by Bob Hoffman
Here in northern New England with it's long, harsh winters, we look with anticipation towards spring. We want to feel again that surge of energy flow through our veins, and the sense of warmth and renewal within our bodies. This is a time of new beginnings for the earth and within ourselves.
The 2005 astrological year begins at the Spring Equinox on March 20, at 7:34 AM EST. If you are familiar with astrology you know that this time marks the beginning of the astrologica signl of Aries. Aries energy is symbolized by the Ram, bursting impulsively forth. It is the first sign in the rhythmic unfolding of the the twelve signs that make up the signs of the Zodiac. Aries is the first sign because it's attributes are correlated with "beginnings" (the first impulse physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually).
The beginning of the calendar year on January 1 is a solely linear, mental construct that has no astronomical (physical), emotional, or spiritual significance. It does have a mental significance, but does not have the most beneficial physical alignment that would propagate change or initial new beginnings. However, the Spring Equinox is a time when the earth and the rest of our solar system is in an advantageous alignment for initialing the kind of change symbolic of the new year. In other words, the Spring Equinox is a more logical time for the year to begin. As an astrologer, that is when my new year begins.
The study of astrology involves the relationship between the larger universe and the personal universe within. The same energies that function in our personal universe, function in the larger one "out there". As we approach the spring (during the Pisces time of the yearly cycle), it is time to do our "spring cleaning". By this I mean, taking stock of what we have accomplished, learned, and how we have changed in the last year (since March 20 , 2004). Look at what you have done, and realize that a major cycle has come to an end, and a new, fresh one is about to begin. Look forward and plan what you want to accomplish in the upcoming year in every facet of your life. Incidentally, your personal birthday is another time of beginning. On your birthday, it is your personal new years day that may not have anything to do with the rest of us, but has a similar "spring" energy for you personally.
Astrology is valuable for organizing and carrying out projects of any size or shape. The more you learn to align yourself with universal forces, the better are your chances of having a favorable outcome. I'm sure you have heard the term "timing is everything". Whoever coined that phrase, was succinctly describing astrolog, whether they knew it or not. Also, the better you organize a project or goal, and carry it out logically, step-by-step, the more likely you will complete it, learn from it, and profit from it.
Astrology is a tool, not a belief system. Rule the stars, but don't be ruled by them. Take this opportunity to begin the new year with the universe working with you, and you working with it. If you read this before March 20 (or even after), start reviewing the past year and begin to prepare for the new one.
Astrological Forecast For March 2005
(Reprinted in part from Spring Equinox 2005 - A Shift in Human Consciousness by Bob Hoffman, Sacred Pathways Magazine, Feb/Mar 2005)
The New Moon of March 10 will begin the final Moon phase of the astrological year. I feel that from this date until the Spring Equinox on March 20 will bring a sense that there is a light at the end of the tunnel. The New Moon will occur in the astrological 1st House and be accompanied by Venus, Uranus, and Neptune. This, coupled with strong connections to every major area of life indicates a renewal, and hopefully fulfillment.
On the Spring Equinox the new astrological year begins. Life does not wait for us to finish things or for us to be ready to move forward. This new year indicates a difficult interplay between where we want to go mentally, physically, and spiritually (Jupiter), and the reality of our concrete life (Saturn). In other words, the astrological square between Jupiter and Saturn is symbolic of the dynamic tension between our individual and collective spiritual and ethical values and the day to day demands of time-based reality. For instance, we want to expand our business, but the realities of what that takes constrains us. The key is to allow and let go. Keep the faith and get up every morning and walk the walk. The interplay of Neptune (vision) and Uranus (change) will keep on keeping on, so we must keep our visions and expectations going this year regardless of how things look. This square, and consequently this energy began in 2004 and will continue well into 2006. The Full Moon of March 25 indicates an increased desire to open up new financial opportunities and in the building up of anything in general. Humanitarian efforts will likely continue to be very strong during this time as more and more people start to see some of the outcomes of their past collective choices and what can be done about them.
Until next time, I wish you good fortune and blessings for the new year!
Aries - Commune With Your Spirit - Look into yourself to see what needs to be done now. Look for the subtle signals as to how you must proceed and you will be successful.
Taurus - Future Potentials - Gathering with like minded individuals now will help you make the most of situations, personal and professional. It will be easy to be seen as someone who gets the job done.
Gemini - Bridging the Gap - Confusion regarding vision vs. reality will clear up somewhat if you consciously look at the disparity. Your profession will take on new meaning.
Cancer - Spiritual Yearning - Now you would be served well by jumping into the sea of the cosmic unconscious. Your true hearts desires are waiting for you to discover them.
Leo - Let Go - Let unnecessary physical and physiological debris get cleared away by simply paying attention to the subtle messages telling you how to proceed. Listen carefully.
Virgo - Sublime Stillness - Let your personal concerns transform by doing as little as possible to get in the way of change. The less you do the better the outcome.
Libra - Clean Up Your Act - Tidiness and organization will be easy to accomplish now. Get back to a more healthy lifestyle now and it will go easier on you.
Scorpio - Creative Vision - Use your talents creatively and your energy will increase, enabling you to produce more towards your goals. Making more time for fun will keep you afloat.
Sagittarius - Emotional New Beginning - Your call to action this month will spark an emotional renewal as long as you walk through your fears. You will come out the other side a new person.
Capricorn - Financial Renewal - Practical concerns will go well as long as you have learned from last years mistakes. Work on how you will finance your new goals.
Aquarius - Take Small But Definite Steps - Let new opportunities begin to emerge from your consciousness. Pick up the pace slowly, particularly regarding your upcoming financial needs.
Pisces - Happy Birthday to You - Lift your head up tall and move briskly towards your goals. Don’t slow down, but also don’t expect massive forward motion. That will come.