Blog – Page 2 – Cassandra Joan Butler

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!

New Day of Clarity: Uranus/Sun

April 22, 2019/in Blog/by Cassandra Butler

Whether you celebrate Easter, Passover, or Spring I hope you had a peaceful, reflective and abundant weekend!

How WAS your holiday? I wonder if you experienced a `different’ type of holiday this year? Did you celebrate differently? Perhaps with new people? Were there any major surprises? I ask these questions because we are now experiencing a special shift in awareness due to the joining of Uranus (planet of surprise, change, and breakthroughs) with the light of the sun in Taurus.

Easter Monday, 4/22/19, at 6:00 am EDT is when the sun and Uranus are joined in a conjunction signifying revelation, rebirth and new beginnings. Most appropriate for the spirit of the season! The Uranus Sun conjunction herald’s a sense of innovation and change, and an invitation to `ground’ what previously was thought to be `way out there.’

The sabian symbol for this degree paints an inviting picture: `Steps leading to a field of clover.’ The associated meaning of clover is to `live a life of ease and abundance with a sense of being carefree and innocent.’ This degree suggests that the hope of a better life is within reach; just take a few short steps and you’ll reach your life of `clover.’ Did your younger self ever search for those green nuggets of good luck, a 4-leaf clover? I know I did with a delightful sense of glee!

Here are some reflections for you as you navigate the week; 1) Consider what `steps’ you need to take to attain of life of living in the `green’; abundance and prosperity; 2) Consider what Uranian ways, including innovation, technology, and inspired thought you can add to your life to in order to achieve your long-term goals; 3) consider carrying around a notebook to jot down inspired flashes of intuitive inspiration for the next week as this Sun/Uranus unfolds its gifts!

The keynote I’ve observed since this conjunction …over & over…is this: EMBRACE YOUR UNIQUE creative spark & get out there!!' For inspiration consider watching Brene Brown:

https://youtu.be/iCvmsMzlF7o

When we BECOME our authentic messy self without hesitation and step into the world we ground our health and wholeness. And yet… it’s SCARY! Uranus/Sun’s message is all about standing for our truth…no matter who criticizes us. Being yourself is being vulnerable…and that’s the message of today, and , it’s certainly the on-going message of Brene Brown.

Brene Brown speaks of `courage’ to be ourselves. The word root of courage is cor–Latin for heart. To speak and come from the heart is the true calling of every soul. Now we know that LEO is the energy aligned best with the SUN. Each sign has its polarity, yes? Aquarius, opposite to Leo is ruled by URANUS the planet aligned with the sun TODAY!

For the next seven years, each year we will have a SUN/URANUS conjunction, as Uranus travels through Taurus. And on those days…we will receive a `download’ reminder of how to connect with our heart’s desire to move forward with our true selves!

Even I am `shaking up the status quo!’ in alignment with the conjunction! I will be offering you, my valued friends and clients, an opportunity to join a new community; the Lunar Lights Club! Learn all about it by joining me for a zoom on-line meeting this Friday April 26^th 7:30pm EST, under the light of the last quarter moon….!

Here’s the link: https://zoom.us/j/7168125766 See you on Friday the 26th, @ 7:30pm EST.

Abundant Blessings to be YOU!

The Turn of The Eclipses in 2019

December 17, 2018/in Blog/by Cassandra Butler

The wheel has turned and it’s calling us to `come home.’ 2019 is the year when we will experience the full effects of the nodal shift of Cancer/Capricorn. As of November 15th, the lunar nodes shifted in the Cancer-Capricorn polarity, and remain there until June 4th 2020. Collectively and individually the nodal shift whispers; Where […]

New Moon in Virgo: Purity & Devotion

September 9, 2018/in Blog/by Cassandra Butler

With every breath we take we inhale life-giving (oxygen) and let go of what’s toxic (carbon dioxide) to create the body (Virgo) we navigate this world in. The exchange of chemicals in respiration is symbolized by the messenger planet, Mercury; the little guy with the winged helmet. Mercury rules self-possessed, serene, Gaia-goddess, Virgo. Virgo represents soma; the body. And today at 2:01pm the sun and moon kiss in the sky forming the New Cycle in Virgo.

In OTHER words!! Today is the day to manifest the idea (mercury) of whatever healthy body you desire ( Virgo) through the deliberate and active affirmation ( mercury) of what it is you wish to create.

Virgo energy represents purity, perfection, dedication and devotion, all wrapped up in the image of the Divine feminine. No wonder the traditional birthday of the Blessed Virgin Mother is September 8^th.

Draw, write, imagine a new you AFTER the moment of new-ness at 2:01 pm EDT. (Before the New Moon exhale what you want to release). When you’ve captured your ideal vision for yourself infuse it with prayer, prayer, prayer.

The sabian symbol of this new moon is that of the `Ouija board’ a tool of divination known to elicit many stories of unwanted spirit infiltration. Which leads us to the instructions for this, the new moon day; Pray & Pray.

Since Virgo represents the purity of the Divine Feminine, AND, since mercury ruled Virgo is one of the communication signs, AND since the sabian symbol is one of the divining information (albeit through a sketchy avenue) THEN the question which arises is this: WHERE and HOW do you receive your divine inspiration? I, for one, err on the sign of caution with this. We are, after all, not alone in this universe. There are a lot of voices out there clamoring for our attention. Choose wisely as you hear the words of the Divine other. A major trait, after all, of Virgo is discrimination.

Happy New Moon in Virgo!

Mercury Stations Direct: link the past with the future through the forever `now’

August 19, 2018/in Blog, Cosmic Weather/by Cassandra Butler

Not all mercury retrogrades are alike and not all mercury station directs are alike. Not-thing is exactly alike because the moment of `now’ is not the moment of the past or the future. Yet… we know this…there is an eternal now which connects every moment of linear thought, action and experience.

And that linkage between yesterday and tomorrow is one message of today’s mercury stationing direct at 12 degrees of Leo at 12: 25 am Sunday August 19^th. The sabian symbol is: `the old sea captain sitting on his porch on his rocking chair.’

Rocking is a most soothing action; repetitive, fluid, and comforting. We imagine the sea captain is evaluating his life, perhaps, recalling maritime adventures of long ago. How are you reflecting upon your past today? The mercury direct is helping us link the past with the present with the anticipatory future as the planet of mind and logic moves forward.

The rocking sea captain invites us to reflect upon our lives; contemplation is the key. There is a singularity of this symbol; make time just for you, to `hear yourself think,’ as my Mom used to say! Here is a question for you; as you awoke this morning did you receive any specific guidance? Think about your `Leo’, your creativity, and joy, your bliss and passion. Are your goals now beginning to be more clearly outlined within?

Leo’s ally, the sun, is shining brightly within your mind. Lighten up, brighten-up and be positive as mercury courses forward.

Of course, just because mercury is `direct’ doesn’t mean we want to unload every unexpressed thought! It is still moving through it’s `shadow cycle’, which means now until September first-ish, mercury is still in its re-working phase. Mindfulness is still the order of the day. It’s better to be `mum’ than to say something you might regret.

Do communicate to someone, however; yourself. Be like the wise old sea captain reflecting upon all those wonderful adventures of yesterday as you begin to craft new goals for your future. You may find yourself unconsciously weighing goals against a simple Leo-like criteria; are my goals heart-filled and reflective of my unique passions and desires? And, oh, are the goals `fun?’

That’s the message today; do what you love and the bliss will follow!

Mercury Retrogrades in Leo

July 25, 2018/in Blog, Cosmic Reflections/by Cassandra Butler

Mercury retrograde seem to generate a bit of nervous anticipation, even among people who’ve never seriously explored astrology. Clients ask, `it’s a bad thing, right?’ whenever it occurs.

The answer I generally give is this; mercury is no more bad' than a good night's sleep! Mercury retrogrades about a third of the time, the approximate proportion of our life spent sleeping. One third of our day is allocated to rest while a third of our collective time mercury is retrograde–the time this planet of logic and communication…rests.

Mercury represents the planet of linear connections; logic left brained analysis. When it’s retrograde it is not the time to make logical decisions based upon the meaning of mercury which is communications, contracts, travel. In other words, if you can, avoid signing important contracts, including ones associated with cars, computers, or marketing. It IS, however, the best time to shop, edit, reflect and redo.

While most of us are familiar with the anecdotal research pertaining to mercury retrograde, the Kepler Conference is doing research into this phenomenon, and, so much more. I am honored to be a part of a group of astrologers who apply rigorous research to their work. Check out the Kepler Conference 2019 where science meets astrology :https://canaveralresearchcenter.com/the-kepler-conference-2019-2/ .

This particular mercury retrograde occurs from the 23rd degree of Leo, on July 26th, until the 12th degree on August 19th. This suggests we are reframing the Leo qualities of our life as reflected by our charts. For example, a Leo sun person might use this time to reflect upon their personal identity, while, the Leo energy in the career house of another person might be rethinking their career path.

Since Leo represents the qualities of joy and creativity, playfulness and bliss, collectively we may be undergoing a period of identifying what gives us pleasure. During this retrograde make a commitment to discovering how your heart is leading you to your joyful purpose.

Be sure to check out where Leo is in your chart for your personal reboot during the mercury period. You can find your chart details at my website: https://cassandrajoanbutler.com/discover-your-natal-chart/.

And for more details, of course, consider attending a class, having a consult, or listening to my weekly FB webcast Wednesday nights at 9:00 pm here: https://www.facebook.com/cassandrajoanbutlerastrologer/.

It’s all about intentions; Intend to have a wonderfully reflective and productive mercury retrograde!