A Grand Finale - December 2007

The Heavens are a little lopsided this month, but we could do worse than have the weight unfairly distributed in Sagittarius as this is the sign that knows how to enjoy itself and is often a shining example of how trust and faith carries one towards the heart’s desire. And since this is the holiday season, the planets are stacking up in favour of enjoyment, exuberance, generosity and faith in a brighter tomorrow. And when the new moon joins the Sun, Jupiter, Mercury and Pluto in the sign of the Archer on the 9th, it would be an opportune time to make an optimistic wish or two. But check out which region of life you’re most likely to have the wish fairy grant your hopes, since astrology is all about working constructively with the cards that the cosmos deals you, rather than just blindly hoping for the best or scattering your energies in all directions.

A Balancing Act

And that’s exactly how some of us may react in the opening few days, as the Sun gets caught in a tense T-square with Saturn and Uranus; do we stick with the devil we know, or throw the baby out with the bathwater? Of course, neither extreme is to be recommended and the first few days will call for a delicate balancing act as we struggle to walk the fine line between responsibility and freedom. This dilemma between sticking with the tried and tested or plodding on with responsibilities and duties, versus cutting and running will be most evident for the Pisceans, Virgos and Sagittarians. These signs will need to guard against inner tension during the first few days and work towards balancing their own needs with a long list of ‘oughts’ and ‘shoulds.’

The new moon in Sagittarius adds to the top heavy alignment already jostling for space in this jovial and philosophical sign. Since Mercury and Neptune support this new moon, it would be an opportune moment to reach for the stars and ask for guidance in making a dream come true. It would certainly be a good time to write a wish list (or if you prefer to be more definite, an intention list) since Mercury will help your communications whether written or spoken to take effect. Uranus the planet of change and revolution squares this new moon, so any attempts to leave the past behind, especially if that past limits you in some way, will be looked upon favourably. Perhaps this would be the time to take a risk and to follow it with faith that all will work out well. Certainly with such a heavy load in Sagittarius, faith will be your strongest weapon during December. So put out your intentions and then have faith that they will materialise – not forgetting to add ‘for the highest good of all concerned’ to your wishes and desires.

Gear Up For A Party!

As the month progresses we get closer to the big planetary shift that signals an end to a long phase of life – not just personally but globally too. For the last year, Jupiter has been journeying through its own sign of Sagittarius which will have been good news for the Archers of course, and anyone who has an interest in religious or philosophical matters. Pluto has also been journeying through this sign but for a much longer duration, and now the two are finally walking arm in arm and heading towards Capricorn which is good news for the Mountain Goats, maybe not such good news for the big financial institutions and the powerful grey men who control much of the planet, but more of this next month.

For now, half the planetary bodies are gearing up for a party and as befits their host Sagittarius, there will almost certainly be a grand finale. Whether this results in a positive or negative outcome depends largely on the consciousness of those who respond to this powerful expansive energy. Religious fanatics may have their final shout, or tensions between neighbouring countries could rise. News of a religious scandal could break which could be the final nail in the coffin for the more Old Testament type of religions which seek to control through fear rather than teach through love. Sometimes, when there is a planetary imbalance, it creates a lot of tension within the earth’s crust, resulting in earthquakes and other natural disasters. Let us hope that this won’t be the case this month. But since all this energy in Sagittarius takes place at the galactic centre, it may be that any shifts and transformations, geological or otherwise, will be in response to the rising vibration and a need to cleanse, clear and adjust.

If we see a more evolved response to the powerful energies engulfing our planet at this time, there could be overwhelming feelings of oneness as we realise that we are all brothers and sisters sharing the same home. There could be extreme acts of generosity towards those in need and a growing tolerance of those who may be different, whether through race, skin, religion, gender or lifestyle. Perhaps we could all try and focus on this dream of tolerance and unity and remember that this time of year is a time for giving and sharing – that every living being is a precious miracle and as such should be cherished and revered. Perhaps this is the most optimistic wish for the planetary energies in Sagittarius; that we will cease worshipping some abstract deity and begin instead to worship each other and the planet that we call home – then and only then will peace reign. I wish you the happiest of Christmas’ and a magical New Year.

Weekly Forecasts

Aries

December 1-6 Keeping your feet on the ground may be tricky throughout December as a cluster of planets in Sagittarius are luring your thoughts and fantasies towards higher realms or far flung places. Perhaps all you really want this holiday season is to escape, to go on a big adventure or to daydream about a different life. But Mars at the base of your chart demands your attention be focused closer to home – it seems as though there’s much to do and maybe that’s why you feel you need an escape. Perhaps the solution is to do what you need to do, attend to home and family matters and make sure you’re not running away from any unpleasant inner feelings that you’d rather not deal with, and then start contemplating how you can turn your dreams into reality. Make your fantasies and visualisations constructive by firstly believing that what you wish for is possible and secondly by creating a plan of action that will bring about your hopes and aspirations.

December 7-14 The new moon on the 9th squashed between a group of planets in your zone of adventure is making it difficult to keep focussed on humdrum reality. If you can’t get away, maybe you could plan a future trip or simply go out for a day somewhere new. You need to blow the cobwebs away by trying different things – new experiences, travel, philosophy, spirituality and higher education will all stretch your mind and give you the adventure you currently crave. If you are stuck in a Groundhog Day reality, where everyday is much like the last, this is the week when you need to think about shaking things up a bit. Idle fantasies and day dreams may add a little temporary spice, but what’s really needed is an admission that you’re searching for more than you currently have and that by creating a plan of action you can change your life and make it more adventurous. Don’t be afraid to move beyond your current circumstances and stretch that little bit further for what you want out of life.

December 15-22 What is the meaning of life? Now there’s a big question and one which has been asked by philosophers for thousands of years, and yet it’s one which we still all ask from time to time. It remains unanswered because there may be no absolute truth – no one size fits all; maybe the meaning of life is different for each of us. Whatever the answer, this is a question which may be knocking at your door; has your life got meaning, what’s the particular point of your existence and are you fulfilling your true purpose? If in the previous weeks, you’ve experienced a desire to escape ordinary reality, if you’ve been prone to flights of fancy and wonderful imaginings, if you’ve been wondering ‘what if,’ or ‘if only,’ then these might be clues that your current situation isn’t giving you as much fulfilment as it could. So your question for this week is ‘what’s the meaning of my life.’ Once you’ve identified it, pursue it with passion and intensity.

December 23-31 You have, over the course of the year and especially over the last few weeks, been periodically asked whether your life is fulfilling enough, or whether there’s more that you could be doing. Jupiter has been traveling through your zone of aspirations encouraging you to reach out and not be content to settle with second best. Maybe this has prompted you to make certain changes, but if you’re still wondering what the Big Creator had in mind for you, then now is your chance to give it some careful thought as the year draws to a close, because in 2008 you will be called towards bigger and better things. It’s as if you have some part of your purpose that you still need to fulfill, something that you need to do, and indeed something that only you can do. So waste no more time and prepare yourself for a forthcoming year of success and fulfillment as you sail towards your true destiny.

Taurus

December 1-6 With a bundle of planets in your zone of transformation, this is a time when standing still and remaining the same will work against you. This is a time of rebirth, inner growth and change. Perhaps you just need to trust that you are doing the right thing, even if you can’t see how things are going to pan out just yet. If you feel like the old you is dying and a new you emerging, then excellent, this is just how it should be. Don’t try and cling on to what is leaving your life, just be aware that death and decay is a natural part of life, and whether it’s yourself that’s transforming or a situation that’s changing, you will before long find yourself in a position of renewal where you rise like the phoenix from the ashes to begin a new optimistic phase of your life.

December 7-14 Who or what are you suspicious of? Something it would seem has got your guard up, and in a way you would be right to be cautious. If you’re concerned you might be being taken advantage of, used or abused, it might be time to put your foot down and strengthen your boundaries – people will only treat you like a victim if you let them. And with a new moon in your transformation area, the 9th is a great day to say enough is enough. If you feel that you deserve better make a vow to move on from hurts and disappointments and be determined to strengthen your boundaries and refine your judgement. The 9th is a perfect day to draw a line under the past and move on towards new possibilities which will be coming very soon.

December 15-22 There is one advantage to the Sun and a host of other planets residing in the most powerful region of your chart, and that is your intuition is second to none so trust it. If you have a hunch or a funny feeling in your stomach, go with it. If your body is trying to tell you something, listen to it. If you feel uneasy when someone is telling you something, maybe they’re not telling you everything. Although this might feel like quite a serious and introspective month, it is perfect for developing your psychic power, contacting your guides and ferreting out the truth. Endurance, will power, control and perseverance are other traits that you might feel the benefit of. But make the most of this inner power because before very long, you will be thrust out of this dark womb-like space into bright light, busyness and new beginnings. So think of this time as building your strength for the exciting new challenges to come.

December 23-31 Like a newborn baby, it’s out of the darkness and into the light as Jupiter, the Sun and Mercury all plop into your zone of adventure, inspiration and possibilities. It’s as if the curtains have suddenly been thrown back leaving you rubbing the sleep from your bleary eyes. Although there will be many distractions and demands on your time with events of the holiday season, there will still be a feeling of waking up and a growing sense of the possibilities that await you in 2008. So as the year draws to a close, let your imagination carry you far and wide, entertaining all manner of possibilities, knowing that you can achieve anything you put your mind to. Be creative in your thinking and don’t limit yourself, for 2008 will wave a magic wand over your dreams and see you flying higher than you ever have before.

Gemini

December 1-6 Are your relationships everything you dreamed of, or are they a source of stress? It may be that with so much activity in your relating zone that this is a time when you are feeling increasingly pressured to make some sort of decision. Your love life should be a source of inspiration, growth and fun; if it isn’t then maybe you need to make some changes. At the same time, make sure that you’re not falling foul of a fairy tale mentality, a longing for the perfect union, for as you know there is no such thing. Whatever your current romantic status, it does look as though you are heading for some kind of transformation, and it will be one which helps liberate you from a tired, stuck or restrictive situation.

December 7-14 It would be almost impossible to avoid changes and developments in your relationships this week, as a new moon in this area of your chart supported by a host of other planets, bring the potential for a new start. So unless you live on a dessert island, or unless you’re a monk or nun living a life of chastity, you can expect this to be an interesting week as far as your personal life is concerned. And it’s not just your most intimate relationships that are ripe for change – business partnerships, and all your one to ones are up for developments too. It may be time for a fresh start, perhaps a new relationship or the renewal of an existing one. It’s certainly time for dialogue and communication, so if there’s something you need to say to someone, then say it. The important thing to remember at this new moon is that the past is done and it no longer needs to haunt you. Make it your intention to live in the now as far as your relationships are concerned – today (and especially the 9th) is a new day and one which contains the seeds of love, trust and commitment.

December 15-22 With your ruling planet Mercury sandwiched between the Sun, Pluto and Jupiter, this would be an intense, frantic week at any time of the year, but since it’s the holiday season, you might well feel like you’re about to spontaneously combust! Try and ground yourself in ordinary pursuits – simple tasks like walking, baking and enjoying the festivities with your friends and family. Try and change your perspective on things so that they no longer feel like something you have to do, but more of an opportunity for fun. It may also be that change is around you making it hard to feel centred and secure, but if it feels like it could be a new beginning then welcome it with open arms and trust that whatever doors are opening will take you towards wonderful new pastures. It may be hard not to feel emotional this week which is all the more reason for you to ground yourself in simple nourishing activities whenever you can; perhaps a soothing bath, a walk in nature, yoga postures, or a therapeutic massage will help calm your nerves. And don’t forget your rescue remedy for when it all gets a bit much; a few drops of these claming flower essences will put things back in perspective and help you deal with your challenges in a calm serene fashion.

December 23-31 While other people may be consumed with the holiday season your thoughts once again are likely to lean towards partnerships and love. But the good news is that problems in this department are suddenly due to calm down. Your relationships have been a focal point for much of this year, and in fact on and off for probably as long as you can remember. This is because Pluto has been working at transforming your personal life for the last 12 years, and this year Jupiter joined him, bringing the need for developments that will help you to grow as an individual. Consequently, you may have experienced many changes, ups and downs, dizzying highs and upsetting lows. You may at times have doubted whether you were doing the right thing, but one thing’s for sure, you would have changed as a result of your interactions with others, and especially one person inparticular. Now though, the planets are going through a big shift. Jupiter is leaving your relationship zone and will soon be followed by Pluto. The Sun and Mercury have already moved on and all this means an end to the extremes that you may have experienced in the last few years. So what can you expect? Well, life is about to get a lot deeper and more meaningful (and that goes for your relationships too.) You will also find that you become more powerful, more intuitive and more certain about what you want. And with this knowing might come the realisation that you need to let go of something in order to create a space for something better. There will be more passion and one or two fairly big transformations; basically, whatever it is that needs to change will definitely do so in 2008. Family and home matters, your direction in life and your financial situation are all set for improvements - all you need to do is apply some positive energy towards these areas and they will soon begin to blossom.

Cancer

December 1-6 Are you one of the many Cancerians that have been tearing their hair out this year, asking 'when oh when are my problems going to end?' If so the good news is that there’s only three more weeks to go before the end of the year, which mysteriously coincides with a big planetary shift which will be to your enormous benefit. For a long time now, you’ve had Pluto bringing up issues for transformation, from health and work, to general day to day pressures, stresses and strains. It probably hasn’t been much fun and with Saturn in the mental area of your chart, there may have been times when you felt like giving up. Fortunately, the cosmos must have noticed your plight and sent its trusty warrior Mars to your rescue. Mars in your sign until next summer will give you the courage and determination to press on through your challenges, but once you emerge into the New Year, his strength and energy will no longer be needed to fight quite so many battles, but instead you can put his energy to use to help you create a more fulfilling life. For now though, put every shred of energy you have left into believing that life can and will get better. Seek out pleasurable pursuits that make you feel glad to be alive. Seek solace in your family and make your home as beautiful, warm and loving as you can. There is much for you to get done, but pace yourself and remember to balance work and chores with play.

December 7-14 If your motto each day is ‘back to the daily grind,’ then stop and have a rethink. Goethe said ‘a man can stand anything except a succession of ordinary days’ and with a new moon in your daily life zone, this is your best chance in a long time to come to pledge a new way of living. It doesn’t have to be big changes; sometimes just an alteration in attitude is enough to bring more joy into one’s life. However, it may be that your work isn’t as fulfilling as it could be. If so, decide that you will change things. If you feel powerless to alter things then you’re not realising that you are an offshoot of the divine, and as such have the power to create your own reality. And what of your health? If it’s not all it could be, then find ways to improve matters, either though diet, lifestyle and healing therapies or through understanding the metaphysical reasons behind your malaise. Your body speaks your mind, so communicate with your body and ask it what it needs for optimum wellness. Many times, illness is a call to change, so what do you need to make yourself happy? Whatever your individual concerns, the 9th is the day when you can begin again. Wipe the slate clean and determine that life from here on in will be different…and infinitely better than it was before.

December 15-22 There may be 101 things for you to do, but are you having fun? Are you enjoying yourself? Is pleasure a feature of most of your days? If not, then Venus will be furrowing her brow, because she has come to visit your house of fun but found the place empty! She wants to party a little, laugh a lot and indulge in many of life’s gifts. She wants to engage in romantic flirtations, play with your hair and make you beautiful. But you’re too busy doing this, that and the other, attending to family and friends, doing your duties and generally working yourself into the ground. So Venus is here to remind you to stop, relax and have some fun. It makes all the difference you know.

December 23-31 At last! After all your trials and tribulations, this is where you turn a corner. The full moon and Mars in your own sign on the 24th is a pivotal moment in your life when you will feel the need to have a look at where you are, where you’ve been and where you want to be going next. Be ruthless in your decisions and for once in your life, consider your own needs as equal to everyone else’s. You may balk at the idea of putting yourself first, but if you don’t attend to your own needs everything you do soon becomes tinged with resentment. Don’t be like Woody Allen in the film Manhattan who famously quipped “I don’t get angry, I grow a tumour instead!” Also on the 24th we see a big planetary shift – Jupiter and the Sun follow Mercury out of your zone of work, health and daily life into your area of relationships. These planets will soon be joined by powerful Pluto, the one who has been wreaking a lot of havoc in your life. This all means that the end of 2007 sees you in a position to be able to wave goodbye to much of the stresses and strains that have dogged you over the last year, maybe even the last few years. You have reached a turning point and if you were hoping for a breakthrough then this is it. 2008 will see you growing in strength and determination which will enable you to bring about the changes that you so desperately wish to see. It’s onwards and upwards from this point on.

 
Leo

December 1-6 Although this week (and most of the month) is ripe with opportunities for having fun, you could be forgiven for missing a few of them due to feelings of pressure and restriction which might feel anything but fun. However, if you can face up to and deal constructively with any problems that are draining your energy or causing frustration, you will then free yourself to have a much more enjoyable time. So the message this week is don’t ignore any problems, but try not to cut off your nose to spite your face either. Sometimes, a change in attitude is all that’s needed, so for example, instead of seeing your responsibilities and obligations to others as a grind, try and see that you’re making their life better. Try this week to find a balance between freedom and responsibility, but if it all gets too much and you find yourself having angry outbursts it might be worthwhile to analyse where the frustration is coming from. A good time to look within and release some pent up frustrations. Then you can go and have that fun I promised earlier!

December 7-14 If God were to look directly into your eyes and tell you to go and do whatever it is that would make you happy, what would you do? This may be a profound question, but with half the zodiac and a new moon squashed into your heart centred house of self expression, you really need to be leaving no stone unturned in your quest to discover what makes you happy, and then to go and do it. Life is too short to spend it engaged in ‘so so’ work, or passionless relationships, and this is your permission from the universe to find out what makes your heart sing. Creative, artistic and romantic ventures are all favourable now, as is anything connected with children, animals, fun activities and general enjoyment. This is your moment when the universe pushes you off the diving board of life and says go have a good time; make sure you do.

December 15-22 Love what you do; that’s the message for this week, whether it’s putting up the tree and buying presents, or making a meal, throwing a party or painting a picture or playing an instrument. Yours is the most creative sign of the zodiac, and at present a plethora of planets are gathering in the most creative region of your chart. This has to be tugging at your heart to do more of what you love, and less of what you don’t. It will be difficult for you to keep on going in any activity that has little meaning for you, but try not to feel guilty about this; it is simply your soul calling you to be true to yourself. And when you do that, it’s not only you that will be much happier but everyone else around you will be happier too. And if you’re just looking for a little more fun or romance, then this should be a week that surpasses all your expectations.

December 23-31 Although the party season is now in full flow, it may feel for you as though the party’s over. It may be because you’ve overdone it or it may be because you’re tuning into the planetary shift of the Sun and Jupiter from your house of fun to your zone of work, obligations and health. So this week, there could feel more of a need to cater to other people’s needs, or to get yourself going with a healthier diet and lifestyle. It could also be that the insights and feelings that you had in the last few weeks need to be prepared to be put into action, and in that sense, it’s time to get just a little more serious. The full moon on the 24th will also turn your attention inwards and would be an ideal time to grab a few moments solitude in and amongst the festivities. However, with Venus shining bright on your domestic angle, the scene is set for a magical, warm and peaceful Christmas, straight out of a Yuletide fairy tale. So snuggle up with your loved ones, and allow your thoughts to contemplate what you want from 2008, a year in which you have the potential to turn your daily life into something quite inspirational.

Virgo

December 1-6 At this time of year, everyone’s attention naturally turns towards family, and those people who are alone find it a particularly difficult time of year. The Sun at the base of your chart draws your attention towards your family and keeps it there throughout the month. This means that there’s nowhere else you need to be than at home or with your loved ones, and there is no need to worry about family members, or your own security, although you might feel you have good reason for worrying and fretting. Perhaps you could repeat the mantra all is well, and trust that all your personal and domestic concerns will be taken care of. Whatever the situation at home, this is one year when you will be rewarded for putting in the effort and making your home a magical sanctuary of peace and happiness.

December 7-14 If you are looking for a new beginning with a family matter or your domestic situation look no further as a new moon at the base of your chart on the 9th offers the potential for a fresh start in matters closest to your heart. So whether it’s a complete new beginning or an improvement in relations with someone close this is a week to put the past behind you and look to the future. Forgive those who might have hurt you, and give yourself forgiveness for any mistakes you might have made too. This is also a powerful new moon for accessing your intuition and really sensing what it is that you want. So if you’ve been feeling a bit confused about which path to take, or which direction to go in next, this new moon asks you to get quiet, close your eyes and feel your way forward.

December 15-22 To reach for something greater you must first let go of what you’re holding onto. So if you wish to find the perfect job you must be willing to release the old one. If you wish to squeeze into that pair of trousers, you might have to sacrifice the cream cakes, and if you desire a new relationship you must be prepared to let go of the emotional baggage. This can be a stressful time of year; don’t pile on even more pressure by feeling like you’ve got too many choices or decisions to make. With your ruler sandwiched between Pluto, Jupiter and the Sun, this could feel like an intense week when there’s pressure from all sides. Do what you feel is the best thing to do and then stick with it. Or maybe another way of looking at it is this; move towards your priorities and discard the rest.

December 23-31 So what sort of Christmas is in store for Virgos? Well, the opportunity for fun and merriment is rife as the Sun and Jupiter fall nicely into your house of fun just in time for the festivities. In fact, the fun and enjoyment theme should continue well into 2008, a year when you can get more in tune with your heart and discover what it is exactly that will make you happy. This may simply mean carving out more time for yourself to do what you enjoy; perhaps you’ll drop a few unnecessary responsibilities, or maybe you’ll discover new dimensions of yourself. Or it could mean making some fundamental changes that will bring the passion back to your world. So 2008 could well be a year in which you find love, (certainly more romance is in store) discover your untapped creative talents or simply discover greater happiness. In the meantime, enjoy the end of the year, and strive to keep your relationships harmonious – remember, peace and good will to all men and women.

Libra

December 1-6 With Venus in your sign, the month should get off to a pleasurable and sociable start, and with a cluster of planets in your zone of short trips the busy theme should continue for the next few weeks. However, if it all begins to feel a bit pointless or you find yourself feeling frustrated or even bored with it all, look inside yourself for the reason why. Perhaps all that’s needed is to give more of your time, talents and knowledge to make your days more meaningful. Or maybe you need to contemplate that it’s not what you do, but how you do it that determines your level of enjoyment. Give whatever task you need to do your full attention and this will bring a new kind of meaning and wondrous creativity to all you do.

December 7-14 If you were wondering where all the pennies were going to come from for all the presents you need to buy for the holiday season, then thank your lucky stars as Venus glides into your house of finance, bringing abundance just when you need it. This event is then followed by the new moon in Sagittarius on the 9th and joined by three other planets, suggesting that if there’s anything you want or need, all you have to do is ask. In fact with Mercury in your communication zone, you would be silly not to ask for what you want right now. It is also an ideal point at which to strive for something new in the communication sense, so whether you and your loved ones need to talk more, or if there’s an important message you need to share with others, if you’d like to manifest something in your world either through cosmic ordering or visualisation, or if you’d like to get creative with your writing, speaking or teaching talent, now is the time to set things in motion. Your motto this week is 'ask and ye shall receive.'

December 15-22 Although Venus is on hand to help keep your finances on the right side of solvent, she may not have much sympathy if you delude yourself into thinking that tomorrow never comes. The chances are that you want to spend as much on others as you do for your own enjoyment, but there is a danger with Neptune squaring up to Venus that you could go overboard. Be positive and generous by all means, but don’t get yourself into a situation which you may later regret. Cautionary days to keep an eye on that credit card are the 19th-22nd. Little warnings aside, this should be a pleasant but busy week which sees you rushing from one place to another but enjoying the company of those you visit. And because the pace of life is rather hectic now, it would be wise to make sure that you are eating and sleeping well, whilst booking yourself in for some therapeutic healing or pampering wouldn’t go amiss if you wish to make it through the holiday season without catching the sniffles. Try and pace yourself rather than leaving everything until the last minute and that way you’ll be an oasis of calm rather than a nervous wreck!

December 23-31 At last you can heave a sigh of relief as the planets shuffle one by one into your zone of home and family, spelling an end to the busyness and mental strain of the last few weeks. Now there’s nothing much to do other than snuggle up with your loved ones, and enjoy the magic of the holiday season. And with a Sun-Jupiter conjunction in your home area it should certainly feel warm and magical with plenty of jolly exuberance too. However, the full moon on the 24th will draw your attention away from family merriment towards your true purpose in life and this is a time when you should give some thought to where you are going, for 2008 will offer you the chance to fulfil a personal or professional aim, hope or ambition. So whatever success means to you, next year could see it coming to fruition. It could well be career achievement but with Jupiter at the base of your chart throughout 2008, next year will bring the greatest chances of happiness direct to your door – literally, since family matters, property and domestic bliss will be your focal point. So whether it’s personal happiness you’re after, or being a success in the outside world (or both if you’re really lucky) once you have in mind what your new vision of your future is, you can go back to enjoying the happy homely mood that will more than likely set the tone for the year to come. Warmth, happiness and fulfilment are your keywords for 2008.

Scorpio

December 1-6 The theme for the week ahead and indeed for much of December is money, material possessions and self esteem. And if you’re wondering what the link is between finances and self worth, well, we tend to get what we feel we’re worth. Even if you consciously think you’re worth X, if deep down you have doubts, then you’ll block those good things coming towards you. If you find yourself comparing yourself unfavourably to others, or looking at what others have and then at what you have and find yourself wanting, then you need to pause for a moment and ask if low self worth is at the root of such feelings of inferiority. Also, if you play it safe and stick with what you’ve got, that could be another sign that you secretly don’t feel deserving. It’s time to take a risk or two and to dismiss your fears of what other people think of you. Go for what you want (and for what you feel you deserve) and make no apology for it.

December 7-14 With a new moon and half the zodiac squeezing into your financial area along with Venus - planet of prosperity - gliding into your sign, the theme for this week is most definitely abundance. Of course, there’s more to abundance than just feeling flush; it’s about living a full, rich life of happiness and enjoyment. It’s about having just a bit more than what you need and sharing it with others. It’s about knowing that whenever you do need something all you have to do is ask and the universe in its compassionate creative way will supply it for you. So let the new moon on the 9th cast a new light on not just your financial situation but on all your giving and receiving. Certainly the planetary alignments at present are the best you could ever wish for if you need a new start financially, but don’t limit yourself; open yourself up to a greater flow of love too, by sharing whatever you have to give; your time, a compliment or hug to someone in need, and then being happy to receive whatever gifts flow back to you.

December 15-22 This should be a time when all your efforts are being rewarded; your own personal harvest. If it isn’t, then something at a deeper level is causing a blockage, so go back and read last week’s forecasts focusing on the theme of giving and receiving. But this is far more than just a time to think about increasing your bank balance; this is a time to enjoy simple pleasures, to focus on your beauty and the beauty of others, and to be creative and enjoy artistic pursuits. But if none of that really takes your fancy, you have Mars in your zone of adventure urging you to kick off your slippers and go dancing in the moonlight – or whatever it is that would cause you to feel uplifted and inspired. Maybe all that’s needed is a change of scene, although if a round the world trip is more your style, then now would time to start planning. Either way, this is a marvellous week to focus on abundance, prosperity, adventure, excitement, creativity and pleasure. And it’s the holiday season too, what more could you ask for?

December 23-31 Whilst everyone else may be scurrying around buying presents and preparing for the holiday season, the full moon on the 24th will draw your attention to more exotic ideas and pursuits. From a much needed change of scene to entertaining ideas of getting away from it all, this is one yuletide when you’ll be feeling adventurous yearnings. But maybe any desire for adventure and excitement could be a sign that you need to spend some time figuring out what it is that would give you that sense of excitement on a daily basis. It may well be travelling, but it could just as easily be studying a new subject which makes you look at life in a new excited way. Or it could be making stimulating changes in some other department of your life. Either way, your challenge as 2007 draws to a close is to think about what would make you want to leap out of bed each morning, with the excitement of a child on Christmas Day. Look for experiences that will open up new dimensions of your life - seek out the new and the untried and untested. Be prepared to take a risk and do things differently. This is your challenge for 2008, and one which will be richly rewarded if you rise to it.

Sagittarius

December 1-6 This is the last month that Jupiter will be in your sign. He’s been with you for almost a year, and in that time you should have either learned a lot or grown considerably as a person. Perhaps opportunities came along to alter your life, or maybe you decided you wanted more than you were experiencing and made some changes yourself. Or perhaps, you just enjoyed yourself more in 2007. If however, you feel that you haven’t made the most of this benevolent planet’s stay, you still have a few weeks to make up for lost time, and the emphasis is on enjoyment, social pleasure and big opportunities, so decide what it is that you wish to do and waste no more time contemplating it.

December 7-14 With exactly half the zodiac squashed into your sign, it’s as if all eyes are on you, so it might be advisable to avoid rushing in where Angels fear to tread. This week could mark a turning point in your life, especially as the new moon on the 9th speaks of new beginnings and a break from the past. It might be prudent to cut your losses and move on towards pastures new, but hasty or impulsive decisions may not bring the meaning that you seek. so think carefully before making drastic changes. On the whole though, this has the potential to be an excellent week when you can put the past behind you and look with excited eyes towards a bright new future.

December 15-22 With a potent conjunction involving the Sun, Mercury, Jupiter and Pluto all in your sign, this is a week full of potential – all you need to do is communicate what you want and have faith in your abilities to manifest it. You are more powerful than you realise and if you can manage to avoid the stressful demands of the holiday season, you can make big leaps of progress in whatever matters to you personally. A word of warning though, this is a very potent grouping of planets not known for their moderation or restraint – and with all the excess that this time of year normally brings, you could easily find yourself on the wrong side of indulgence. Whether this means spending far more than you should, eating or drinking to excess or allowing the emotion of the festivities to carry you on an psychological roller coaster – the message is the same – avoid extremism and instead work towards a transformation that will see you begin the New Year in exactly the way you would dream it.

December 23-31 At last the pressure is off as the cluster of planets that made your life so intense over the last few weeks now moves on to Capricorn, so you can put your feet up and enjoy the holiday season. Fortunately for you, any excessive spending could find itself compensated for as Jupiter begins his year long journey through your house of money. This is bound to bring a little bit of good fortune your way, even if it’s simply being able to worry less about having enough – 2008 should be one year at least when you will most certainly have enough. And although you may end the year contemplating your financial or material position, there really is no need to feel guilty or to allow fear or doubt to spoil the end to your year. If you need a stroke of good luck, you’re more than likely to get it and with Saturn in the success region of your chart, you are already gearing up for a year of success and achievement like never before. So enjoy the festive season like only a Sagittarian can and let your generosity and feelings of abundance wash over everyone you come into contact with.

Capricorn

December 1-6 Although this is a time of year when we are expected to be sociable, you might actually be feeling the need to escape. A cluster of planets in your private zone suggest you would be happiest taking some time out to be quiet and contemplative, not rushing around trying to do 101 things or putting on a happy smiley face with people you don’t know. Honour your feelings and if you don’t want to socialise then don’t. What would benefit you now would be tuning into your higher self, perhaps through meditation, prayer, contemplation or simply being on your own. It may be that your energy levels are a bit low; if so, nurture yourself with healthy food and pastimes that nourish your soul. Before long, Venus will be heading to your sociable area so make the most of this precious time to reconnect with yourself.

December 7-14 If you don’t wake up every day this week feeling on top of the world, well, you’re not meant to. Of course, it would be wonderful to always greet every day with a smile, but life is cyclic, we have up times and down days. The trick is to not get emotionally caught up in the ups and downs, highs and lows, and just quietly observe, enjoying the good times, but acknowledging the more yin times as opportunities to go within. With a new moon and half the cosmos in your secluded area, it would seem that the only place for you to go now is within. If you try to focus all your energies on your external world, you could end up with a nasty cold or a mild depression. These planets are urging you to have a good clear out because there is a new chapter of life beginning very soon. In fact, 2008 will be a very important year for you, full of opportunities for new beginnings and big transformations. Your life can’t carry on in the same way as it has been doing but in order for changes to take place you must be ready and willing to release that which is old and outworn. So see this week as an opportunity for letting go and releasing – whether it’s clearing out things in your house, ending a relationship, making the decision to bring to a close a situation that’s not working or allowing that dreaded cold to clear out your toxins – all that represents the old you needs to be released, so do so, trusting that better more suitable things will replace whatever you let go of.

December 15-22 Procrastination is a form of self sabotage, so what is it that you’re putting off? We all have a tendency to put things off that we don’t want to do, and the best way round this is to remind yourself how good you’ll feel once it’s done. But it isn’t just practical chores we put off – we also put off making important changes and creating a better life. Your current planetary picture suggests you may not be feeling on top of the world but if you’re looking at your life through a grey lens, you may be oblivious to all the colour that’s slowly seeping through. This isn’t meant to be an upbeat, extroverted month – even if the calendar says that it is. But if you’re feeling subdued, it may be because things are taking place behind the scenes that you’re not aware of. Like a foetus silently growing in the womb, something wonderful is about to emerge in your world – don’t despair just because you can’t see it yet. Know that it’s coming and take every opportunity to prepare for it by letting go of that which no longer fulfils you. Your faith that something better will replace it will make the happy event come to you much swifter. A long phase of your life is ending, and a new chapter is imminent – make sure you’re ready for it by not clinging on to that which is done.

December 23-31 It’s time for a fanfare and a celebration – not just because it’s the holiday season, but because the Sun, Jupiter and Mercury are all plopping into your sign like pennies from heaven. If the last few weeks felt heavy going, this week, and the 23rd and 24th inparticular, should feel like a burst of sunshine. This is your new beginning, but you might not really notice it yet because this time of year demands that your energy and attention be distracted by family, shopping, chores etc. It may be though, that the end of the week, and the end of the year, grants you a moment or two to contemplate what you want from 2008, and this is when you need to look back and see what it is you wish to change. Even if you’re happy enough with life as it is, the planets will bring a gradual shift towards optimism, opportunity for growth, adventure, fun and transformation. Relationships may also be a key theme, but in the main, you stand on the precipice of a new chapter in your life – your challenge is to make it as glorious as you possibly can.

Aquarius

December 1-6 It is as well, this week, to remind yourself of the phrase, no man is an island. Saturn’s opposition to your ruler Uranus could produce feelings of isolation, perhaps a sense that no-one really understands you, or that you feel different to everyone else. It is part of the Aquarian’s life plan to be a bit different, but differences can create spice and if you choose to walk a slightly different path to others, it doesn’t mean that you have nothing in common with them. Try this week, to find that common bond – with a cluster of planets in your sociable zone this would be a perfect time to forge links with others, make new friends or just enjoy some good times with your friends.

December 7-14 With a new moon in your hopes and wishes zone on the 9th, this is an ideal point at which to look to your future and make some decisions. What do you really want – how do you want your life to be? Are you currently making a difference to the world? Or what about your social life; is it as stimulating as it could be? Are you happy with your friends or could you do with more likeminded people? Take a moment on the 9th to focus on your future hopes and wishes, because with the intense amount of energy located in this region of your chart, your dreams have a far greater chance than normal of manifesting. So put out your wishes and then watch and wait for prompts from the universe as to what you need to do to help your desires come to fruition.

December 15-22 A lovely trine from Venus to your ruler, Uranus, makes this a perfect week for love, creativity, socialising and general enjoyment. In fact, this gentle meeting between the planet of love and the planet of excitement could add a sparkle to your days. Perhaps there’ll be something to put an extra spring in your step or a twinkle in your eye. At the very least, you can experience much happiness by getting out with your friends and throwing yourself into the social whirl preceding the holiday season. And with Venus shining bright at the top of your chart, if you want to be noticed and rewarded for all your efforts at work, this would be a good week to ask for favours.

December 23-31 As the year draws to a close, it would be fitting for you to draw inwards too, especially with Jupiter, Mercury and the Sun all plopping into your house of quiet repose. Hopefully you have got your work, chores and partying out of the way, because from this point on, a new theme takes precedence, and that theme is getting to know yourself. Jupiter will be in this zone of your chart for the next year and will help you discover more meaning to your life and enable you to make deeper connections to the divine. It will be perfect for going on a retreat, taking up meditation, practising, yoga, learning astrology or the tarot cards, undergoing therapy or going on a spiritual pilgrimage. And perhaps most of all, you’ll be learning how simple ordinary pleasures that don’t cost the earth will become priceless treasures. Inner peace is just around the corner and you can begin by making the end of 2007 a time of reflection and contemplation.

Pisces

December 1-6 So much of your attention is currently being called to where you are going in life, whether it is progressing with career, finding your true purpose or in a more general sense with life changes and departures from the past. Jupiter has all year being calling towards bigger and better things and now as he nears the end of his stay in your zone of success it might be time to take a big leap of faith and make some sort of change. It seems that there is a lot going on in your life at present, both personally and professionally, so in order to keep sane, it might be an idea to carve out some time for simple relaxing pleasures that ground and centre you. Pisceans are easily knocked off balance due to a very sensitive nature, so make sure that if things are a bit hectic right now, that you give yourself plenty love and nurturance.

December 7-14 The new moon at the top of your chart on the 9th, flanked by Mercury, Jupiter and Pluto makes this a pivotal week in terms of your future and direction in life. Perhaps you have an important decision to make, or maybe you are at a crossroads or turning point. If so, remember that the past needs to be laid to rest and that your future is the most important thing now. Make your decisions based upon what will give you a sense of adventure, achievement and fulfilment. Seek that which encourages growth and avoid that which keeps you stuck in your comfort zone, playing out the same old patterns that have been repeating themselves for years. It’s time to change the record, and with that change will come a sense of newness and excitement for the inspiring changes to come. Let go and move onwards and upwards.

December 15-22 Your greatest chances of success will come through an adventurous spirit. Half the zodiac at the top of your chart is beckoning you towards pastures new, especially within your career and vocation, but also in any goal, aim or ambition that is important to you. With Uranus in your sign and Mars in your creative zone, this is a time in your life when you shouldn’t be playing it safe. It's a time when you need to make decisions and choices that come from your heart and which you feel passionate and excited about. If this involves breaking with certain traditions or upsetting one or two applecarts, then this may be what you have to do. Adventure is your keyword with success hot on its heels. So if you need more thrills and spills in your life, go in search of something new. If it’s success you crave then a little bit of self belief will go a long way in helping you to get what you deserve.

December 23-31 Full moons are notorious for stirring up emotions and unresolved issues. This year the full moon appears on Christmas Eve – maybe not the best time for peaceful relaxed festivities but one which will nevertheless bring to a head your own desires and wishes versus the desires and wishes of those around you. If you have compromised one time too many, you may this year feel more inclined to put your foot down and do whatever you feel is right. At the very least, strive for a compromise and for your own wellbeing, seek fun and creativity as an antidote to the stress which surrounds you at present. Relationships of all kinds but especially those involving, partners, lovers, children and even friends could be a source of stress right now. But by remembering that the most important changes that need to take place in your world are already in place, you can perhaps be more forgiving with the little things that try your patience and develop a more accepting attitude of those things you can’t change. The end of the year sees you on the verge of important developments; changes may have already taken place in your world in 2007 – changes that are enabling you to be more of your true self, and in 2008 you’re going to be in prime position for making a difference to the lives of others. All in all, the progress that you’ve made, and the changes that you’re going through are perhaps worthy of a celebration or two so don’t be shy in raising a toast to yourself and all the wonderful opportunities that await in 2008.

Tarot Card of the Month: Celebration

What a wonderful and most fitting card for the month of December! This joyful card reminds us that we have so much to enjoy, so much to be grateful for, and so much more joyful experiences waiting for us, even if life is far from perfect. So it is only right and proper that we should celebrate our existence as often as we can. And what better time to dance gleefully in the rain than the end of the year when we can reflect on all that has gone and all that might be in the year to come. And although the planets lining up in the party-going sign of Sagittarius are indeed celebratory, this card reminds us that we need not wait for a date in the calendar or a big event to let our hair down – the opportunity to celebrate life is with us every minute of the day. If your life isn’t all you would hope it to be, perhaps try laughing at the absurdity of it. And if it is treating you well right now, give thanks and share your light and happiness with others – pretty soon the whole world will be smiling.

Osho Zen Tarot – published by St Martin’s Press