“Abundance is, in large part, an attitude.” -Sue Patton Thoele
There has been lots of concern this past year, and rightly so, over the state of the economy. While we averted a major fiscal meltdown, the harm caused by the mortgage crises, the bank bailouts, and almost daily revelations of fraud and white-color crime has taken its toll on the spirit of many people.
An interesting side effect of this has been our desire to redefine what it means to be happy- and even redefine what it means to have enough. And the pop culture influence of books like “The Secret,” means that we’re all being encouraged to think positively, receive gratefully, and live authentically.
With the new moon in Sagittarius the word “abundance” comes to mind. Abundance falls within the realm of Sag for a few reasons, none of which are immediately obvious. First of all, when we think of abundance we think of money- and that’s usually represented by Taurus, or the second or eighth houses. Sagittarius is considered the sign of abundance because of its attitude- it tends towards optimism, is able to find the small pleasures in life, and sees each day as an ever expanding adventure. And it’s ruled by the planet Jupiter- the influence of growth, opportunity, and all that is overflowing.
Let’s look at the astrology of this new moon and then talk about how to utilize this cycle to bring more abundance into our lives.
Astrology of the New Moon
The new moon occurs on Wednesday, December 16 at 24 degrees of Sagittarius. Sagittarius is the sign of the archer, aiming high both morally and philosphically. Sag is a dual sign- his constellation is that of centaur, half horse and half man. That’s a symbol for our dual nature and descriptive of our base desires for freedom and pleasure and our aspirations toward developing the higher mind and purpose.
The new moon is a symbol for a beginning; an invitation from the universe to plant a seed, set an intention, or make a wish. With the new moon in Sagittarius appropriate intentions could involve higher education, travel, involvement in a spiritual or philosophical group, publishing (books or things on the internet), advertising, and other methods of spreading the word on a grand scale. All of these activities help to broaden our perspective- which is just another way of saying they help us to see and understand more of the world and the richness and connectedness all around us.
This new moon makes a trine aspect (120 degrees) to Mars in Leo, a fellow fire sign. Mars is the planet of action, dynamite, and the pursuit of your desires. This is sure to add an extra measure of energy to whatever it is you begin at this time. In Leo that energy is expressed regally, proudly, and with a sense of flair. Leo wants recognition for its talents, and the actions you take now can bring you approval and appreciation from those around you.
The new moon also makes a square aspect (90 degrees) to Uranus at 22 degrees of Pisces. The energy of this month, while firey and active, could face some sudden reversals or unexpected slowdowns (Pisces is a water sign and mixed with fire could dampen the mood). Your best bet this month is to remain flexible- there are many ways to the top of the mountain and one of Sagittarius’s strengths is its ability to react to the changing current of life and remain optimistic about the outcome.
You can use this new cycle to bring more abundance into your life through a variety of ways. The first, and most important way, is to define abundance for yourself. Remember that abundance simply means fullness. What fills your life and brings you a sense of satisfaction? Spending time with your family? Collecting antique cars? Volunteering? Sagittarius is akin to The Fool in the tarot deck- that happy-go-lucky character with the wind at his heels with no particular direction in mind. He can make the most of any circumstance, but imagine the joy of charting a course and actually reaching your destination.
The next suggestion is to actively puruse (Mars) those things that are fun, engaging, and reflect what’s in your heart of hearts (Leo). In other words, be playful. Leo is the sign of play, and with Mars in Leo making an aspect to this new moon our pursuits should include a healthy dose of fun. Approaching things “playfully” changes our entire perspective. We’re no longer concerned about doing something the “right” way, but instead, doing something for the shear enjoyment of it. It could be argued that play and work are actually the same thing, the only difference is how you perceive it.
Sagittarius is also about discovering a higher purpose, finding a broader vista, and connecting with a nobler cause. Remembering that what we do and how we live affects others by potentially inspiring someone, liberating someone, or revealing a truth can bring us a deep and lasting sense of satisfaction.
And lastly, if you know your chart, wherever you have Sagittarius is where you might focus your energy this month. For example, I have 24 degrees of Sagittarius in my first house of self-interest, attitudes, and outlook on life. This is a great time for me to take a more optimistic outlook, broaden my attitudes, and get motivated by my personal interests. A new moon in the first house is about establishing one’s self and taking the first step on a new journey of stepping out in the world.
I challenge each of you this holiday season to define abundance and look for new ways that you can actively, playfully, and vigorously bring more of it (whatever “it” is) into your life.
May you have a safe and prosperous new year!
Namaste’
