“Leadership is based on inspiration, not domination; on cooperation, not intimidation.” -William Arthur Wood
When I think of the word “leadership” I usually envision a corporate manager or an army general- someone standing before a great number of people who, through some nebulous skill, is able to direct the collective into action. But leadership happens on many levels. I remember back in college when I worked in the library of a law firm in Pittsburgh. It was a fairly meanial position- shelving books, making copies of cases for the associates, picking up specialized books from other libraries, etc. But I loved it and the librarian made me feel invaluable. Looking back on that time I now recognize that she was a real leader- able to inspire, direct, and manage me in ways that were empowering, respectful, and even fun.
The August new moon in Leo uncovers some lessons in leadership for all of us.
The Astrology of the New Moon
The new moon is on August 20 at 6:02 am EDT and occurs at 27 degrees of Leo. The Sun rules the sign of Leo and imbues it with a regal, warm, and shining quality. Just as the Sun is the center of our solar system, Leo engages with the world in a style reminiscent of a classic movie star- dramatic, romantic, and self-assured. Leo is a fixed fire sign- its glowing warmth can be magnetic to others.
The Chart of the New Moon
Looking at the chart of the Leo new moon (August-New-Moon) we find that here in Miami (and along the east coast) Leo is also the rising sign, emphasizing the need to meet life head on, with dignity and flair. The new moon is directly across the sky from Jupiter and Neptune in Aquarius, a pair that’s been influencing the last few monthly cycles with their idealism and inspired optimism.
This configuration shows that balance and integration come when we can recognize how to use our own unique gifts and talents (Leo) to help and inspire others (Aquarius). The Leo-Aquarius axis is about the complementary energy of giving and receiving love, being an individual among the group, and radiating our gifts and having them reflected back to us.
Leaders have a vision and can inspire others through that vision. Leo, being ruled by the Sun, is self-assured. Knowing what you want to achieve and how you want to achieve it produces a sense of confidence and helps others to feel safe in rallying around you. The librarian I worked for had a vision for the level of service the library provided to the attorneys, and through her example and direction we all followed suit.
The new moon chart contains a few challenging aspects as well. Saturn and Mercury are together in the sign of Virgo, a symbol that our ideas and plans (Mercury) must be practical, sound, and well-structured (Saturn). This pair makes an opposition to Uranus, the planet of surprises. The opposition describes the need for integration and balance; and this month we’ll have the opportunity to see how well our plans stand up to the unexpected.
Leaders respond, not react. Saturn in Virgo is about following the proper sequence of steps, supporting routines, and relying on facts. Uranus is sure to throw us some surprises this month and a good leader will remain steady. No matter what urgent requests came into the library we were able to put it into perspective and deal with because we understood our capabilities, priorities, and commitments.
The Saturn-Mercury combination is also being challenged by Mars in Gemini (the sign ruled by Mercury). This represents situations where we may be fearful to act (Mars) because we don’t have a plan or routine (Mercury-Saturn). It may also describe not taking action soon enough because it’s not part of the plan.
Leaders challenge the process and do what is right. Don’t get caught up in the way things have always been done or how you perceive they “should” be done. Take a step back and make decisions that get you closer to your goal, keep the momentum going, and empower others. The librarian, who was paid well and paid to help the attorneys with research, was not above making copies if I wasn’t there. It didn’t matter what the normal “process” was in those situations- she ensured every patron received what they needed when they needed it.
For those of you who know your chart, the house where you find 27 degrees of Leo will give you more information about where you should focus this month. In my chart I have 27 degrees of Leo in my ninth house. The ninth house is where we gain perspective about ourselves and our world. It rules higher learning as systems of law, philosophy and religion. With the new moon in my ninth house I should focus on ways I can take a leadership role in teaching, publishing, and my spiritual practice and find ways in which I can shine through those areas.
This month will challenge us to make adjustments. The new moon in Leo is calling us to be the leaders of our own lives and act with dignity, pride, and creativity- all traits of the sign of Leo. Are you presenting yourself as a leader (to your family, your workgroup, or your community) or are you simply reacting to situations around you? This month we’ll all be tested to put our best foot forward. Where will you shine?
Namaste’
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