Blog – Page 10 – Cassandra Joan Butler

New Moon in Capricorn + Uranus Stations Direct=Boom!

January 11, 2021/in Blog/by Cassandra Butler

How are you? I know I am using every ounce of my mind-body-spirit to navigate what is being called 1) unprecedented times; 2) challenging times; 3) divisive times…and on & on. Frankly, there are no words! If you are like me…you are still `processing’….

What happened at the US Capital was a horrific loss; of human lives, and, in the confidence and trust we have placed in our leaders, and in the idea of the USA; the worlds’ bastion of democracy.

You and I, and in varying degrees, everyone, continue to wrestle what we experienced on Epiphany Day 2021 at the US Capital Building. The replay within our minds triggers all the pernicious emotions; anger, grief, fear, worry and anxiety. And these emotions trigger a landslide of reactions which need to be individually healed within and without.

How? For some of us its through an uptake of doing more research (mind tools) to `understand’. Others turn to bodily comfort through exercise or napping (great!) Emotional eating (or drinking) may emerge as the not-as-great choices, although please don’t judge yourself for taking an extra `spoonful of sugar!’ All of us can benefit from embracing our spiritual tools of prayer and meditation. Find your `Vesta’ in your chart and practice your faith.

Think of this as a note to remind you of what you already know; during times of great stress be gentle with yourself. Observe and do not integrate the pernicious emotions within by ‘taking them into your heart.’ Detachment and discernment helps. Resolve to identify `where’ Aquarius occurs in your chart and fan it’s brilliance. Practice (very) big Aquarius (air sign) breaths. Love from afar. Get away from the `noise and clamor’ and find rest and retreat within yourself.

Why Aquarius? Because we are beginning to experience, the first drum beats of the Aquarius Jupiter/ Saturn conjunction; truth will prevail but in a pace of stop-start, brakes-acceleration mirrored by the expansion/contracting tone of the planetary duo.

The conjunction heralds the reality of the interconnectedness of the Aquarian New Era. (not Age….yet😊) with the tools of technocracy scrambling for power-manipulation-control. Who decides who can communicate with who? Apparently, some bunches of some people believe they know what is best for all. Proof of this poisonous mindset is indicated by the social media purge which began during the Mars opposition Sun period of mid-October 2020 when tens of thousands of independent voices were DE platformed from the bemouths Facebook, you tube and twitter.

And then there was moon conjunct south node day in Sagittarius (1/9/21) when the President of the United States was banned from twitter. Sagittarius is the sign of truth, liberty, and freedom. When the energy of any sign is in the southern node position (every 18.5 years) the essence of the sign is compromised and struggles. Oh my. How the USA’s rising sign in Sagittarius is now sputtering.

The hallmark of a any free society is the free exchange of ideas. I know…. I know… the arguments AGAINST free speech, including social media platforms are `private companies’ who can and do make their own rules. However…. we are now experiencers of the `4^th Industrial revolution’ a time when our everyday reality (Gemini north node) requires tools (Gemini) reflective of the times. Internet, social media, computers are essential for the new economy, and social political structure. Control the tools and you create a totalitarian toolbox creating tyranny.

Remember that we are now in a war… of words, and, that war has only intensified since the solar eclipse of December 14^th. As I write this, we are in the last vestiges of this Sagittarius lunar cycle which is called the balsamic phase. It is time to release, surrender and let go of that which we cannot control. To be clear the balsamic cycle is not about surrendering per se, rather, letting go of the drama trauma, that is, let Go & Let God.

We start anew on Wednesday January 13^th at 12:00 am EST, a new moon.

The cosmos certainly has a sense of humor! This New Moon is on the same sabian degree of the `Capricorn line-up’ that took place LAST January which ushered in the 2020 year of Transformation. This means as of Wednesday the 13^th we have come full circle in our personal and social political transformation.

Back then and now we are ending/beginning a new chapter at the degree of the `A General receives two awards for bravery.’ The degree right before is `A General accepts defeat gracefully.’

WOW! Before I state, or you think `the obvious’ let’s jump away from the drama trauma unfolding before our eyes in the USA. Let us detach from identifying with any `outcomes’ and bring this immensely powerful Capricorn energy into the realm of the personal.

Capricorn is the energy of the following: respect, reliability, responsibility, and relevancy. In the past year in what ways have you become `more of ‘the five `R’s of Capricorn? What challenges, conflicts and confounding difficulties have you overcome over these past twelve months? In some way the New Moon in Capricorn on the 13^th is `everyone’s’ special day of recognition; a new moon, a new era, and a time to congratulate yourself for a year well done. Accept your `awards.’

What is different from this January from last is that the Capricorn New Moon is conjunct the power impulse, Pluto, Mr. `Intense’, the `godfather’, the volcano. Boom! We are posed for yet another intense time of laser-specific transformation with long lasting results.

For each of us the call to claim our relevancy is right around the corner; December 13^th at 12:00 am EST. Prepare now to allow these `Boom’ energies to flow and guide you. Congratulate YOU for at least `two major’ accomplishments you have achieved over these past twelve months.

So, identify where the New Moon conjunct Pluto is in your chart; it will hold the key for you on-going commitment of finding relevancy in your world through hard-work, discipline, and a thorough commitment to responsibility and respectful actions.

If you wish to learn MORE about this important cycle PLUS the station direct of the `unpredictable planet’ Uranus this week….then join me on Thursday 1/14 for a zoom class at 7:00 pm. Register here: https://cassandrajoanbutler.com/products/

Many blessings,

Cassandra

Post Election: Expect the Unexpected!

November 11, 2020/in Blog/by Cassandra Butler

11/10/20: What a difference a week makes…After the highs and lows of the campaign of the century we have elected a president…or have we?

Technically what occurred last Tuesday was that we the people submitted ballots which will be then certified by the individual states, whose delegates make their selection on the 14^th December when the electoral college meets. This process is not determined by FB, Twitter, NBC, CBS, CNN, Fox, etc. etc. It’s what mandated and codified by the US constitution. ( https://www.archives.gov/files/electoral-college/state-officials/presidential-election-brochure.pdf)

What’s stunning about this `final deadline date’ to legitimize a president is that a solar eclipse will be positioned right on the USA’s rising sign (identity and persona) in the sign of Sagittarius.

Consider the following: 1) Eclipses signifies unexpected events. In other words, expect the electoral college to conclude with a most unusual result; 2) The degree of the eclipses EXACTLY inconjuncts Black Moon Lilith. BML is the energy of the powerful outsider who fiercely destroys that which she can not possess. BML also works in the shadows; 3) Mars EXACTLY conjuncts Chiron in the US chart, which blends the warring energy of mars with opening up the deepest wound within the nation.

As of this writing not one state has certified. AG Barr has moved forward with a massive investigation into alleged voter fraud. You’ve heard the allegations sworn by countless witnesses who claim; voter machine glitches (switching ballots from President Trump to former Vice President Biden); dead people voting, ballot harvesting, coercion to vote democrat, instructions to `back date’ mail in ballots.

Here are references relative to the above paragraph regarding the allegations:

The uncertainty over the election and subsequent investigations is triggering an underlying sense of dread, controlled anger and a deepening of division and mistrust among the electorate. Among Republicans the skepticism concerning the election results is seventy percent: (https://www.politico.com/news/2020/11/09/republicans-free-fair-elections-435488_)

Meanwhile, many Democrats are pressuring the Republican powers-that-be to accept the elections’ results. Whoopi Goldberg, of the View commented, ‘Suck it up.’ ( https://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/tv/news/whoopi-goldberg-trump-the-view-joe-biden-president-b1719934.html)

The underlying sense of dread we are ALL feeling over the uncertainties of the election can be summed up by two words; Mars retrograde. The planet of war will, ego, and power has been retrograding since September ninth. It feels as if we can’t `just relax’ and get on with our lives….unless and until we know beyond a shadow of a doubt that the election, THIS election is a valid one.

The astrology chart of election day 2020 tells as story:

Three major themes emerge; 1) It fell three days after the powerful full moon of October 31^st, a moon which conjunct Uranus EXACTLY in the stubborn sign of Taurus. Now, Uranus is the energy of `expect the unexpected’; 2) a mercury retrograde, which is associated with unusual re-dos concerning communications and communication tools; 3) Black moon Lilith EXACTLY opposite the Sun implying nefarious undertakings; 4) The conjunction of the Moon and the North Node EXACTLY on the US Mars, at 11:05 pm in the house of `open enemies’. That incidentally was the time when President Trump was called to win the state of Florida and, it was conjunct his sun and destiny mark….exactly.

And so what about the moment when Joe Biden’s election results were called by the media? That moment was at 11: 24 am EST, on 11/7/20.

`Moments’ matter! The Sun and Juno light up the 11^th house of the public heralding a new `partnership’ for the American people. Juno is the `good wife’ in astrology. Biden selected the ideal `political wife’ in Kamala Harris because her Gemini rising is the complimentary and opposite to Biden’s Sagittarius rising sign.

When we talk about `moments’ we turn to the moon. The moon is within orb to the north node, or `destiny ‘of the US chart. A simple statement would be that the USA destiny is being activated by the passing moon. Keep in mind that the destiny of the USA, at 7 degrees of Leo is that of an “activist stirring up revolutionary ideals.’ Yes, the USA will always be a country born of a revolution, and at the moment of Joe Biden’s declaration the destiny of the USA was indeed being `activated.’

The `exact degree at 11:24 am was 4 degrees of Leo. This degree is one of the `mourning’ degrees. The sabian symbol of this degree captures the highs and lows of `declaration moment’ as it is the degree of “Rock formations towering over a deep Canyon.” From Lynda Hill: “ This can represent the gulf between you and where you want to be, it can show the need to just jump into the void, trusting that all will be okay, it is about seeing where you might have painted yourself into a corner, have your back against the wall, feel like you’re between a rock and a hard place. Jumping is most likely the right answer – what do you have to lose when your back is against the wall?

The acceptance of loss and allowing yourself to mourn the past (even if only for a minute or two) can move you past the past and into the future. As unknown as it can be, it at least promises that what is in front of you can be different from what is behind you”

( https://sabiansymbols.com/the-sun-on-leo-5-rock-formations-towering-over-a-deep-canyon-how-do-we-get-there-from-here/)

So how are you feeling as reflected by this degree?

If you voted for Joe Biden you could be feeling washed with joy. On the other hand, the other 50% of are feeling crushed with a sense of defeat, as if in a deep canyon.

Beyond the moments offered by the `moon’ are longer timed transits which trigger a theme throughout a period. Remember this is the year of transformation! Everything we have experienced since 1/12/2020 has been under the umbrella of the major Capricorn line-up involving Saturn (limits) with Pluto (death and rebirth). The degree of the line-up then was at 22 degrees of Capricorn and is now revisited again, but with Jupiter and Pallas instead of Saturn in the lineup. Whoa! Consider this degree; “A soldier receiving two awards for bravery.” These degrees welcomed us to the new year in January and are alive and active now. Wherever you have 22 degrees of Capricorn in your chart pat yourself on your back for battling through this year with the courage of a dedicated dutiful soldier.

Whatever challenges came your way in 2020, ( above and beyond the election) this is the time to acknowledge your relevancy, personal authority and competence. And hopefully, we will all begin to glimpse a bit of the light from that mountain we have climbed.

Free Speech? Virgo: Time for Discernment!

August 25, 2020/in Blog/by Cassandra Butler

It’s Virgo time…time to discern, discuss and analyze the marketplace of ideas. Virgo is mercury ruled; the archetype of thinking, speaking and communication. Virgo is known for its ability to examine and explore the details of any philosophical debate. Gemini, the other mercury ruled energy gathers data; Virgo makes sense of it.

In the world today we are reeling from the sustained virus crisis and it’s domino effect on every aspect of life most notably the world economies and the pervasive sense of malaise mentally and socially.

Whenever any of us faces any crisis we reach for the `facts’ and make subsequent choices based upon that data. Adults then live with the consequences of whatever choices one makes….in business, or in one’s personal life. That’s what any reasonable adult does; that’s what we teach our children.

This present crisis is like no other. Because of the mis-mash of contradictory information coming at us from all angles it’s difficult to apply our logical `Virgo’ temperament to do what’s right for us. The quality of our conclusions and ultimate decisions rests upon the free access to data. That’s why the first amendment of the USA is the backbone of the country: ” Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.”

How do we reach our conclusions about anything? Through the data at hand, of course. In the `distant past’ that data was housed in libraries. Today it is digital platforms which we turn towards to seek answers from everything from driving directions to the latest research on covid-19.

We `treat’ a google search as if we were tapping into the Dewey Decimal System of old. (You know that Library system of organizing data!) But google is not your corner Library. And googles’ chairman, Sundar Pichai is not a first amendment advocate who champions freedom of expression. Recently, the man who makes $226,000. an hour, fired an employee who questioned his diversity policies. Critics called him hypocritical for squelching a diverse point of view at Google, regarding diversity policies.( http://https://www.thestreet.com/lifestyle/sundar-pichai-net-worth ) He has also been accused of `rigging’ google searches to favor progressive and left-leaning agendas. In 2018, Pichai testified before congress and declared that manipulating the Google algorithms would be too difficult to do. I guess a lot has changed in two years, because the google algorithms have certainly erased information I had easily located previously….

Pichai, like his predecessors at Google are trans-humanists, who see a future connected where humans are connected to a not just the `world wide web’ but an actual `super computer’ which melds with each of us. “Ray Kurzweil – probably the world’s most famous Transhumanist, who works for Google – thinks “the singularity” (the point at which artificial intelligence becomes so smart that it starts making even smarter versions of itself, leaving us mortals trailing behind) will be with us in 2045.” (https://www.telegraph.co.uk/technology/11310031/Meet-the-Transhumanist-Party-Want-to-live-forever-Vote-for-me.html#:~:text=Ray%20Kurzweil%20%E2%80%93%20probably%20the%20world’s,It’s%20a%20terrifying%20prospect.)

Make no mistake… google, FB, and You tube are not designed to offer us mere mortals unlimited uncensored information. Quite the contrary. They are privately owned megalithic entities which control the flow of information to the masses. Most recently there has been instance upon instance of censorship on these platforms. You know the instances, documentaries (Shadow gate & Plandemic Two) and the press conference featuring medical doctors in support of covid-19 treatment contrary to the mainstream narrative.

Call me old fashioned, or, better yet, call me an honorary `Virgo.’ I like the free-flowing access to diverse points of view. I am a natural born researcher. I am the original `conspiracy researcher’ by the way! When I was thirteen years old me and my parents, along with two state troopers, watched in awe as a `real live’ UFO hovered over our rural pond in Elma New York. It was the late 1960’s, and I remember hitting up the University of Buffalo in search of any information. I found a lot on `Project Blue book’. I also found some pages ripped out of a scientific journal detailing some of the UFO sightings! I was angry. Someone blocked my access to information!!

And so it is today. The digital platforms are making `judgments’ (Capricorn control) over who can and cannot express their viewpoints. Are there contrary viewpoints `out there’? Of course. Are we sophisticated enough to use our God-given `Virgo temperament’ to discern the truth for ourselves. I believe so!

In my research, I have come across two platforms which are, to date, `censor free’; `RealLondon, and bitchute. Explore some of the voices on these platforms, including David Icke, Amazing Polly, https://www.amazingpolly.net/, and the producers of the `Plandemic Series.’ I know…it’s so difficult to do `your own research’ when it’s hard enough to just keep the lights on during this crisis! But when you do have time, this Virgo cycle is best to discern, research and make your own judgments. LINKS:
(https://londonreal.tv/the-coronavirus-conspiracy-how-covid-19-will-seize-your-rights-destroy-our-economy-david-icke/ ) and bit chute has the Plandemic 2: https://www.bitchute.com/video/UJoM3rmJb1r7/

I believe that during this time of the north node in Gemini, it is more important than ever to safeguard the free flow of data in the marketplace of ideas. I ALSO believe that Virgo, logic and discernment, rests upon its opposite sign, Pisces. Pisces represents the intuitive spiritual part of our natures. This is why I am inspired to do the spiritual development work that I do, including the meditations, so we can enhance and develop that part of ourselves which gleams truth through the connection with the universal divine spark.

Going forward this fall I will be offering several development classes which are connected to the wisdom of astrology to strengthen YOUR ability to discern, see the truth, and connect with your own inner star.

Steely Motherly Love in the age of Covid

May 10, 2020/in Blog/by Cassandra Butler

It’s Mother’s Day eve and I am watching an oldie but goodie, the 1989 film, `Steel Magnolias’. Anyone remember that sweet flick? It starred a bevy of talented actresses: Sally Fields, Julia Roberts, Olympia Dukakis, Shirley MacLaine, Darrel Hannah, and Dolly Parton.

No worries if you have not seen, or, heard of it. After all, it is a generational film made…. made a generation ago.

It came out in 1989, when Saturn was in Capricorn where it is now. Saturn’s cycle is every thirty years, meaning, the structure, social order and reality shifts during the two and half years that Saturn transits a particular sign. In 1989 the Berlin Wall tumbled down, and the first ever global positioning satellites were launched.

In 2020, Saturn is in Capricorn once again; a new world. 2020’s shift is all the more dramatic because now Saturn and Pluto, the planet of death and rebirth, are paired. Re-view the video made in January 2020,https://youtu.be/lo3q68PZLYc : Life as we know it is over.

Back to the movie! A good escape after all!

The main story theme of the film is female love; the strong supportive love between girlfriends, with the backstory of a complex relationship between mother (Sally Fields) daughter (Julia Roberts). The mother character (Fields) overprotects and controls her daughter (Roberts) with conflict resulting. It is a coming of `age’ story as the daughter gets married, gets pregnant, and (spoiler alert!) dies. Yes you may recall; a true tear-jerker!

When I originally saw `Steel Magnolias’ my beloved Mother had just died. A few months later my beautiful daughter Ariel was born. The tears I cried when I first saw the film flowed more from my reality than the film’s drama. My story was as sad.

Not a day has gone by, these thirty years, that I have not missed and honored my mother. She epitomized `unconditional love’ to me and my sisters. Gracious, brilliant, loving and kind she taught us well. She left far too soon. I have now outlived her by some four years.

As I reflect on Mother’s Day 2020, I am overwhelmed with life’s blessing. I have two amazing children, family and friends and my work. As I write this, (morning now) Ariel is making me a special brunch; strawberry crepes, a recipe my Mother taught me. My daughter now epitomizes to me unconditional love that flows both ways. Many of you know of her beauty and objective accomplishments; She is beautiful gracious brilliant loving and kind.

Life goes on….As we navigate this new world triggered by a virus, I do believe that each of us in our own way are identifying `what truly matters.’ Maybe who `mothers’ us is not a Mom or a daughter. Maybe it is your beloved fur baby, or best friend, or lover or spouse. Love finds a way in the cracks of this world. During THIS transit of Saturn, this generational shift, we need to find our sustaining love, our `mothering love’, more than ever.

The film` Steel Magnolia ‘ was so named because it’s characters were all southern ladies, beautiful and gracious `magnolias’ ….with a steely resolve to `get through’ disappointment, conflict and yes even death. The core theme of the flick was the female, `motherly’ love between them all.

My wish for you as we all navigate this most limiting time is that you dig deep to discover the time when you experienced unconditional, nurturing and motherly love. During Saturn’s retrograde (this week) we may have to journey backwards in our mind to claim it. But recover it we must. The times call for a steely resolve of what truly matters.

The Saturn Ingress In Aquarius: 3/22/20

March 22, 2020/in Blog/by Cassandra Butler

On March 22, 2020 at 1:28 am EDT, Saturn makes its grand entrance into the sign of Aquarius; the first time in 28.5 years. And so, we will be ushering in a `new cycle’ which will affect every aspect of our lives.

Saturn is the energy of the task-master, the grumpy `old man’ representing authority, limits, rules and regulations. Aquarius is the sign of the `people’; humanity in all of its diversity and multiplicity.

And on the very day Saturn makes its appearance in the sign of Aquarius, the most populous states are implementing a crackdown. California, Nevada, Florida, Texas, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and New York State will all have statewide mandates of `social distancing’ ranging from regulated travel, gatherings and business closures.

Aquarius, an air sign, represents the arena of brilliance through shared thoughts leading to innovation for the `good of humanity.’ All air signs are `social.’ Saturn represents limits, isolation and laws, and is the archetype of the `hermit.’ No wonder we are now officially living under the law of `social distancing.’

And, the `social distancing’ mandate could likely be taken up a few more notches to that of a US national shutdown. Already there are calls by many to do just that. (USA Today :opinion piece Yaneer Bar-Yam: 3/21/2020).

Everything has an `astrology chart.’ The forefathers of the United States of America (most of whom were Masons) drafted a document to coincide with a county reflecting the `multiplicity of humanity’ in the house of `mind’, because the US has an Aquarian Moon. The moon in a chart is like the entity’s heart. Consider that we are entering a two-and-a-half-year period of `buckling’ down and defining what the `heart’ of America really is.

Saturn isn’t really a `bad guy’ unless you dislike work, discipline and structure. The heart of the USA, its people, us, you and I are faced with a rare opportunity to discern what really matters to each of us. Being cooped up inside our homes can and will drive reality into each of our hearts. All will feel the challenge of limitation and struggle, some more and some less. And for those who will suffer more, those who have more will feel a responsibility to do more. Isn’t that what we tell ourselves when we identify with the Aquarian moon, or heart of America?

Many spiritual pundits say this is a spiritual test. I agree. Through the lens of astrology, I would suggest that the test is about discernment, discipleship to your spiritual practice, duty, sacrifice, and, yes, `responsibility to ones’ fellow beings.’ The virus crisis is teaching us to become our `brother’s keeper’ even if our individual lives are upchucked. As Saturn moves through Aquarius the emotional landscape of this country will be restructured as never before as we learn social accountability.

Of course, but, what about the money?! An economy, any economy represents the ebb and flow of producers and consumers. We still have PEOPLE who can and will innovate and explore new businesses and technologies which is the gift of the US Aquarian moon, `e pluribus unum’, ‘out of many, one, the motto of the USA.

Saturn’s movement through Aquarius continues until July 1^st 2020 when it retrogrades back into Capricorn. Unfinished business relative to the `control’ of the entrenched powers will be re-explored again until it’s final ingress on December 21^st 2020.

On the winter solstice Saturn joins Jupiter to mark a new political/economic cycle which will unfold through the next twenty years.

I guess we all agreed to `live during interesting times.’

Be well and keep the faith!

The virus: The Invisible Enemy & Bravery Within

March 17, 2020/in Blog/by Cassandra Butler

Life as we know it has changed, and it’s scary.

The virus epidemic upgraded to a pandemic, on March 10th, under the Virgo full moon of 19 degrees, `a caravan of cars’ , suggesting the insidious contagion ravaging the planet.

Astrologers know that the Saturn Pluto conjunction of January 12th 2020 is the originating impulse of what we now are facing because it’s a standout and rare alignment. On January 12th 2020, Saturn, ( limits, boundaries, and isolation) blended with Pluto ( regeneration, fear and death) AND the asteroid Ceres ( food, nurturing, sustenance). The solution is in the symbol. By putting up boundaries ( home quarantine, `social distancing’) we can curb the contagion of this virus which can kill. The collective has responded, often in panic buying, as Ceres is apart of the line-up,” I need MY supplies!”

Yes, this is a `new virus’ just as the January conjunction was a one-of-a-kind alignment.

We astrologers knew something big was going to unfold in 2020 related to the meaning of Capricorn. Capricorn symbolizes all social structures; banking, governments, and big business. The `big daddy’ archetype represented by Capricorn is failing us. We rail against the power brokers who aren’t doing enough; testing, curing, organizing, doing, protecting. It’s as if time ( a Saturn trait) has stopped. Our daily routine is impacted, our routines, our comfort, our habits. Life as we know it has come to a frightening halt.

Without the comfort of our routines what are we to do? Because each of us are at risk, most of us are holed in our homes. But the irony is that this international crisis has created a matrix of unity. We are alone but connected via our shared vulnerability. Thanks to the virus we all are having a collective experience. We are each alone, (Saturn) going through a collective ( Pluto) regeneration.

We are all in this together. Political vitriol (a word which resembles VIRUS) is collapsing. Our political leaders must cooperate for the good of all. This moment is reflected by the Juno return in the USA chart. Unlikely partnerships bond to fight the `common enemy’; the virus.

Capricorn represents responsibility. Each of us need to respond to this crisis with the best of our ability. Because this is a world-wide experience it is imperative to not collapse into the shadow side of Capricorn; fear, resentment, judgement, and control. We are all vulnerable to the collective fear. As a reminder, it’s human to `want to know what’s going on’ and yet this world-wide experience is bigger than the latest death stats and contagion models.

Turn off your media as you are burrowing at home, or, at least take a break from connecting with the rampant matrix of fear. Consider focusing on what is going on within; the world of the invisible; your consciousness, your heart, your soul, your individual integrity.

President Trump calls the virus an `invisible enemy’. What is this thing that has captured the world and brought it to it’s knees? What exactly is a virus? It is a set of genetic material, coated with protein which are so tiny that they can barely be seen with an electron microscope. Outside of a host cell, viruses cannot function. For this reason, viruses tread the fine line that separates living things from nonliving things.

This `thing’, the virus, represents an entity which is only alive through a parasitic process. The virus has forced us collectively and individually to consider the essence of the Capricorn/Saturn archetype; boundaries.

Time, another Capricorn theme, seems skewed. Perhaps our forced `time out’ can offer us a truly Plutonian opportunity of regeneration. Pluto represents secrets, power and what lies beneath. Perhaps this shared global experience will inspire us individually to navigate what’s deep within through meditation and prayer. Perhaps we can take a cue from the symbol of the invisible enemy and research whats real and not real, what’s important and what’s not important. What truly matters is not matter at all.

Capricorn’s meaning includes the elements of patience, endurance, constancy. If the present world’s crisis is a call for individual’s to be responsible to others by setting boundaries, then another solution is to contemplate how to approach the challenge at hand.

“You have to think of this in a wartime world view,” New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio said Monday. “You have to think of this as something where you’re going to see a massive mobilization to save lives, to help people through their suffering with this disease.”

It would seem as if we are indeed fighting a war, within and without. Amazingly, the sabian symbol of that January 12th line-up, at 22 degrees Capricorn reflects this duality; ” a soldier receives two awards for bravery.”

As we fight the virus, remember to fight the fear. The positive traits of the Saturn-Pluto-Ceres line up will see us through; personal responsibility, patience, regeneration, reflection and tapping into the power within,

Sex Death & Taxes Scorpio’s big `No’

February 16, 2020/in Blog/by Cassandra Butler

Sex, death and taxes….beginners to astrology learn that these three disparate themes are grouped under the umbrella of Scorpio. Maybe because I’m working on taxes this weekend, maybe because we’re two days post Valentines Day and maybe because my best friend died two weeks ago that I am inspired to share.

Or maybe my urge to explore these issues have emerged because this of this last quarter moon phase; 26^th degrees of Scorpio, ` A military band marches noisily in the streets.’

Whatever the motivation, here are some thoughts on the Scorpio themes of `death, taxes and sex.’

The most difficult of human challenges is to not have control over one’s agency; to lack freedom. What’s worse than facing an obstacle, decision, circumstance which runs contrary to ones’ wishes? In other words, when we face a `no’.

`No’ you didn’t get the job, `no’ I do not love you, `no’ your friend isn’t going to live.

In the fairy land world of belief, spiritual seekers within the past forty years of `New Ageism’ thought practiced what’s loosely defined as `create your own reality.’ It’s an attitude that’s deeply instilled within the culture. But of course, this `New Thought’ philosophy isn’t new at all. It’s modern origins date to the Pluto Neptune conjunction of 1891 in the sign of the mind, Gemini.

Merging the `Glinda Good Witch’ archetype of Neptune with the `Dr. Death’ energy of Pluto way back in the late 19^th century commenced a long cycle which affects the collective consciousness today. Neptune is the great escape artist which sugar coats whatever it touches. Pollyanna was a Neptunian, as is every celebrated glamorous `actor’ or `actress’. Neptune visualizes the pot of the gold `out there’ which is never really within reach. Neptune creates a swirl of fantasy which is reflected in music, art, drugs and alcohol.

With Neptune blending with the death planet, Pluto, what do we get? Perhaps a softening of death. There is no accident that the religion of spiritualism, the belief that we never die, took root during the Pluto Neptune conjunction of 1892. Death is defied by the belief that we can continue to talk to our deceased loved ones. Although the `hospice’ movement is slowly emerging, we generally shun the idea of our mortality. Death doulas are few and far between, although the business of birthing is firmly established.

Everyone alive today, and since 1892, are affected by this great unsung conjunction of 1892 when the concept of death (Pluto) was prettied up by ethereal Neptune. We don’t really believe we have limits.

Taxes? Well that’s another Neptune/Pluto affect. Politicians and the public love to live in the fairy tale land that the `economy’ can be fueled by the sweat equity of unlimited taxes. Deficits used to be thought of as a clear and present danger. No longer! Wouldn’t it be nice if we all could live without any financial constraints? A thousand dollar a month chicken in every pot? It’s no coincidence that the United States plunged into a great depression following the 1892 conjunction of Neptune Pluto.

“The Panic of 1893 was a serious economic depression in the United States that began in 1893 and ended in 1897. It deeply affected every sector of the economy and produced political upheaval that led to the realigning election of 1896 and the presidency of William McKinley.”

( https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Panic_of_1893)

If you live in a community, a society, a nation with shared services there simply isn’t any denying it. Taxes are inevitable. Taxes, like, death need to be acknowledged as a real, and necessary limit.

And now onto `sex.’ Scorpio sisters and brothers unite! We all are incredibly `sexy’ aren’t we?

During a recent class one of the Scorpio female students, new to astrology, remarked that she is tired of all the `negative’ connotations associated with her sun sign. I agree! Common descriptors include “moody, broody, intense willful and passionate.’’ In fact the two word descriptor of Scorpio is `I desire.’ What the common descriptor doesn’t say is whether the desire is ever fulfilled.

Sexuality is way beyond the scope of this short reflection. Suffice to say that it is wired into the human experience. It is `beyond our individual control’ thanks to the intricacies of intimacy. Astrology, of course, can provide archetypal clues as to why we desire who we do. However, despite the collective musings of the ages can we ever truly understand sex above the animal instinct to procreate?

The desire to merge with another is laden with infinite secondary meanings; love, creativity, physical release, sensual enjoyment, entertainment, power control…etc. The point is it’s a mystery. Like the sign, Scorpio, the multilayers of sexuality have depth beyond any other experience, except for `death.’ Is it no wonder that the French have an expression for the sexual orgasm; “The little death is translation from the French “la petite mort”, a popular reference for a sexual orgasm. The term has been broadly expanded to include specific instances of blacking out after orgasm and other supposed spiritual releases that come with orgasm.”

(https://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=la%20petite%20mort)

We need to know that death, sex, and taxes are inevitable Acknowledging the `no’ in our lives, the limits, the roadblocks, and the mysteries assist us in embracing the entirety of human experience.

The Scorpio season is the time when the vegetation dies, when we honor the dead during the ancient festival of Samhain, when we wear masks of mystery at Halloween. The next time you wonder what sex, taxes and death have in common you will know that these three themes constitute the three mysterious `no’s’ in our lives. Sometimes the Scorpio `desire’ just can not be fulfilled.

2020: Year of Transformation

February 11, 2020/in Blog/by Cassandra Butler

2020 is a year of transformation when outworn structures leave our lives to make way for a new hopeful tomorrow. There are eclipse shifts and multiple retrogrades in 2020, and, at years’ end the `great conjunction’ of Jupiter Saturn which heralds a new social-economic-cycle which will ultimately define a new world. A few highlights of the year will be reviewed as follows.

Astrological cycles are like waves whose ripples start gathering momentum and finally peak at a time called a culmination. A planetary cycles’ significance is measured, in part, by its’ yearly trip around the sun. The slower the orbit, and the further the planet is from the sun, the stronger the affect. One such culmination occurs as we welcome the new decade; January 12^th, 2020. This is when Pluto, Saturn, Ceres, the Sun and Mercury, align at the 22^nd degree of Capricorn. World affairs and individual destinies will experience a shift.

Whenever one sees the two `great malefics’, Saturn and Pluto, aligned one expects that transformation is just a breath away. Saturn is the planet of structure, rules and limits. Blending its energy with the mysterious, intense destructive gifts of Pluto creates an alchemy of change, suggesting the end of a matter. This depends on where the conjunction activates an individual’s chart. The `ending’ culminates at the January 12^th conjunction but has been developing for years. Like a wave, the first ripples of this slow and steady shift in individual and collective consciousness began with the first entry of Pluto and Saturn into the sign of Capricorn. Pluto entered Capricorn in 2008, and, Saturn at the end of 2017.

Back in 2008, the world’s economic structure collapsed. There was a recovery, but the imminent threat of long-term world inflationary practices loomed in the collective’s consciousness. When might the next financial shoe drop? And since 2017, Saturn has illuminated how shaky our society’s structures truly are; banking, organized religion, and the ultimate organizations; governments. There is growing mistrust (Pluto) of the very social structures (Saturn) we have been indoctrinated to believe are our caretakers. With this conjunction comes a conclusion; release the old ways to make room for the new.

In what arena of life have you struggled in the past twelve years?

Adding to that timeline is a Saturnian focus over the past 24 months whereby you’ve been diligently trying to problem solve and release a set of chains in your life. Wherever Saturn falls in one’s chart consciousness follow. Saturn and Pluto signify the primal emotion of `fear’; the type which curdles our blood and terrifies our soul. Capricorn isn’t the easiest of energies to navigate either. Capricorn represents the area where we persevere no matter hardships we face. You could say that in everyone’s life, especially since the Pluto ingress of 2008 there’s been a desire to get past the bone-weariness of life’s limits and ‘keep on keeping on’ like a good soldier.

And speaking of soldiers…the sabian symbol of the Capricorn Conjunction is a most evocative one. Sabian symbols are the esoterically derived `word messages derived for each of the 360 degrees of the circular astrological wheel. The sabian symbol for this conjunction is; `A soldier receiving two awards for bravery in combat.’

You may ask yourselves in what area have you been the `good soldier’ muscling through a challenging situation. Might you desire recognition for effort, hard work and perseverance? This is the symbol of appreciation and criticism. Who in our lives deserves an award for bravery? Capricorn is the sign of achievement; explore your successes and failures. Most of all, surrender and release the failures. The surrender image of this 2020 Capricorn alignment is yet another theme.

The second conjunction relevant to mid-January is the Jupiter alignment with the south lunar node. The wisdom of the expansive Jupiter archetype helps us see what needs to be released emotionally. Emotions are the purview of the lunar nodes. The south node in Capricorn points to what is holding us back based upon the meaning of the zodiacal sign. Capricorn’s shadow side is fear. It’s essential as the new year unfolds, that we release the toxic emotions of fear, judgement, and despair.

For the past two years we have experienced the nodal shifts in the signs of Capricorn and Cancer. The lunar nodes represent two sides of the same coin; Cancer is about belonging and security within our personal lives while Capricorn is the outer world security which reflects one’s achievement and standing in the world. The January lunar eclipse of the tenth assists us in releasing a two-year conflict between what we feel we need and what we want to achieve. The lunar eclipse is like a turbo charged full moon helping us to experience our emotions from a renewed place of serenity.

2020 is the year when we move from the dichotomy of balancing issues of security (Cancer) with that of authority (Capricorn) to the lunar nodes of Gemini and Sagittarius. The Gemini/Sagittarius polarity is about the dance of communication, information and exchange, ultimately leading to wisdom. Consider the eclipse times to be doorways of change. The war of words will be played out against this communicative background just in time for the US presidential election! Hold on to your minds, as, the eclipses will highlight all manner of rhetoric (Gemini) leading to truth (Sagittarius). The dynamic between these two energies is that truth is based on the facts at hand. Data (Gemini) feeds intellectual conclusions (Sagittarius). Since the north node will be in the sign of Gemini, we might expect that new facts emerge in 2020 which can shake our preconceptions about what’s `true.’

Dates of the solar/lunar eclipses are as follow:

Lunar: 1/10-(4:21pm EST) Cancer @ 20

Lunar: 6/5-(5:21pm EDT) Sagittarius @ 15

Solar: 6/21-(2:41am EDT) Cancer @ 1

Lunar: 7/5-(12:44 am EDT) Cancer @ 13

Lunar: 11/30 (4:29 am EDT) Gemini @ 8

Solar: 12/14 (11:16 pm EDT) Sagittarius @ 23

Retrogrades are periods when the planet’s, from earth’s perspective, seem to be moving`backwards.’ There are times when we use the `re’ words to explain the planet’s action like redo,remember, reflect, reconsider. In 2020 there are two unique periods when both the social/personal planets, Venus and Mars are in retrograde. Venus, the planet of values, finance,love and beauty retrogrades from May 13^th until June 25^th. During that period it would be advisable to avoid making sweeping financial changes, marry, or make radical changes in one’s image such as a `makeover.’ Mars is the planet of assertion, physical energy, and sexual expression. As it retrogrades from September 9^th through November 11^th avoid regrettable displays of anger, elective surgery or decisions about intimate partnerships.

The most infamous of the retrogrades is the one connected to the planet of communication and connections, Mercury. Public opinion erroneously regards these regular intervals as times of catastrophe. Mercury is retrograde a third of the time, making this as common as sleep! The best use of a mercury retrograde time is to analyze and research(another `re’ word) ideas which are near and dear to your heart. Common astrological precautions include avoiding decisions which reflect the common Mercury associations such as commerce, contracts, transportation and communication. It is a great time for reflective activities such as meditation and retreat. The Mercury retrograde dates for 2020 are; February 18^th-March 9^th, June 19^th– July 11^th, and October^th -November 2^nd.

Life will reflect the richness of the astrological twists and turns of 2020. As the year begins, we

release fear associated with the unfolding cycle in Capricorn, the sign of socio-political power.

This will clear the way to the next great cycle in Aquarius, which will define the next twenty years of the world economy; the Great Conjunction of December 21^st. Jupiter, the energy of expansion and optimism conjuncts with Saturn the planet of restriction and caution at 0 degrees

of Aquarius. The sabian symbol is `an old adobe mission in California.’ The symbol speaks of

`crystallizing ideals’; blending the old elements of spiritual teaching with the new. Furthermore,

the energy of the Great Conjunction is in Aquarius, the sign of the `people’, as opposed to Capricorn’s control of the people through structure.

Identify where Aquarius falls in your chart. This is where you will establish new patterns which unfold over the next twenty years. Aquarius 0 invites us to be innovative, eclectic, bold in thought, and above all, honest. Ever the humanitarian, Aquarius reflects a `power to the people’ movement which will impact the way we do business. The Aquarius conjunction will reflect a world economy which could dial into a new monetary system such as digital currency. Biotech,high energy technology, and industries we haven’t yet imagined, foreshadows the future.

To summarize, let’s apply a `cookbook’ style of astrological analysis. The `transform goals’specifically apply to the first half of 2020. The `establish goals refer to the workings of the Great Conjunction at the end of the year. Apply your sun or rising sign to the following:

Aries: Transform fear of success into a new career or, a new way of handling old responsibilities. Establish a new form of creativity and joy which includes romantic stirrings.

Taurus: Transform fear of knowledge into personal teaching, writing and traveling. Establish a new career and embrace new responsibilities.

Gemini: Transform fear of death & intimacy into fearlessness based upon spiritual alignment. Establish a new set of philosophical precepts as you embrace new adventures.

Cancer: Transform fear of relationships into new stronger connections. Establish a new relationship with power, finances and intimacy.

Leo: Transform fear of illness and insecurity regarding work into practical strategies for success. Establish new relationships with people who allow you freedom of expression.

Virgo: Transform fear of not having enough `fun’ into making `fun’ a priority. Establish new work and health habits which may include complimentary health practices.

Libra: Transform fear of personal security into a more abundant personal life. Establish new leisure/fun activities which could include romance and tapping into your creativity.

Scorpio: Transform negative thinking and speech and the fear of ‘lost time.’ Establish a new home which reflects your eccentricities.

Sagittarius: Transform fear of self-worth and financial lack into a more abundant cash flow. Establish new habits of positive thinking and personal expression.

Capricorn: Transform fear of failure into becoming your best self; authentic and grounded in your personal power. Establish a new relationship with money.

Aquarius: Transform fear of the unknown into alignment with inner guidance. Establish a new you; image, motivations and goals.

Pisces: Transform social anxiety into embracing a new friendship circle. Establish a new spiritual inner GPS which is based upon your alignment with personal beliefs.

Have a blessed new year! Happy 2020!

Cassandra Joan Butler can be reached through her website: www.cassandrajoanbutler.com , and, on FB: Cassandra Joan Butler Teacher & Astrologer.

The Harvest Moon 2019!

October 14, 2019/in Blog, Cosmic Weather/by Cassandra Butler

Full moon cycle today, 10/14/19, until 10/18/19 is the time to receive illumination and feedback from the cosmos about the Libra ( relationship and balance) part of your chart. It’s not time to begin anew, but rather reflect within.

THIS full moon, the harvest moon, is at 20 degrees of Aries, the sabian symbol of the `boxer who enters the ring.’ The gift of the full moon cycle is objectivity. Observe where in your life you are `fired up’ and ready to `fight’ for whatever makes you feel alive! Seeing yourself reflected by the light of others is both enlightening…and a little intimidating. Know that you also serve as a mirror for your loved ones. Be gentle with your `feedback’ so that your words aren’t interpreted as criticism.

The full moon degree EXACTLY squares the power principal of Pluto. Squares are tension producing angles. Pluto rules which `lies’ beneath. If there are secrets afloat which need purging, then this is the cycle when the truth is ripped wide open.

On a lighter note, the full moon EXACTLY trines Jupiter, Mr. Jolly! Humor, irony and the theater of the absurd spontaneously percolates. All we need to do is sit back and watch the drama unfold around us. At the same time Jupiter rules `excess’ and exaggeration. As I write this, this headline interrupted my writing: “ Trump strongly condemns parody The president has yet to watch the graphically violent video depicting a likeness of him attacking opponents.”

In your personal life keep the jovial spirit of Jupiter alive so you don’t collapse into the trap of the mars ruled full moon of endless bickering and `fighting like a boxer!’

A positive practice of any full moon cycle is to do mirror work. Literally look into the mirror and communicate your truth to yourself. Throw in some positive feedback for good measure. If you can’t love and appreciate `you’ then who will?

The next moon phase falls on Friday October 18^th at 10:14 pm EDT, the disseminating cycle of communication and analysis. The moon will be at the 25^th degree of Gemini, ‘ winter frost in the wood.’ Some of the passion and drama experienced over the next few days will be on frozen pause for next weekend; a welcome relief!

Mars & Venus Conjunct in Virgo!

August 24, 2019/in Blog, Cosmic Reflections, Cosmic Weather/by Cassandra Butler

There’s a new birth in the heavens today (8/24/19); The Mars Venus conjunction at 4 degrees of Virgo!

The wonder of astrology is it’s cyclical nature; whatever goes around comes around, and, whenever two planets `kiss in the sky’, or conjunct, a new cycle begins. But before you get nervous about finding `Miss or Mr. Right’ …today…consider the nature of this conjunction by identifying WHERE 4 degrees of Virgo activates your chart. It’s not limited to finding romantic love although with Juno conjunct the Sun we all want the satisfaction of having someone to `depend upon.’ New relationships are emerging of many types.

So let’s do some blending…

Mars is action, the energy of identity, ruling the first sign of the zodiac, Aries. It’s the warrior energy; pure passion! Mars is brawn and muscles, sweat and might, ‘yang-full’ masculinity. Mars’ job is to do the biding of beautiful Venus, the energy of soft, yielding yin femininity. Venus attracts, and Mars attacks. These relationship energies come together once approximately every two years based upon the length of their cycles. Mars takes 780 days to orbit the sun, and, Venus 584 days, meaning that every 32 years they will connect around the same degree of the zodiac.

While of course these are `relationship’ planets, their interpretation can be widened to include much more than a relationship! Since Venus represents desire, and Mars represents the action to achieve that desire, then INDIVIDUAL chart interpretations of the conjunction varies. Suppose this conjunction is on your `Pluto’, the energy of transformation. This might suggest that as of August 24^th 2019 you are committed and focused to achieve personal mastery through, say, nutrition, exercise, and spiritual development. Everything in astrology is always personal!

The sabian symbol of this degree is ‘A man becoming aware of nature spirits and normally unseen spiritual agencies.’ WOW! Our imagination is being guided and activated by the non-local, non-material unseen universal forces.

It would probably behoove us all to connect with the numinous; the divinity-of-our-understanding. And by the way we might actually ASK for help/assistance/ in cementing our goals/desires. After all that’s the essence of the SIGN associated with this conjunction. Virgo is the purest form of dedication and devotion.

In astrology, the conjunction begins the birth of the new impulse, and the subsequent angles formed between the planets form opportunities to test whatever is first manifest. This means that the 8/24/19 new cycle connects into the future with the following dates;

The square: (90 degree angle) on June 2^nd 2020. We will be tested by whatever we began on 8/24 at Venus 14 Gemini, Mars 14 Pisces.

The square challenges us to be either resolved in our goal or to re-frame it entirely.

The opposition (180 degree angle) on November 9^th 2020. Another test, this time as Venus is at 15 Libra and Mars at 15 Aries. This opposition begs the question; what can be learned from an opposing point of view, or, a conflict situation.

The last quarter square: (90 degree angle) on February 20^th 2021 when Venus is at 23 Aquarius and Mars is at 23 Taurus pushes us to love it or leave it; the goal we are setting for ourselves over the next few weeks!

The next new Venus/Mars cycle is on July 13^th 2021 at 19 Leo.

So what does this mean for you? First of all, identify where Virgo 4 illuminates your chart. Does it aspect any personal planets? Then you may truly feel fired up by the conjunction. Reflect upon the location of the conjunction by house, and even within your progressed chart. Of course I am always available to help you with this process.

Overall, I would suggest that you find some quite time this week to simply `be.’ Spend time in nature, as Virgo is after all an `earth sign.’ Spend time articulating your intentions by perhaps writing in a journal. Virgo is ruled by the planet mercury; it loves to play linguistically!

Perfectly Pure

Lastly, be open to the sabian symbol call of `becoming aware of unseen forces.’ This degree is often referred to as the `fairy’ degree. However you may perceive the unseen world; fairies, devas, angels, and saints, consider calling upon them to help you craft whatever your Venus heart desires so that your Mars warrior energy can do it’s job!