Category Michelle’s Astro Food for Thought

Jan 14 2013

January 14, 2013 – By the Light of the Moon – Today’s Moon in Pisces

Moon-Pisces

That lustrous orb that sweeps our oceans to and fro is also the harbinger who describes and defines our day-to-day fluctuating energy. As the face of the Moon is ever changing, so are the feelings and intuitions that push and pull us through our daily rounds. The sign of the Zodiac the Moon occupies changes about every 2-and-a-half-days and as she orbits she makes different connections to other planets, touching all of them in different ways as she speeds her way through the sky. Each of us will resonate to the energies of the flirting, capricious Luna in different ways and with different reactions according to the energies of our own birthcharts – our own dispositions and levels of consciousness. However, this comes as a guide to help you understand which fickle face our Lady Moon is showing today.

If you know your birthchart, or at least your Sun, Moon, or Rising signs (or better yet – all three – and if you don’t know any of them, maybe it’s time for you to send me an email) knowing where the Moon is playing and who she’s playing with will help you understand how to navigate your day and why you may be feeling the way you are or why you’re having the reactions or responses that you’re having. 

I’m going to try to write this everyday for you – or at least, most days. No promises being made here, but I hope the days I manage it, that you’ll find some peace, and maybe even gain a little edge, in knowing. I want to dedicate this effort to Kat. She told me that she missed my posts. So Kat – this if for you. If any of you enjoy this lovingly crafted energetic gift – please let me know! It will help to keep me motivated to continue…

(The above 3 paragraphs will be repeated each “By the Light of the Moon” post, so if you’ve read it before and know it by heart, just skip to the stuff after the … All times given in this column are Eastern time. )

Mmmmmmmm… A dreamy Pisces Moon. And connecting to its ruler Neptune this morning. (Plus rain if you’re living in the Southern USA). NOT a great recipe for leaving our slumberous reveries, getting out of bed on a Monday and getting back to work – unless you’re a poet or an artist or musician. Then this is your moment to be inspired.

The Moon in Pisces asks us to emotionally connect to all that is, to dissolve boundaries and see grace and beauty in everyone and everything. Because it washes away our hard edges and the lines we’ve drawn in the sand, we can connect to others and to all energy in ways that filter through our usual parameters; psychically, sensitively, and with compassion. Pisces, and its ruler Neptune, seek Divine love. They seek inspiration and transcendence. They seek to leave reality and linger in the world of imagining, the world of imagery, the world of glamour. (“Glamour” as the more ancient definition of “the appearance is made different from the reality.”) When the Moon is in Pisces, the Universe wants to inspire us.

When the Moon is in Pisces we may have trouble separating the truth from the fantasy. We may vacillate when it’s time to make a decision, and perhaps be more prone to a little self-sacrifice, particularly if we have strong placements in Pisces or a prominent Neptune in our birthchart. The downside of this gentle, tolerant Moon is the need to escape, so be forewarned that addictions you thought had been tamed can re-service or just simple checking out – getting lost in daydreams or having a bit too much wine – if things get too stressful. 

Sensitivity is high today, so tread carefully with those you know are thin-skinned, and be aware that you may fall into that category moreso today than usual yourself. 

Early evening we may find that imagination and creativity are high, as is romance and the longing for redemption via deep, profound emotional experiences… the Moon connects with both Venus and Pluto this evening. We also have a connection from the Moon to Jupiter, so watch for overextending your heart, but roll with the search for meaning. And as the Moon and Chiron, the Wounded Healer, conjoin, be aware that emotional places inside that you thought were healed may arise again for attention. There can also be the opportunity for deep self-healing, or for feeling compelled to mentor and hold another safe through a challenging spot. 

The best possible use of these energies today is to be open and responsive to the Spiritual – whatever and however that may come to you. There is so much beauty to be found there!

Hey! If you want to be sure not to miss any of the future posts of “By the Light of the Moon” please find the box on the right of any page on this site that says “Follow Astrology with Michelle Gregg via Email” and click “Follow Me!”  

OR

Go to my Facebook page, Astrology with Michelle Gregg and give me a like! Then anytime I post, the goods will show up in your Facebook Home scroll. 

Jan 12 2013

January 12 & 13, 2013 – By the Light of the Moon – Moon in Aquarius!

That lustrous orb that sweeps our oceans to and fro is also the harbinger who describes and defines our day-to-day fluctuating energy. As the face of the Moon is ever changing, so are the feelings and intuitions that push and pull us through our daily rounds. The sign of the Zodiac the Moon occupies changes about every 2-and-a-half-days and as she orbits she makes different connections to other planets, touching all of them in different ways as she speeds her way through the sky. Each of us will resonate to the energies of the flirting, capricious Luna in different ways and with different reactions according to the energies of our own birthcharts – our own dispositions and levels of consciousness. However, this comes as a guide to help you understand which fickle face our Lady Moon is showing today.

If you know your birthchart, or at least your Sun, Moon, or Rising signs (or better yet – all three – and if you don’t know any of them, maybe it’s time for you to send me an email) knowing where the Moon is playing and who she’s playing with will help you understand how to navigate your day and why you may be feeling the way you are or why you’re having the reactions or responses that you’re having. 

I’m going to try to write this everyday for you – or at least, most days. No promises being made here, but I hope the days I manage it, that you’ll find some peace, and maybe even gain a little edge, in knowing. I want to dedicate this effort to Kat. She told me that she missed my posts. So Kat – this if for you. If any of you enjoy this lovingly crafted energetic gift – please let me know! It will help to keep me motivated to continue…

(The above 3 paragraphs will be repeated each “By the Light of the Moon” post, so if you’ve read it before and know it by heart, just skip to the stuff after the … All times given in this column are Eastern time. )

I’m posting today for both Saturday and Sunday, Jan 12 and 13… just because I don’t want to write tomorrow. 🙂 A day off after 5 on will feel good. 

The Moon is in Aquarius both days as of 4:01 AM Eastern time today. The feeling is quirky, upbeat and erratic. It’s time to tune into yourself as unique, and tap into what you have to offer that is original – whatever is yours and yours alone to give. The more your gifts are intended for the greater good the better. The need to be independent and free could pervade the weekend… particularly for those of us who are naturally geared that way; those of us with planets and points strongly associated with Uranus, Jupiter or Mars, or in the signs Aquarius, Sagittarius and Aries. It could be easy to detach emotionally these next couple of days – or we could notice others near us pulling away, needing some space. Just know that it’s not you… it’s that energy of Aquarius that asks us to detach for the long-view perspective. 

The Moon is approaching Mars today and will make direct contact early, early tomorrow morning, so I’d say that there’s a chance that tempers could rise. Things could get pretty heated. Alternatively, there could simply be an abundance of high energy to tap into. The need for something new, exciting – some fresh air – is pervasive. With Venus squaring Uranus – expect the unexpected when it comes to relating with those you’re closest to, and with what you’re willing to spend your money on. You might find something out of the blue, think it’s absolutely irresistible and make an impulse buy. ‘Course, you could do that with a lover as well! Sudden splits and sudden attractions… that’s the feeling. Just bear in mind that these impulses are TEMPORARY and don’t make any outrageous decisions unless a catalyst is what you’ve been waiting for. 

For the majority of us, it’s a great time to simply take advantage of some bright, happy, upbeat energy that offers a much needed lightness of being. Intelligent discourse is a possibility as well as unexpected dazzling new ideas from your emotional genius. Give them space to breathe and take life!

Oh! Keep in mind the Moon is Void-of-Course ALL DAY on Sunday – 3:37 AM until 8:20 AM Eastern time on Monday, a couple of hours after the Moon moves into Pisces.  During a Void Moon it’s best not to jump whole heartedly into left brain activities. The right brain – our creative side – is much more comfortable at these times!  Expectations are likely not to be met during a Void, and it’s easy to “miss the boat.” Don’t plan important practical, logical, linear, or legal stuff during this time, and don’t push a situation expecting to get what you want. That might be a challenge with that challenging Venus/Uranus connection this weekend, so just be aware! And logical, linear stuff is the stuff of Aquarius, so enjoy that irony. (For more on the Void-of-Course Moon click here.)

Have fabulous weekend! See you on Monday!

Hey! If you want to be sure not to miss any of the future posts of “By the Light of the Moon” please find the box on the right of any page on this site that says “Follow Astrology with Michelle Gregg via Email” and click “Follow Me!”  

OR

Go to my Facebook page, Astrology with Michelle Gregg and give me a like! Then anytime I post, the goods will show up in your Facebook Home scroll. 

Jan 11 2013

January 11, 2013 – By the Light of the Moon – New Moon in Capricorn… find your integrity and plant your new seeds from there.

The New Moon in Capricorn, and a new cycle, begin today at 2:44 PM Eastern. Time for regeneration and planting new seeds...


The New Moon in Capricorn, and a new cycle, begin today at 2:44 PM Eastern. Time for regeneration and planting new seeds…

“On the day of new moon, the moon rises when the sun rises. It sets when the sun sets. It crosses the sky with the sun during the day… and she is not visible to us at all. This is the time to turn inward, regenerate and restore in preparation for a new beginning…”

That lustrous orb that sweeps our oceans to and fro is also the harbinger who describes and defines our day-to-day fluctuating energy. As the face of the Moon is ever changing, so are the feelings and intuitions that push and pull us through our daily rounds. The sign of the Zodiac the Moon occupies changes about every 2-and-a-half-days and as she orbits she makes different connections to other planets, touching all of them in different ways as she speeds her way through the sky. Each of us will resonate to the energies of the flirting, capricious Luna in different ways and with different reactions according to the energies of our own birthcharts – our own dispositions and levels of consciousness. However, this comes as a guide to help you understand which fickle face our Lady Moon is showing today.

If you know your birthchart, or at least your Sun, Moon, or Rising signs (or better yet – all three – and if you don’t know any of them, maybe it’s time for you to send me an email) knowing where the Moon is playing and who she’s playing with will help you understand how to navigate your day and why you may be feeling the way you are or why you’re having the reactions or responses that you’re having. 

I’m going to try to write this everyday for you – or at least, most days. No promises being made here, but I hope the days I manage it, that you’ll find some peace, and maybe even gain a little edge, in knowing. I want to dedicate this effort to Kat. She told me that she missed my posts. So Kat – this if for you. If any of you enjoy this lovingly crafted energetic gift – please let me know! It will help to keep me motivated to continue…

(The above 3 paragraphs will be repeated each “By the Light of the Moon” post, so if you’ve read it before and know it by heart, just skip to the stuff after the … All times given in this column are Eastern time. )

The New Moon, any New Moon, is a time for regenerating and restoring your spirit and seeding new ideas. It’s time to set your intentions for the coming month, and this month to seed these new ideas around Capricornian energy. Every New Moon is a time to relax and connect with your subconscious self and your creativity. This is the time when we can’t see any moon in the sky at all, leaving us in a very fertile darkness as we prepare for the next lunar cycle. It’s a new beginning because it’s the time when the moon and sun are together – the core-self represented by the sun and the instincts and emotions represented by the moon, are feeding each other. They’re communicating, working in tandem – and they have much in common because they are in the same sign.

And the New Moon chart sets the stage for the next 28 day cycle – it’s the imprint of what we can expect and how we can best move forward EMOTIONALLY for the next month.

The New Moon in Capricorn is all about seeding our emotions with and setting intentions around building personal integrity and truly beginning to experience – to really feel – our own authority. Because this New Moon is so closely connected to Mercury, God of the Mind, Thinking & Communicating, allow your thoughts total freedom around your personal and career ambitions, keeping in mind that Capricorn and Saturn, its ruler, operate at the highest vibration of this energy when you come from integrity. Without integrity, there is only ambition – with integrity, the heart is involved, and the spiral upward includes the best intentions for everyone. And because it’s the Moon – listen to your gut. If what you want to plant feels good in your belly, it’s probably the right thing for you. 

This is the path to follow with Capricorn, and the New Moon is the perfect time to focus on planting seeds of responsibility and commitment, of conscientiousness and achievement.  When you truly commit to a path from integrity, magic begins to happen. The Universe conspires to assist you in making your dreams a reality. And the result is becoming an authority and true master – two of the gorgeous benefits of healthy relationship with Capricorn/Saturn energy.

I have little time today – my own path is calling! But I hope this helps you understand where today’s New Moon focus lies and the beauty that is perfected in moving with it. Allow yourself to restore your goals and intentions during this beautiful, dark and fertile time.

Hey! If you want to be sure not to miss any of the future posts of “By the Light of the Moon” please find the box on the right of any page on this site that says “Follow Astrology with Michelle Gregg via Email” and click “Follow Me!”  

OR

Go to my Facebook page, Astrology with Michelle Gregg and give me a like! Then anytime I post, the goods will show up in your Facebook Home scroll. 

Jan 10 2013

January 10, 2013 – By the Light of the Moon – Today’s Moon in Capricorn, i.e. our emotional environment, is VERY busy…

Constellation of Capricorn

That lustrous orb that sweeps our oceans to and fro is also the harbinger who describes and defines our day-to-day fluctuating energy. As the face of the Moon is ever changing, so are the feelings and intuitions that push and pull us through our daily rounds. The sign of the Zodiac the Moon occupies changes about every 2-and-a-half-days and as she orbits she makes different connections to other planets, touching all of them in different ways as she speeds her way through the sky. Each of us will resonate to the energies of the flirting, capricious Luna in different ways and with different reactions according to the energies of our own birthcharts – our own dispositions and levels of consciousness. However, this comes as a guide to help you understand which fickle face our Lady Moon is showing today.

If you know your birthchart, or at least your Sun, Moon, or Rising signs (or better yet – all three – and if you don’t know any of them, maybe it’s time for you to send me an email) knowing where the Moon is playing and who she’s playing with will help you understand how to navigate your day and why you may be feeling the way you are or why you’re having the reactions or responses that you’re having. 

I’m going to try to write this everyday for you – or at least, most days. No promises being made here, but I hope the days I manage it, that you’ll find some peace, and maybe even gain a little edge, in knowing. I want to dedicate this effort to Kat. She told me that she missed my posts. So Kat – this if for you. If any of you enjoy this lovingly crafted energetic gift – please let me know! It will help to keep me motivated to continue…

(The above 3 paragraphs will be repeated each “By the Light of the Moon” post, so if you’ve read it before and know it by heart, just skip to the stuff after the … All times given in this column are Eastern time. )

Unlike yesterday, the Moon is connecting with many other planets throughout the day lending a complexity, diversity, and realistic relatedness that was completely absent in the emotional encounters of the previous 33 hours. The Moon moved into Capricorn at 3:54 AM Eastern today, January 10, 2013, making her first connection to another planet at 6:03 AM (since 9:30 PM Tuesday) and the energy as compared with the Sagittarius Moon we just experienced couldn’t be more different.

(If you missed yesterday’s “By the Light of the Moon” explaining the Void-of-Course Moon in Sagittarius on Jan. 9, you might like to read it – especially if you had an “odd,” unusually quiet, or as my son described it “really weird” day.)

The Moon in Capricorn describes an emotionally responsible mood around us today. It’s supportive in a realistic, not overly expressive way. It wants the best for others and practically asks “what can we do to get results?” It wants to express itself and offer love and connection conscientiously, leading to security and authenticity. Capricorn, at its highest vibration, is about authority and extraordinary integrity. And while this all sounds very serious, and can be, I have to say that I’ve known lots of Capricorn/Saturn influenced folks who are just plain funny. Their wit is keen and they love to open others’ eyes to a way of seeing situations that are probably motivated by their sense of irony and the ridiculous – in a very dry way. You can’t climb to the top – which is what Capricorn types are known for – without coming across and personally experiencing some stuff that will blow your hair back. Seems you might have to develop a funny bone to keep trudging up that path of ambition (else become Mr. Scrooge before his miraculous transformation – the classic lower vibration Capricorn.) So bear that keen Capricorn wit in mind as you navigate this day – you might need it. 

Early this morning – 6-ish AM Eastern – this solid Capricorn Moon connected with both Venus and Neptune. Now Venus just recently moved into Capricorn as well… so there’s yet more  emphasis on realism and a practical and serious approach when it comes to relating with others and negotiating desires, values and resources. But the Moon’s visit to Neptune around the same time might have confused issues a bit and lent either of sense of vagueness or heightened your sensitivity and empathy, while perhaps having you wishing you could spend some time daydreaming rather than taking care of business. Hopefully most of us in North America were still asleep or just getting our coffee then… it’s those of you in the UK, Europe and farther East who would have had to juggle these two different energies simultaneously.

At this writing (10:45 AM Eastern), the Moon is heading into a challenging meeting with Uranus providing us with a potent environment for unexpected upsets (I lost this entire post a few minutes ago when my computer decided to close my work and install updates – but bless WordPress – I was able to recover it) and headbutting in a polarized atmosphere over whether to maintain the status quo or to proceed outside the box. Will Saturn/Capricorn win the battle and keep things copacetic? Or will Uranus rule, and usher in some wild fresh air? This is a quirky, up and down energy, so just expect the unexpected and to feel a bit on edge. 

Afternoon, with a sandpaper like condition between the Moon and Jupiter, could bring some minor irritation with navigating others beliefs that are possibly being imposed on you – or perhaps you’re the one who insists on waxing philosophical?  Either way, be aware that the Moon, i.e. the emotional environment, doesn’t really want to expand its horizons at the moment. Still later, when the Moon joins the depths with Pluto, things could get deeply intense, with either deep fears or deep healing coming to the fore. At the least expect a little emotional entanglement… unless you’re abed by then (7:30 PM Eastern translates to after midnight in the UK and beyond), in which case, write down your dreams in the morning! You might find some penetrating insights into your psyche with this combination mastering your slumber.

Around 8 PM Eastern, things even out with a nice meet-and-greet between the Moon in Capricorn and her ruler, Saturn. Finally an energetic combination that makes sense to the current emotional needs. Here’s where we come to our senses, shake off the drama, realize that tomorrow is a new day, and make plans to make tomorrow’s New Moon a step forward in our commitments.

Now, if you’re an earthy person – with the Sun, Moon or other personal planets in the earth signs of Taurus, Virgo or Capricorn, or a Watery sort with the Sun, Moon or other personal planets in Cancer, Scorpio or Pisces, this Cappy Moon will probably feel less restrictive and more comfortable to you than if you’re a fiery person – with the Sun, Moon or other personal planets in the fire signs of Aries, Leo or Sagittarius, or an Airy person, with the Sun, Moon or other personal planets in Gemini, Libra, or Aquarius. If you’re largely fire or air, just understand that you need to reign in sometimes… you’ll feel shinier in a couple of days when the Moon moves into Aquarius.

Hey! If you want to be sure not to miss any of the future posts of “By the Light of the Moon” please find the box on the right of any page on this site that says “Follow Astrology with Michelle Gregg via Email” and click “Follow Me!”  

OR

Go to my Facebook page, Astrology with Michelle Gregg and give me a like! Then anytime I post, the goods will show up in your Facebook Home scroll. 

Jan 9 2013

January 9, 2013 – By the Light of the Moon – Today’s Moon in Sag is void-of-course, but she is talking to Ceres…

The Goddess Ceres in a poster from Nice, France.

The Goddess Ceres in a poster from Nice, France.

That lustrous orb that sweeps our oceans to and fro is also the harbinger who describes and defines our day-to-day fluctuating energy. As the face of the Moon is ever changing, so are the feelings and intuitions that push and pull us through our daily rounds. The sign of the Zodiac the Moon occupies changes about every 2-and-a-half-days and as she orbits she makes different connections to other planets, touching all of them in different ways as she speeds her way through the sky. Each of us will resonate to the energies of the flirting, capricious Luna in different ways and with different reactions according to the energies of our own birthcharts – our own dispositions and levels of consciousness. However, this comes as a guide to help you understand which fickle face our Lady Moon is showing today.

If you know your birthchart, or at least your Sun, Moon, or Rising signs (or better yet – all three – and if you don’t know any of them, maybe it’s time for you to send me an email) knowing where the Moon is playing and who she’s playing with will help you understand how to navigate your day and why you may be feeling the way you are or why you’re having the reactions or responses that you’re having. 

I’m going to try to write this everyday for you – or at least, most days. No promises being made here, but I hope the days I manage it, that you’ll find some peace, and maybe even gain a little edge, in knowing. I want to dedicate this effort to Kat. She told me that she missed my posts. So Kat – this if for you. If any of you enjoy this lovingly crafted energetic gift – please let me know! It will help to keep me motivated to continue…

(The above 3 paragraphs will be repeated each By the Light of the Moon post, so if you’ve read it before and know it by heart, just skip to the stuff after the … )

Today is a very calm day in the heavens… the Moon is what is known as “void-of-course,” meaning she’s making no major connections to any of the planets. All is quiet on the celestial front – well, as quiet as possible when the Moon is in fiery, talkative Sagittarius. (If you missed yesterday’s post the Moon moved into Sagittarius yesterday morning, Jan 8, 2013 at  3:28 AM Eastern and she’ll be in Sagittarius until tomorrow morning, Jan 10 at 3:54 AM Eastern. Yesterday’s column gives you the low down on what it means when the Moon is in that sign… check it out.) This void Moon is interesting in that she remains void the entire day! Most often the Moon will be void for a few hours to several hours… but from 9:28 PM last night until 3:54 AM this coming morning, no major connections are being made. That’s over 30 hours!

When the Moon is void, not only are connections not being made from the Moon to any other planets – emotional connections aren’t being made between we of the human persuasion. Not that we aren’t trying… it’s more like a game of hit or miss. Here’s a for instance: You’ve made an arrangement to meet someone in front of a particular address at 1 PM. You show up, despite a few minor upsets that had you thinking you were going to be late, and as you get out of your car you see the person you were meeting driving away. You check your phone, which you thought was turned on, but it wasn’t. When you’re powered up you find the text: “Where are you? I’ve been waiting for almost an hour. Gone back to work.” Something similar to this scenario already happened to me this morning! A client rang to see if we did in fact have an appointment, hoping that we did and that I’d seen her very early morning email confirming. I didn’t know she had been trying to get in touch, and already had something else scheduled in that slot.

That’s the void Moon. We try to connect – but often, we just miss.

During a void-of-course Moon it’s best, if possible, to flow with the day and try to stay in a very zen space emotionally. Whatever comes, comes. What ever doesn’t, doesn’t. Be flexible. If you have the space and the opportunity in your schedule, do things like write in your journal, listen to music, write poetry, watch a movie. You get the idea. Whatever you’re doing don’t push. That way you don’t set yourself up for disappointment.

Now that you’re tuned in to the void Moon, I do want to add that there is one connection the Moon is making to another body. Ceres. Ceres isn’t considered a planet per se – she is known as a Goddess Asteroid who in 2006 was promoted in status from asteroid to dwarf planet (the same status that Pluto was demoted to). The symbolism of Ceres is that of nurturer. She’s a Goddess of the Harvest and the Grain – a real feeder. Today’s Sagittarius Moon is making an opposition to Ceres today, which means that Ceres is in Gemini. I’m taking this to mean that if we are to make any emotional connections today, they should run along the lines of nurturing a loved one’s mental capacities and shared knowledge with wisdom and honoring their points of view. And of course, if you actually connect, it wouldn’t hurt to nurture each other in a real sense with a good meal… 

Hey! If you want to be sure not to miss all the future posts of “By the Light of the Moon” please find the box on the right of any page on this site that says “Follow Astrology with Michelle Gregg via Email” and click “Follow Me!”  

OR

Go to my Facebook page, Astrology with Michelle Gregg and give me a like! Then anytime I post, the goods will show up in your Facebook Home scroll. 

Jan 8 2013

January 8, 2013 – By the Light of the Moon – Today’s Moon in Sagittarius

The fiery, optimistic and far reaching energy of Sagittarius is beautifully rendered in this gorgeous illustration.

The fiery, optimistic and far reaching energy of Sagittarius is beautifully rendered in this gorgeous illustration.

That lustrous orb that sweeps our oceans to and fro is also the harbinger who describes and defines our day-to-day fluctuating energy. As the face of the Moon is ever changing, so are the feelings and intuitions that push and pull us through our daily rounds. The sign of the Zodiac the Moon occupies changes about every 2-and-a-half-days and as she orbits she makes different connections to other planets, touching all of them in different ways as she speeds her way through the sky. Each of us will resonate to the energies of the flirting, capricious Luna in different ways and with different reactions according to the energies of our own birthcharts – our own dispositions and levels of consciousness. However, this comes as a guide to help you understand which fickle face our Lady Moon is showing today.

If you know your birthchart, or at least your Sun, Moon, or Rising signs (or better yet – all three – and if you don’t know any of them, maybe it’s time for you to send me an email) knowing where the Moon is playing and who she’s playing with will help you understand how to navigate your day and why you may be feeling the way you are or why you’re having the reactions or responses that you’re having. 

I’m going to try to write this everyday for you – or at least, most days. No promises being made here, but I hope the days I manage it, that you’ll find some peace, and maybe even gain a little edge, in knowing. I want to dedicate this effort to Kat. She told me that she missed my posts. So Kat – this if for you. If any of you enjoy this lovingly crafted energetic gift – please let me know! It will help to keep me motivated to continue…

(The above 3 paragraphs will be repeated each By the Light of the Moon post, so if you’ve read it before and know it by heart, just skip to the stuff after the … )

The Moon is in Sagittarius today – the early degrees having just moved into Sag this morning at 3:28 AM Eastern time. 

Ah! The Moon in Sag! This is fiery intellectual energy… pushing for more, wanting to expand and grow wherever it is, and then hopping to the next thing with confidence and optimism. Remember that the Moon describes what’s going on emotionally – so this emotional moment in time is one of enthusiasm, seeking justice, feeling good and wanting to explore. There’s a hefty dose of idealism in our hearts with this Lunar placement, especially if we naturally resonate to that sort of thing. Sag energy loves to be praised and to share its opinions… so you may find yourself either soap boxing or expected to listen to someone else waxing eloquent on their beliefs. Independence is a keynote of Sagittarius, and the need to run forward with an idea or a moral judgement can be in the air. Expect there to be some seeking for meaning going on and a bit of zealous sanctimoniousness could be witnessed as well. Mostly though, Sag wants to enjoy herself and to know that she’s here for a good, hopefully higher, reason – and that belief is extended to everyone else. There’s a lot of pleasure to be experienced when Luna passes through this happy sign, so tap into that!

Today the Moon opposes Uranus – putting ants in our pants or creating the desire for something new and outside-the-box. She also opposes Jupiter, the Ruler of Sagittarius really expanding and exacerbating everything I wrote in the paragraph above, intensifying the natural tendencies of Sagittarius, so watch that you don’t overextend or get yourself overwhelmed. (Did I just do that by starting this column?? Yikes!) And today’s Moon also makes an opportunistic sextile to Mars – lending us extra, and possibly much needed energy, and jump-starting our ambition and desires to fulfill ourselves. 

If you’re a fiery person – with the Sun, Moon or other personal planets in the fire signs of Aries, Leo or Sagittarius, or an Airy person, with the Sun, Moon or other personal planets in Gemini, Libra, or Aquarius you’ll probably be feeling pretty pumped today. Your spirit can be validated and energized by this vibrant lunar encounter.

If you’re an earthy person – with the Sun, Moon or other personal planets in the earth signs of Taurus, Virgo or Capricorn, or a Watery sort with the Sun, Moon or other personal planets in Cancer, Scorpio or Pisces open up a bit to the Sagittarius optimism and let it lift you – energize you! It might make you feel outside of your routine or comfort zone a bit… but let it stretch you and see what’s possible!

Please understand that it’s very challenging to gauge your responses to the current impacting energy without knowing and understanding your full birthchart… but opening up and finding your willingness to explore is the key for today.

Have fun! 

The Moon will be in Sagittarius until 3:54 AM Eastern time on January 10th when it moves into Capricorn. That’s when you get to put your responsible face on!

Hey! If you want to be sure not to miss all the future posts of “By the Light of the Moon” please find the box on the right of any page on my site that says “Follow Astrology with Michelle Gregg via Email” and click “Follow Me!”  

OR

Go to my Facebook page, Astrology with Michelle Gregg and give me a like! Then anytime I post, the goods will show up in your Facebook Home scroll. 

Dec 21 2012

Happy Winter Solstice! The Sun at Midwinter: A Meditation, by John Matthews as read by Michelle Gregg

Father Yule...

Father Yule…

Listen to The Sun at Midwinter: A Meditation by John Matthews, as read by Michelle Gregg

The longest night of the year is upon us and it is time to reflect on the year behind us and ponder the year ahead… a time to cozy up in front of a fire and let go of any negativity that we’ve experienced during the past 12 months – and make wishes for and welcome the fresh new year that’s coming. 

Make yourself a cup of hot chocolate or sip a glass of wine and then listen to the Meditation below as I’ve recorded it. It is a very special way to bring in Mid-Winter at the Winter Solstice. The meditation is called “The Sun at Midwinter” and was written by John Matthews. You can find it in a book titled The Winter Solstice: The Sacred Traditions of Christmas. (Here it is on Amazon.)

I hope you enjoy it as much as I do. My family listens to this meditation as I recorded it years ago every Winter Solstice… 

Listen to The Sun at Midwinter: A Meditation by John Matthews, as read by Michelle Gregg

Dec 21 2012

It’s the End of the World as We Know It… and I Feel Fine – The Winter Solstice 2012 and the Uranus/Pluto Influence

Mayan-Calendar

 

The Sun moved into Capricorn this morning, Dec. 21, 2012, at 6:12 AM Eastern Time welcoming the beginning of Winter according to the Gregorian calendar most widely used, and marking Mid-Winter on the Pagan calendar. Yule is here!

As is this much awaited day! Dec. 21, 2012 has been both anticipated as a fresh new start for humanity and dreaded as the end of the world, as a result of the ending of the Mayan Calendar on this date – what is referred to as The Mayan Prophecy. However, there are experts regarding the Mayan Calendar who tell us that the Mayan Prophecy is not one of only endings, but also a new beginning – of a new era, or a new bak’tun – moving from the 13th bak’tun to the 14th – a 400 year cycle. That is according to Simon Martin as reported by the BBC News.

Here are two extremely interesting articles regarding the “end of world” prophecies and the Galactic Alignment at the Winter Solstice that many believe is the reason that the Mayans chose today’s date to end their 13th bak’tun.

This article hypothesizes about the Dec. 21, 2012 Galactic Alignment  of the Earth, the Sun and the Galactic Equator in the Milky Way on the Winter Solstice and was written by Keith Hunter for Ancient World Mysteries.

This one denounces that there actually is a Galactic Alignment of the Earth, the Sun and the Galactic Equator in the Milky Way at all on Dec. 21, 2012 and is from NASA.

Regardless of whether we choose to believe there is or is not an alignment, or that the Mayan Prophecy is relative to us in this time, it’s clear to most of us I think that the times we live in are changing quickly and dramatically. It’s as though every thing is accelerated and intensified. Much of what many understood as time-proven, those things about our lives that both built and maintained the status-quo, are undergoing shifts that will no doubt leave our world and the people in it much different – and hopefully much better.

But for every new birth there are inevitably the birth pangs – the long, usually very painful passage from one way of being to another. I believe this is where we are right now… and I believe that astrology, as both the science and art that offers us insights into “as above, so below,” is a fantastic tool that we can use to help us understand the tremendous shifts that we, as a society, as a world, and personally, are undergoing right now. 

In that light, I want to say a bit about the current Uranus/Pluto square that has been in effect since 2008 and will be in effect until 2016.

These two planets last came together (in a conjunction – meaning they were 0 degrees apart – sharing space in the sky and operating in tandem) during the whole of the 1960’s and we experienced dramatic social, political, technological, economic and personal changes across the world. Events that occurred during that time included JFK and his assassination, MLK and his dream – and then his assassination, the Civil Rights Movement, Malcolom X and his assassination, the Black Panthers, a complete change in popular music and fashion, the Beatles rose to fame, women’s liberation, flower power, Viet Nam, Charles Manson, and the first man on the moon…

The time before when Uranus and Pluto came together was during the decade of the 1930’s. At that time these two were in a square aspect like they are now – 90 degrees apart. During that decade we experienced dramatic social, political, technological, economic and personal changes across the world. Events that occurred during that time included the crash of the stock market – Black Friday, the Great Depression, Pluto was discovered, scientists split the atom, Adolph Hitler and other dictators rose to power, there was the broadcast of “The War of the Worlds” which created havoc (much like our generation’s movie “2012”), and ultimately all led to the beginning of World War II…

So – it seems worthwhile to talk about the square that these two planets are making to each other in our own time – especially today at the supposed “end of the world.”

Just below is info on Uranus and Pluto separately and together – very interesting!

 

Symbolism of Uranus

Prometheus stealing fire from the Gods.

Prometheus stealing fire from the Gods.

Positive: the light, highest heights, awakening, freedom, revolution, reform, fire from the Gods, the betterment of humanity as a whole, overturning the out-worn status quo, conscious perception, uniqueness, individualism, genius, mental and technological leaps, science, space, engineering, technology, inventions, electricity, radiation, lightening, aha! moments, ignition

Challenging: sudden impacting or shattering change, chaotic rebellion, erratic shifts, unexpected events, outcasts, the shunned, pronounced eccentricities, anarchy, radical anarchists, explosive and altering contact

What feelings come up for you when you hear these keywords of Uranus? What do you think about that’s been in the news?

One of my very favorite astrologers, who is so much more than that – he’s one of the most profound thinkers of our time and a prolific writer, professor and speaker – Richard Tarnas, wrote a book about Uranus called Prometheus The Awakener. In this book he compares the meaning of Uranus to the mythological figure Prometheus , who was rebellious enough and nervy enough to steal fire from the Gods and give it to humans to accelerate their evolution and break the hold that the Gods had over them. In this book he describes Uranus like this:

“Uranus is empirically associated with the principle of change, rebellion, freedom, liberation, reform and revolution, and the unexpected breakup of structures; with excitement, sudden surprises, lightning-like flashes of insight, revelations and awakenings; and with intellectual brilliance, invention, creativity, originality, and individualism. In addition to the occurrence of sudden breakthroughs and liberating events, Uranus transits are linked to unpredictable and disruptive changes, and thus the planet is often referred to as the “cosmic trickster.” In terms of personal character, Uranus is regarded as signifying the individualist, the genius, and the rebel.”

When I think of pure Uranus energy, the first person that comes to mind is Albert Einstein.

 

Symbolism of Pluto

Death, Transformation and Rebirth

Pluto-2Positive: the dark, deepest depths, intensity, deep and profound transformation, making the unconscious conscious, pure understanding of the cycles of life, alchemy, magic, shamanism, ultimate truth, pointed focus, depth psychology, the core of a matter, cycle of death & rebirth, true power of Self, purification, purging, nuclear energy

Challenging: power struggles, fear, terror, destruction, nuclear destruction, poison, trauma, putrefaction, decay, crime, criminal minds, obsession, suppression, the underworld, taboo subjects kept from society, shadow, the deepest depths, isolation, subversion, hidden agendas, waste, black magic

What feelings come up for you when you hear these keywords of Pluto? What do you think about that’s been in the news?

Archetypally speaking, Pluto represents the necessity of descending to the depths before you can ascend to the heights. It is the story of the phoenix – who out of hubris flew too close to the Sun and fell burned to the Earth – but! He then transformed his own ashes into a better, stronger version of himself and was able to ascend – to fly again – perfected.

Pluto also represents alchemy – the process of changing the base matter (lead) into the purified gold.

Pluto points to karma and to the needs of the Soul – our desire to learn the lessons in our lifetime that will purify us and evolve us – getting us closer to God.

Pluto will most often, when transiting our birthchart at a sensitive point or personal planet, take us down into darkness of some kind, where we undergo challenges necessary to purify us in some way, and then we come back into the light to continue our transformation.

 

Now let’s look at these two planets and their meaning when they come together in the sky.

Pluto describes bringing into consciousness from the absolute depths. Uranus describes breaking the status quo. Pluto describes transformation. Uranus describes revolution.

Uranus and Pluto Together = Metamorphosis

 

According to Banzhaf and Haebler in the book Key Words for Astrology:

“Archetype of Uranus and Pluto together: The Rebel and the Powerful Person

Shadow: The Eccentric and the Power of Darkness

General meaning: Sudden deep reaching changes. Rebellion against dependence and suppression. Bursting the bonds.

In Harmony: Desire for freedom. Powerful urge for individual freedom. Sudden perceptions and insights into power structures or collective shadow areas. Rigorous upheavals. Liberation movements.

In Discord: The Despot. Willful, irresponsible misuse of power for questionable, eccentric goals. Extreme inner tension and vacillations between highest heights and deepest depths, between total freedom and complete constraint.”

 

We can see then, from the words of these folks that the effects of Uranus and Pluto coming together has to be far reaching and life changing. And we are meant to change personally as a result. We are meant to awaken to our ability as a society to change the deeply rooted, dark and subjugating powers that be, bring them to light, demand freedom from them and then transform to the new way of being.

The Uranus/Pluto Square has seven dates when the two planets are exactly 90 degrees apart… meaning that the effects of the square are the strongest.

The Seven Epic Squares between Uranus and Pluto – 2012 through 2015

June 24, 2012
September 19, 2012
May 20, 2013
November 1, 2013
April 21, 2014
December 14, 2014
March 16, 2015

After that last date, the two planets are still what we call “in orb” through much of 2016, meaning that they are close enough to the exact square that the effects are in play.

The magic of a fireplace...

The magic of contemplation before a fireplace…

So – is it the end of the world today – The Winter Solstice, Dec. 21, 2012? Of course not. But – is this time that we’re living in transforming both us and society? Absolutely – it is in fact the end of the world as we know it. And like Michael Stipe and REM – I feel fine!

Change is good, and moving toward a more enlightened reality is fantastic, and that’s where I believe we’re headed, even if we have a period of darkness before the light returns. And isn’t that the way of Nature? Isn’t that the deeper meaning of the Winter Solstice?

We are living through, today, right now, the darkest time of the year in the Northern Hemisphere (bearing in mind that it is the lightest time of the year in the Southern Hemisphere as they experience their Summer Solstice). It is cold here and there are things on our minds – things that may be best to let go of. So… let go. During this night when we welcome the return of the Light, as you ponder the year behind you and the year to come, hopefully while sitting in front of a lovely, warming fire, let go… and welcome the bright new beginnings that are on the way!

Dec 14 2012

Tragedy Strikes – Mass Shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut

Sandy-Hook-Elementary-School

I’m just stunned and broken hearted thinking about the mass-shooting this morning at the Sandy Hook Elementary School. I believe the time of the shooting was probably around 9:20 to 9:30 am… Newtown police called in the shooting to Connecticut State Police at 9:40 AM. I haven’t seen an official time yet of the actual shooting.

I just thought I’d share a 9:30 am chart here with all of you. It looks like there’s a Moon/Pluto conjunction. Obvious implications there – the moon represents mothers, families, children. Pluto represents death, destruction – dark psychological issues. Mars was rising putting rage/aggression in the forefront. And a Sagittarius sun… somehow there is often a Sagittarius flavor when mass shootings like this occur – perhaps because of the self-righteous, vainglorious lower vibration of that sign. 26 (at least) people were killed. Incredibly tragically 18 of those were children between 5 and 10 years old. Absolutely horrifying. Absolutely heart shattering.

Please join me in sending light, love, prayers and healing to the parents, families and the entire town of Newtown, Connecticut.

This chart is drawn for 9:30 AM - an approximate time of the shooting based on a 9:40 call from the Newtown, CT police to the CT State Police Dept.

This chart is drawn for 9:30 AM – an approximate time of the shooting based on a 9:40 call from the Newtown, CT police to the CT State Police Dept.

Dec 13 2012

The Meditation for the New Moon in Sagittarius – The Sun at Midwinter: A Meditation, by John Matthews

Father Yule - The Green Man

Father Yule – The Green Man

I’m doing something special this month for the New Moon in Sagittarius meditation… I didn’t write this one, but rather I’m sharing one written by John Matthews. It’s called The Sun at Midwinter and you can find it in his book titled The Winter Solstice: The Sacred Traditions of Christmas. (Here it is on Amazon.)

Now I know that the Winter Solstice occurs when the Sun moves into Capricorn… but this meditation seems so appropriate to the energy of the New Moon in Sagittarius that I couldn’t resist sharing it tonight. 

I don’t have a written copy of this meditation – so I hope you’ll listen to it as I’ve recorded it. 

You can read the meditation here in a PDF however. 

So, here it is! I hope you enjoy it as much as I do. My family listens to this meditation as I recorded it years ago every Winter Solstice… 

Listen to The Sun at Midwinter: A Meditation by John Matthews, as read by Michelle Gregg

Since I wasn’t able to share the written version of the meditation, I thought I’d share the written transcript of the actual New Moon in Sagittarius TeleClass that we shared just a few minutes ago. Enjoy! And know that this is what you can expect if you ever decide to join us for future New Moon calls! Happy Holidays to you!

Hey Everybody!!

I’m Michelle Gregg and I’ve been a Counseling Astrologer for about 18 years. My work is a bit like therapy in that I usually work with folks over a period of time, rather than just in one session. I do that as well, though I most love working with people over time. That’s the way we work through those issues!

I use the teachings of Carl Jung along with astrology, mythological stories, meditation, dialoguing with the Gods, and anything else I can think of to help you get to where you want to be. I love to help people, so this work is very fulfilling!

I’m in Atlanta GA, and I can work with anyone anywhere in the world via phone or Skype. I’d LOVE to work with each and every of you so your gift for being here with me this evening is that you get 20% off any consultation that you schedule with me between now and the Full Moon in Cancer on December 28. I SO hope you’ll take advantage of that! If you want a consultation go to the page on my site (www.michellegregg.com) that says Client Info Form and follow those instructions. Easy Peasy! This offer is only for you folks on the call – so that means you are very special to me and I’m very grateful to you for being here with me now.

Let me just say that at least part of the reason I do these classes and meditations is because I’d love to be able to help you with your individual concerns by seeing you in personal consultation. That’s why I offer my sessions to you at such a great discount. No one has decided to take advantage of that offer yet however, and I’m wondering if any of you have any feedback on the class or have any ideas around that?

So couple things about being on the call.

If you want to mute yourself so that the rest of us can’t hear you or your background noise, then just press 4*. You can unmute yourself by pressing 4* again.

If you want to ask a question or make a comment press 5*. That way I can see that you want to speak and I’ll ask you to go ahead – it’s like raising your hand. I think this evening though, unless something happens, I’m just going to leave all the lines unmuted (though you can mute yourself like I said before if you want to). That way you can just jump in with questions and comments whenever you’d like. I really don’t mind being interrupted and as a matter of fact I’d love your participation.

Another thing is that I’m going to ask you to take your shoes off for the meditation (if it’s not too cold now!) so if you’re comfortable with that, feel free to go ahead and slip them off. And since this really is the Dark of the Moon when no part of the Moon is visible, if it’s possible you might want to turn off your light and close your curtains to get you into the right space in your mind.

OK Let’s Get Started

First, how did last month go? It was the New Moon Solar Eclipse in Scorpio – anything about the last month you’d like to share?

For me: Over the past month in my life, my practice has really started to take on a different feel… it’s more intense and it’s building very quickly now. That’s really been my focus the past 28 days and it’s paying off. Where I felt a little blocked prior the recent eclipses – I feel that now the path has really been opened.  

If you want to see the New Moon chart that I’m using, which is drawn for Dec. 13, 2012 at 3:42 AM, the moment of the New Moon, go to www.michellegregg.com  and click on the very happy winter cartoon that you see at the upper left side. The article says Food for Thought. If you open that and scroll down, you’ll see the key phrases that I sent out earlier today that are relevant to this New Moon and then below those you’ll see the New Moon Chart. If you click the chart it will get bigger and easier to see. It’s drawn for no particular place, an Aries Wheel, so it’s good for where ever you are.

A little bit about how the New Moon works

The New Moon, any New Moon, is a time for regenerating and restoring your spirit and seeding new ideas. So all of the things that we talk about in the next hour are places to seed these new ideas. The New Moon is a time to relax and connect with your subconscious self and your creativity. This is the time when we can’t see any moon in the sky at all, leaving us in a very fertile darkness as we prepare for the next cycle of the moon through the sky. It’s a new beginning because it’s the time when the moon and sun are together – the core-self represented by the sun and the instincts and emotions represented by the moon, are feeding each other. They’re communicating – they have much in common because they are in the same sign.

And the New Moon chart sets the stage for the next 28 day cycle – it’s the imprint of what we can expect and how we can best move forward EMOTIONALLY for the next month.

I’m looking at this month’s New Moon chart with a particular eye toward the Sun and Moon in Sagittarius. This Sagittarius energy is pretty pure – the Moon has been void for most of the day, meaning that it doesn’t connect with any other planets. And because the Sun and Moon come right together during the New Moon, the Sun isn’t making any connections to other planets either. Or they weren’t. I think the Moon made its first aspect, which was a sextile to Neptune at about 5:45 this evening. That should lend us a very nice, dreamy quality for the meditation in a little while.

This New Moon in Sagittarius, asks us to meet the coming month with faith! It asks us to open ourselves up to the possibility of a bright future… Sagittarius energy is very future oriented. So my feeling on the idea that the world is ending and everything is all doom and gloom is beautifully off-set and denied by this gorgeous Sag optimism.  

What do you think of when you think of Sagittarius?

I am a Sagittarius, so I might be too close to all of this. Not only do I have the sun in Sag, I have Mercury, Venus and Mars in Sag too!

So what I’m thinking is this is our month not to worry… Sagittarius energy is not a worrier. It doesn’t dwell on possible negative outcomes or what happened in the past. It wants to get on with building the happiest possible future, have as much fun as possible while doing, bring as many people as possible along for the ride, and believe that life is going to support us!!

And I gotta say – that’s pretty much how I have lived most of my life. Sound scary to some of you?

So this month, as far as I can see, which hopefully like that gorgeous Centaur drawing back his bow is pretty far – as far as I can see for the next 28 days we are meant to focus on the happy future that we want to create and start galloping in that direction.

Now there are some common Saggy pitfalls to be aware of:

1. If you’ve got yourself focused on running ahead toward the future, you might miss the hole in the ground that’s right in front of you – you might gracelessly stumble and even fall. Brush off, see what the trouble is, figure out what you can do about it, and then grab hold of your faith and head forward again. Don’t let the pot hole change your course… do let it give you pause and time for a little reflection.

2. You might think that everyone else wants to hear everything that you’ve got to say about your vision of the future and what it should be. Just remember – maybe they do and that’s wonderful. Maybe they don’t… so don’t forget to check that there is in fact some appreciation in response to your vision before you carry on. Sag energy can get a little carried away with its own ideals and its own importance. So smile and move to your next victim if you can tell they don’t want to hear it. Better to expend your energy on those happy to be inspired.

3. Overwhelm and overextension… Sag energy is big and bold and pretty fearless because it has so much faith that everything is going to fine and that failure is not an option. So Sag can be a yes man – and saying yes too many times without consulting your calendar can get you into trouble. So can doing too much or going forward too fast… so be careful.

Basically, what I’m saying by spouting all of this stuff that you probably already know about Sag energy, is that this month it is okay – nay expected – for you to depend on grace and faith and hope and love and set your foot forward with confidence toward a better future – whatever that better future that you envision for yourself might be.

Where this New Moon falls within your birth chart will give you clues as to where this expansion and new growth will take place – and how you’re pre-disposed to optimistic energy in the first place will also go a long way in understanding whether you’ll be able to go whole hog with this – or take baby steps.

It doesn’t matter. Anything that takes you out and away from where you are now toward something that is lighter and brighter is using the energy well.

Do this on purpose this month. Get out of your comfort zone. Listen to the call of the wild. Put your inherent gifts to use and listen to the voice in your head and your heart – they are your intuition and they know what you’re supposed to be doing. They are your vision. They are very WISE. And you know what? Creativity is WISE. It can be scary and dangle us outside our comfort zone – that is true. But real creativity from our intuitive vision is WISE and will not steer us wrong.

So – get out there and move forward with your gifts. They are only gifts if you GIVE THEM.

 

Okay – so here are some Sagittarius keywords and words phrases – and you guys feel free to throw some out there too as you think of them:

Freedom, adventure, don’t fence me in, preacher, teacher, mentor, quest, journey, search for meaning, search for truth, honesty, philosophy, wisdom, ideals, the student, the citizen of the world, fiery, optimistic, joyful, Pollyanna, the higher mind, higher education, world travel, traveler, instincts, intuition, the hypocrite, the high priest, the missionary, the zealot, the evangelist, belief in faith, hope and love, expanding the horizons, expanding knowledge, higher purpose, religion, morality, law and legal issues, justice, prejudices, self-righteousness

Some of these are positive and some are challenging… meaning that Sagittarius energy, like all other energies, has a high vibration and a low vibration and everything in between. And, as I always say, you get to choose which way you want to vibrate with it.

I do want to say a little bit about the fact that the Sun and Moon this morning at the New Moon were conjunct to the asteroid we call Juno.

Juno/Hera was the wife of Jupiter/Zeus… so we have the marriage of Sagittarius energy, which is ruled by Jupiter, involved in a committed relationship with his wife in mythology.

Juno represents our ability to commit to something… so I’m thinking that with the Sun and Moon closely connected to her in Sagittarius, this truly is a time when we can make a commitment to our vision for the future – and have it pan out. Whenever we are committed to something, and I mean truly committed, things begin to happen to us and around us that supports us in that commitment.

I know you’re familiar with this quote, but both in terms of Sagittarius energy which begs us to boldly go for our dreams, and in terms of Juno which begs us to make a commitment, I thought it appropriate to bring it up. It is actually one of my favorite quotes of all time. And while it has been attributed to Goethe, I’ve come to understand that it was probably actually said by a great adventurer named W. H. Murray in The Scottish Himalaya Expedition back in the 1950’s as a sort of paraphrase to a verse found in Geothe’s Faust.  And how appropriate is it that we’re quoting a great adventurer during a New Moon in Sagittarius? This great adventurer, mountain climber said:

“Until one is committed, there is hesitancy, the chance to draw back, always ineffectiveness. Concerning all acts of initiative (and creation), there is one elementary truth the ignorance of which kills countless ideas and splendid plans: that the moment one definitely commits oneself, the providence moves too. A whole stream of events issues from the decision, raising in one’s favor all manner of unforeseen incidents, meetings and material assistance, which no man could have dreamt would have come his way. I learned a deep respect for one of Goethe’s couplets: 

          Whatever you can do or dream you can, begin it. 
          Boldness has genius, power and magic in it!'”

 

So that’s the flavor of the month kids… dream big, use your intuition and trust it! And then boldly go forth with faith and commitment and make those dreams happen.

I posted a list of key phrases that are relevant to today’s New Moon energy earlier in the day, so let’s touch on those for a few minutes. They are:

faith and hope in the future
optimistically opening to your heart’s desires
expanding your belief system
finding meaning in your life
discovering a talent for happiness (yay!)
holy, happy, noble, rich feeling

I think most of what I’ve talked about already covers them, but please share your thoughts on these phrases with us… anyone?

We’re doing something different tonight. Because it’s the holiday season, I wanted to do something holiday-y so I hope you won’t mind my digression from form. Normally I write the meditation that we use, but this evening I want to use a meditation that is very special to me. I really just felt like I have to share it – it’s not necessarily about the New Moon or Sagittarius energy per se – but I think you’ll understand that it is appropriate as you experience it. It’s called The Sun at Midwinter: A Meditation and it was written by John Matthews and is published in his book called The Winter Solstice – The Sacred Traditions of Christmas. And we’ll get to that in just a minute.

First, here’s another twist for tonight that I’ve never done before – before we do this amazing meditation I want to read you yet a different piece. I have no idea who wrote this one. I found it earlier today on-line and whoever posted it said they found it on a website called magickalenchantments.blogspot.com – But I went to that website and didn’t see it there. So I have no one to attribute this to.

I get a little choked up at the end, so hopefully I can get through this without embarrassing myself.

It’s called Twas the Night Before Yuletide.

Here goes:

Twas the night before Yuletide and all through the glen
Not a creature was stirring, not a fox, not a hen.
A mantle of snow shone brightly that night
As it lay on the ground, reflecting moonlight.

The faeries were nestled all snug in their trees,
Unmindful of flurries and a chilly north breeze.
The elves and the gnomes were down in their burrows,
Sleeping like babes in their soft earthen furrows.

When low! the earth moved with a thunderous quake,
Causing chairs to fall over and dishes to break.
The Little Folk scrambled to get on their feet
Then raced to the river where they usually meet.

“What happened?” they wondered, they questioned, they probed,
As they shivered in night clothes, some bare-armed, some robed.
“What caused the earth’s shudder? What caused her to shiver?”
They all spoke at once as they stood by the river.

Then what to their wondering eyes should appear
But a shining gold light in the shape of a sphere.
It blinked and it twinkled, it winked like an eye,
Then it flew straight up and was lost in the sky.

Before they could murmur, before they could bustle,
There emerged from the crowd, with a swish and a rustle,
A stately old crone with her hand on a cane,
Resplendent in green with a flowing white mane.

As she passed by them the old crone’s perfume,
Smelling of meadows and flowers abloom,
Made each of the fey folk think of the spring
When the earth wakes from slumber and the birds start to sing.

“My name is Gaia,” the old crone proclaimed
in a voice that at once was both wild and tamed,
“I’ve come to remind you, for you seem to forget,
that Yule is the time of re-birth, and yet…”
“I see no hearth fires, hear no music, no bells,
The air isn’t filled with fragrant smells
Of baking and roasting, and simmering stews,
Of cider that’s mulled or other hot brews.”

“There aren’t any children at play in the snow,
Or houses lit up by candles’ glow.
Have you forgotten, my children, the fun
Of celebrating the rebirth of the sun?”

She looked at the fey folk, her eyes going round,
As they shuffled their feet and stared at the ground.
Then she smiled the smile that brings light to the day,
“Come, my children,” she said, “Let’s play.”

They gathered the mistletoe, gathered the holly,
Threw off the drab and drew on the jolly.
They lit a big bonfire, and they danced and they sang.
They brought out the bells and clapped when they rang.

They strung lights on the trees, and bows, oh so merry,
In colors of cranberry, bayberry, cherry.
They built giant snowmen and adorned them with hats,
Then surrounded them with snow birds, and snow cats and bats.

Then just before dawn, at the end of their fest,
Before they went homeward to seek out their rest,
The fey folk they gathered ‘round their favorite oak tree
And welcomed the sun ‘neath the tree’s finery.

They were just reaching home when suddenly it came,
The gold light returned like an arrow-shot flame.
It lit on the tree top where they could see from afar
The golden-like sphere turned into a star.

The old crone just smiled at the beautiful sight,
“Happy Yuletide, my children,” she whispered. “Good night.”

Don’t you love that?? 

Ok. Now on with the meditation!

Listen to The Sun at Midwinter: A Meditation by John Matthews, as read by Michelle Gregg

The Sun at Midwinter: A Meditation by John Matthews

This is a guided imagery meditation.

The best way to engage in this experience is to sit comfortably upright with your bare feet on the ground or the floor, with closed eyes and an open heart and an open mind.

Relax your face. Smile and release any tension there. Relax your shoulders. Gently lift them and let them fall into a comfortable place. Shake your arms and hands lightly and then allow them to become comfortable and loose, resting your hands in your lap. Breathe deeply into your torso and as you breathe out twist easily and gently from side to side, then come to center and settle into an easy position. Now gently shake your legs and move them from side to side for a couple of breaths, then bring them to stillness, releasing any tension in them… just let them relax and become heavy. Now lift your feet a little and wiggle your toes and circle your ankles and let them come to rest, planting them firmly on the floor again, knees bent and wide, easily supporting your relaxed legs. Breathe very deeply, in and out, at a natural and comfortable rate.

Even gentle breaths – getting deeper and deeper as you relax.

Breathing slowly, slowing your heart rate. In. Out. In. Out.

Now the darkness behind your eyelids is growing even darker. Darker with every breath.

Open your mind to suggestion. Free yourself into a blissful conscious darkness.  Breathe there, relaxing in pleasure.

 

(I READ THE MEDITATION FROM THE BOOK) 

 

Mmmmmm. Ok. Very nice. How do you feel?

 

Ok! That’s it then. I hope you’ll take this meditation with you into your daily lives this month and please come back to it on my website again and again – whenever you feel like you need a Soul boost.

And I’d love to help you with a consultation this month – so please be in touch about that. Remember that you get 20% for being here on the call with me tonight.

Thanks all! Happy Holidays to you and I’ll see you next New Moon!