Autumn Equinox & the Dark Half of the Year

Tuesday, 20 September 2011 00:00 Risa D’Angeles Columns - Astrology

Friday early morning, accompanied by morning stars Mars & Jupiter, the Sun enters Libra. Autumn, the Soul half of the year, begins.
We are in the “dark half of the year.” From now on the amount of available light each day lessens, the days become shorter and darker. The part of us that longs for rituals (Ray 7) to protect and anchor us on Earth (Spirits in matter), looks toward the Festivals of Lights soon to begin. Autumn Equinox, a moment (day and night) in time when there is balance of light and dark, expansion and contraction, between summer and winter, is bittersweet. It holds a different sort of promise. That hidden within darkness is Light—the significance of the Soul Year … that light (Soul) is hidden within the darkness of matter (the personality as its vehicle). Libra, a cardinal (action) air (intelligent) sign, calls us to “choose the Way which leads between the two great lines of force” (choosing the personality or the Soul for our focus). Libra allows us an “interlude” in which to ponder this choice, and then, as one of the signs of crisis, Libra forces us to choose. We stumble about within this crisis until the right choice is made. (Read more at Risa’s website nightlightnews.com
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Esoteric Astrology as News for the week of Sept. 22–29, 2011 For Sun and Rising Signs
Aries-March 21–April 20
An interesting planetary configuration is occurring between Pluto and the other planets. Especially for you, Aries. A connection between your work in the world and relationships, partnerships. It’s best to focus on Right Relations in both areas because Venus is at play here. Venus calls for an intelligent heart and loving mind. Have this intentional commitment and “Providence provides the rest.”

Taurus April 21–May 21
What I wrote for Aries, applies to all the signs. For you, too Taurus, because Venus is your ruler. There’s a connection between your day-to-day work/tasks and service to the idea of justice, teachings and/or travel. All ideas become ideals. You may be called to lead, to educate, to illuminate (your constant task). You must, simultaneously, take care of your health (your entrustment) and maintain vitality. Your teachings balance (grow) people’s minds.

Gemini May 22–June 20
So many things to tell you as I look at your chart. The past, in review, is eliminating a previous sense of self. You must (perhaps are already) provide praise to others and not withhold it or be wry or dry or ironic. A very focused level of creativity is being formed within you, being called forth from you, or you are recognizing creativity in others. In the meantime, what do others have that you wish you had? Transformation will move forward now.

Cancer June 21–July 20
If I could use only one word in this 85-word message, it would be HOME. And so, what’s occurring there? What imbalance is seeking a new balance? What disharmony seeks a new level of harmony? What’s needed for you to feel more at home? Talking, sharing, tending, restructuring soothing, comforting. These are words that apply to your needs and to your home life in relation to others. What must change? What’s the story here?

Leo July 21–August 22
Multiple planets are influencing your communication house (3rd) and Pluto’s influencing your world of day-to-day, service and small animals (6th). Something vital needs communicating, to you or from you. Whatever it is may feel like a disruption. But the goal is for a new level of Right Relations. From now on your daily life and work will go through a transformative stage, beginning slowly and gaining momentum.

Virgo August 23–September 22
The planets influencing your 2nd (values) and 5th (creativity, will) houses assist in your awareness to and relationship with money, finances. They ask what are your personal resources, how do you use material resources? Do you see them as life energies or simply as possessions to be used only for the self? It’s important at this time to ponder, write down, define and articulate your spiritual values. Gains result with the right use of resources.

Libra September 23–October 22
Perhaps, out of necessity, you’ve become self-protective, even secretive, about something. Do you feel guilt for choices recently made (or will make)? Are you reassessing relationships with parents, perhaps mother, in order to understand what was given to you as a child and what wasn’t? Do you feel your early life prepared you for the present? Or do you harbor scary experiences, fears and sadnesses? Over time they will transform.

Scorpio October 23–November 21
So much of what you hear you believe (know) to be untruths. You know much of accepted information, education, science and history, is actually not real. Instead of questioning, you observe and instinctively search for reality, the truth of all matters, and encoded messages. You’re then able to communicate to others with intelligence and decisiveness the actual happenings in the world. Many resist your gifts. Few understand. Do not be deterred.

Sagittarius November 22–December 20
You know how to build resources. You know that sentimentality is part of why you have, keep and cherish certain possessions. You’re driven at times to have and make money. You don’t share easily. It’s not selfishness. It’s pride of ownership (like Taurus). However, in the times to come, as certain things will no longer be necessary, you will learn more about having less, change and transformation. Strength and innate understanding will hold you.

Capricorn December 21–January 20
Let’s just tell the truth here. Your intensity is very high, along with leadership, abilities, and personal magnetism. These are not compliments. These are realities about how your presence is experienced by others. Recognizing this allows you to understand why others may struggle with you, turn away, protect themselves and at times be defensive. Dr. Oz says, "We must praise excellence.” I agree.

Aquarius January 21–February 18
For the times to come you will experience a growth of perceptive intuition, unexpectedly uncover secrets, and dreams may be very interesting. As world energies become more complex you will need more private time for absorption and reflection. Don’t repress emotions or deep needs. Stay away from anything addictive. Help others in all ways. Some Aquarians become healers.

Pisces February 19–March 20
You will not be on the sidelines as the changes continue to accelerate in our world. You cannot be. You are (and will be) an effective leader with a strong sense of ideals, great intelligence and great power. Many will misunderstand this power, thinking it is power-over. They will not understand your power as “power-with.” They will miss your importance. Let them fall away. You are a leader within social change. Step forward with confidence.