to any mindful self-exploration comes tomorrow, as Jupiter makes the second of three oppositions to the karmic taskmaster, Saturn, who is in relationship orientated Libra. (Dates to note: 1st opp was 23rd May, & the last will be on 28th March 2011).  This long lasting aspect shows what we need to work on and overcome in order to clarfiy the most balanced and altruistic way forward. With a gentle guiding hand we can allow our mind's eye to focus with luminioius mindfulness (as illustrated by Alex Grey♥).

On Thursday the19th, the Moon conjuncts Pluto in Capricorn, providing depth and insight. We might not always like what we see, but when the emotional Moon is roused through profound Plutonic feelings, the power to transform is also generated.

Friday, the 20th the Spirit of Sun opposes Divine Neptune,when the dakini dance is a meditation on bliss and emptiness, as opposed to losing onself in a state of mindless oblivion. On the same day loving Venus embraces her heavenly lover, Mars, as the two enter a close pas-de-deux until early October (when Venus goes retrograde in demon-facing Scorpio).  For love to circulate freely, Venus and Mars presently seek to harmonise and find balance and trust in relationship.

At the same time Mercury, planet of communication, goes retrograde from the 20th August until 13th September. Mercury is at home in Virgo, so crossing 't's and dotting 'i's', while emphasised, ought to be a breeze - but could well be horribly complicated. Just remember to re-read the small print at least 3x.

The third and final Saturn-Pluto square, on Saturday 21st, ends a triple series that began in November '09, bringing home the need for controlling destructive tendancies. As mentioned before, this is a part of a larger cycle which began in 1982 (and ends in 2020). We now complete a crisis phase of conscience, which occurs during a closing square (the opening square being 1993). This is powerful aspect, full of renewable promise: with discipline and responsibility we can harness our will and ability to evolve, like collective alchemists able to transmute even the most difficult negative energy, and transmogrify tough and persistant hardship into positive expressions of justice and fairness, and regenerate a planet in balance.

PISCES & the Cardinal Cross of the Central Spiritual Sun ♥ evolution in LOVE ♥ + ☼ + ♥

Pisces~Pisces Asc ©

2^nd Solar house Jupiter/Uranus Aries

5^th Solar house Moon in Cancer

8^th Solar house Saturn-Mars-Venus in Libra (August 2010)11^th Solar house Pluto in Capricorn

For the cosmic overview of the Cardinal Cross of the Central Spiritual Sun

For someone so tuned into phantasmagoria, this Cardinal Cross suggests you radiate the Central Spritual Sun by knowing the ordinary world is also a wondrous place to be.  To you life could be the classic Zen situation: “Before enlightenment, chopping wood fetching water – After enlightenment, chopping wood fetching water”. In other words, the way to growth and positive development is through acknowledging the beauty, bliss and ease in everyday situations.  A child’s smile, a view from the hill, a nicely cooked meal: these are the kind of situations which bring joy and lighten the heart.  Being open to such simple elements will enhance and expand all sense perceptions too, and put you in touch with the magic that dwells within.

On a very material, practical and relative level, the ongoing Cardinal Cross of the Spiritual Sun also indicates how important it is for Pisces to closely observe life’s realistic matters, specifically fiscal concerns; this is due to expansive Jupiter and unpredictable Uranus residing in your sphere of finances. Your bank balance could dramatically see-saw. As the Cross involves two retrograde planets in your zodiacal bank, there may well be a surprise turn around in the coming months – possibly for the better; as it appears cash flows in large amounts, but in fits and starts. Having magnanimous Jupiter and awakening Uranus in this 2^nd solar house of things you cherish and hold dear, be that love and money, a Pisceans’ personal worth can mature fortuitously by seeing the value in altruism as well as life’s simple pleasures.  

A co-operative and co-creative partnership looks positively helpful throughout this coming period. Saturn in the area of tantra and trust can create stability within your most intimate relationship. Having karmic Saturn in the sphere of intimacy overcomes fears of sharing the most secret part of your soul, to fully commit to a partner, and in doing so the true magic of love is revealed. Remember there is nothing to fear but fear itself. Trust your instincts, develop faith, and get ready to share you life as you never have before. True love is about listening with a calm mind and deep understanding and finding out how the other person is so that you can alleviate their suffering.  Because Saturn is in Libra, the sign of beauty and poise, you may use feminine wiles (even if you’re a guy) to cajole any reticent partner into revealing how they feel. Nonetheless, Pisceans have an innate ability to be able to psychically tune into others - little can ever be totally hidden from you. The usual methods of communication would be defunct if you were to use your intuition more.  Saturn in this most private, magical and powerful position shows what you need to work on: in Libra, the sign of the scales, it shows that the balance you seek in relationships comes about when you are balanced within.  These next two years are optimum to work with ‘unseen’ subtle energy: chakras, channels, winds and nadis that align heart to head, spirit to cosmos.

On a lighter note: the good news while this challenging time continues in so many different ways (and even a previously close friendship seems to be going through the wringer of change) is when the Moon in Cancer forms the monthly cross, as it marks dates when you hold court, tell jokes and keep people entertained, having the time of your life, living, loving and generating fun.  For the single Pisces, this could mean you get to catch someone’s eye and positively twinkle. For Pisces in relationship its worth noting that with Saturn in the area of sexual union, interaction can be tender and loving if you are willing to invest time , purposefully staying in sync throughout the Cardinal Cross can concretise an alliance. On the other hand, Saturn tends to bring realism to the fore, and if a relationship has already run its’ course, karmic Saturn has no qualms about ending.  

Generally speaking, when it comes to your profession and career you are usually quite lucky – at least in getting a foot in the door. And with powerful Pluto in your sphere of cooperation, the house of hopes and wishes, you currently have the ability to cultivate positive connections, assisting your personal transformation. Pluto here also indicates you can prove indispensable in a crisis, as the little planet from the underworld affords a special kind of insight. If you are a freelance Pisces, now is the time to be brave and think long term.  Cutting back is the way forward: look forward to springtime when you’ll see new shoots to rejuvenate spirit. Sensitive but ambitious Pisces could be aware how its time to make a responsible and dramatic alteration to how people view you – a new CV perhaps? In only a few short months you could totally turn around a feeling of lack to one of joyful abundance. Saturn in the 8^th also indicates that investments do, need careful examination, as do all shared ventures.

The biggest lesson for Pisces during this ongoing Cross is to understand that many problems often stem from the way we view them. If you can change your point of view, avoid being dictated to by your emotions and desire, and know that a deeply compassionate love is your guiding factor (called Bodhicitta in Tibetan Buddhism) even dull routine can be changed into something joyful.  So keep your spirits up; with your ruler Neptune still in your solar 12^th, you may need to get away from the chaos of modern life from time to time, and find a peaceful haven in the country so you can meditate, recharge your batteries and give yourself space to think and just ‘be’.  Remember that everything you tend to worry about never happens.  Stay patient, remain generous, and the Cardinal Cross will teach you how to deeply enjoy sharing the light of your Spiritual Sun, which comes from being secure with friends, family and loved ones. With Pisces prominent, spirituality is always strong.  The Divine works and flows through you with ease, as each sacred moment and dream can reveal a special insight, and any small display of love will always restore your faith in yourself, and humanity. A last word is to note that Uranus retrogrades goes back into your sign for five months from August 14th, and many of the personal changes you want to make get a second chance, as well as helping cosmic hand from generous and lucky Jupiter, who also retrogrades back into Pisces from 10th September until 23rd January; so all in all this period, although going backwards, enables you to rework values and learn to love yourself, ego and all, as that is the only way we truly evolve. 

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Thanks as always to the wonderful Bill Brouard, the Visual Alchemist (there are three of his works here); and unknown Aro Buddhist painter for beautiful shamanic Buddhist lovers ☆ ♥ ☽~ ☼ ~ ☽ ♥ ☆

New Leo Moon wields an indestructible dorje ☆ ♥ ☽~☼~ ☽ ♥ ☆ August 2010

A fiery new Leo Moon on the morning of the 10th August, at 17degrees Leo at 4:08 (BST), makes a dramatic display with a ‘Thor’s Hammer’ formation. This pattern accents the power of Spirit Sun combined with soulful Moon, and marks a month when self-expression and inspiration are fuelled by a thunderbolt of love and lightning creation.

Thor’s Hammer is an astral arrangement based on dividing the circle into eight; the pattern appears when a planet (or two heavenly bodies in this case) is at the apex of two planets, each (sesquiquadrate) 135 degrees apart, which are then connected to each other to form a 90 degree square. There are two different ways to read this quadriform, and neither suggest it’s an easy configuration (read challenging – as it stimulates a strong kind of T-square that rarely acquiesces without conscious attention): One method is to look at how the two planets in square create a tension, which then finds an outlet from the planet(s) they are pointing to, like an arrowhead. The other is that the planet(s) at the apex funnels energy into the square to force resolution of/in conflict. Either way, it’s an interesting dynamic, because it is always active. Even years later I still haven’t made my mind up if there is a definitive system for the hammer’s energy to flow, as much always depends on the individual’s scope – so I tend to watch all three points carefully.

In mythology, Thor’s Hammer, the ‘Mjöllnir’, belongs to the Norse sky God, who wields thunder and lightening across the stormy heavens, ruling the atmosphere to provide life-giving rains, guiding winds and sometimes tragic flash floods and cloudbursts, such as we have seen in Pakistan, Central Europe, China and lastly, in Leh, Himalayan India, (so close to my heart). Thor’s Hammer never misses a beat; even if small or used gently, it always hits its’ mark. Thor is also associated with the thunder-wielding Eastern sky God Indra, Roman Zeus, and Greek Jupiter, who all carry a thunderbolt. In Tibetan Buddhism, this thunderbolt is called a dorje (or Vajra in Sanskrit, a quintessential symbol of Vajrayana Buddhism).

As a sceptre held in the right (male) hand, the dorje symbolises manifold wisdom in action radiating in all ten directions and, as such, is a Tantric instrument we use in daily practice to represent immovable and indestructible skilful means, action with awareness, and to invoke and internalise crystal clear dynamic clarity (that comes after a thunderstorm). Thus diamond like clarity (Buddha nature) comes into focus with a bright Leonine Sun and new Moon forming the apex of our celestial hammer. When the Sun’s heartfelt core converges with our flowing emotional (moon) centre in the self-possessed fixed fire sign Leo, the conflict created by ego’s desires will be pinned fairly and squarely on the head. Thor’s Hammer urges us to be firm in our sense of positive purpose, and direct the changes we need to make in order to ride the fiery Lion and proceed in massive personal transformation.

Why transformation? And why so big and fiery? Well this is because the square (head?) of this Hammer is influence by key players in our tense Cardinal Cross: On one side we have expansive Jupiter with liberating Uranus, in the fire sign of Aries, instigating enormous change for the Spiritual Warrior; on the other corner of the tight square is Powerful Pluto helping us to intuitively feel our way and move through any dark tunnels by keeping sight of the growing clear light of wisdom. Pluto in Capricorn in Thor’s Hammer aspect to the new Leo Moon and Sun can also swiftly axe any drama kings or queens that thrive on crisis, or that which no longer provides support or luminosity.

The moral of this new moon, however, is to take extra care of how and where we direct and aim the concentrated focus (skt: dhrana and dyana) we need to achieve the non-dualistic state of consciousness, as indicated by the union of the Leo Sun and Moon. High concepts abound: truth, freedom and special insight can now be directed from a generous heart aligning sensitivity with enthusiasm. Remember how a nail not hit squarely will not align correctly; so make the most of this opportunity and focus upon kindling the warm heart of a unified Leo Sun and Moon - even if one has to self-generate joyful loving effort.

“When one comes to the Essence of Being,
The shining Wisdom of Reality
Illumines all like the cloudless sky”.
- Hundred Thousand Songs of Milarepa

Note: This lunation is building towards a full Moon of oceanic healing...

Cardinal Cross of Central Spiritual Sun ~ Lammas August ~ 2010

For the past few months the planets have been moving into a rare celestial formation known in esoteric astrology as the Cardinal Cross of the Central Spiritual Sun. With so many influential planets involved, I have to remark how this alignment is one I personally have never actually witnessed in thirty years of star-gazing – nor are am I likely to for quite some time to come (to be honest, I can’t find a similar set up in the next century). So we’d best be aware how this marks an intense period of accelerated evolution. This is because all the early degrees of motivated Cardinal signs are now working together to direct us towards our Spiritual centre, to locate our core so that we can rest in Divinity, a place we Buddhist types call 'our Buddha nature'.

Obviously, any kind of meditation practice will help one to remain aligned with our own Buddha nature during this period of potentially immense (global) change; and how this challenging Cross affects each individual, much will depend on the horoscope’s own slice of time. Indeed, while we have three planets in Libra, the sign of balance – and often reversal, we may sense that we are at a turning point, a place of choice where we can either carry on as always, or to move towards liberation.

For those choosing freedom (from attachment and aversion) and to become aware of his or her's own blissful eternity, we have time to stimulate our source, as Spiritual Sun, into the action of light and love, as this is a long drawn out configuration with moments of intense intellectual, psychological, spiritual and physical movement, such as this Lammas day of the 7th August (Lammas is the pagan fire festival of the first harvest – the ripening begins), when we once again witness this Cross in the sky, as the Moon moves into early degrees of Cancer to fully activate this very special Cardinal Cross.

As an aside, from our last Full Moon, on June 26th, to our New Moon on Tuesday August 10th, we are in poignant (solstice) moment when the Sun’s light of consciousness also illuminates the Cross formation – so it’s good to note which concerns are in focus at this time, as well as options available for resolution, because these will be worked on, expanded and transformed throughout the coming months.

The astrological nuts and bolts of this Cross are complicated, however; so bare with it as we explore the celestial dynamics associated with the emotional Cancer Moon in opposition to transformational Pluto in responsible Capricorn (conjunct the galactic centre), as these two lie across the midnight-midday axis; and expansive Jupiter conjunct awakening Uranus in dynamic Aries opposite loving Venus, active Mars and karmic Saturn in Libra, who are all now the sign of balance, and are our sunrise-sunset makers.

This is a lot to consider (even by a seasoned astrologer’s standards!); but when we think of the sky as a great big clock, and how the sun moves around all the major points, from sunrise to midday, to sunset and midnight, we can see how we now have powerful events taking place at all points, directing us to our spiritual centre.

These points in time are further understood when we look at a mandala, which is a multidimensional time machine - a magical circle where time, space, and the cosmic elements depict the eternal cycle of life. Round, like our twenty-four hour clock face, the mandala also has four main gates based upon the cardinal directions: East, South, West and North, these correspond to the sun’s daily path, the planets in their orbits, as well as astrologically to Aries, Cancer, Libra and Capricorn. Depending upon which mandala we look at, the mandala will also contain the symbolic Sun and the Moon, and in the Kalachakra Mandala we also have the planets and signs of the zodiac (Kala = Time, Chakra = Wheel). 

At the centre of the mandala resides an enlightened deity, who is in harmony with the cosmos. As all the gates of our heavenly Mandala (which can be likened to a Native American Medicine Wheel) are now activated, the firmaments reveal, how, all constellated at the same time, there are many ways to our Divine centre, where each of us can align mind and body to spirit, during this supremely powerful time of the Cardinal Cross of the Spiritual Sun. 

Throughout this period of opening to our Central Spirit it’s important to note where the planet Uranus is, especially with the relationship it makes to each individual horoscope, as Uranus is the Great Awakener, the planetary agent who brings about major change, often through opportunistic chaos and disruption that shows the way of innovation and universal development. While Uranus is now with expansive Jupiter in warrior Aries, the sign of an individual assertion and collective willpower, the changes we are currently witnessing are manifold – and personal energy, responses and emotions magnified. It is, however, a time of enormous potential, where the spirit of positive progress calls each and every spiritual warrior to raise our vibration and come from the heart centre, and do what is best for ourselves, our fellow beings and our Earth. 

Three planets in this cross are currently retrograde: Jupiter, Uranus, and Pluto; because the latter are generational, it suggests collective transformation is initially through a process of inner-metamorphosis: outward change being a manifestation of inner-change. Even when Jupiter and Uranus slip back into Pisces, from late August to February/March, they still form a Cross (through the ongoing T-square), which then becomes a mix of revisited mutability and asserting Cardinal. As Jupiter and Uranus both return to initiating Aries, the Cross will once again become solely the monthly Cardinal Cross, lasting until August 2011 (thought the cross finally ends in 2016), when the planets move into another formation, leaving only the square between Uranus – Pluto, which will then lasts for another four years in its’ series of no less than seven exact hits. These planetary alignments are incredibly rare: one can only image the increased awareness our planet will go through during the awakening of our Spiritual Sun.

As we will come up time and time again to this rare junction of many crossroads for the next year, I’m writing up an in-depth sign-by-sign guide (which will get posted up in the next couple of days); there’s not too much intricate Buddhist philosophy or astrology other that what is outlined here (promise!), so most everyone will be able to read his or her Sun sign/Rising sign, to see where Uranus and the other planets in the Cardinal Cross lie in their scopes, and be aware of what to expect and how best to deal with this dramatic period of evolution.

“With good will for the entire cosmos,
cultivate an infinite heart and mind:
Beaming above, below, and all around,
unobstructed, without trace of hostility.”
Sutta Nipata I, 8

Cardinal Tsquare, leading to Cardinal Cross ~ August 2010 (with more to come...)

The next few days could feel like we're walking on eggshells: one crack might be all it takes to create more stress and intensity and general edginess. Cardinal signs are in the hot seat. (Yikes, that's me!) In any event, by resting in one's CENTRE we remain in our spacious field of consciousness; from there we can use any nerves or fear to explore our true self, discover peace in relationship, as well as develop personal wisdom and spiritual power --> a pretty darn good opportunity, huh?

This astrology of the moment is rare and mega potent: because Libran Mars (in fall) dashes into the astral forray as it conjoins exalted Saturn (soon to be joined by Venus) who will oppose the Aries Jupiter/Uranus AND square Pluto ---> On Friday night/Saturday morning (6/7 August), when the Moon fleetingly moves into Cancer, we will have the monthly Cardinal Cross of the Spiritual Sun for the rare few hours, creating a magnificent opportunity to engage in spiritual practice.  

Note how the cute bunnys in Sandy Skoglun's 'Walking on Eggshell' art installation tame the scary snakes, making them into the sign of the Caduceus, the sign of healing.

The way through this (long-term and complex) T square between Jupiter/Uranus in Aries opposite Saturn in Libra, square Pluto in Capricon (which becomes a monthly Cardinal Cross of the Spiritual Sun when the Moon is in Cancer) is to REMAIN IN ONE'S CENTRE. How do we do that? By breathing and resting in the heart: inhale calm and exhale awareness...

& every so often we need to let out an AHhhh.....

"When we are relaxed, calm and open like a pool in a glade, the quality of our inner nature stands out clearly. We have a keen and direct perception of ourselves and our interaction with everything that is going on around us. Our energy is well-focused; able to think clearly, we can plan and organize our thoughts effectively. We are self-assured: We know what we want to accomplish, what our obstacles are, and how to dissolve them. We work with ease, moving fluidly, in tune with our work rather than resisting its requirements, simply doing what needs to be done."
-- Tarthang Tulku, Skillful Means

To continue click here for more of the Cardinal-Cross--2010 in action  

Many thanks for the image is of Amitabha, longlife Buddha, by Dordenma Bhutan

Stay tuned folks, for this rare alignment am in the middle of writing up a one-off sign-by-sign of how to handle the Cardinal Cross and what to expect... with love lx :)

♥ ☆ ♥ Perfecting the Heart Essence on the path to Freedom ♥ ☆ ♥ Full Moon July 2010

Every Full Moon is special. As the emotional Moon reflects the light of the Sun, together they illuminate with lucid clarity. Yet each moon is different as Sun and Moon course through the zodiac, moving signs, connecting to other wandering planets to make each moment in time distinctly unique. Some Moons are more unique than others. And this one accents highly positive cosmic connections, the likes of which I never seen before, because they herald from way beyond our solar system; so while you are moon bathing under tonight’s full moon, take a moment to absorb some of this Full Moon in freedom-loving Aquarius’ more spacey qualities. 

At 2:37am BST the Moon will be at 3 degrees of friendly Aquarius, opposite the bright Leo Sun. Leo represents our generous spirit - the perfection of the heart essence, while group-orientated Aquarius signifies the altruistic mind, as well as social networking and technology. The axis where these two signs align across an individual’s horoscope indicate the ways head and heart align to bring about love and romance, networking friendships and helpful alliances.

Incredibly, the Full Moon in Aquarius (on Monday 26th @ 2:27 British summer time) is actually on the very same degree from whence in the heavens the largest ever burst of gamma rays originated, arriving on planet Earth on this Summer Solstice, even knocking out Nasa’s telescope. Could this very high frequency resonance be some kind of cosmic nuclear pulsation that helps to elevate consciousness and irradiate collective density?
♥ ☆ ♥ The story of the gamma ray is here:

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/science/space/7893771/Nasa-satellite-blinded-by-biggest-ever-star-explosion-seen-in-space.html

Doubly amazing, this week saw another Leo Sun – Moon in space-age Aquarius synchronicity, as a massive Sun beaming 300 times more light than ours was discovered along the same marker of the ecliptic (the path of the Sun) as this Full Moon. It’s an extraordinary coincidence how these two remarkable events should share the same degrees as the Full Moon; as in mundane astrology the Moon represents the people, and in hopeful Aquarius it indicates we can now embrace the future in the selfless spirit of heart felt co-operation, to co-create our global humanity where all beings can find happiness.
♥ ☆ ♥ Watch the space voyage to another sun: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EUMIzrRKSY8

Since the advent of a massively rare configuration of planets lined up this year as the ‘Cardinal Cross of the Spiritual Sun’, we’ve had encouragement from the cosmos to confirm (and assist) our spiritual evolution;  this full moon links up rather nicely with the 'T square' made by Saturn, Uranus/Jupiter and Pluto in the Cardinal Cross, assisting in making postitive lasting changes. So the question remains: are we ready to raise our vibration and generate a magnanimous loving heart? Because the Universe seems to signal that we are.

Solar Eclipse July 11th ~ Uniting as One

The heavenly union of our radiant Sun and reflective New Moon takes on a greater significance during the Total Solar eclipse at 19 Cancer on Sunday July 11^th at 20:34 (bst), as a cosmic kind of consciousness has the potential to enter into our awareness.  A Solar eclipse reminds us to remain in our presence, aware nothing is permanent, not even the sunshine during the day.

With each monthly conjunction of Sun and New Moon, there is always a sense of the new stirring, within our heart-mind, emotions and intellect, as well as within our natural environment. But during a Solar eclipse, when the Moon passes in front of the Sun, time suspends in a sacred space to create a powerful portal for magical human realization. The partial eclipse begins at 18:09 (bst), total starts at 19:15 (bst) with the greatest eclipse at 18:34; total ends at 21:51 (bst) and partial ends at 22:57 (bst).  This eclipse is in effect for a total of five hours, with five minutes 20 seconds grand totality.

In fact, all kinds of energies, seen and unseen, can ride in with this dark moon conjunction. So it is most important to call in the Dharmapala, protector deities, and the Lama, as spiritual bodyguard, from afar - especially during meditation and prayer, as that is when we are more sensitive and open to emptiness and bliss. 
At a Solar eclipse duality disappears as dynamic and fiery Solar Yang manifests as Rahu Dragon’s head, merging with the Lunar Yin Ketu’s tail – at the forehead chakra - to unite as one.  For the duration of the greatest totally of the eclipse, in this case 5 minutes and 20 seconds, we can bide this celestial state of non-duality.

This year’s set of eclipses are in Moon ruled Cancer, as descending node, and karmic Capricorn ascending node. This Sun and Moon in feminine Cancer bonds the global family via the Mother’s womb and the primordial Goddess, where we find innate bliss in oneness; while the opposite node, Capricorn, accents karmic responsibility. Tibetans say that Karma is multiplied 10,000x during an eclipse day.

Spiritually this eclipse connects us to all pervading space, which is empty of inherent existence.  On a psychological level this corresponds to primordial feelings; through facing our darkest emotions, healing family fortunes, repairing ancestral connections and mending historical barriers by moving ahead cautiously.  How this eclipse actually manifests in our lives will depend upon where the eclipse degree lies in the horoscope and the aspects it makes to the individual chart. And it may take a while to see, as the effects of eclipses are said to last in the case of solar eclipses for as many years as minutes: This one is total and five minutes long, equalling five years of influence.  (The next total eclipse is 2013.) So it’s worth baring in mind the power of the intention during this very potent occasion.

That said, this eclipse actually makes some good aspects to other planets. Sun and Moon are conjunct the 'loyal and loving' asteroid Juno, and all three are in harmonious sextile to active Mars (and by extension Saturn), making it easier to purify karma and rid impure mental and physical afflictions.  

During eclipses our bioenergy, often called the chi or prana which constantly courses through the channels and nadis in our subtle body can ignite kundalini to rise to meet at the forehead chakra – the all-seeing eye, and even the crown chakra can open - which is why it is so very important to be psychically protected during these moments. 

Be prepared.  Note the breath and how left and right nostrils are performing. Before the actual eclipse tune into the subtle body and be aware of how the prana is flowing through you. Note which nostril is dominant; and how you feel. Are you hot, cold, humid or dry?  There are foods to eat to enhance or calm either of the main side channels: the right hand Sun and left hand Moon, (Pingala and Ida, (Roma & Kyangma (tib)). (Personally, I find it’s always handy to have a glass of water close by during eclipses and, being an emotional water sign, a tissue!).  Then during the eclipse, while sitting in the seven point Varocaina meditation position, focus upon the breath, directing the centre of your attention to the own heart, mirroring the convergence of energy at the Solar System’s heart of the Sun and keep the flame of love alight. 

We are currently coming to the end of the current ‘eclipse season’. Eclipses occur twice a year, coming in pairs with a lunar and solar eclipse.  The next lunar eclipse is Winter Solstice December 21^st and the Solar on the 4^th Jan 2011.  

On the 26^th June we witnessed the Full Moon lunar eclipse, one of the Full ‘Super Moons’ astrologers have been talking about for some time because it also generated a very rare celestial phenomena called the ‘Cardinal Cross’, or the ‘Cardinal Cross of the Central Spiritual Sun’ as it is known in esoteric astrology: a configuration which is directly implicated with the evolution of the human spirit. This Cardinal Cross now connects responsible Saturn in Virgo opposite outgoing Jupiter and altruistic Uranus, both now in Aries, to the eclipses of the Cancerian Sun and the Moon with transformational Pluto.  The key qualities this 2010 Cardinal Cross of the Spiritual Sun will brings about during the process of enlightenment and evolution are autonomy and motivation, contribution of talents, mastery of purpose – to synthesise all this one has to fully engage with life, and not let it pass us by.

To be honest, in thirty years of heavenly observation, the planets have rarely been so chock-full of such powerful potential.  How this manifests could remain to be seen until after the New Moon solar eclipse on Sunday, when we will be ushering in a barrage of powerful new energy.  

With so many influences all converging within this tense formation, we may all in one way or another have reached our own personal crossroads. This Cardinal Cross promotes Saturn to speak of discipline and career concerns, but in opposition to expansive Jupiter with Uranus, we’re asking for co-operation, to express our own uniqueness; while the Sun represents individual spirit, Pluto can be controlling in the midst of chaos and drama. You get the picture: It’s an evolution which may not be so easy. 

To make this development, we may be looking at various different routes: maturing wisdom and authority; polishing our professional services; becoming more actively involved in issues that rouse; releasing anything that no longer serves our positive progress: all these are ways in which we can be free of our fetters in order to welcome the new with this upcoming Solar Eclipse.  And because Uranus and Jupiter are involved, we may also be looking at bigger, collective issues, galvanised to be more responsible at work, with others, about ourselves, and the planet. These are huge issues which demand care and attention, treating ourselves with the kind of love that a mother shows her child. Similar sensitivity needs to be given to everyone around us, as no one seems exempt from the kind of dramatic changes currently taking place.  Be aware how tidal forces will be strong if not extreme during these next two weeks; this can mean our internal emotions can soar to wild heights then plummet into shocking depths, this can also be externally seen with the weather; more specifically because this is a water ruled new Moon in Cancer, as well as a Solar eclipse, our oceans and all water comes into focus: flash floods, mudslides and even quakes are all likely in hot spots. The point here for the spiritual being is to remain calm and coolly ride any turbulent energy as best we can, to maintain the positive vibration.

Interestingly, we also have a comet streaking through the sky in the same area as the position of the Sun (Spirit), and as it is now closest to the earth, it also has the longest tail in history. We can catch it in the sky at dusk in early July. Comets are generally considered difficult omens for those in authority. This once-in-a-life-time visitor, Comet McNaught, came into view while transiting Perseus, the Hero; at the same time it was also announced a new star was born in the same constellation: the new hero for our times could well be the spiritual warrior, as opposed to the war hero. The comet will be visible during the Solar eclipse on July 11th, when the Moon blots out the light of the Sun, but can only be seen from the South Pacific, on Easter Island (where I'd love to go!).


With all this wild celestial activity, something is cosmically bound to break through and awaken during this Cross, stormy as it may be. Although everything outlined here is not all that easy, people rarely want to move out of a perceived comfort zone, even if sleeping on a bed of nails - only the deeply sensitive are seemingly aware of the potential of this situation. Heartening to know we are nearing critical spiritual mass, encouraging all paths to meet at the Central Spiritual Sun. This alone will have some kind of evolutionary impetus. Exciting times! Even if they are not so carefree we can still cultivate the light heart.