We’re all aware that 2009 is going to be one bumpy ride and that any progress we make individually, as a country, and certainly as a planet will only come through hard work and dedication to our plans and goals. Luckily, the universe is giving us one last parting gift before patting us on the rump and sending us off into the new year. That gift is the upcoming new moon on December 27th 2008.
This last new moon of the year occurs at 6 degrees of Capricorn. Capricorn is an earth sign and is about the responsible management of resources, careful and planned action towards an objective, and the prudent use of time. Capricorn is ruled (or influenced) by the planet Saturn. When the new moon happens in Capricorn it’s time to center our intentions and goals for the upcoming month on the realistic and practical ways of moving forward.
If there was ever a new moon to set your intentions for the month (and in this case, the year) ahead then this new moon is the time to do it. The Sun and Moon are in close quarters to Pluto and Mars- a dynamic duo that will add intensity, passion, and drive to your energy this month.
Saturn, the planetary ruler of Capricorn, is moving through the fellow earth sign of Virgo, imbuing the new moon with support, structure, and an aire of gravity. Saturn also makes a terrific connection to Jupiter (planets of luck and opportunity) and Mercury (communication and planning). These, along with two other important aspects make this a time for being realistic and clear about our goals.
There is one other important fact to keep in mind. For six months we’ll be moving “forward” metaphorically rather than literally. Why? Because on January 1, 2009, Saturn turns retrograde and will move backwards until May 16, 2009. What this means is that the first half of 2009 will be about revisiting those issues that cropped up in September 2008 (when Saturn was last at 14 degrees of Virgo- the point it will now retrograde to). It’s about getting our ducks in a row, making sure we’re on solid footing, and not skipping any steps in our plans.
This retrograde period is really a blessing because it will give all of us the opportunity to regroup, restructure, and rehearse during this potentially trying time in our history.
If you are a Capricorn and born in late December you’ll feel this new moon the most (and you’re probably already feeling the effects of Pluto and Mars, which I would liken to a the sparkling fuse at the end of a bottle rocket). Regardless of your sign I would encourage everyone to pay special attention to the New Year’s resolutions they make at this time. Like the old addage “be careful what you wish for,” this is one new moon to take seriously.
The only way to really know how the upcoming year will play out in your life is to schedule a personal consultation where we examine your own birth chart. If there was ever a time to be prepared for the year ahead- it is now 
For more about Saturn retrograde check out my previous posting.
