“I am at a cross road in my life so I need an advice. I am a 37 year old female and recently divorced. Can I find the right path in my life and once and for all have a happy life?” – Lisa
Thanks for writing in Lisa. While I’m sorry to hear about your divorce you may need to accept that this is all a part of your soul’s journey towards fulfillment. In astrology we know that our study of cycles will, at times, describe periods of smooth sailing and at other times warn of rough seas ahead. We may not be able to change the waves, but we can certainly adjust our course.
You haven’t given me much more information about what’s been happening, so I’ll address your question about finding the right path from a general perspective. As far as happiness goes, that’s far too subjective (and nearly impossible) for anyone– astrologer, counselor, or priest– to predict for another person. I recently wrote a blog post about happiness that references an article from The Atlantic Monthly. I suggest you read that as well.
When a client asks me about “direction,” it’s important to find out a few things first. Looking at Lisa’s chart (natal-and-progressed-charts) let’s focus on some simple indicators about direction.
The Nodes in Astrology
Starting very broadly, in astrology we determine the soul’s direction by looking at the nodes. The nodes are not planets, but points. These points are where the path of the Sun and the path of the Moon intersect as they (seemingly) circle the earth. The north node is that point that describes our soul’s journey in this incarnation. The south node describes what our soul has mastered in previous incarnations. The south node, then, is that stuff we’re really good at. It’s like second nature to us because we’ve done it before. The north node, though, hold the key to what we should be striving for now.
Lisa has her south node in Cancer and her north node in Capricorn. What this describes is an individual who is very good at being the mothering type, running a household, and putting the needs of others first. In past lives (Cancer south node) she gave up being an independent go-getter in order to take care of the tribe or clan. Now, in this lifetime (Capricorn north node), her challenge is to get out into the world, develop self-respect, self-confidence, and learn to take care of herself. Lisa’s soul desire is to feel safe- but she must create that safety and security herself and not depend on one person, or group of people, to provide that for her. This is further emphasized in Lisa’s chart because the nodes are in the 2nd and 8th houses- self-worth, value, personal resources.
So, Lisa, when we consider your question about direction I can generally answer: “Move in the direction that will help you become self-sufficient, responsible, and goal-oriented.” For example, if you asked me, “Should I marry again soon or go back to school?” I would certainly answer- “Go back to school!” Whatever you can do to create goals that will help you achieve personal success is a step in the right direction.
The next indicator of direction would be to find out what Lisa’s purpose is and how she can use that in the world. In astrology we look at the 9th house for mission and purpose and the 10th house for how that purpose is put to use in the world (aka career). Lisa has Leo on the cusp of her 9th house, ruled by the Sun in Taurus. Her mission is to use her creativity and gifts (Leo) to create beautiful, tangible things (Taurus). This may be a craft, or it could be her aesthetic- sharing her flair for design, color, or pattern. With Virgo ruling her 10th house she needs to put those skills to use in ways that are practical, useful, and of service to others.
Progressions in Astrology
The last indicator we’ll look at is her progressed chart (the outer wheel on the natal chart posted above). The progressed chart helps us see where the individual currently is in his or her life. The progressed chart moves the planets forward and gives us an indication of what the current conditions look like. One of the most important indicators is the progressed lunar phase. Just as we all experience the monthly lunar (moon) phase, the progressed lunar phase describes a longer, thirty year cycle.
Lisa had a progressed new moon back in 1999. If she were a client of mine I would ask her to think back to that time and try to remember what seeds she was planting then- what “new chapter” of her life did she feel she was embarking on? Now, in 2009, Lisa is in the First Quarter phase. This phase is marked by lots of activity. It’s like early summer when all the plants are growing rapidly and there are lots of leaves. We may not see fruit, but growth is obvious. This is a time when Lisa should be taking risks, following through, and stepping out. If there is a goal to pursue then now is the time to take real action. It’s not a time to sit back, relax, and wait for someone to come along and tell her what to do. It’s time for LISA to do it!
Lisa, without knowing more details I hope this advice has been helpful. Ending a relationship is never easy; and it’s important not to let this critical period in your life pass you by without taking advantage of the energies that are available to you to follow your hearts desire and create the life you really want. I wish you much luck in the future and do keep us posted on your progress. Namaste’.
PS: Dear readers: Even though I’m located in Miami, FL, I’m available by phone or Skype for consultations regardless of where you’re located. If you prefer to see an astrologer in person but you’re not in Miami, I’m happy to recommend someone in your area.
Update: On June 30, 2009 I received this response from Lisa:
Hi Ron,
Thank you for your advice, I found it very helpful. When I think about your question ‘What seed did I plant in 1999,’ I remember that my strongest whish was to go to Australia and live with my brother there. Now I am in Australia and as you said that this is my time to go back to school, I am in the school again. I hope that I am going to succeed in it. Thanks again for resolving some doubts about my current situation.
