Enlightened Self-interest OR 'Path-Illogical' Selfishness?

"It is more blessed to give than to receive."
- Jesus, Acts 20:35

I doubt it is possible to simultaneously possess the ability to read this blog post AND to NOT have heard some variation of the above classic Bible passage. Even outside of the confines of Christianity and of religion altogether, most of us have had this idea presented to us in some form. Due to misinterpreted messages like this, many of us suffer from a sense of deeply in-grained guilt when it comes to allowing ourselves to receive from others. One of the most common responses to this guilt is to turn ourselves into 'giving machines' that release our energy to others without a 'selfish' thought regarding our own needs. 

But is denying our own needs really 'unselfish'? And, is denying others the 'opportunity' to give to us by refusing to be a receiver for them actually an expression of selfishness?

In my opinion, the answers to these questions are 'no' and 'yes', respectively. More on this later...

The 'Implosion' of the Sun

The Sun is the source of the vast majority of all flows of 'energy' on Earth from the systems that provide for life on Earth to the structures of those life forms themselves. Without a constant stream of energy from the Sun, all of life and its processes on Earth would cease to exist with rapid succession. 

Wow, that Sun of ours sure is an unselfish 'giver'...right?

  

At first glance, it would appear that our Sun is just giving away its energy. If this were actually true, then the law of conservation of energy would lead to the depletion of the Sun's energy over ALL time intervals. Yet, our Sun 's temperature has actually increased over the lifetime of Earth. So, how is this possible?

Burning wood for a fire or burning gasoline for an automobile engine are examples of purely 'explosion' reactions which deplete a fuel source in order to release energy and heat to the surrounding environment. While the Sun will eventually 'run out of fuel', in terms of the lifespan of Earth, the Sun has actually built up a core fuel source of helium from the fusion of hydrogen. This has occurred through a process of 'implosion' which can be thought of as compressing 'in' upon itself in order to release energy but also to build up a helium fuel source at its core. In other words, the Sun has been giving energy to planets like the Earth through the process of focusing its energies on its own enlightened self-interest and NOT by simply giving itself away.

What if WE could incorporate this 'implosion' model for how WE exchange energy? Could we actually find a way to GIVE to others through the process of focusing on our own self-interests?

As someone who uses the ancient art of Astrology in my practice, I find it interesting and fitting that the archetype of the sign of Leo is considered to be 'ruled by' the Sun in modern western applications. The Leo archetype gets a reputation for 'selfishness' and being too overpowering to others with unconscious tendencies toward self-absorption. But as I tell my clients with strong Leo themes in their charts, it is through their willingness to focus on their own urge toward self-expression that the rest of us are blessed with these gifts that they are bestowing upon us. Well, kudos for win-win solutions!

 

Enlightened Self-interest vs. 'Path-Illogical' Selfishness

But how can this REALLY be? It turns out that there is a big difference between enlightened self-interest and (what I call) 'path-illogical' selfishness.

Most of us have been on an airplane and, if we've paid attention before takeoff, we've heard the flight attendants inform us to ensure that our own oxygen mask is secured BEFORE securing the mask on our child's face, if cabin pressure were to drop unexpectedly. 

Upon hearing this for the first time, many mothers react to these instructions with a declaration something like 'oh, I could never do THAT!' Much of the reasoning for such a reaction is related to the guilt we associate with self-interest and with our collective disdain for the perception of selfishness itself. But when we throw a little logic into the equation, we realize that a child's lungs are smaller and can handle a lower oxygen environment longer than an adult. Also, we realize that a living guardian is worth much more to a child than a dead, or brain-damaged guardian any day. Score '1' for the 'securing your own mask first' idea!

Whether we are parents or not, we all have the opportunity to serve as role models in how we choose to 'walk our path' in life. The way I see it, every individual has a unique path to walk in their own life and it is through choosing that path with courage and enlightened self-interest that we are able to shower the world with our gifts, while simultaneously honoring our authentic wholeness.

But, all too often, people (and especially young parents) will choose a path based on what they perceive that they 'should' do with their lives rather than what is most appropriate for their unique life-path. This pattern can get passed down over generations with each succeeding generation expecting that their own 'unselfish' sacrifice of their personal path will somehow open up opportunities for their offspring to find their own way. Instead, the offspring end up observing their parents as role models and either take on these 'should-based' roles like their parents or they reject these 'should-based' roles with expressions of rebellion by raising the 'white flag' with regards to even choosing to have a path. Those who take on the 'should-based' roles will project their lack of freedom onto those who rebel and onto those who choose paths of enlightened self-interest. This leads to strong judgements from those who perceive that the 'should-based' self-sacrificing path is the path of righteousness.   

“We can never judge the lives of others, because each person knows only their own pain and renunciation. It's one thing to feel that you are on the right path, but it's another to think that yours is the only path.”
― Paulo Coelho

Like Paulo above, I believe that we cannot compare apples to oranges. Every path of enlightened self-interest is unique and cannot be judged against another path. Before we can assess the actions of an individual, we must first understand the unique path of that individual. Its not surprising, however, that those who choose a path of enlightened self-interest tend NOT to judge the path's or actions of others on their own unique paths of enlightened self-interest. It is typically those who simply 'copy and paste' the 'should-based' self-sacrificing path OR that are rebelling against recreating these mechanical reproductions who tend toward this kind of judgement toward others.  

We have the power to choose a path of enlightened self-interest, knowing that we are honoring our own wholeness and sovereign essence all while bestowing our gifts to the world through the process AND allowing others to freely do the same. However, it is much more 'common' for people to choose the 'should-based' self-sacrificing path or to simply rebel against forging a path. Since these choices are more common, these choices are often mistaken as 'normal'.

To me, the word 'normal' is a description of actions and choices which are both 'natural' and 'healthy' toward a given intention. Yet, somewhere along the way, our collective psyche confused the word 'normal' with the idea of what is 'common' and we started aspiring to find ourselves within the 'safety' of the 'bell curve'. In statistics, this bell curve is even referred to as 'normal' distribution (see image to the left). What a mess! To me, both the 'should-based' self-sacrificing path and the rebellion against having a path are examples of 'path-illogical' selfishness. 

 "It is no measure of health to be well adjusted to a profoundly sick society" - Krishnamurti

  

How Do We Know the Difference?

Whether we choose to be on our own path, on a path predetermined by others, or on no path at all, we all have one thing in common...we are ALL on a path! But, if we are striving to be on a path of enlightened self-interest, how do we know whether or not we are on it?


Ah, the million dollar question....

The billion dollar answer to this million dollar questions is that only YOU can know and that requires balancing your logic with a strong sense of intuition. Coming into your own 'wholeness' where these masculine and feminine energies are balanced appropriately will leave you in a state of perpetual creative self-direction. This state of free energy (implosion) can't help but radiate out its harmonious siren. This model of 'implosion' is an ideal state of energetic 'Sovereign Harmony' where we can generate energy and not only NOT run out of it, but we are able to share our gifts with others while ever increasing our creative capacity. 


Okay, so maybe the actual answer to how do we 'KNOW' is a bit too deep and advanced for most people to fully digest. So, perhaps addressing how we know that we are NOT on a path of enlightened self-interest is more appropriate.

It is actually more common (i.e. it is considered 'normal') to be on a path of 'path-illogical selfishness' than it is to be on a path of enlightened self-interest. The tell tale signs of being on this more common path are feeling compelled to utilize fear-based self-preservation tactics and avoidance techniques when confronted with the discomfort of the unknown. Okay, so we ALL will do this at some point. The difference is that those on a path of enlightened self-interest will decide to face the discomfort and plow forward despite the fear and the threat of 'loss' along the way. Unfortunately, the more common response is to 'turn-back' and to use the fears we experience as the excuses and the 'proof' as to why the expected 'should-based' self-sacrificing path is the 'way to go' in life. We will even attempt to 'drag' others along with us, while convincing them to fear what we fear in life. After all, misery does love company. But, to me, its getting a little too crowded in here...

This would be 'okay', in my opinion, if there weren't others looking to us to be their role models as in the case of parenting. In my opinion, nothing is more detrimental to the emotional development of a child than being invaded (i.e. emotionally raped) with the fears that hold his/her parent(s) to the 'should-based' self-sacrificing path in life. This is the equivalent of smothering your child with the 'hot towel' in the airplane rather than helping them with their oxygen mask. As much as you feel 'comforted' by these tactics for yourself, you are not doing your child any benefit in terms of their own path toward self-determination.

So, in terms of being a role model, is it better to have no path or agenda at all then? Isn't it just easier to raise the white flag and decide for ourselves that the world is just too powerful and that we are victims of its powers no matter how hard we may strive toward our own path of enlightened self-interest? Maybe its just easier to 'do what we're told' and not have to worry about the struggle for self-determination. 

In my opinion, both choosing the path of 'should-based' self-sacrifice AND/OR choosing to disown the responsibility for creating a path in the first place are 'illogical' paths. That is, both choices lead to a life of decorating one's prison cell (i.e. comfort zone) rather than focusing on the path toward our own personal whole and sovereign freedom. To me, the word PATHetic comes to mind when addressing either one of these 'path-illogically selfish' choices. I refer to these paths as 'path-illogical' because both choices relegate a person to NOT moving forward in life and to remaining content within their own comfort zone while using 'guilt' and other tactics to entice prison visitors to spend time with them in their cells. No thanks.

These are 'illogical' paths because they lead us NOWHERE and they are 'selfish' because they only serve the fears of the person choosing to be enslaved by them.


But just as the word 'PATHetic' comes to mind when contemplating 'path-illogical selfishness', so does the word 'symPATHetic'. As much as it personally annoys me to be bombarded by the heavy energies of those insistent on 'path-illogical selfishness' and who misinterpret enlightened self-interest for 'selfishness', I realize that what traps these individuals are the layers of unhealed traumas and wounds from their own personal childhood experiences. 

This is why it makes sense to me that young parents are the least likely to exhibit a model of enlightened self-interest and most likely to choose a path of 'path-illogical' selfishness while assuming that those on a path of enlightened self-interest are actually the 'selfish ones. 


Becoming 'whole' and sovereign is part of the path of enlightened self-interest. Part of this process is integrating ALL of ourselves including our old traumas and wounds. It is through this unconditional acceptance (i.e. unconditional love) of ourselves that we become 'whole' and therefore 'healed' in the process. But guess what? We have to be willing to face all of our temptations along the way which will entice us to simply follow along with 'path-illogical' selfishness as most 'normal' people do. We have to be willing to crawl on our hands and knees like we did as a child when we originally experienced our wounds and we have to be willing to GET DIRTY in the process.




Crawling Our Way To Freedom 

"Andy Dufresne, who crawled through a river of shit and came out clean on the other side." 

- Red, "The Shawshank Redemption"

 

Let's face it...the only way OUT of a mess is THROUGH that same mess! Each of us has our OWN mess to tend to and so each of us has our OWN personal list of temptations that may deter us from our own path of enlightened self-interest. But, for ALL of us, avoiding temptation when our unique 'stuff' comes up is difficult and 'messy' because we have to re-experience everything that we rejected and refused to experience throughout our lives. Only now we are dealing with it all at once and, usually, on our own. No wonder its uncomfortable! That's why it behooves us to have some symPATHy for ourselves as well as for others as we work through these processes.

In "The Shawshank Redemption' Andy not only gifted himself with freedom when he tunneled his way out of Shawshank Prison, but he also 'gifted' a degree of freedom for the other inmates through his own act of enlightened self-interest.

As a model human being (but especially as a parent), the most well-rounded example of a human that one can set is that of someone leading a life according to their own enlightened self-interest while still maintaining a sense of respect for the self-interest of others whether or not the enlightened path of others are similar to our own. But our path must be both 'logical' AND able to 'gift' others through its own process of unfoldment.


In addressing the original questions from the beginning of this post...

"1) But is denying our own needs really 'unselfish'? 2) And, is denying others the 'opportunity' to give to us by refusing to be a receiver actually an expression of selfishness?" 

1) No, denying our own needs is actually quite 'selfish', especially when you consider WHY we deny them (i.e. clinging to our own fears). Denying the pathway of our own enlightened self-interest is indeed a 'selfish' act since it prevents ourselves and others from receiving our gifts. 

2) Yes, refusing to be a receiver of gifts (especially refusing the gifts of our children in order to prevent the annihilation of our perceived status as 'important provider') is actually another form of 'selfishness'. In my opinion, not allowing others to share their wholeness with us in an unconditional manner is more suffocating and debilitating to another's sense of self-worth than any set of words can ever perpetrate. 

And yet, these 'normal' acts of self-denial and refusal to receive continue to be considered nomination material for 'Mother of the Millennium' awards by the vast majority of our world culture. In my opinion, something is seriously 'unhealthy' and 'unnatural' regarding the reality of this outdated collective agreement for what is considered to be 'normal'.



 To Give Or To Receive?
Whether you agree or not, according to modern science, 'time' as an absolute frame of reference does NOT exist. So, if we contemplate the reality that there is NO time and that the only EXPERIENCE we can have NOW is based on what ACTIONS we choose to take in the moment, then the process of 'giving' something IS the EXPERIENCE of HAVING that something in the first place. Conversely then, choosing to TAKE in the moment yields the EXPERIENCE in the NOW of NOT HAVING whatever it is that we are choosing to TAKE. 

The last paragraph may require re-reading a few times to digest. But give yourself a break if you don't 'get it' the first time you read it. Once you 'get it', the Jesus quote from the beginning of this blog post may suddenly have a whole new meaning for you. Contemplating that old Bible quote without the guilt we've been fed regarding the idea of receiving can be mind blowing!

When we are willing to claim our path of enlightened self-interest and to do what it takes to 'heal' and to reclaim our wholeness, we can reach a point of balanced internal energies (i.e. logic and intuition) where we are in a position of inner security from which it is more natural (i..e. normal) to 'trust' ourselves and our place in the world. The more that people attain and maintain this state, the more harmony can reign in the world.

This is my personal vision of what I refer to as the state of...Soverign Harmony...

So, in closing, DO as Jesus said at the beginning of this post, and GIVE! But just remember to 'give' us the BEST and ONLY thing you have ever really 'had' to give to anyone...the gift of YOU! And do feel 'free' to take as long as you 'need' to discover the uniqueness of your own authentic self...

I think I speak for all of us when I say that YOU will be worth the wait...

"To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment." 

- Ralph Waldo Emerson

Christopher Robert Taylor

Sovereign Harmony 

Awaken - Enlighten - Align
www.SovereignHarmony.com

 

What is Astrology? - How Does Astrology Work? - Dispelling the Myths

Astrology History

Astrology is a tool for both discovering our truth as well as for aligning with our truth...a condition known as ‘verdiance’. Astrology is the study of the correlation between the configuration & movements of astronomical bodies (i.e. planets, asteroids, moon etc.) and the individual & collective conditions and experiences of life on Earth. This ancient art of divination has a rich history and continues to have relevance today. In fact, influential thinkers like Pythagoras, Galileo, and Copernicus were all users of this ancient wisdom. 


Astronomy and astrology were not even separate disciplines until recently. For centuries, astrology was taught in the highest institutions and was considered one of the core sciences with numerous applications. For example, though Nostradamus became widely known as a psychic seer long after his death, he was actually an Astrologer who used the practice mostly for medical purposes. During his life, he was widely sought for his unique insight and ability to accurately diagnose and treat his patients using astrology, and not for his allegedly prophetic quatrains. 

In the late 17^th-century, the dominance of the Roman Catholic Church and the findings of scientists like Sir Isaac Newton (also an astronomer/astrologer) and Copernicus helped to eject astrology out of the major institutions. With Newton’s discoveries about cause and effect relationships in the physical world and Copernicus’ finding that the Earth revolved around the Sun, the Catholic Church saw an opportunity to discredit astrology despite its track record and proven merits. With astrology, it had long been the assumption that to practice it was to believe that the astral bodies caused certain personalities in people and certain events on Earth. It was also assumed that the Earth would have to be the center of the universe for astrology to have any validity. 


Newton’s discoveries regarding cause and effect relationships showed that other earthbound forces influenced life on Earth. Combined with Copernicus’ findings, the logical conclusion based on the prevailing astrological assumptions was that astrology could no longer be considered to have any relevance as a science. This unfortunate decision, in essence, threw the baby out with the bathwater as it eliminated all of the merits of astrology based on a potentially flawed assumption regarding the relationship between astral bodies and life on Earth. This decision also gave the Church a chance to remove personal truth from the people and thereby increase their own power as an institution by becoming the only perceived connection to spiritual truthfor the populace. For a more in depth look at the history of astrology click here.

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Dispelling the Myths

A common myth concerning astrology in our modern society is that it is a practice based on the belief that the astral bodies cause or createactivity on Earth. This is purely an assumptionand one that few modern Astrologers actually entertain. Most Astrologers, instead, are focused on helping their clients reach a level of self-understanding and self-empowerment that comes from gaining true perspective of oneself. It is not merely a translation as to how the puppet is being controlled by the puppet master, as some people assume. In addition, those who use astrology to understand collective concerns do so in order to understand the flow and evolution of societies and not to reveal fortunes and destinies. 

The starting point of any interpretation is the astrological birth chart of an individual, a nation, or an event for example. Depending on how the interpretation of a chart is approached, a multitude of information can be gleaned from it. An astrological birth chart for an individual can be thought of as both a resume of the soul’s past and as a contract of the soul’s intention for their current life. A birth chart, or natal chart, reveals a copious amount of information about an individual. It goes far beyond the Sun-signs, of which most people are aware. It instead reveals the uniquegifts that one brings into this life as well as the intentions for growth and challenge toward mastery. 


The birth chart is NOT a map of destiny but is instead a tool for conscious awareness. It helps reveal our unconscious programs and gives us the opportunity to become aware, or conscious, of these patterns. This consciousness gives us the power to choose and the  freedom to escape the predictability associated with unconscious living (see brief video below). In addition, tracking the movement of the astral bodies relative to a person’s natal chart as the person’s life progresses can reveal the timing of specific opportunities for growth and development along the way.

All humans experience inner conflict associated with personal growth. When we act unconsciously, our inner conflicts are often projectedonto the people in our lives rather than owned and recognized within ourselves. If these people in our lives are also unconsciously projecting, it results in a perceived outer conflict between two individuals. Astrology not only helps reveal our inner conflicts but also helps to highlight when we are likely to allow our unconscious programs to take control and when we are likely to project these inner conflicts onto other people. This level of conscious awareness can work wonders in the world of relationships. 

The same concepts can also be applied to collective entities such as nations. Steffan Vanel explores the inner working of the United States in relation to other nations in his book, “The Astrological Karma of the U.S.A.”. Using astrology in relation to nations like the USA is not a new practice. In fact, former president Ronald Reagan and his wife Nancy consulted with Joan Quigley, an astrologer, regularly regarding travel and other important meetings throughout his 8 years in office. Some even speculate that US foreign policy was influenced by decisions made after their astrological consultations. The potential for applying this wisdom to nations is intriguing but I choose to focus mostly on using the potential of this ancient tool towards the empowerment of individuals and their relationships. 

To me, one thing is clear regarding recognition of our inner conflicts; consciousness leads to verdiance (i.e. alignment with truth) and unconsciousness leads to violence. Unbeknown to most people, many professional psychologists use astrology as a guide when trying to understand the inner workings of their patients. In fact, Carl Jung was an avid astrologer and based much of his famed work (including his psychological archetypes and concepts like the collective unconscious) on concepts derived, in part, from astrological wisdom. The reason for this merging of disciplines is that astrology takes into account the emotional, spiritual, and mental realmsof the human experience in addition to the physical and mechanistic realms that most of western culture ascribes to almost exclusively. 

To modern western culture, the only parts of life with value are those which can be measured and objectively observed. Unfortunately, metaphysical concepts like emotions and thoughts, for example, just do not make the cut for this short list of values. The study of astrology values a more dynamic human experience in the world that includes the parts of life that cannot be measured and that are inherently subjective. 


In western culture, the answer to depression is often a regimen of narcotics to essentially numb the emotions and/or the mind. With astrology, depression and other mental/emotional imbalances are met with compassion and understanding with an intention of uncovering root causes. 

“The intuitive mind is a sacred gift, and the rational mind is a faithful servant. We have created a society that honors the servant, and has forgotten the gift.”

– Albert Einstein

Astrologer and author of the book “Astrology and Compassion: The Convenient Truth” had the following to say about the potential use of Astrology in our modern society:

“Wisdom includes every aspect of knowledge with the humility to enable true understanding. Without respect for every element in nature we know very little. Modern view holds that only mechanistic relationships are provable and should form the basis of all decisions. Emotional factors and intuition cannot be measured and so should play a lesser role or be ignored completely. Rejection of astrology denies the emerging industrial societies a way of assessing spiritual, mental and emotional development and behavior. By helping us understand our differences, it could enable for better relationships on a small scale and a large scale (war). Astrology should be respected and used in a humane and responsible way.”

Also, according to the PhD work of Psychologist and Astrologer Pat Harris, in the management of psychological pain, astrological counseling appears to be just as effective as psychological counseling with one notable difference…it is drug free. She found that it is also kinder to the patient, more financially affordable and yields possible permanent psychological benefits. The bottom line is that humans are much more than just our physical bodies and the physical experiences that we have. We also have mental, emotional and spiritual aspects to our beings and Astrology recognizes and honors these aspects! Some common branches of astrology include:

Western Astrology(based on the Tropical Zodiac)

Vedic Astrology(based on the Sidereal Zodiac)

Chinese Astrology (based on Jupiter cycles)

Personally, I practice western astrology and I have little experience with vedic or Chinese applications. Depending on your intention, there are many ways to interpret a chart in western astrology. Some astrologers focus on the psychological components of a chart while others look at the chart from an evolutionaryperspective. Still others (like Nostradamus, for example) use it as a tool for medical insight and diagnosis while some even use it as a tool for superficial personality descriptions. When using astrology to gain insight into groups, like nations for example, the methods are referred to as judicial or mundane.

I typically combine psychological and evolutionary methods as well as methods for superficial personality descriptions. I will assess individuals and personal relationships and offer insight in terms of current and future growth opportunities. However, I will not diagnose or suggest treatment for any medical conditions. 

When used as a forecasting tool, astrology can be an excellent way for assessing the timingof particular experiences. But while physical events are always part of a person’s experience, these physical events simply serve as a catalyst to the more significant inner experience. The timing of these experiences can be mapped with astrology, but the individual has a choice in how they manifest the physical events that will provide them with their experience. 



Kelly Lee Phipps has put together an impressive documentary film on authentic astrology entitled "Return of the Magi". I was fortunate enough to view the world premier of this film at the United Astrology Conference (UAC) in Denver, CO back in May 2008. This documentary offers a look at the history and practice of astrology over the years and includes dozens of interviews with professional astrologers with decades of experience.

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How Does Astrology Work?

"I believe now that only this direct encounter with empirical data that one has personally investigated can effectively serve to overcome the extreme resistance that virtually every person educated  within the modern context must initially experience towards astrology"

-Richard Tarnas (Cosmos and Psyche)

The honest answer to the question as to how astrology works is that no one really knows for sure. We can speculate and pose theories but, in the end, it’s a lot like our acceptance of the concept of gravity. In case you are unaware, though there are many theories as to why gravity exists, an actual understanding of gravity has never been achieved. We only accept it because of repeated observational verification. Through observation, we know that it works, but the true origins of the underlying forces elude us. So the answer as to how gravity works and as to how astrology works is essentially the same; it just does. And just as it makes no sense to walk off of a cliff and expect not to fall to your death, it also makes no sense to omitastrology from our framework of knowledge if it has proven to be a valuable tool.

Advances in the physical sciences in the late 17^thcentury essentially shut the door on astrology as a legitimate scientific practice. But early 21^st century advances in quantum mechanics are beginning to reveal the possibility for a potential reversal in the thinking that ousted astrology. 


Quantum physics can be described best with one word…bizarre. Quantum concepts fly in the face of accepted Newtonian laws for the physical universe and yet appear to be a more comprehensive set of concepts in describing the truth about our reality. Newtonian physics explains laws for only the physical universe while quantum physics explains the holistic aspects of all of our experiences including the manifestation of the physical universe itself. It’s as if quantum physics is the tree and Newtonian physics is merely a description of one branch of that tree. While valid in its own right, Newtonian physics has a limited application relative to our whole experience.  

Quantum physics is not easy to explain. But the basic gist of it is that at the smallest level of existence,
everything is potential energy which may or may not manifest physically. Through quantum physics we understand that all single occurrences in the physical world are the result of a conscious subjective choice that collapses into being out of a wave of potential possibilities. 


Also, in quantum physics there is a concept known as ‘non-local coherence’. The basics of this concept are that once sharing the same state, quanta (particles of potential energy that make up matter) remain interlinked no matter how physically far apart they move from each other. In fact, through experimentation it has been shown that when one pair of formerly connected quanta is subjected to an interaction, one quantum will collapse into its chosen state of reality. The twin quanta will then simultaneously collapse into a state that is complimentary to the first quantum regardless of physical distance. There is an apparent synchronicity between the two experiences that cannot be explained using traditional linear thought!

Though my attempt to explain the bizarre world of quantum physics in a couple of paragraphs begs for improvement, the implications that these concepts have for explaining the holistic mechanics of astrology are at least worth entertaining. In astrological forecasting, prediction is based on the timing of an experience. But it is up to the individual to choose, and therefore, manifest their physical reality within the framework of the potential available during a particular time period of their lives. This is consistent with what is known about quantum mechanics. 


Also, according to quantum mechanics, at the basic level of reality all particles remain interlinked no matter how far apart they may move from each other. This means that, according to the big bang theory, since all components of our known universe were once sharing the same physical state of being, in reality, all things have remained interlinked regardless of our ability to perceivethe links or not. This puts the concept of “We are all One” into perspective. In addition, the idea that twin quanta will collapse into states of reality that are complimentary to each other at least begins to reveal the possibility for the explanation as to how the movements of planetary bodies could possibly coincidewith experiences related to life on Earth. Perhaps what goes on deep in our solar system and beyond also occurs synchronistically within each of us if we are in reality all connected. 

“As Above, So Below” 

This explanation for the mechanism for astrology could potentially shut the door on the outdated assumption that people who believe in astrology also have to believe that the astral bodies control or cause life conditions on Earth or that to condone the practice of astrology is to believe in predestination. However, I am in no position to say that my theories regarding astrological mechanics are completely accurate. This is just my attempt at an explanation based on modern science. But I understand that even modern science, like Newtonian physics, may have its limits in its ability to explain the holistic web from which our subjective experiences arise. 


Regardless of the merits of my theories, those who study and practice astrology do so because of their observed experiences with it. The effects are quite obvious to anyone with an open mind and a moment to explore. To these people, including myself, the practice of astrology is rewarding regardless of any accepted mechanistic explanation for its existence. 

Carl Jung’s ‘Synchronicity’theory is very similar to my quantum theory in terms of a possible explanation for how astrology works. Its basic premise is that some simultaneous occurrences between two events or experiences exist which fall outside the laws of probability. That is, statistically speaking, even though there is no cause and effect relationship occurring, the simultaneous occurrence of two events (i.e. a planet’s location and a person’s experience) is such that it is outside the probability of statistical chance. Therefore the relationship exists and has significanceregardless of causation.

But perhaps Roy Gillet said it best when he said that astrology is a “truth operating with or without total human understanding”. 

And just like with gravity, we can accept astrology because of our experience with it, not because it has been explained. Ultimately, the more we know, the more questions are revealed. This expands the known universe which then yields more to know. Regardless of how much we know, there will always be more to know. We must realize that we are only humans lost in the infinite truth…we just can’t possibly KNOW everything. 

"The most beautiful and profound emotion we can experience is the sensation of the mystical. It is the power of all true science."
-Albert Einstein

2012 Astrology Forecast - No 'End' in Sight

Summary

After all the hype and build-up, can you believe that 2012 is actually HERE? Astrologically speaking, there is plenty to discuss so I have broken down the coming year into three general time frames below to give you a better sense of the timing of the energy flow. Enjoy!

Early 2012

The early part of 2012 features some lingering energies that first developed in 2011 in addition to some new developments. Jupiter in Taurus initiated a trine with Pluto in Capricorn in early July 2011 and Mars in Virgo formed a ‘grand trine’ with both planets in mid-November 2011. This smooth flow of energy between the earth signs finalizes in mid-March 2012 when the configuration becomes exact for the last time. Also, Neptune first entered its home in Pisces from early April through early August 2011 and will re-enter Pisces again in early February 2012 where it will reside until 2026!

As we start this New Year, we are greeted immediately with a new long-term trine configuration between Saturn and Neptune. This trine will last from early 2012 through most of 2013 as well and will mostly involve Saturn in Scorpio and Neptune in Pisces. Finally, the planet Mars will retrograde in the sign of Virgo during much of the early part of 2012 (late January through mid-April) which is something it does approximately once every two years for approximately 3 months.

Interpretation:

With Neptune in Aquarius since the mid-late 1990’s, the world developed ways of connecting through ‘disconnection’ via mediums such as reality TV and social networking. As Neptune enters its home sign of Pisces for a long stay (starting in early February), we will witness a world that will find ‘true’ connection and ‘oneness’ again. The ‘occupy’ movement is a great example of what Neptune in Aquarius represents and the next phase of honoring our totality and oneness will be where the movement goes from here. Mid-late summer 2011 saw this movement blossom right alongside the Jupiter/Pluto trine (rapid expansion/growth). So, I expect the period from mid-March through mid-April to be a significant time of concrete action being implemented echoing back to what was being initiated in mid-November 2011. The Saturn/Neptune trine speaks to the gradual merging of ‘dreams’ with ‘reality’ over the next two years, starting in early 2012. The Mars retrograde represents the behind the scenes (pre-action) efforts that need to be figured out both personally and collectively.

Mid-2012

On the heels of the Mars retrograde will be a Venus retrograde in Gemini from mid-May through late June 2012. As part of this retrograde, Venus will ‘occult’ (i.e. eclipse) the Sun in early June as it did in early June 2004, completing this once in ~121 year cycle. Also, Jupiter will enter Gemini in mid-June where it will square Neptune in Pisces in late June and begin a sextile to Uranus in Aries in late July that will last through early 2013. Finally, a long-term square between Uranus in Aries and Pluto in Capricorn makes its first of seven exact aspects in late June echoing themes set forth in the mid-late 1960’s when these planets formed a conjunction and initiated the current cycle. This square will last through early 2015.

Interpretation:

With respect to the aforementioned ‘occupy’ movement, I would expect to see a lot of behind the scenes efforts that do not bear fruit until the March/April time frame followed by a reorganization of our values on a societal level (mid-May through late June). Will the markets be challenged to change in a direction that better reflects our oneness? You bet.

June 2012 looks to me to be the most significant month of the year. The Venus occultation to the Sun along with Jupiter entering Gemini and the first Uranus/Pluto square all point to the beginning of a major shift in human consciousness based on new information that is revealed. Will it be regarding aliens, free energy, and the secrets of healing? It could be any and all of the above. The new consciousness related to our interconnectivity (civil rights, environment, etc.) that was seeded and fertilized in the mid-late 1960’s is now ready to be cultivated but it’s up to us to choose which directions we want to take it over the next several years. Also, don’t expect protesters to go away any time soon.

Late 2012

As we approach the end of 2012, Saturn will enter Scorpio (early October) and begin a long-term sextile to Pluto in Capricorn. Saturn will also begin a long-term quincunx to Uranus in Aries in mid-November further emphasizing the long-term Uranus/Pluto square that initiates in late June. Finally, Jupiter will move into a general position (between July and December) that will form a Yod (i.e. finger of God) configuration as Jupiter quincunxes both ends of the Saturn/Pluto sextile.

Interpretation:

The end of the year sees the beginning of a gradual period of actual restructuring of the ‘powers that be’ starting to take place (i.e. the relationship between governments and corporations). The adjustments will not be easy but it looks as though this time period coinciding with the 2012 election in the US just may be a period when those in power recognize the true ‘power of the people’ as they cannot hide the ‘truth’ any longer. Whatever truths are revealed, it will make it nearly impossible to carry on business as usual.

Happy New Year!

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Saturn trine Neptune: Drifting Toward Dream Manifestation

Early this week, the Sun forms a sextile to Saturn followed by a sextile to Neptune. This essentially introduces the long-term trine aspect between Saturn and Neptune as the Sun 'lights up' the midpoint between these outer planets. This trine between Saturn and Neptune gets close enough to be within a 1' orb later this week and these planets will continue to be in and out of this aspect with each other through the summer of 2013.

This cycle actually initiated between mid-February and late November 1989 when these planets formed a conjunction in Capricorn. This initiated a new cycle related to merging dreams (Neptune) with reality (Saturn) and merging truth (Neptune) with structure (Saturn). Other key turning points for this cycle were from late March through mid-April 1999 when Saturn squared Neptune and again from late August 2006 through early July 2007 when Saturn opposed Neptune.

If you can think of the themes in your own life around these dates related to the perceived disparity between dreams/truth and reality/structure then you may be able to have a clue as to what the next 18 months will gradually and effortlessly bring your way. Hopefully you took advantage of these key time periods because this trine acts like a snowball coming down the mountain! Whatever you have 'built' will be implementing itself for better or for worse. It might be easiest to just look back to late 2006 through early 2007 to see how life was unfolding as this was a time when we perceived that our dreams were distant from what was realistic. If you 'gave up' on yourself then, expect it to be VERY tempting and almost impossible to stop that momentum now. However, if you channeled your perceived doubt into creative energy and worked to bridge the gap between your dreams and your perceived reality at that time, then expect your dreams to begin almost to 'effortlessly' manifest themselves over the next 18 months.

Don't believe me? Give it a conscious try ;)...

Below is an example from my own life regarding these key dates as well as some more collective-level (US policy and Northern CA disaster preparedness) experiences of these energies at work:

Saturn conjunct Neptune: Mid-February through late November 1989 - Birth of the new cycle

I was a 10 yr old who had just finished up a special extra-curricular course which covered the science of Meteorology (i.e. weather & forecasting) from where I would go on to major in Meteorology (i.e. dreams into reality) a decade later. I also had my 6th and final ear surgery which was supposed to 'fix' (Saturn) my perforated eardrums for good. However, the surgery was not a success for unknown reasons (Neptune) and a perforated ear drum in my left ear remained.

Collectively, this is when the Montreal Protocol occurred which rose the awareness of 'climate change' in terms of human-related activities. Also, more locally, this is when the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake occurred in the San Francisco Bay Area. The 'truth' was out regarding current 'structures' that needed adjustments.

Saturn square Neptune: Late March through mid-April 1999 - First

tensions & adjustments of the cycle

I was a sophomore Meteorology major who was preparing to spend a good chunk of my summer at basic training with the Air Force ROTC program where I was to become an Air Force Meteorologist. However, in April of that year, I received a phone call after a routine physical for the ROTC program through which I was informed that I was disqualified for the program due to my still unresolved perforated eardrum!

At this time, many scientific studies were being conducted related to human influences on climate change which made it a political hot topic for the first time during the 2000 election with Al Gore running for president. In Northern CA, the Bay Bridge retrofits were also a hot topic with lots of contention regarding costs and tax payer money etc.

Saturn opposite Neptune: Late August 2006 through early July 2007 - Culmination and unfolding

After my opportunity with the Air Force fell through I started to realize that I had only majored in Meteorology because my mom mentioned to me in passing as a teen that I 'really liked that course' I took when I was 10! I had to then start from scratch in terms of my plans for the future in the late 1990's which led me down many paths including where I ended up by late 2006 into 2007. I found myself living 3,000 miles away from home in Sacramento, CA pushing my ambitious goals that I never would have had if I had stayed with the Air Force. I also got laid off for the first time during this time period and I fully experienced the sense of an 'unpredictable future' which was, in retrospect, the point of the life lesson of being released by the predictable future promised through the Air Force. This was perhaps a time of disillusionment for me but also a time where, by the summer of 2007, I felt like an approach to life without too much predictability (Saturn) was in favor of my dreams (Neptune) rather than a deterrent from them.

At this time, Al Gore's "An Inconvenient Truth" came out which brought the collective awareness of the climate change issue (whether you personally trust the information or not) to the public. Also, most of the retrofits of bridges in the San Francisco Bay were either being finished or finalized in terms of plans.

Saturn trine Neptune: Late December 2011 through late July 2013 - Momentum from the unfolding

So what does the next 18 months bring? For me, I assume that I will be further challenged to live 'unpredictably'. Since I feel that I came through the recent opposition (2006-2007) with a positive outlook and a sense of possibility for the future, this time just may reflect that momentum. I'll keep my fingers crossed and just keep on steering toward structuring my dreams regardless of the currents I have created ;).

In terms of climate change, I am guessing that by mid-2013 there will be solid legislation related to human-related emissions OR that the 'truth' about the human influence comes out in one form or another and coincides with the unveiling of FREE energy which negates the need for legislation in the first place. For the Bay Area, I think there will be a MAJOR earthquake between now and the summer of 2013 and the level of damage will reflect the degree of the efforts for the retrofits that were put into place. My guess is that the earthquake

will be larger in magnitude than the 1989 Loma Prieta quake but that the damage and death toll will be far less because of the retrofits. Lets hope so :).

Regardless of whether you 'gave up' on your dreams or you pushed forward to 'make them real' back in late 2006 through early 2007, you now have a chance to 'ride the wave' of your creations over the next 18 months. Even if the momentum is not in your favor due to your previous choices, that doesn't mean you cannot steer in the direction you want to go. It just makes it a little more difficult to steer out of the current. If you created a favorable current relative to your present intentions, you will experience the more 'effortless' flow of the manifestation of your dreams over this period. Otherwise, it will just take more work but the result can still be the same...

I'd love to hear YOUR personal stories regarding these themes over the next 18 months!!

-Christopher Robert Taylor

Sovereign Harmony

Total Lunar Eclipse – 12/10/2011

Its eclipse season again! This most recent round started off with a new moon solar eclipse that peaked at approximately 1:12am EST on Friday, November 25...'Black Friday' in the US. Next on the list is the TOTAL full moon lunar eclipse (see chart above) that peaks at approximately 09:35am EST on Saturday, December 10.

Eclipses usually occur two weeks apart from each other twice per year. Each series typically includes a lunar eclipse followed by a solar eclipse or vice versa. A lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth is partially blocking the moon from the sun during a full moon. A solar eclipse occurs when the moon blocks the sun from the Earth during a new moon. Full moons and new moons represent astrologically potent time periods anyway, but the eclipses just add some amplification and usually a little dose of the unexpected!

Astrologically speaking, new moons are generally a time of sowing seeds while full moons are a time of reaping what we sow. Where a new moon falls in our personal natal chart represents a time of new beginnings and laying new foundations in the parts of our lives represented by the astrological house that is highlighted. Where a full moon falls in our personal natal chart represents a time of sudden awareness, revelation, culmination and completion in the parts of our lives represented by the astrological house that is highlighted. Eclipses just add some spice and surprise to these time periods.

Ancient astrologers saw eclipse seasons as especially potent time periods with regards to wars and the fate of nations. I personally prefer to look at eclipses relative to the lives and relationships of individuals. In this regard, eclipse seasons are often potent times for unexpected change in terms of surprise new beginnings and to final culminations of things which have been building for some time.

This current total lunar eclipse will peak at approximately 18° Gemini and it will be in conjunction with the south node of the moon. This represents a time of culmination, release, and filtering of energy. When we are open and flexible in the face of change, this can be a rewarding time where we experience the culmination of past efforts or the finishing of unfinished business. If we have been creating against our best interests or if we have been keeping things under the surface, this may mark a stressful time of culmination with regards to the release of our secrets or the results of our less than stellar creations. The experiences of this nature would be felt within the domain of the astrological house that encompasses the location of this eclipse at 18° Gemini. You would need to consult your own natal chart to find out where this position falls for you.

For example, this point falls in my natal 9^th house (near the Midheaven) which is the house covering travel, education, news from 'afar', the internet, publishing, etc. For me (and everyone else who has 18° Gemini in their 9^th house) this could mark a culmination and release related to travel, publishing or hearing surprising news from afar. This eclipse includes a challenging aspect to Mars in my 12^th house of secrets, hidden enemies, spirituality, & behind the scenes activities as well as a challenging aspect to Venus in my 4^th house of home, security, emotions, and family. This eclipse is in supportive aspects to Neptune in my 6th house of health, work, service, & daily routine and to Saturn in my 2nd house of self-worth, finances, tangibility, & sensuality. I better be diligent with whom I conduct business but it appears that I may get the opportunity to prove that my 'outside-the-box' services can gain traction and earn tangible results and personal security for me (though I may be required to relocate to make it happen!). If I am not dealing with perceived enemies trying to block my path, then I will certainly be dealing with the most hidden enemy of all...unconscious self-sabotage!

In general, this eclipse's aspects point to an opportunity to release old beliefs over the next several months to make room for new growth opportunities coming in early summer 2012 (see below). This release process will require that we are willing to adjust our values (ideas about abundance/scarcity and whats important in our relationships) and willing to do the the diligent and detailed work that is required to to shift the momentum of our lives into more favorable currents. As long as justice, equality, and acceptance are part of the picture, our long-term security will be solid.

Collectively, I feel that truths are about to be revealed and that the general public will have to make some quick value adjustments (i.e. possibly temporarily living without money) while doing the 'hard-work' of beginning the process of organizing our new reality into a well-oiled machine for the good of all. Some of these secrets may include the realization that all of those electronic numbers in the stock market (and your 401K) aren't 'money' at all. Secrets related to the bridge between science and spirituality will likely be part of the picture as well. With the truth out, there would be no turning back and we would be required to move forward and create our society around these truths rather than according to an out-dated system that only served its creators.

The combination of the house location of the eclipse, its aspects to other current planets, and its aspects to the personal natal planets yields a very unique interpretation for each individual. For the best results in this case, find out where this lunar eclipse and the other planets involved fall in your natal chart. Then find any planets or personal points in your natal chart that are also aspected by these configurations.

Location of Current Total Lunar Eclipse Configurations

Lunar Eclipse - Moon @ 18° Gemini, Sun @ 18° Sagittarius

Mars - 13° Virgo

Neptune - 28° Aquarius

Saturn - 27° Libra

Venus - 17° Capricorn

The effects of this eclipse can be felt within a few days on either side of December 10 and may be felt through early June 2012! This is mainly because Mars will 'trigger' this eclipse by way of a square aspect starting the weekend of Christmas and ending in early June within a few days of the Venus/Sun occultation!

The Venus/Sun Occultation is a rare event with HUGE significance and will occur within orb of the degree of this eclipse in Gemini to boot! This rare event deserves its own write-up but, in any case, it appears that what we RELEASE related to this eclipse over the next several months will allow us the room to OPEN ourselves to the growth opportunities offered to us in early June 2012 with the Venus/Sun Occultation. I'll just say that it appears that the sacred feminine is making a comeback for ALL of us! Good times!

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Happy Eclipse Season!