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Astrological
Signs
Through the Seasons
©
2004 James Jarvis, M.A.
One
of the ways that we have to create a better understanding of
the principles underlying
each
of the astrological signs is to look directly at the ongoing
cyclical process that occurs in nature. By observing the
birth, death and re-birth process that occurs in nature
during the course of a year we can become more connected to
the seasonal changes and also discover clues to the
essential function or "job" that each astrological sign is
responsible for. Starting in Spring with Aires we will move
through each of the astrological signs to see how they fit
into a greater whole. By becoming aware of the principles of
each sign we can understand how each is an essential part of
the larger process.
Aries:
Initiation - Germination - Emancipation
After
sowing and germination the seedling breaks out of the seed
and makes its way through the soil to emancipation. The
Aries principle is symbolized by the catalytic process and
by acts of initiation and innovation. It is not necessarily
the job of Aries to follow through! The job of Aries is to
spring into action in new and innovative ways using their
natural leadership and delegation skills to empower others
to become involved.
Taurus:
Formation - Fertilization
The
outward impulse to manifest and thrive that was present in
Aires now gives way to the methodical and practical shaping
of the new life thereby creating a secure foundation for
future growth. The Taurus principle involves the practical
shaping and formation of value. Their job is to define and
codify their values; what they own, so that they can
actualize their potential and leave an inspiring legacy for
others
Gemini:
Dissemination
Now
that the seedling is secure it begins to branch out and
interconnect with a complex root system. The Gemini
principle is driven by the compelling need to connect
objects with one another to form ever greater links. Their
job is to experience a diversity of sensations, thoughts and
encounters so that they can create systems or theories of
knowledge that are then disseminated to others.
Cancer:
Assimilation
At
the summer solstice the light is at its zenith. The budding
plant has assimilated nurturing from the environment and is
beginning to manifest an identifiable form. The Cancer
principle involves the assimilation of impressions from the
outer world particularly intimate experiences of nurturing.
Their job is to create a secure and stable sense of
belonging for themselves and others that stems from their
experiences of positive familial imprinting or that is
centered in their awareness of belonging to a greater
spiritual family.
Leo:
Fruition - Cultivation - Production
In
the heat of summer the fruit is ripe and ready for picking.
The Leo principle relates to the ripening and expression of
one's creative energies. Their job is to tap into the beauty
and fiery spirit of the divine child within and be role
models for others in how to let that energy flow outwards so
that it is brought to fruition.
Virgo: Discrimination -Perfection
The
reaping begun in Leo now reaches full harvest in Virgo; a
harvest culled using the discriminative faculties with the
intent of doing it cleanly, precisely and with care. The
Virgo principle involves analyzing and improving upon the
creative output generated in Leo through discernment and
efficiency. Their job is to utilize the discriminative
faculties of the mind and their discipleship to improve and
perfect the physical vehicle so that it becomes a purified
vessel for Divine spirit.
Libra:
Resolution - Equilibrium - Completion
The
autumnal equinox marks the beginning of fall, which
initiates a balance in nature. The falling of leaves begins
the formation of fresh humus which will eventually replenish
the soil depleted by the years growth. The Libra principle
is associated with equanimity, justice and mediation. Their
job is to be peacemakers; to promote a social consciousness
that is just to all and to reflect and mirror to others the
balance and beauty, the light and dark, of
relationship.
Scorpio:
Transformation
This
process corresponds to the beginning of an inward turning
period in nature when outer things gradually decay and life
returns to the earth . The external forms have died back to
leave nothing but bare trees and bushes above the exhausted
earth from which life can flourish anew. The Scorpio
principle involves the descent into darkness to transform
the ego and to emerge as a powerful bearer of light. Their
job is to be role models for others in the highest use of
passion and power .
Sagittarius:
Diversification - Expansion
After
the decay and transformation in Scorpio the earth is now
teaming with new life; earthworms are breaking down the
decayed material and replenishing the soil with new energy.
The earth is expanding the simple materials left over into
complex nutrients needed for new life. The Sagittarius
principle expands the concrete mind (knowledge) by
demonstrating how meaning is created through the
understanding of diversity (wisdom). Their job is to codify
their philosophical and religious understanding to become
role models and non-dogmatic teachers of universal
wisdom.
Capricorn:
Consolidation - Preservation
At
the Winter solstice little in nature is left above ground
and all living things have to consolidate and preserve their
energies in order to survive the cold of winter. At this
time of shorter days and ever increasing light the earth
patiently endures, waiting for new forms to manifest. The
Capricorn principle demonstrates how self-reliance and
consolidation of power and authority lead to mastery. Their
job is to be positive role models who demonstrate mastery of
accomplishment and right use of power and
authority.
Aquarius:
Reformation
After
the struggle for survival in Capricorn much of the life
energy of nature still lies hidden below the ground In the
Aquarius phase we see how nature disposes of her superfluous
forms. Everything that has no more use or has not stood the
test of winter is given up. The Aquarius principle relates
to the breaking up and reformation of collective values.
Their job is to be visionaries; humanitarian revolutionaries
who have tapped into the next collective wave of the future
and who are committed to being at the forefront of the
liberation of humankind.
Pisces:
Integration
In
the final stage of nature's cycle composting soil is ready
for spring planting. The breaking up process of Aquarius is
taken to its logical conclusion in the complete destruction
of form; blending into the whole. The Pisces principle
involves surrendering the personal sense of "I" to allow for
integration into the whole. The job of Pisces is to teach us
the value of surrender and to help us open our consciousness
so that we can transcend our perception of separateness.
James Jarvis, M.A.
(Transpersonal Counseling) is a master Vedic & Western Astrologer,
Career & Dharma coach and Transpersonal Counselor. Through his
international astrology and coaching practice, James has helped
thousands of people draw out and productively use their inherent wisdom
and talent. For those who want support in discovering, clarifying and
manifesting their vision and life purpose, James is available for
astrological and career coaching sessions by phone. To schedule phone
consultations call toll-free (866) 851-2906, or e-mail:
jjarvis@lifeqwest.com
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