2008 Horoscope

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Libra

Sept. 22-Oct. 23

The significant shifts in planetary energy began during the past four months, and we have many more to come. 2007 was a challenging year for many of us. When long cycles reach the final degrees in a sign, we feel a sense of urgency to complete EVERYTHING on our list. This naturally isn't doable, no matter how much we would like to conclude everything. In the last six-seven weeks of 2007, most of us became too busy to attend to everything, and that, which entered our lives since September, was emotional in nature and now we needed to learn practical ways of handling issues. In astrology, there are short cycles and extremely long ones—many are changing now, and the more changes we have in the stars the more changes we will have in our lives. Is it a curse or a blessing, when we are wished: "may you live in interesting times"?

Since September 2007, we have all felt 'stuck' somehow. Our experiences are all unique and different. Some of the potential events and issues, including dealing with family members and housing related issues more. Perhaps we have needed to rely on assistance more than we are accustomed. Organizing a trip, procuring insurance, dealing with an insurance claim or the loss of a family member are some of the issues that figure prominently now. Some of us are luckier, and we have only had to deal with the furnace seizing up on us, the hot water heater that no longer works, the washer and dryer, the fridge—anything that has a motor and deals with water.

Mars is retrograde in Gemini as the New Year begins. It is regressing (going back in time…) in the area of your chart associated with travel, philosophy, advertising, convictions and opinions. Have you taken on too many things over the past couple of months? Did you over commit by taking on too many obligations and responsibilities? When planets move against the norm, the issues they represent are 'in our face'.

Many of us have made statements such as 'I no longer want to do that or I REFUSE. This energy can be over reactive, meaning that we get upset over little things that aren't worth the effort of losing our control. Until early March, we have the opportunity to find intellectual, rational, logical choices to set on a different course through the maze of life. During January, we need to revisit past ideas, talk to friends, advisors and to reconnect with the past, but this time with an intellectual mindset.

Similar energy was in play from August 6 to September 28, 2007. The repeats typically take place once every two years; this period is an exception. The feelings we have been having for the past 2-3 months need to be addressed. If something is making you feel unhappy, emotionally alone or alienated, you need to speak up. There is that saying: Doing the same thing 'over and over again' and expecting the same results is insanity. Until March 4, you have the opportunity to revisit those issues and tackle them differently.

Then from March 4 until May 9, you will be able to discuss or negotiate different arrangements with bosses, employers or clients and head in a direction that you desire the most. This time with more realistic expectations not based on emotional need alone.

Pluto of change, elimination, rebirth and 'fate' is shifting gradually into the sign of business, societal norms and ambition, Capricorn (January 25-June 13, and from November 2008 until 2024). If we observe, what people are busy doing every year this time we get strong clues as to what the planetary influence is most likely to bring us.

Every year when many planets are in Capricorn (Dec 21-Jan 20), people seem to do a big purge around their homes—in with the new at Christmas and out with the old after Boxing Day. When the planet known for its ability to eliminate, to make redundant moves in Capricorn, purging things and people, who have outlived their usefulness can become a strong theme.

This determined, powerful energy enters the area of your chart associated with home, family, real estate, parents, and your subjective view about who you know yourself to be. The preview period is January 25-June 13, and November 2008 begins 14-year main feature. In 2007, you finished a cycle of making new plans, made decisions about your direction in life. You might not know what needs to change, but do know that things are not to your liking. Over the past dozen years your opinions, the way you relate to siblings and your daily environment has undergone subtle, yet profound changes. Your thoughts are deep and profound these days, partially because you have thinking about life in depth over these years gone by. In short, your personal view of everyday life has changed.

Your family situation is likely to change; ranging from major renovation/restoration of home to new family members and potential loss of others. Life on earth isn't forever… You might downsize, buying something much bigger or choose to live a more minimalist life style—think extremes, particularly this year. Note that we are talking about a long cycle. Each October for the next decade, is going to become a life-altering month for you. Some events are external but many more are internal and private. During these years, your view of who you are (to yourself) alters with each passing season.

Saturn moved into Virgo back in September. This influence lasts through mid-2010. During this time, In August and again in November there are external events that are likely to cause you to question

This year and into mid-2010, you are in a cycle during which you surrender choices and plans that are not aligned with who you have become. Analyzing your inner world, learning about subjects and concepts that aren't as concrete is more likely now. You are likely to question your beliefs and your dreams are worth the analysis now. It is about getting in touch with the inner you and learning about your core beliefs and their validity. You may need extra downtime this year, you are likely working harder than ever, beware exhaustion, watch for those signals, rather than push forward propelled by determination.

In September, the alignments are spectacular for Libra; what do you love and what do you DESIRE the most? Nothing should be stopping you! Think back to the summer of 2004, what choices did you make then—reminders come your way in June and in September, it is time to seize life and opportunities with open arms. Life is miraculous, too short, and we should make a concerted effort 'each and every day' to live life to the fullest.

There are a few ‘stressful' periods mixed in (but of course, it's life). Early January (continues from December) pay extra attention to how you communicate and pay extra attention to other drivers, keep a close eye on the speedometer—observe those laws, regulations and road advisories; also keep the vehicle in good working order. In March, the potential tension is with work and family life. Finding the optimal balance can be tough at times.

2008 is about getting enthusiastic about life! There are events along the way that nudge you to change direction. In the first decade of life, we work at becoming a member of our immediate neighbourhood and community; we learn to see ourselves separate from our family. During the second decade (those teen years), we detach from family and seek our identity and people with whom to form a bond. Our third decade (our twenties), life is an adventure we seek to find our ‘mission' in life—the job we can envision ourselves doing). In our 30s, we settle down to our productive years, we grow our family and possessions. As we reach our fourth decade, life begins anew; we've had our midlife crises between ages 37-42 and figured that we want more out of life. In our 50s, we are bold enough to be whom we are—too old to take flack. In our 60s, we yearn to leave our mark somehow, learn to enjoy our role as an elder and appreciate time differently. In our 70s we are free to do as we please… life is cyclical. Depending on what decade you are living defines what will cause you to be enthused you these days. This year and next, it is about life and finding renewed inspiration to find your way or figure out how you will leave your mark on the world, and naturally a whole range in between.

During 2008, Jupiter of abundance is in Capricorn with Pluto, which emphasizes your desire to eliminate things in your life that inhibit your growth as a spiritual being or affect your family life negatively. Jupiter brings expansion into our lives, we can speculate about grand, new furniture and renovations; finding a bigger place and naturally about additions to the family. Because Pluto and Jupiter are dancing in the same sign bulk of the year, the energy is more volatile.

Handling Issues with Logic

As the year begins, a new element enters the equation: logic, paper work, seeking professional advice, speaking to a counselor, attorney, adjuster, etc. The first two weeks of the year are intense, it is easier to get into arguments as we 'fight' for what is just and fair. On December 18 when Jupiter moved into Capricorn (Mercury and Sun followed by the 21 st ) we all got a glimpse of what direction we need to take. Granted most of us became aware that it will take time, patience and working toward our goals patiently and methodically.

This year the Mercury cycle is in the element of air, as in 2001-02. For you, these cycles influence relating at a variety of levels. The emotional theme of 2006-07 gives way to handling matters more rationally. This approach 'feels' more comfortable to you. It is also a year of new ideas and we can have a delightful time playing out those 'what if' and 'why not' scenarios.

This year Mercury is in your own sign for two months, and spends 204 days in signs associated with life, romance and future. This is very good for air signs, and Libra is one of these. The retrograde periods can be challenging this year, see dates below. During the first one in Aquarius, express your views with romantic partner, children and people you love with clarity and compassion; don't proffer the truth at every turn. During the second one, pay extra attention to legalities and proof anything written with care; and avoid altercations with relatives. The final one for the year is in your own sign, which makes it personal and related to your health. When was the last time you visited the dentist?

Mercury is in Aquarius (Jan 7 - March 14), which for you is associated with romance, children, play and creativity. Are you having fun? Do you wake up in the morning excited about what the day might have in store for you? Do you make time to play? Is there something you have always wanted to try but think that you wouldn't be able to because (or but…). Why not! During this time, you have the opportunity to discuss matters with loved ones building better rapport. This can be a rather romantic time for you.

From May 2 to July 10 brings on similar influence as at the beginning of the year Jan-March and Sept-Oct last year. Repetition is such a wonderful teacher (in hindsight of course); the concepts are once again travel, philosophy, advertising, convictions and opinions and those grand plans for the future. This is probably one your busiest times for the year.

During May, you can be more 'reckless' about things in general. You might take risks without considering the outcome from different angles, or you might tell everyone who will listen exactly what you think without mincing your words or saying it without much tact or diplomacy. If this is something you've wanted anyway, it can feel rather liberating.

From Aug 28 - Nov 4, Mercury is in your sign; there will be shorter rerun about the same time in 2009. However, the ones with this intensity repeat rather seldom (about 7 years apart). It is all about you; how you think, how you do things and how you express yourself. You thinking processes are finely tuned now. Note the dates when Mercury is retrograde, as this might not apply during those three weeks. Making major decisions is the theme; add that to the theme of the year, and I bet this is an exciting time!

Mercury Dates:

Aquarius Jan 7 - March 14

Gemini May 2 - July 10

'Doing as he pleases' May 6-27, 2008

Libra Aug 28 - Nov 4

Retrograde periods:

January 28 - February 18

May 26 - June 19

September 23 - October 15

Summary for 2008 from the first column of the year

This is an exciting year for Libra, particularly from August onward. It is a year of relating, renewed inspiration through ideas—realizing we are capable of more than we give ourselves credit for. It is a year of romance, babies and remarkable creative inspiration. The biggest changes involve home and family—growth, relocation and major renovations (restoration). In terms of health, pay attention, work on improving your diet and allow adequate time for rest and relaxation. Power struggles are more probable in career related matters and/or involving legalities; think before acting/reacting.

Want to know more about your Year

Our personal year begins on our birthday. Astrologers cast a solar return for each year in order to look at the prominent themes for the year. The write-up here is based on the sun sign and if you happen to know your rising sign, I recommend you read that as well. If you need more information than the columns on the web and your newspaper can provide, I recommend you talk to a professional astrologer. In addition to offering personal consultations, I also have two astrological reports for your personal year.

For the past few years, I have written rather long annual horoscopes for the year, which is once again a theme. Remember I am generalizing because the write-ups are intended for the millions who share your Sun sign, an astrologer can get more specific about your life once your date of birth, time of birth and location of birth are known.

Special Report Offer January 10 -February 29, 2008

Most of us are interested in learning more about ourselves and yearn to know what the future might hold for us. Many professional astrologers have written computer-generated reports, which offer a wealth of information. Each one I have purchased has been handpicked, because I personally liked it and it gave me additional insights about me. For example, I have two astrological reports for your personal year. The reports are available directly on line or you can email your request and pay with PayPal (the rates are posted on the order page). Two for one offer: one solar return and one transit report OR two solar return reports (nearest birth date will be used) via email directly from Anne all three for $10. (Note that time of birth is necessary for the solar return report)..

Maybe you would prefer to read your Saturn's Promise, Chakra Healing Report and Karmic Insights instead. Place your order using the shopping cart. The reports are insightful but cannot replace a personal consultation with an astrologer.

Personal Consultations

If you are looking for more information than the horoscopes and reports can provide, you might want to consider a personal consultation.

Anne Massey, CAP (ISAR) is a certified professional astrologer. For personal consultations with Anne call her office at 604-888-9552. More details on the services page. Note you can now purchase reports and charts via email or regular mail and pay for personal consultations using your credit card and the convenient shopping cart which is hosted by Paypal. The pricing and types of readings are listed on the services page.

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