SOLAR WRITER REPORT

Stephanie Johnson's Modern Astrology Report

for Cher

Compliments of:-

Awakenings, Inc.

PO Box 10672

Prescott, AZ 86304-0672

Email: awake@cableone.net

Web: www.awakereports.com

www.astrologicalsoftware.com

Astrological Summary

Chart Point Positions: Cher

Planet	Sign	Position	House	Comment
The Moon	Capricorn	18°Cp17'	7th
The Sun	Taurus	28°Ta59'	11th
Mercury	Taurus	16°Ta28'	11th
Venus	Gemini	25°Ge45'	12th
Mars	Leo	13°Le20'	2nd
Jupiter	Libra	18°Li23'	4th
Saturn	Cancer	21°Cn07'	1st
Uranus	Gemini	16°Ge25'	12th
Neptune	Libra	6°Li02'	4th
Pluto	Leo	9°Le36'	2nd
Chiron	Libra	15°Li24'	4th
The North Node	Gemini	20°Ge51'	12th
The South Node	Sagittarius	20°Sg51'	6th
The Ascendant	Cancer	8°Cn36'	1st
The Midheaven	Pisces	22°Pi46'	10th

Chart Point Aspects

Planet	Aspect	Planet	Orb	App/Sep
The Moon	Trine	Mercury	1°48'	Separating
The Moon	Square	Jupiter	0°05'	Applying
The Moon	Opposition	Saturn	2°50'	Applying
The Moon	Square	Chiron	2°53'	Separating
The Moon	Quincunx	The North Node	2°33'	Applying
The Sun	Trine	Neptune	7°02'	Applying
The Sun	Sesquisquare	Chiron	1°24'	Applying
Mercury	Square	Mars	3°08'	Separating
Venus	Semisquare	Pluto	1°08'	Separating
Venus	Conjunction	The North Node	4°54'	Separating
Venus	Opposition	The South Node	4°54'	Separating
Venus	Square	The Midheaven	2°59'	Separating
Mars	Sextile	Uranus	3°04'	Applying
Mars	Conjunction	Pluto	3°44'	Separating
Mars	Sextile	Chiron	2°03'	Applying
Jupiter	Square	Saturn	2°44'	Separating
Jupiter	Trine	Uranus	1°57'	Applying
Jupiter	Conjunction	Chiron	2°59'	Applying
Jupiter	Trine	The North Node	2°27'	Separating
Jupiter	Sextile	The South Node	2°27'	Separating
Saturn	Quincunx	The South Node	0°16'	Separating
Saturn	Trine	The Midheaven	1°38'	Applying
Uranus	Trine	Chiron	1°01'	Separating
Uranus	Conjunction	The North Node	4°25'	Applying
Uranus	Opposition	The South Node	4°25'	Applying
Neptune	Square	The Ascendant	2°34'	Separating
Chiron	Trine	The North Node	5°26'	Separating
The North Node	Square	The Midheaven	1°55'	Applying
The South Node	Square	The Midheaven	1°55'	Applying

INTRODUCTION

This report has been written to introduce you to the concepts of astrology and how to get started with your natal chart. Astrology is a complex and meaningful science which takes years to study and apply successfully; however, we would like to whet your appetite with this report, and encourage you to deepen your understanding through other means.

Astrology is a study of the connection between planets and life on Earth. It is based on a concept that energy patterns form between other planets and Earth; and that these energies affect our lives as individuals and communities.

An astrological chart, also known as a horoscope, natal chart, or birth chart, records the relationship between the planets and the signs of the Zodiac. Charts can be calculated for the birth of a person, a community, an event or anything that seems momentous. The horoscope is as individual and unique as a fingerprint.

When using these interpretations, please bear in mind that, inevitably, every chart will contain some contradictory influences, and as a result certain interpretations of different items in the same chart may seem difficult to reconcile. However, this may still be an accurate reflection of your chart, as it is likely that you do experience conflicting desires, events and circumstances in your life. Usually it is the responsibility of an astrologer to synthesise these apparent contradictions in order to present a cohesive and meaningful interpretation of the dilemmas of the chart.

Please also be aware of the fact that each person has positive and negative influences in the chart, and therefore in their lives. The challenge is to accept and overcome the negative influences, so that we can successfully focus on the positive traits. This report outlines both influences, and therefore parts may be difficult to accept. Any advice given is meant to be an aid to a person taking responsibility for their own lives. The ultimate decision rests with each individual. The author and publisher accept no liability for any adverse effects of this report.

LIFE GOALS

If you would hit the mark, you must aim a little above it;

Every arrow that flies feels the attraction of earth.

Longfellow, Elegiac Verse 1880.

The Sun

Just as the Sun is the centre of the Earth's Solar System, so does the Sun play a vital role in your life on earth. Your life goals are linked to your Sun - its zodiac sign and its position in your chart. Contrary to popular belief, the Sun isn't the only planet to be considered in a person's chart, but it is an important component. The Sun gives you an indication of how you can shine in your life. You will feel truly alive when you're living the traits indicated by your Sun. Therefore it's likely that you will spend much of your life on a journey to self discovery, aiming to incorporate these traits into your life. Understanding the energy of your Sun is a good starting point to understanding yourself and your purpose in life.

The Sun is in the 11th House

Your Sun is in the eleventh house of your birth chart meaning that you're a sociable person, who makes friends easily with people from all walks of life. You feel most at home when amongst a group of like-minded people. Success in achieving your life goals is likely to be gained through your connection with other people, in particularly those who have attained a high position in society. A loyal and honest person, you benefit greatly through your friendships, alliances and group affiliations. Other people recognise the worth of a trusting and decent friend and treat you well. You've lofty ideals and like to share a common goal with other people. For these reasons your profession may also be linked with working with groups of people, particularly one with a humanitarian cause. You've many hopes and visions of what you want to achieve in your life, and can inspire others with your ideas. However, you do need to learn the ability to focus on one thing at a time, otherwise you are in danger of failing to achieve your goals through scattering your energies in different directions.

The Sun is in Taurus

Your Sun is in the zodiac sign of Taurus indicating that you're a reliable and solid individual, with a strong need for stability, routine and security. You approach life in a methodical manner preferring the tried and true pathways of familiar territory. In fact the adventures of unexplored territories fill you with feelings of foreboding and you can be quite stubborn in your refusal to leave your secure surroundings. Much of your energy is spent on making your world secure. For this reason you're appreciated for your reliability and ability to provide a safe haven for others. Your friends and family may not realise how much they have come to rely on your quiet persistence in everyday life and your down-to-earth support and wisdom. Tradition appeals to you, and therefore you're often seen as a stalwart in society, taking on the more conventional roles. Your down-to-earth nature also means that you literally enjoy the fruits of the earth. For instance you've a strong appreciation of the beauties and practical advantages of nature, often pouring your own creative energy into garden scenes or the more practical vegetable garden. You also enjoy the sensation of textures and tastes, often indulging yourself in the comforts and delights of the sensual side of life. While there are obvious advantages to the pleasures of familiar creature comforts, you must also be wary of becoming stuck in your ways stubbornly refusing to move from your stronghold.

The Sun is Trine Neptune

You're likely to have many dreams about what you would like to achieve in your life because the Sun is making contact with the planet Neptune in your birth chart. Your ability to achieve these dreams depends largely on other influences. There's no doubt that you're intuitive and talented, but other aspects of your chart will indicate whether or not you've the practical ability needed to ensure success in a sometimes harsh world. You're a sympathetic and kind person, who generously enjoys supporting other people in achieving their life goals. This could range from offering a sympathetic ear to other people's troubles to working for a charitable institution. You're wise in the ways of the spiritual world, feeling at home in the imaginative and esoteric realms. It's the harsh realities of the material world that you find confusing. This is probably because of your highly-sensitive nature, which is so in tune with the emotional and spiritual aspects of life. You're easily emotionally influenced by other people and circumstances, and should therefore take care to surround yourself with positive and uplifting friends. You're also likely to be sensitive to the physical world, reacting to drugs or suffering from allergies. For this reason you should take care with your diet and avoid addictive drugs. It's important that you create moments for quiet reflection, communing with nature, or listening to beautiful music. The ocean could play a particularly important role in your life, inspiring or soothing your sensitive nature. You need to have some freedom to daydream and to pursue your artistic talents. This is essential if you're to achieve your life goals.

Jupiter

The planet Jupiter also tells you about your goals in life, in particular the areas in which you are likely to succeed. Jupiter is the planet of expansion, abundance and wisdom. Ancient astrologers believed that the planet Jupiter had a greatly beneficial effect on a person's life.

Jupiter is in the 4th House

Jupiter is also in the fourth house of your chart signifying that home and family are two areas of your life that provide much satisfaction and pleasure. You put a lot of time and effort into your home, making sure that everything runs smoothly and that all is comfortable and attractive. Home decoration may be something for which you've a special talent. It's likely that your home or property is large and expansive, providing you with a sense of well being. If not then perhaps you live in a wide-open space or near the ocean. You like to be able to escape the petty details of daily life by relaxing in or around your home. Whether your home is large or not, there's a sense of peace and comfort which can be enjoyed by all. It's not only the building which is important, but also your loved ones. You like to know that they are comfortable and well cared for. Your immediate family may be quite large, or perhaps you have a large extended family. Depending on other aspects of your birth chart, you're likely to gain property through investment or inheritances. Ancient astrologers believe that the planet Jupiter has a beneficial effect in a person's birth chart. They also believe that it's in a favourable position in the angular fourth house. This means that you're likely to be successful in achieving your goals and live to a comfortable old age.

Jupiter is in Libra

You've the planet Jupiter in the zodiac sign of Libra in your birth chart indicating that you are a mild and temperate person who has a strong concern for justice. You're a born diplomat, and your concern for justice could be reflected in your choice of lifestyle or profession. Mostly you're obliging and sociable, fond of pleasure, particularly the joys of cultured entertainment or of travel abroad. However, other people would be wrong if they mistook your mild manner for meekness. You know the benefits of tackling tricky situations with diplomacy rather than aggression. Your skills in this area are formidable, and you can go a long way towards achieving your goals of justice and peaceful relationships. You're conscientious and compassionate. Social occasions are also a feature of your life, providing you with much pleasure. You enjoy being surrounded by your friends in pleasant surroundings. You're also likely to benefit through your relationships with other people, and are likely to form a happy primary relationship.

Jupiter is Trine Uranus

The planets Jupiter and Uranus are making a positive aspect in your birth chart suggesting that you're enthusiastic about new ideas and are always keen to learn about different subjects, whether through study or experience. At times your enthusiasm knows no bounds, leading you in to unexplored territory. This can be exciting and a little frightening! You've an enormous ability and energy to achieve your goals, which are likely to be linked to your belief in making a positive contribution to society. These goals may or may not be realistic, depending on your circumstances and other influences in your birth chart. It's possible that you can contribute to a grand-scale beneficial scheme, but you would also do well to remember that each individual's life can have a positive effect on the world. You've a tendency to be grandiose, and don't take well to being restricted by other people or circumstances. Fortunately your inventive nature means that you can adapt to most circumstances, rather than forcing conflict. Traditional or unorthodox religious beliefs could play a major role in motivating your life goals, and helping you achieve your objectives. Metaphysics, astrology, and science may also prove your forte.

Jupiter is Square The Moon

The planet Jupiter is making a difficult aspect to the Moon in your chart suggesting that you tend to be self-indulgent lacking the motivation to achieve your goals, or perhaps you've unrealistic expectations of yourself and your loved ones. You may lack faith in yourself and the fortitude needed to accomplish tasks on your own. It's possible that you put other people, particularly women, on a pedestal. You need to acquire self-discipline in order to complete tasks, which in turn boosts your confidence. Once this is achieved then you're likely to succeed in your objectives.

Jupiter is Square Saturn

You can succeed in achieving your life goals, but only after you've learnt to balance the conventional and unorthodox sides of your nature. This is because the planets Jupiter and Saturn are making a difficult aspect in your birth chart. There is a dissident side to your nature, which you've difficulty keeping under control. Unrestrained enthusiasm can lead you into trouble. At other times there's an orthodox side which is overly cautious, causing you to hesitate unnecessarily when action is required. Finding the right balance is hard work. Generally speaking you're a poor judge of when to take action and when to wait patiently. As a result you're likely to suffer financial loss if speculating in the business or financial world. You would also do well, if possible, to steer clear of lawsuits. On a positive note when you can blend the two opposing forces you're capable of great things. You can enjoy success in self-employment or be a valued member of a team, particularly in the business world. Once a balance is achieved you're sure of achieving your objectives in life.

HOME

Perverse and foolish oft I strayed,

But yet in love he sought me,

And on his shoulder gently laid,

And home, rejoicing, brought me.

Hymn, The King of love my Shepherd is 1868.

The Moon

Astrologers from different schools of thought allocate varying meanings to the Moon in a birth chart. Ancient astrologers say that the Moon changes its nature according to its phases, and merely passes on impressions from other planets rather than directly influencing a person's life. However, modern astrologers tell us that the Moon depicts a person's roots, our home and family. They say the Moon also shows our habitual nature or subconscious patterns of behaviour which stand in the way of achieving our life goals. While the Moon can show us our strengths, it can also depict our weaknesses which need to be overcome in order to be successful in life.

The Moon is in the 7th House

The Moon is placed in the seventh house of your birth chart suggesting that your primary relationship plays a key role in your life, dominating your moods and actions. It's likely that you marry at a young age, but if not you put a lot of time and energy into searching for the right person to share your life. The life of the single person isn't an easy one for you and you can be quite restless in your endeavours to find a partner. If you're married then you're sensitive to the feelings of your partner and keen to put them at their ease. You're likely to either adapt your behaviour to please your partner, or to rebel against his or her influence. The influence is the same in that his or her behaviour is dictating your mood swings. The problem is that you can allow your primary relationship to be too dominating, sacrificing your own needs and desires to the other person. At worse, your partner is fickle and not worth the effort that you're expending. This is an extreme representation of the astrological influences. It's also likely that your partner is simply changeable and of an unsettled nature, seeking change and stimulation through travel and work. Therefore you simply need to reassess your priorities and to work towards a balance between loving compromise and self-assertion. This position of the Moon in your chart isn't favourable for legal conflicts. Therefore you should be wary of entering into any legal battles, because you could find yourself on the losing side. In ancient times the Moon was considered to be in a strong position when placed in the seventh house of a chart, meaning that you're in a strong position to achieve your personal ambitions.

The Moon is in Capricorn

With the Moon in the sign of Capricorn you feel most secure when life is structured and predictable, choosing the straight and narrow path which involves the least risks. You find comfort in hard work, often spending more and more time at work when life becomes emotionally difficult. You need to remind yourself not to take life so seriously, to go out and play, and relax. The problem is that, astrologically, the Moon is in detriment in Capricorn, meaning that your need for emotional security can be an obstacle to forming warm and loving human relationships. While your ability to remain emotionally distant can have the advantages of allowing you to stay calm and detached in a crisis, it can also prevent you from taking the risks needed to get close to others. This is particularly so when you're young. As you grow older and more mature you develop, step-by-step, the ability to build long-lasting and meaningful relationships with your loved ones.

The Moon is Square Jupiter

The Moon is making a difficult aspect to the planet Jupiter in your birth chart indicating that you struggle with your tendency to be self-indulgent and attached to the comforts of life. You've difficulty finding a sense of equilibrium in your home life. Either your home seems so comfortable that it's difficult to rouse yourself to attend social occasions, or you're never home. This isn't necessarily a problem for you, but can cause difficulties for members of your family. Perhaps these problems stem from your childhood. As a child your mother may have been over-indulgent, showering you with affection and attention and inadvertently making life a little too comfortable. As a result you may either have had difficulty finding the motivation to leave the nest, or have fled for greener pastures far too soon. It's also possible that you've unrealistic expectations of yourself and your family members, which can occasionally cause friction. On a positive note you're warm and benevolent and enjoy spending time with your family. It's also possible that you share common religious or spiritual beliefs, and that your home is a hospitable meeting place.

The Moon is Opposite Saturn

Much of your adult life has been spent trying to overcome the difficulties that you faced as a child in your home and family. Astrologically speaking this is because the planet Saturn is contacting the Moon in your birth chart. Ancient astrologers believed that the planet Saturn had a malefic influence in a person's chart. In your case your early home life has been adversely affected. The extent of this effect depends largely on other influences in your chart. In some cases it can mean that your childhood home lacked spontaneity and warmth, but was well-organised and structured in a manner which helped you to feel supported and safe. However, it's more likely that circumstances in your family led to you feeling that home was a cold and unsupportive environment. This could have been one painful incident such as the loss of a family member, or it could have been the result of years of hardship. It's possible that one of your parents, perhaps your mother, was a strict and severe influence, unable to show you the affection that you felt you deserved. As a result it's likely that you're somewhat shy as an adult, lacking in self-confidence and sensitive to criticism. You may be emotionally reserved. Perhaps you have chosen at some stage in your life to live in solitude rather than risk the lack of affection and warmth that you felt as a child. As you grow older and work on your self-esteem you can build a lasting maturity. You develop an inner self-confidence which helps you build firm foundations in your life and achieve your ambitions, as well as loving family relationships. You work solidly to build yourself a secure and firm footing, earning the respect of those around you. You can succeed in business and in your career, particularly through being noticed by your superiors. You may also benefit through investments in land and property.

EDUCATION AND COMMUNICATION

There is no such whetstone, to sharpen a good wit

and encourage a will to learning, as is praise.

Roger Ascham, The Schoolmaster 1570.

Mercury

Our academic schooling and learning through life experience are linked to the planet Mercury. This planet stands for the intellect, common sense, cold reason, commerce and business. It tells us about our communication and learning habits and our modes of thinking.

Mercury is in the 11th House

The planet Mercury in the eleventh house of your chart signifies that your friends play an important role in your education. You've many acquaintances but can count your good friends on the fingers of one hand, as the saying goes. You enjoy being surrounded by stimulating people, particularly in a group of people with similar interests. Clubs and interest groups are a source of intellectual stimulation, but that's all. Unless you've other influences in your birth chart, you're unlikely to make lasting friends with more than a few chosen friends. Again, depending on the other aspects of your birth chart, your friends can either be of great benefit in your life or they can be somewhat unreliable. You may find yourself drawn to young people, because they provide you with a fresh outlook on life and give you plenty to think about. You're more likely to share your thoughts with other people rather than spend time pursuing your interests on your own. You would rather join a literary group and discuss the latest best sellers rather than read on your own. You also prefer to share a cup of tea and a chat with someone else rather than enjoy the peace of a drink in solitude. You like the stimulation of other people's company and you're quite able to chat superficially rather than delving into deep and meaningful conversations.

Mercury is in Taurus

The planet Mercury in the zodiac sign of Taurus indicates that you tend to think slowly and methodically, and carefully communicate your thoughts to others. The reason for this is usually that you prefer to take your time to consider all the practicalities. The result can be that you're slow to make a decision, but you can be assured that the decision is usually a sound one. You can experience some troubles in early education, because you're slow to grasp new concepts, but later on you benefit because you retain the knowledge of all that you have learned. You've a lot of wisdom. It's also true that you can usually be relied on to stick to your word once your mind is made up. The only drawback is that you're quite stubborn once your mind is made up. You need to make sure that you keep your mind as open as possible to new opportunities, even though you find this difficult. You place importance on traditional knowledge that has been passed down through either your family, or society. For this reason you may enjoy the study of history. When it comes to study, you learn in a slow, methodical and hands-on manner.

Mercury is Trine The Moon

The planet Mercury is associated with the Moon in your chart indicating you've a quick wit, and a sharp and penetrating mind. Depending on other influences in your chart, you're likely to excel in any studies, but particularly in communications, media studies, research, and languages. You may also be adept at public speaking, because of your sharp mind, and your clear elocution.

Mercury is Square Mars

The planets Mercury and Mars are combining in your chart in a manner which suggest that you and your communications with other people tend to be fiery. This can be positive, particularly if you're a spokesperson for a group or person with a cause. You've good intellectual powers, a shrewd and clever mind. However, you're impulsive and quick-tempered, and it's more likely that you spend much of your life mopping up after misunderstandings. Your own perceptions of yourself may be that you're enthusiastic and perceptive, but others can see you as aggressive and critical. Without realising it you easily create opposition from other people through your impulsive actions or sharp tongue. You're talkative and enjoy a fiery discussion, but inadvertently you're driving others away and forcing them to adopt your opinion. It's also possible that you're quick to take offence, believing that others are criticising you when it's you who need to learn compromise. For these reasons you may have difficulty in your early childhood education and schooling, and indeed until you've learnt restraint and tolerance. This is particularly true of risky ventures, which tend to attract your attention. You need to be more cautious. Otherwise you're likely to suffer loss through a rash of business deals, law suits and dodgy contracts. You may benefit from an interest in sports, the military, and business.

RELATIONSHIPS

Let me not to the marriage of true minds

Admit impediments. Love isn't love

Which alters when it alteration finds.

Shakespeare Sonnet 116.

Venus

The planet Venus tells about love and relationships. It reveals the type of relationship we value, and what we are seeking from our most intimate relationship, as well as how we like to show our love. It answers questions such as, are we attracted to strong, sensual and intense relationships? Or do we prefer some freedom and independence? This planet also depicts how we like to relate to our environment and other people, not just our primary partner, and how much importance we place on money and resources.

Venus is in the 12th House

When the planet Venus is placed in the twelfth house of your birth chart you're likely to enjoy your own company, perhaps even craving the peace and quiet offered by seclusion rather than the hustle and bustle of a hectic social life. Your friends need to respect your need to be alone at times. On occasion you don't mind spending your time with one or two friends, particularly women friends, but "the more the merrier" is definitely not your motto. You're more likely to be an introvert than an extrovert, revelling in a fantasy world or in your secret pastimes. You love mystery and romance, and have more than your share of secrets, perhaps even investigating secret arts. The worlds of magic, alchemy and astrology hold a certain appeal, as do many of the occult arts. Your success in the world may be as a result of your investigation into the secret arts. Success may also come as a result of your work behind the scenes in your profession, or in an institution or charitable organisation. Your tendency to delight in secrets also includes secret lovers. For this reason you need to be wary of secret enemies, in particular women.

Venus is in Gemini

With Venus in the sign of Gemini you're curious and flirtatious, and enjoy intellectual relationships with exchanges of ideas. Communication within a relationship is of utmost importance. You need to be on the same intellectual wave-length as your partner. It's not necessary that you agree on all subjects, but you must be able to openly and easily talk about everything. For this reason you also enjoy writing letters and notes, talking frequently on the phone and taking part in any other method of keeping the communication lines open on a daily basis. If you find yourself in a relationship which doesn't stimulate you mentally, you become bored and restless. It's also possible that you find yourself in the position of having to decide between two potential partners. You can be quite flirtatious, so perhaps you'll not want to decide but simply to enjoy two lovers. While this has its obvious excitement, it could also prove difficult in the long-run if you've to make a decision. When it comes to money matters, you also enjoy stimulation. You've many money-making schemes, and may dabble in the stock market. You may earn your money from two separate sources.

Venus is Semisquare Pluto

The planets Venus and Pluto are combining unfavourably in your chart suggesting that drama plays a key role in your personal relationships. You're fiercely loyal and committed, and expect as much from your partner. You like to feel that there is an unbreakable emotional bond between you and your primary partner. Problems arise when you don't feel this bond with your partner, either because your partner is consumed with another interest, or if a third person appears to be lurking on the scene. At times like these you struggle to keep things in perspective. You're a jealous person, and quite capable of seeking revenge when wronged. You need to be wary of this darker side of your nature, seeking help when appropriate. You need also to be careful to choose the right person as your primary partner - someone who reciprocates your love and passion. Otherwise you can waste a lot of time and energy trying to make a doomed relationship work. You may also benefit from directing some of your energy into an all-consuming project, such as fighting for human rights or an intensely creative pursuit.

MOTIVATION

Dimidium facti qui coepit habet: sapere aude.

To have begun is half the job: be bold and be sensible.

Horace, Epistles 65- 68BC.

Mars

Mars is the planet that tells us about our assertion and drive. It tells us what motivates us and what desires drive us most powerfully. Are we ambitious for professional power, or do we desire a meaningful relationship? Do we pursue our desires aggressively? Or do we sit back, lacking the confidence to achieve our ambitions? These are the types of questions answered by the qualities of the planet Mars in our chart.

Mars is in the 2nd House

With Mars placed in the second house of your birth chart you're motivated by money. In fact money plays a major role in your life, either the lack of money or the accumulation of wealth. You have probably experienced both and realise the extent to which you money can make you feel powerful. As a result at least part of your life is likely to be spent working towards the ambition of monetary riches. Any wealth is accumulated as a result of your own hard work. You can be quite aggressive in pursuit of wealth driving a hard bargain with any potential employer. You also know how to barter with shop attendants for a better price, or where to find the best bargain for your money. You need to be wary of becoming too aggressive in your pursuit of material wealth, alienating others along the way. One of your challenges is to learn to rely own your own personal resources, rather than focussing only on material resources. You have a strong set of personal values, which can help keep you on the right track. There is, however, a danger that you can be too aggressive in your insistence that others adhere to your values.

Mars is in Leo

The planet Mars in the sign of Leo indicates that you have an honest and straightforward approach to life, meeting most of life's challenges head on. You're fearless and independent in your own life with the ability to be a strong leader for others less forthright. You're a passionate and generous individual with the ability to take other people under your wing, as long as they show some appreciation of your gifts. For these reasons you're often promoted to positions of authority and public prominence. You have a strong need to express your personal creativity, enjoying centre stage in most of your activities. You may even literally take centre stage in a theatrical performance or on a podium, as you have natural flair for the dramatic side of life. You're a formidable friend and foe as you have strong will power and the confidence to carry through most of your adventurous objectives. You need to be wary of becoming too arrogant and taking on more than you can handle.

Mars is Sextile Uranus

You're positive, self-confident and enterprising. This is because the planets Mars and Uranus are combining positively in your chart. You're enthusiastic and highly self-motivated, if somewhat impulsive, enjoying adventure and new horizons. You do need to be wary of accidents caused through your own rash actions, particularly as you're courageous and likely to be attracted to risky sports and activities. Your dangerous driving on the road is also likely to cause a few hair-raising moments, both for you and other drivers. You're full of good ideas, and once you've determined on a course of action, then you've plenty of motivation to see it through to successful completion. You're independent and prefer to be given plenty of room to carry through your own ideas in your own way. Fortunately this combination usually indicates that you succeed in your wishes, as well as your projects. It's even possible that you'll rise to prominence during your lifetime because your "do or die" attitude to achieving your goals.

Mars is Conjunct Pluto

A favourable combination of the planets Mars and Pluto indicates that you're resourceful and have a pool of enormous energy available when needed. Your will-power is awesome once you've decided on your objective, and few of your friends or colleagues would stand in your way, recognising the importance you place on achieving your ambitions. You have the ability to work with persistence and determination, brooking no opposition on your path. You work with intensity towards your ambitions, which are plentiful, and achieve a great sense of satisfaction when you have reached your goal. Those who know you well also recognise a volcanic temper when they see one. Whether you're the type to lose your cool often or rarely, you certainly make an impact when you do! On other hand you're a great person to have around in a crisis because not much daunts your indomitable spirit. You're capable of swift and effective actions, and commitment to seeing something through to the end.

CAREER AND AMBITIONS

The road up and the road down are one and the same

Heraclitus, Die Fragmente der Vorsokratiker c540-480BC.

Saturn

The planet Saturn represents responsibility, boundaries and structure; structure that provides a positive framework within which we can build, or structure that limits our development and forces us to reassess our liabilities and assets. This planet is also linked with our ambitions, and how we approach the practical side of life. This planet often represents the professional side of our lives.

Saturn is in the 1st House

The planet Saturn placed in the first house of your birth chart suggests that there's a quiet side to your nature, which gives you a natural reserve and a serious demeanour. You tend to sit back and observe, keeping your thoughts and feelings to yourself, while you assess any given situation. You've done this ever since you were young, although then it was more likely to be due to timidity or shyness. As you grow and mature, it's more a quiet reserve which enables you make a proper assessment before taking any action. You're naturally cautious, but once committed to a course of action, you can be relied on to complete your responsibilities. You're concerned for the welfare of other people, and are willing to help others in practical ways. You believe in achieving results through hard-work. Depending on other influences in your birth chart, you may suffer from periods of depression when you feel that your responsibilities are too onerous or because you doubt that you can achieve your ambitions. It's true that you're not likely to be an overnight success, but success does come as a result of your reputation, which has built up over the years. In your case, perseverance pays off.

Saturn is in Cancer

The planet Saturn in the sign of Cancer signifies that although you work hard to achieve your objectives in life, you suffer from feelings of discontentment. Sometimes you even feel jealous of all that other people seem to have. These mixed emotions can prompt you to change your aims, which can result in frequent changes of mood, pursuits and residences. You can become quite resentful if you feel that other people are standing in your way, putting up obstacles to your latest change of heart. As a result you can sometimes feel quite isolated from other people, and also quite revengeful and deceitful. You need to be wary of feelings of suicide. The reason for your struggles, astrologically speaking, is that the planet Saturn is considered to be in detriment in the sign of Cancer. On a brighter side you do have the ability to overcome this side of your nature and to aim towards emotional satisfaction at work and home. You need to make sure that the vengeful and restless side of your nature is kept to a minimum, and to be honest with yourself and other people. In this way you can slowly and surely work towards achieving a happy home and workplace.

The Midheaven

The Midheaven is one of the important angles in a birth chart and is also known by astrologers as the MC or Medium Coeli. This angle tells us of our public life, our profession and social status. In other words how we are viewed by the public, how we want to be viewed by the public and what type of profession we are likely to choose. It's also important to note the house position of the ruling planet of your Midheaven for further information about your career as this can greatly influence the interpretation.

The Midheaven is in Pisces

With a Midheaven in the sign of Pisces and ruled by the planet Neptune, you'll serve humanity through your career. You may suffer setbacks in your career, or suffer from feelings of inadequacy, but it's likely that you're highly talented in an artistic, healing, musical or spiritual field. You could discover your talents at an early stage in life, becoming a child prodigy on the road to a long and successful career. However, it's also likely that earlier in life, you're unsure about what career direction to follow, possibly feeling overwhelmed by career choices. It's not until later that you become surer of your preferred profession. Perhaps you're forced by circumstances to make sacrifices in your early professional life. If this is the case then you need to reflect carefully on your chosen path once your obligations are complete, and you're free to pursue your career. Depending on other influences in your birth chart you could be attracted to a career in music, the arts, medicine, psychology, and counselling. Examples of famous people with the same Midheaven include Australian pianist David Helfgott, Australian musician and composer Barry McKimm, USA director, producer and writer Stephen Spielberg, and USA singer Patsy Cline.

CREATIVITY AND ORIGINALITY

The artist must be in his work as God is in

creation, invisible and all-powerful; one

must sense him everywhere but never see him.

Gustav Flaubert, Correspondence 1857-64.

Uranus

The planet Uranus represents originality and unconventionality. This can be both the unusual and brilliant genius or the wilful rebel without a cause. This planet tells us the areas in which we break with convention, become innovative and experiment with new and exciting ways. In some circles of astrology Uranus represents the creative genius which comes directly via our soul or higher self.

Uranus is in the 12th House

The planet Uranus is in the twelfth house of your birth chart suggesting that you often experience intuitive flashes, on which you rely to guide you through difficult situations. While it's true that you do possess psychic abilities that enable you to foresee troubles, you also need to be wary of falling prey to thoughts of doom and gloom. You're likely to suffer at the hands of secret enemies at some stage of your life, perhaps even being forced to flee from your home. It probably comes as a complete surprise to you that you've secret enemies, but on reflection you can see how your own actions may have stirred up resentment in other people. It's possible that you've been conducting a secret love affair, which suddenly becomes public, or it could be that you've been secretly plotting to undermine someone else. Either way these things have a habit of suddenly becoming public and leading to your downfall. Fortunately, you possess an unusual ability to overcome these challenges. You're not easily deterred from exploring your original talents. Your challenge is to put your talents to good use, which you may do by working in an unusual institution or taking an interest in occult studies. Your psychic and mystical experiences can be ultimately of great benefit to humanity.

Uranus is in Gemini

The planet Uranus was in the sign of Gemini from 1942 - 1949. It's important to note that Uranus spends a long time in each sign, and therefore the interpretation applies to a generation rather than the individual. For a more individual interpretation you need to look at the house position of Uranus in your chart. Uranus in the sign of Gemini indicates that you belong to a generation which becomes focussed on new forms of communication and the world's networks. This generation is responsible for original and inventive ideas which change the world's communication network. Your creativity soars when you're tackling these issues.

Neptune

Neptune is the planet of creativity and spirituality. It represents both the bliss of spiritual attainment and the heights of creativity. This isn't personal spirituality and creativity which comes at the expense of others, but gifts which can benefit humanity. This planet also represents the confusion that can accompany the road to discovering when we are being selfish, as opposed to when we are generously thinking of how our gifts can benefit others.

Neptune is in the 4th House

The meaning of the planet Neptune placed in the fourth house of your chart varies depending on the other influences in your chart. It usually means that there are plenty of skeletons in the family closet, which family members are keen to see remain behind closed doors. Perhaps other family members are well aware of the skeletons, and it's only you who refuses to face the reality, preferring to build a fantasy picture of your childhood home and family. It's possible that there were several changes of residence in your childhood, or perhaps one major move which affected you deeply. It's also possible that a grandmother had an important influence on your early childhood and family life. There is likely to be a sense of loss associated with your family home, or with your parents. As an adult you may repeatedly attempt to recreate a home that will reflect the ideal held in your mind, or in search of the security which was absent as a child. This can lead to frustration. On the other hand you may be well aware of the peculiarities of your childhood home or family, recalling a sense of loss or disillusion. With this placement you're likely to benefit from the healing effects of living near water, or in wide open spaces. You may also enjoy living in a large apartment block, revelling in the anonymity.

Neptune is in Libra

The planet Neptune was in the sign of Libra from 1942 - 1957. It's important to note that Neptune takes about 164 years to make a complete cycle, spending about thirteen years in each sign, and therefore the interpretation applies to a generation rather than the individual. For a more individual interpretation you need to look at the house position of Neptune in your chart. Neptune in the sign of Libra indicates that you belong to a generation possessing the ability to view human relationships from a more spiritual overall viewpoint, rather than the rules and regulations of the previous (Virgo) generation. It's during this time that some confusion over right human relations may reign. People of this generation will aim to achieve a balance in human relationships. You'll also be concerned with justice.

CHALLENGES IN LIFE

The spirit of self-help is the root of all genuine growth in the individual.

Samuel Smiles, Self-Help 1859.

Pluto

The planet Pluto challenges us to transform our lives by clearing out our old habits to make way for the new, more rewarding ways of living. The process isn't necessarily an easy one, as most of us cling tenaciously to the comfort offered by habitual patterns, and are rather scared of new paths. Pluto shows us in which areas of our lives we need to grow, and to a certain extent whether we're likely to find the process of growing painful or joyful.

Pluto is in the 2nd House

The planet Pluto is in your second house of your birth chart indicating that possessions and money are a major challenge in your life. There is a constant sense of upheaval in your finances. This could mean that you're constantly struggling to make enough money to cover your expenses. If this is the case you may adapt your attitude towards money, realising that there are more important values in life. It's also possible that your financial situation undergoes a dramatic turnaround at some stage in your life. You could be very wealthy at one stage, and yet suffer poverty at another. Perhaps you believe that someone has betrayed you, and you've suffered financially as a result. Your challenge is to organise your personal finances with the utmost integrity, otherwise you could be subject to financial investigations and loss.

Pluto is in Leo

The planet Pluto was in the sign of Leo from 1939 - 1957. It's important to note that Pluto takes about 248 years to make a complete cycle, spending 12 - 32 years in each sign, and therefore the interpretation applies to a generation rather than the individual. For a more individual interpretation you need to look at the house position of Pluto in your chart. Pluto in the sign of Leo suggests that you belong to a generation of people concerned with the lack of or acquiring of power. People of this generation have the ability to use power both positively and negatively. World power and leadership are also important issues for these people.

PURPOSE AND JOY

He who binds to himself a joy

Doth the winged life destroy

But he who kisses the joy as it flies

Lives in Eternity's sunrise

William Blake, MS Note-book.

A sense of purpose can help us overcome the most onerous difficulties in our lives, by taking the focus away from our failings and problems, and shining the light on our strengths and talents. By concentrating on our purpose we can distract ourselves from our troubles, and maintain the forward momentum of our lives. A sense of purpose can also lead to feelings of happiness and joy. Ancient astrologers believed that a person could either identify with their human body and human life, or could focus on a spiritual life. A rewarding spiritual life can help ease human pain and suffering, and inject joy into every day life. A sense of purpose can assist the process of transferring our identification from our human selves to the spiritual sides of our nature, and one of the greatest gifts of astrology is to help us determine our purpose.

The North Node

The North Node and South Node form an axis in astrology, which is said to represent one's destiny or spiritual quest in life. This axis is also linked with our purpose. The North Node points to a key lesson in our lives. It represents new experiences towards which we must aim during this life. We have already learnt the skills of its opposite point, the South Node, in the past. Now we must grow and stretch ourselves through the North Node.

The North Node is in the 12th House

Your North Node is in the twelfth house and your South Node is in the sixth house of your birth chart indicating that you're destined to spend time on your own, reflecting on the artistic and spiritual aspects of life. You need to see yourself as part of a greater whole, rather than give in to your tendency to be sceptical. Life's daily responsibilities and practicalities must be tended to, but not at the cost of contemplation of life's mysteries. It's possible that you'll spend some time in an institution during your life in order to help you understand your destiny. These could include hospitals, museums, the armed forces, prisons, or the public service.

The North Node is in Gemini

Your nodal axis has the North Node in Gemini and the South Node in the sign of Sagittarius denoting that you're destined to learn to see life from other people's point of view and to become adept in the art of communication. You've a tendency to be restless and scatty. You need to develop focus and the ability to communicate your ideas in a way that helps the many people in your life.

The North Node is Conjunct Venus

The North Node and the planet Venus are combining in your chart suggesting that your destiny is linked with the need to develop harmonious and balanced relationships. Relationships play an important role in your accomplishments. You are joyous when you're part of a team, working in collaboration with other people to achieve your objectives.

The North Node is Trine Jupiter

The North Node and the planet Jupiter are combining to suggest that your current life challenge is to embrace adventure. This can be travelling to foreign places, or taking more risks in your daily life. Either way you may find yourself in some challenging situations! Inspiring others, possibly through preaching or teaching, may be part of your life's destiny. Benevolent groups may also play a key role.

The North Node is Conjunct Uranus

Your destiny is linked with the discovery of new and exciting thoughts and concepts because of the combination of the North Node and the planet Uranus. You need to make sure that you do not seek excitement at all costs, but direct your energies wisely. In this way you'll achieve your purpose, which is likely to be linked with making a contribution to humanity.

The South Node is Sextile Jupiter

The South Node and the planet Jupiter are combining to suggest that you'll strike problems if you take part in grandiose schemes which are not based on solid groundwork. You're being challenged to develop your expansive ideas in a practical manner. Your quest is to work in a realistic and down-to-earth manner towards your goals.

The Ascendant

The Ascendant, or Rising Sign as it's sometimes called, is a key to discovering our purpose. Ancient astrologers believed that the Ascendant depicted our primary motivation as individuals. Some believed that it was one of the links to discovering what makes a person happy. When we're accomplishing our primary motivation then we're happy. The more modern Esoteric astrologers believe that this sensitive chart point reveals our soul's purpose. When we're carrying out our soul's purpose then we're joyful. They believe that acceptance of our purpose, or fate, can help us achieve success and satisfaction, and that meditation on the qualities of the Ascendant can help us focus on our life's purpose.

The Ascendant is in Cancer

The sign of Cancer is considered "feminine" by Ancient astrologers suggesting that you're not a risk-taker, but are more likely to wait until you feel comfortable before pursuing your purpose. You're also likely to depend on other people to take the initiative. Cancer is also a Cardinal sign denoting enterprise, enthusiasm, self-assertion and initiative.

Caring for others is your major purpose in life. This could be caring for your own family and friends, or caring for humanity, or both. You're impressionable, tenacious, hospitable, sympathetic and moody. You've strong feelings, ranging from the most pure feelings of compassion to the most intense feelings of hatred. On the positive side your life is motivated by the highest form of feelings motivating you to care for other people, and bringing both you and the other parties a sense of warmth and emotional satisfaction. However, on a negative note you're highly impressionable and your feelings may be misguided. You're sensitive and easily hurt, and can either build a protective wall if you feel vulnerable, or seek revenge. You need to be wary of judging situations based purely on emotion, and ensure that you're constantly working for the good of others.

In Esoteric astrology the sign of Cancer is linked with discovering the true sense of home, a spiritual home in which people can feel liberated. Your purpose is connected with creating a spiritual environment in which others can shine in their true light, whether this be for your immediate family or on a larger scale.

CONCLUSION

The text in this report has been written by Australian astrologer Stephanie Johnson. Stephanie holds a Bachelor of Arts (Journalism) and was a journalist in Australia, England and the USA for 15 years before becoming a professional astrologer. She is currently a Company Director of Esoteric Technologies Pty Ltd in Adelaide, Australia. She holds the Federation of Australian Astrologers (FAA) Practitioners' Certificate and was awarded an FAA Diploma for her work on the Solar Fire suite of products, in conjunction with Graham Dawson. Her background is in Medieval and Esoteric Astrology.

Stephanie's background in medieval astrology can be detected in the direct style of the report. Medieval astrologers differed from modern-day astrologers in several ways. They didn't have a psychological approach to chart interpretation, but took a much more literal approach. They were very much concerned with the fortunes of an individual, whether a person would survive or not, and whether or not the person would experience good or failing fortunes. The author's particular area of interest in Esoteric astrology can be mainly detected in the section labelled "Purpose and Joy". In Esoteric astrology the purpose of an individual is linked to the soul. In other words it is believed that our souls determine our sense of purpose in the world, motivating us to put our gifts to good purpose.

The illustrations have been created by artist, illustrator and teacher, Janet Bridgland. Janet has held a number of exhibitions in art galleries in the city of Adelaide, Australia, as well as having a permanent exhibition of selected works in the boutique book shop, Back Pages Books, in the Adelaide Hills which she runs with her husband. Janet has illustrated a number of books for the publishing company, Calypso. She teaches illustration at the Douglas Mawson Institute of TAFE, as well as individual art classes for children and adults.

This report is meant more of an introduction to the wonders of astrology rather than a complete course in its intricacies. Further studies, or a consultation with a professional astrologer, are encouraged to explore this most ancient scientific and philosophic tool.

If you would like further information please contact Esoteric Technologies Pty Ltd PO Box 578 Magill SA 5072 Australia. Phone/Fax (08) 8331 3057. Email: sales@esotech.com.au