About our Philosophy and our Web Site
About Professional Consultations
Natal/Birth
Solar Returns
Progressions/Transits
Synastry/Relationship
Horary
Electional
Career/Professional
Spiritual
Esoteric
Tarot
Order
Natal
Transits
Relationship/Synastry
Karmic
Relocational
Body and Soul
Flower and Gem Essence
Child Natal Report
Free Natal Report
Order Reports
An Astrological Profile for John
Childhood is a time filled with promise. A new life, fresh beginnings, and for parents and teachers -- it’s the ultimate challenge. How many times have parents wondered why kids did not come with instruction manuals?! There’s a secret: they do!
Each person is born at a special time, on a certain day and place. Astrologers use this information to chart the positions of the planets relative to the date, time and place of birth. This chart, or horoscope, provides an invaluable and exceptional view of the potentials, drives and needs for John. This is the "cosmic guidebook" for each individual! The patterns of the planets, Sun and Moon are unique and notable for a developing child, since in childhood these pictures are seen in a different light. Children are changing rapidly, and, in the process of becoming themselves, need special love and guidance. Developmental Astrology incorporates the basic concepts of astrology within the framework of the early years of life.
This astrological report can be used as a guidepost, and provides a few hints and insights into the unique qualities of this child. Please remember that everyone -- including a child -- has free will. So while an astrological report can give you some valuable information, it does not indicate a fixed set of limited options. Of course environment also has its influence, but by understanding the significant drives and needs represented by John’s chart, you can better appreciate his uniqueness, and, hopefully, guide him to fulfill his potentials in the healthiest possible way!
I. Basic Underlying Personality Traits
There are several layers to an astrological chart, just as there are layers to the personality. In astrology, the building blocks of the chart are the planets, signs and houses of the chart. You’ll see these terms scattered throughout this report. In a nutshell, the planets (plus the Sun and Moon) represent specific energies and drives. These drives each have a different purpose in the developing personality. The twelve signs of the zodiac represent qualities, characteristics and traits. The houses (the twelve divisions of the chart wheel or circle) symbolize the facets of a person’s life. In the drama of life, the planets represent the actors, the signs show the roles the actors play, their costumes and props, and the houses illustrate the setting and scene of the play.
Using the building blocks of the zodiac signs, there’s yet another layer. Each sign falls into categories called elements and modes. There are four elements -- fire, earth, air and water; and there are three modes (or action models) -- cardinal, fixed and mutable. There’s a way to distill the chart into its dominant element and mode of expression, and this leading denominator gives a powerful clue to the strongest underlying personality traits.
In John’s chart, there is an outstanding quality of Air. Since Air is a predominant element in the chart, John will be more mentally active -- and is likely to be very talkative. Everything tends to have a mental connection. Friends are exceptionally important, and social situations may always be a powerful feature of John’s life. Even during the early years, when sharing and cooperative play are a bit of a struggle, John will enjoy being around others his own age. Later, you may discover that John is the one who invites social interaction in the classroom or on the playground. While mental stimulation is important, encouraging John to develop his own ideas may be somewhat difficult unless John enjoys exposing his thoughts! The logical conclusion may be that John is a "natural" at such experiences, but it’s highly conceivable that presentations in the classroom or sharing his own ideas strikes fear. The reason may be a lack of confidence in whether or not John is "correct." John hates to be proven wrong or even having the appearance of being "stupid!"
Since Fire is the least influential or lacking element in John’s chart, there can be a tendency for John to feel less confident and outgoing. Learning from enthusiastic teachers can, of course, be helpful. But to instill a sense of faith and trust, it’s important to help John build a positive foundation. Physical activity can be helpful, but the challenges need to be within the realm of the possible -- but still a challenge! If John learns what it feels like to meet these challenges, then hope and optimism will be built. Teach John to look for joy, and find plenty of reasons to celebrate!
There are three modes in astrology. These determine how a particular sign manifests its energy. These qualities -- known as cardinal, fixed and mutable -- have special meanings in astrology. Each sign or the zodiac correlates with one of three modes of action.
John’s chart shows a strong emphasis of Fixed signs. He can feel very stabilizing, but can also be extremely stubborn! At its best, the fixed quality indicates a need to preserve and to maintain the status quo. He can be consistent and patient, and will appreciate and respect consistency from parents and teachers. There can also be inflexibility, resistance and obsessiveness that can be rather difficult to manage or accept. John really needs to finish things, and can become upset if too many things are left undone..
In summary, if an element or mode is low or lacking, there’s no reason to be highly concerned, but you can find creative ways to help John compensate. Focusing on what the lack of any mode or element might mean for the child can prove beneficial, although this should not be interpreted as an actual "personality deficiency." Rather, understand that this could indicate either a tendency to overcompensate or to seek what is lacking in some way. As your child matures, you might discover that he is drawn to others who seem to possess the expressions of a quality that seems to be lacking in his own chart.
Moon Sign and Early Personality Development
Although most people are familiar with the concept of the Sun sign, a child expresses the qualities of the Moon sign more than the Sun sign during the earliest years. That’s because the Moon tells the story of feelings and pure emotion. So, you might see more qualities that relate to this factor in John’s chart during early childhood. Expressing the Sun requires more self-awareness, and that develops later!
Keep in mind that John is NOT a blank slate! These drives and expressions can be nourished and supported by understanding family and teachers, helping John make the most of these "ingredients" in his developing personality!
John’s Moon in Aquarius can be seen as his love of sociable and mentally stimulating circumstances. He can have an especially profound mental and intuitive tie with Mother. Friendships will be important, even at an early age, but John also needs room to develop self-reliance and independence, since there is usually an intuitive sense of how to get help if needed!
The way John might like to be perceived, what he needs to feel motivated toward achievement and what makes him feel significant and special in the world shines through his Sun. While the full expression of John’s ego takes quite some time to develop, certain qualities will definitely be apparent, even early on. However, this aspect of the personality will be more apparent after the earliest years.
With the Sun in Libra, John will enjoy the company of others. During infancy, John may not be social in the strict sense of the term -- but feeling the presence of others, listening to conversation, and being taken along to share excursions and experiences will instill a sense of connection which is deeply important to this child. Even at a young age John can become rather charming, and may have a winning smile. Artistic leanings may be apparent early on, and, at the very least, he will appreciate beautiful things and may have a keen sense of color. Once in school, John may enjoy the social aspect of education the most, he may also seem to appreciate literature and the arts. Exposure to cultural experiences can stimulate lifelong interests. During preteen years, John can be inclined to place too much value on social status and may fall into the trap of exclusive cliques or may feel deeply hurt if excluded from a social group that the child feels is extremely important. Early on, John needs extra encouragement in the realms of self-esteem and personal values.
Another prevailing quality that’s likely to emerge in John’s early years in shown by the sign on his Ascendant, or Rising Sign. In childhood, the Ascendant and the 1st House signify John’s physical appearance and how other people view him. After all, most of us have our self-image shaped by what other people tell us about ourselves. Most important, the Ascendant (ASC) represents John’s basic attitudes and himself, and how he presents himself to the world. The significance of environmental conditioning in John’s developing personality is shown by the Ascendant.
With Aries Rising, John may exhibit great independence and can be quite strong minded. This child is right at home being a kid (sometimes for decades!). The desire to take on challenges and participate in sports can be an earmark of John’s personality. Grandma and Grandpa may be favorite playmates.
II. Nurturing Intellectual and Physical Health and Development
Every parent watches for the signals that indicate a child’s intellectual and physical progress. From baby’s first words to performance in school, development is noted and records are kept. Providing the stimulus that will strengthen mental and physical development is up to parents, teachers and society. Of course, ultimately, a child will master the experience of learning!
There are many factors involved in intellect -- the ability to conceptualize, the communication of concepts and thoughts, memory, creative ideas, the application of rational thought, judicial thinking, decision-making, speculative thought and more. In order to be whole, the child must achieve a balance between the mental, emotional, physical and spiritual parts of the Self; only then can the power of the intellect be used to its utmost. Otherwise, the mental capacities are likely to be overemphasized or misdirected in order to compensate for under development in some other area.
One important factor in a developing intellect is the nature of the thought patterns themselves. Here, the Moon plays yet another role beyond that of emotional storage house. Through the Moon, a child’s unique experiences are stored in the vaults of the subconscious mind. However, the Moon also shows the basic manner in which a child absorbs information. With the Moon in an air sign, John is likely to think in a more abstract manner. Concepts like logic, mathematics and music can be more easily grasped. Social interaction is another key to learning, although reading can also be enjoyable, especially if it’s shared.
In addition, since the Moon represents the basic thought patterns, the Moon’s speed (or rate of travel) fundamentally affects a child’s approach to learning. The Moon moves at variable speeds in her rotation around the Earth.
John’s Moon was moving at a moderate pace at the time he was born. This can indicate a strong need to observe a situation before making a change, and suggests a reluctance when facing unfamiliar ideas or situations. In learning, a careful, structured circumstance can create the safety zone that allows John to move through education with greater confidence. Following cautious observation and consideration, new situations are then less threatening. After that, John may do just fine with learning, but if forced to move too quickly may lose confidence. Retaining ideas can be a plus for this gently paced Moon.
As a small baby John began to explore and learn about his personal environment through the five senses, and these are represented by the energy of Mercury. Over time, the senses are used in a more refined manner, and as the mind gains the ability to integrate more and more information, learning increases. Mercury shows how John communicates those thought patterns -- how concepts are framed and also how they are expressed through communication. The years of Mercury’s heightened developmental cycle are from age seven to thirteen, when the connections between a child and his world are powerfully shaped. Language is mastered; communication skills are refined. It is during these years, that John will project the qualities of Mercurial energy more strongly.
With Mercury in Scorpio, John will usually probe deeply into subjects and will communicate only when necessary. Getting down to the core of something and looking at what lies beneath is all part of John’s approach to learning. His mind is fascinated by the mysterious, and research can be fun. Mercury in Scorpio is wary before allowing the senses to become involved, and rarely forgets any impression. Science can be a favorite subject.
The influence of Mercury in opposition to Jupiter shows a strong desire to learn and a restless mind. The feeling that "I don’t know enough" can arise early in educational experiences. This attitude or feeling of inferiority can create a situation in which John is continually "enhancing" everything he says. Learning to accept any type of personal mediocrity may be very difficult for John, since the sensational is so much more interesting! Distractions can be a problem, since the child may try to learn a little about everything rather than focusing on a limited number of interests. Finishing things can be difficult if he has lost interest. These two energy connections can be indicators of a child who "talks a blue streak." In fact, keeping the mind (and the voice!) quiet can be quite a challenge. However, there is also the potential of feeling that life is a learning challenge and that as long as there’s something to know about, there’s a reason for a quest. One would hope that parents and teachers would encourage the quest, but only after adequate preparation for the journey!
John’s Mercury in opposition to Saturn can ultimately indicate the potential for developing strong abilities of concentration and mental discipline. However, criticism is likely to feel too harsh, even if it comes as an opportunity to learn. If teachers and parents seem to be excessively critical of John, he may grow to resent the idea of education or may feel defeated or stupid. John may not trust his mental abilities. He may feel a sense of severe mental limitation, even if that limitation is not actually present! Sometimes John may be reluctant to speak or share information for fear that what he says may be inadequate, wrong or otherwise incomplete. Whatever John’s inherent intellectual ability, it can be enhanced by the cultivation of positive mental attitudes. Learning through experience, however, is probably the most appropriate method for him.
Mercury in the 7th House can be seen as an interest in learning how to effectively communicate, and John may enjoy learning in the company of others, rather than tackling material independently. In school, the social aspects of education may be more important to John than learning what Teacher assigns. It’s important when he is assigned working partners at school that he develops an ability to understand the nature of the project and each person’s responsibilities, since if he is coupled with someone who does not do his or her part or who takes over too much, John will lose confidence in agreements. He may be adept at public speaking and debate, and should be encouraged to develop these interests if at all possible.
Jupiter and Learning
Another factor involved in John’s learning styles and needs is symbolized by Jupiter. These qualities are initially experienced through the encouragement of teachers and guides, but ultimately, Jupiter shows how John will express confidence and what types of stimulation will build his learning skills. With Jupiter in Taurus, John will appreciate an educational experience which blends practical values into learning. and may enjoy more one-to-one contact from teachers. A hands-on learning experience might lead to an easier integration of information with its practical application.
Encouragement and testing are two different things. Small children do not like to be tested -- life is enough of a test for them! They do enjoy learning, but need to be encouraged to learn at their own pace. Finding that pace is one of the primary tasks of parents and teachers. Watch for signs that tell you when John is comfortable with a situation, and ready to push beyond it. Then, offer stimulation of that expression by setting fresh goals and opportunities to learn and develop the mind.
Finding Fun and Encouraging Physical Development
There are many factors that indicate particular needs in regard to physical health. However, I feel that specific strengths and weaknesses and their care are best dealt with in greater depth using refined astrological techniques beyond the scope of this reports. But one feature of childhood we can explore is where to find play and recreational activities that might be most comfortable and enjoyable for John. The planet Mars represents physical energy -- it’s the fuel that is needed to keep the physical engine running! Mars’ sign and house placement gives good clues about a child’s preferences for play and activity, including sports and approach to fitness.
John’s favorite forms of recreation and sports can include ballroom dancing, yoga, tai chi, ice dancing, pairs skating, balance beam (gymnastics), juggling, ballet and other forms of dance.
John’s Mars in the 6th House indicates a potential for clumsiness, since he can feel uncomfortable when placed in situations that call on physical prowess or skill because there’s a tendency to under or overcompensate. Creative visualization can be helpful -- teaching John to visualize the action of the sport in the mind before doing it. However, John may enjoy learning the skills necessary to be good at individual sports. It’s also worth noting that when John is ill, he is more likely to run higher fevers.
Since John has Mars in aspect to Pluto, there can be a desire to take physical abilities into a different realm. There may be an ability to draw on a deeper strength and to build energy reserves. It’s important to help John learn how to challenge others without provoking a strong or defensive response. Learning the limits of personal power can be difficult, especially if he is faced with any kind of abuse. Sports can be a plus if properly directed, and particularly if John is taught to respect the self and others in the process.
III. Embracing Emotional Drives and Needs
At different stages and ages John is developing different parts of himself. One reason childhood astrology is different from adult astrology is that a child is in the process of "becoming". Anyone who’s been around children knows that at some stages of development a child is more susceptible or emotionally vulnerable, and that these needs and sensibilities change as a child matures. After all, a baby struggles each day to deal with a difficult-to-control body, but an elementary school age child is struggling with early social relationships. Each of the planets represents a different emotional need and expression, but some planetary symbols are more emotionally charged than others.
There are myriad possibilities, but John’s chart illustrates the potential emotional strengths and weaknesses, and the areas in his life where there can be greater vulnerability. It is important to explore these concepts through a lens of objectivity, since when dealing with psychological and emotional issues with our children we’re likely to run into our own issues as part of the process!
John’s most powerful emotional needs are symbolized by the Moon, which is the primary indicator of early psychological development. These needs remain with John throughout life, continually growing and evolving. The Moon symbolizes the reflective nature of humanity. It is the absorbing, subconscious mind and reflects the needs of the soul. This is the matrix from which habit patterns emerge. Moon is Mother -- who provides nurturing, comfort and security. Mother is the model for a child’s developing sense of how he will nurture and care for others, and, most importantly, how John will nurture himself. Even as a baby, John has had a strong inner awareness of what is happening. As he grows, more information is absorbed and stored in John’s subconscious mind, and deeper awareness of his feelings also grows. The Moon also indicates basic patterns of conditioning drawn from life experiences and filtered through the qualities of the Moon.
With Moon in Aquarius, John prefers to stay away from emotional expression, and may seem rather detached. John is likely to develop strong ties to friends. It is important that he finds a way to feel unique and special. If that uniqueness is not appreciated, John may become even more emotionally detached from those in his personal environment. A life which is too severely structured may engender a rebellious streak. However, his inventiveness should be channeled in constructive directions. John may actually feel a need to travel in outer space, via airplanes and other "spacecraft."
John needs respect. That may seem strange for a child, but with the Moon in the 10th House, it is a powerful drive. This begins when John is taught to respect others and himself. John needs room to achieve and celebrate accomplishments, and may also feel an early impulse about developing career aims or ambitions. Pleasing parents is especially important to this child, and if parents are absent when significant achievements are accomplished, John may react with greater hurt than parents first realize.
John has a strong desire to be liked, and the Moon quincunx Venus may also stimulate a kind of emotional want list that is difficult to fulfill. Being attracted to people and situations that are not really good for or in harmony with John’s real needs is a good possibility. In early social development this can manifest as choosing the friends for the wrong reasons and then complaining that he does not fit in. He may also feel that Mother is inadequate in some way, and the resulting insecurity can lead to relationship problems later. The remedy to this aspect seems to center upon learning how to give love without the expectation that it has to be returned. Ultimately, it will be, but not always in the manner which is most anticipated.
Since the Moon and Mars are in trine to one another, John’s inner feelings, emotional sensitivity and self-assertiveness seem easy and natural. He can be comfortable in most situations since there’s a sense that he is strong. While personal courage can be easily mustered, he may not be especially interested in pushing it. Why rock the boat? You may also observe that John rises to most occasions in the nick of time, but for the impatient parent or teacher, questions may arise about exactly when he will take action. Outside motivation is sometimes necessary for this child to forge ahead toward challenging goals.
One of the most intensive challenges to John’s sense of emotional security, safety and stability arises from the Moon in opposition to Pluto. The manner in which John responds to alterations in home and family life can be to feel resentful or hurt if changes occur and not to know how to express that hurt. If parents or family are insensitive to or unaware of John’s frustrations, fears or anxieties, then it’s not likely that he will feel confident about being open with his feelings, since the tendency to hold in emotions can be powerful. Yet others may feel that there’s something happening beneath the surface that’s not showing on the outside. That could be an understatement! If parents, teachers or care-givers take actions which lead to guilty feelings, shame or disappointment, John can feel especially hurt and may hold onto that hurt indefinitely. More than anything, he needs to know that his needs are important and that he deserves to have those needs fulfilled.
The energy of the Sun is tied to the development of individuality and the sense of identity. The individuality of the Sun begins to emerge once a child has developed enough mastery over basic bodily functions so that he can start paying more attention to the outside world. The Sun is a major factor in determining, "Who am I?" This radiance of Self really becomes focused once John is relating to others on a more frequent basis, especially during the school years.
John is a Libra, basically described in the Underlying Personality section of this report. However, there are factors which alter John’s expression and development of his Sun.
Mercury is not traditionally considered an emotional expression. However, Mercury’s role in the expression of feelings is highly important. Mercury represents the function of articulation of ideas and feelings and influences how we communicate them. After all, most of us are more comfortable if we can talk about our emotional experiences to someone special. A child needs to feel that he can talk about anything with his parents, and that it is okay to share feelings and ideas. When a child is not given opportunities to communicate his emotional needs, he can develop problems communicating almost anything else! Mercury’s function in our lives is to link internal processes to the external world, and one of the most important inner links is the experience of sharing emotion.
Another feature of John’s emotional profile arises from the contact between Mercury and Jupiter. Expounding about anything can be pure fun, and parents and teachers need to encourage John to develop confidence in communication. The only problem can be that he tends to stretch the truth. The expansive quality of Jupiter adds just a few more inches to the size of that fish! This can be especially true if John feels that the plain reality of a situation is not enough. Learning when "embellishments" are appropriate and when they can lead to trouble will aid John’s sense of self-confidence.
John takes communication seriously, since Mercury and Saturn are connected. However, the primary emotional implication from this connection is that John may worry excessively. Help him appreciate the realism of situations, but also encourage him to rest and relax the mind. Teach positive thinking!
Self-esteem is another part of John’s psychological make-up. Venus describes the needs for love and value systems, along with self-worth. Artistic expression can be part of this emotional outlet, and this is Venus in action. Selfish behavior can be Venusian, too, and most small children show Venus through their particular expression of selfishness and their ultimate struggle to allow Venus to evolve as they develop the capacity to learn to share. You’ll see Venus expressing in a more outgoing manner after about age four, when John may finally want to give something to another person. But the full involvement of Venusian development is during the teen years, when "falling in love" becomes a reality. But, regardless of John’s age, he needs to feel love from others to encourage growth on every level, including the growth of self-esteem.
John has a good time taking things apart. (Putting them back together can become tedious, though!) Venus in Virgo is a fixer. It’s probably a good idea to allow John to have a pet if he shows an interest, since taking care of something living can impart a good feeling. Later on, training a pet to do special tricks might be fun. John may also enjoy collecting miniatures or making models. While some children are emotionally demonstrative, this child can convey a world of affection by holding hands.
John’s Mars shows when he expresses anger and personal strength. As John grows up, the way he shows personal assertiveness will be developed.
With Mars in Libra, John likes sharing activities with others, but can also be directed toward exceptional skills. Developing grace is important, and social skills can be of interest as he matures. While it may be assumed that John prefers peace, the undercurrent of this energy is highly competitive. If he feels that a situation is unfair, strong protests are likely to be the result. Working as an equal partner or projects or as a team member in sports can be helpful, although he will appreciate some time in the spotlight when he has shown excellence.
That extra magnetism in John’s personality may be driven by the positive connection between Mars and Pluto. In addition, he may be able to make exceptional use of his energy, and can develop a positive sense of self-assertiveness and personal power. Dealing with anger seems to come easily, and John may even be strongly direct with others. There’s a natural healing ability, physically and emotionally, and John may be able to offer support and objectivity to friends that is truly honored and valued.
John may not demonstrate the energy of Uranus until teenage years, since this quality is part of the expression of uniqueness, ingenuity, and rebellion. It’s usually outwardly expressed in teen years as part of a teen’s uprising against the status quo. Uranus spends about seven years in one sign, and is one of the planetary energies that identify qualities of a generation. John was born when Uranus was in Taurus (1934-1942). The emotional tension created by this planetary position can bring a kind of crisis in consciousness between the desire for material acquisitions coupled with an even deeper need to preserve the environment. Growing up at a time when the world was rebuilding after World War II, this generation may have felt some instability about finances, but with the belief that anything is possible.
But the personal expression of Uranian energy is most likely to be seen in the arena of life most influenced by this planet. Uranus in the 2nd House shows as John’s attraction to unusual things, including technological and electronic items. He may have very little practical sense when it comes to money, and may need to take extra care in order to keep track of material things. However, his value of friendships is very strong.
Another significant, but emotionally charged, generation-oriented quality is the energy of Pluto. Pluto represents the deepest reservoirs of emotional energy, and is not a quality openly expressed in childhood. However, when a personal planet or angular point in a chart is connected to Pluto, then this profound level of emotional and transformational energy is easier to see. Pluto also represents deep-seated anxieties or fears, which are, for lack of a better description, absorbed into the psyche.
For a child, it’s virtually impossible to direct an awareness of this energy, since the personal self must be well developed before knowledge of this esoteric plane of consciousness awakens. In fact, most adults have difficulty with this part of the self! Although the energy of Pluto may be felt during the childhood years, it is not usually a conscious expression at this time.
Pluto moves very slowly through the zodiac, and its sign tells more about the transformational influence Pluto will have on that particular generation than it will about the changes in the individual. John was born at a time when Pluto was in Leo (1938-1957). The generational influence of Pluto has focused on the significance of individual will, and its uses for good or ill. The power of the individual, with all its trappings, fascinates this generation. The emotional drive of Pluto in Leo is to restore the value of personal expression.
As with the other transpersonal planets, the House position of Pluto is the area of life where you help John get in touch with a need for healing and transformational change. Pluto’s energy in the 4th House can indicate a deep sense of connection to family and tradition. However, this placement also suggests the potential for a fear of abandonment and a sense that the security base can be destroyed at any moment. Major changes in family in the early years will have a deep impact on John’s psyche, and will need special attention and care.
You’ve discovered that the Ascendant is like the window-dressing or mask of the personality, but connections from planets to the Ascendant can also alter how John expresses his emotional self.
With the Sun in a frustrating contact with the Ascendant, John may want to be noticed, but can be a bit awkward about drawing attention. Developing a healthy self-image may require extra support and understanding, since he can sometimes feel like he sticks out "like a sore thumb."
Sometimes, planets appear to move backward in their orbital path from our viewpoint here on Earth. When that happens, we say a planet is retrograde.
There can be a strengthening of personal faith with Jupiter retrograde, because ideals and philosophical beliefs are developed within the self. John’s ideals and morals may run counter to those of society at large, because he is likely to give them extra thought! Writers William Butler Yeats (who wrote extensively about mystical philosophical concepts) and Upton Sinclair were both born with Jupiter retrograde. The expansive energy of Jupiter is positively enhanced when retrograde, because the inner search for truth is strongly empowered.
Trusting inner security is a primary lesson for any child born with Saturn retrograde. John may also innately mistrust authority. Saturn provides structure, direction and discipline, and teaches us about our priorities. Having this planet in retrograde sometimes makes it difficult to learn these lessons at first. Saturn retrograde may indicate problems relating to the parent who provides this structure in the early years. If this parent is inaccessible to John, either because he or she is absent, constantly working, or emotionally distant. John must learn to go within and achieve his own sense of structure, direction and personal discipline.
Questions about safety can be paramount. Affirmations which confer a sense of confidence, achievement and personal strength can be powerful tools. John can be remarkably self-disciplined and focused once this sense of self-doubt is overcome. Pianist Van Cliburn, actor Sean Connery, dancer/actress Leslie Caron and singer Dionne Warwick were all born with Saturn retrograde.
John’s sense of uniqueness and individuality -- exemplified by the energy of Uranus -- can be strongly accentuated, since Uranus is retrograde in his chart. There is a powerful urge to break free of all forms of restriction and achieve true personal freedom. The knowledge that external freedom can only come when inner freedom exists is inborn. Many individuals born with Uranus retrograde have achieved positive recognition for their special talents. Some examples are Sir Winston Churchill, Johnny Carson, Katherine Hepburn and Anne Morrow Lindberg. John will need acknowledgment of his uniqueness, especially if he has Uranus retrograde in the angular houses (1st, 4th, 7th or 10th). Otherwise, he may feel out of step with everyone else.
IV. Fostering Creativity and Spirituality
Children seem to be inherently connected to spiritual awareness and expression. Their joy in the daily discoveries of life can be infectious, and a child’s sense of wonder brings light into life. To help a child find Truth and embrace a sense of The Divine, very little encouragement is needed. But it is necessary to support this natural connection, and can make all the difference in John’s ability to trust himself.
One of the most significant ways to help John awaken and touch Spirit is to foster his creativity. It’s not necessary for every child to be a consummate artist, but each child needs room to experiment with the creative self. There are several factors in the astrological chart that support the development and expression of personal creativity.
Beyond education and development of the intellect in a more formal sense, Mercury plays an important role in self-expression. After all, this is the energy of linking ideas and concepts from the inner self to the outside world -- and back again! One of the creative influences of Mercury in Scorpio can be developed in the early years by encouraging artistic play with in nature. Even an afternoon in the backyard can become an adventure of discovery. Digging may be fun, so provide adequate small gardening tools, a sandbox and, later on, microscopes and telescopes, and a chemistry set. In art, heavier media like oils might be preferred, but sculpting and pottery can also be enjoyable.
Venus, the expression of artistry, is, of course, an important part of creativity. This is the energy through which John experiences and expresses feelings. In many respects, while the Moon represents "feeling," Venus represents "emotion" -- which is the voice of feeling. Venus also represents beauty, a quality deep within which every child needs to feel, identify and express.
Encourage John to get in touch with expressions that feel good to his heart! Special talents and creative interests can include anything that uses a fine attention to detail. Simple skills like coloring and drawing in early years may lead to fine-line drawing and etching, drafting, designing, anatomical drawing, or calligraphy. Modeling clay designs can develop into sculpting. A love of models and miniatures can become lifelong expressions which are later enhanced using skilled design techniques with computer-aided enhancements. A desire to develop the mind may be powerful, and writing or public speaking can be cultivated by early bedtime reading and story-telling to encouraging extra effort in classroom presentations. There may be and interest in sewing and crafts, too. In music, percussion instruments like piano or drums played with the hands can be highly enjoyable.
With Venus in the 5th House, John has a powerful need to dramatize his talents. Artistry needs to be fun, and should give him a chance to show off -- at least a little! Play-acting can be especially enjoyable, and he might truly enjoy school or community plays and performances as a way to express himself. If music is a particular leaning, then musical performance might be the best avenue -- solo or with a band or group.
To get past purely self-centered awareness, the expansive energy of Jupiter encourages a child too reach out and expand his personal universe. Through Jupiter, John can begin to build a basic philosophy of life, and exercise his sense of hope and vision. The need to reach out and give is Jupiter in action, but so is enthusiasm. Most important, when John is in touch with Jupiter, he is inspired! Here is the desire to grow, to reach into new horizons, to feel adventure and joy. While it may take a lifetime to develop a personal philosophy or explore religious teachings, during childhood, John does feel wonder about universal principles, a Higher Power, and endless questions called, "Why?"
Moral questions flow through the realm of Jupiter, and learning higher principles through inspiring teachers and mentors is another outpouring of this energy. It is generally not until a child has developed some measure of cognitive skill that the awareness of Jupiter can be taught. During elementary school and preteen years, this energy begins to flourish. Jupiter is a function of the higher mind, the part of our consciousness that can connect with the Divine. The early awareness of Jupiter deals primarily with the concepts of sharing, positive thinking, enthusiasm and hope for reward.
Spirituality is exceptionally important in John’s life, since Jupiter’s placement in the 1st House indicates that he will wear philosophical attitudes as part of identity. Spiritual lessons which allow John to understand that his outlook, optimism and generosity will have a strong impact on the way other people feel about him will be welcome. There can be a tendency to try to keep everyone happy, but this planetary influence also shows that there is a natural sense of humor -- a jovial nature. Laughter should be encouraged, but teaching when and where it is appropriate can be rather tricky! There can be a boisterous quality to personality, but in general, John will simply prefer expressing joy any day of the week. A spirituality which fuels this type of expression will be most meaningful to John.
Then, there is the world of dreams and imagination. Neptune’s placement in the chart indicates the areas where a child dreams most easily. The sensitivity Neptune adds to life allows John to connect with the spiritual, nonphysical realm. What child is not a master at make-believe? But this energy is also an expression of Divine Compassion, and it needs special support and nourishment during childhood. Encouraging John to trust his dreams, while identifying the difference between the "real" and "imaginary" world can be quite a job. But it is a very important one, since walking between the inner world and the outside world requires special awareness. There is nothing inferior about imagination, nor is there anything wrong with beliefs, since there are many expressions of reality.
Another feature of this energy is the expression of charity. A child taught to give to others less fortunate is definitely a blessed child!
Because Neptune moves very slowly, it is another of the generation-focused planets. Other children John’s age will likely have Neptune in the same sign. John was born when Neptune was in Virgo (1929-1943), and is part of a generation whose ideals centered around duty. Part of the "silent generation," these individuals learned from their parents to sweep problems beneath the carpet or to deny problems that were too socially inappropriate. However, the resulting awakening lead to a probing of the unconscious -- a need to look at deeper causes. The spiritual and creative quest for this generation is "to make things better.
Neptune’s placement in the chart shows the areas where a child can easily dream. This also provides indicators of the facet’s of life where John can feel a desire to let go or to exercise compassion toward others. John needs to put imagination to work in more practical ways. He might be the neighborhood bird rescuer or might enjoy a chance to do something nice for a sick friend, since Neptune in the 6th House brings a special sensitivity toward care-taking. Developing drawing skills or getting into the creative flow playing a musical instrument could keep imagination flowing. He might have fun with the video camera, too.
V. Perceptions of the Parents
Guess what? You can tell how John is likely to see his parents by looking at his own chart! Understanding how John perceives Mom and Dad can be especially helpful, since what John hopes to see and needs to experience from parents forms the basis of his sense of Self.
When John feels happy and full of joy, the world looks bright, too. But if John is physically or emotionally low, his behavior and responsiveness suffer. In relationships with others, children and adults alike will project their feelings and perceptions onto other people. John needs to experience himself through projecting his needs onto the people in his personal environment. In fact, the undeveloped Aspects of the Self are usually projected onto others as a means of "seeing" these feelings or needs manifested in some way. Projection is a key factor in human psychology.
In many instances, the other people are reasonable targets for those projections, especially if their connections are bound by emotions or other commitments. A child looks to Mother as the person who will reflect the nurturing feminine needs. Mother represents the inner feminine self for boys and girls alike. John may even see things in Mother that Mother does not recognize as the way she is!
John’s Moon sign shows how he perceives Mother. It makes no difference whether Mother sees herself in this light or not -- the child holds these particular perceptions what Mother needs to be because he is projecting his own inner needs for security onto her. As John matures into adulthood, these perceptions determine how John will play the nurturing and mothering role toward others.
Through John’s eyes, Mother is highly unusual and independent, since the Moon in Aquarius projects some unique qualities onto Mother. Mom seems free spirited, innovative, and highly mental or intellectual with strong ties to the community and outside world.
With The Moon in a tense connection to Venus, John may not be entirely comfortable with Mother. Part of the problem can be the feelings that Mother is difficult to please. Remember, this is a projection by John, whose self-esteem needs extra support. Encourage John when he excels, offering appropriate praise. Just as important, be aware of how criticisms are presented, since John may feel them very deeply.
Since the Moon and Mars are harmoniously connected in John’s chart, he may see Mother as assertive, a woman ready to stand up for her own rights and beliefs. Mother can seem to be strong-willed. However, it’s important that Mother shows John how to stand up for his needs in a healthy way, since the model she shows can be especially significant.
Through the dynamic connection between the Moon and Pluto, John feels a truly primal bond with Mother. Mom is powerful, absorbing, and perceived as "all-knowing." John may even sense that Mother holds the power of life and death. If Mother seems highly judgmental, it could be that John is projecting strong guilt-oriented ties with Mother. She may also be expected to be "Superwoman" -- able to cook dinner while leaping tall buildings with a single bound. This projection originates from the deep levels of the psyche, where John feels that he must be more than human, so, of course, Mom is superhuman, too.
Since John’s emotions will be intense and often painful, Mother may be experienced as heavy and emotionally intense, and may overwhelm John with her own emotionality. Mother can aid the child by striving to maintain open communications with him. She needs to give John opportunities to exercise and own his personal power, beginning in the early years.
The other qualities projected onto and around Mother fall into the category of denial of need. While those "don’t feel" messages can be delivered in all sorts of ways, sometimes Mother is not aware that she could be doing damage, and John does not know to ask for anything else. Parents need to understand that John may feel that Mother is trying too hard to be everything. Mom needs to take the time to let the tenderness between herself and her little one serve as healing elixir.
The Sun, the primary masculine energy in the chart, is also described as a person’s sense of "self". A young child has a very limited true sense of self, and is not likely to "own" these qualities until the preteen years or later. This sense of individuality may be strongly tied to the initial relationship with Father and, later, to interactions with other significant male figures. In early childhood development, John’s Sun does not express fully as an individual ego. The Sun powerfully affects the child’s perceptions of Father; if the father is supportive and consistent, John may feel that his or her own individuality is reliable and strong. John’s perceptions of Father are strongly symbolized by the energy of the Sun in the astrological chart.
Until he can own them, John will project the refined, socially powerful qualities of the Libra Sun onto Father, who may seem to be the personification of the skillful diplomat. He is very likely to exhibit many of Dad’s special mannerisms or speech patterns.
With the Sun in the 6th House, John needs to see Father as a safety net, especially in times of trouble. He may need Daddy there on trips to the doctor’s office, and when he is ill will find Daddy’s presence very comforting and necessary. John sees him as the person who can fix anything.
Father is seen as the great provider, since the connection between Sun and Jupiter is likely to be projected as a kind of "Santa Claus" image. If for any reason John’s Dad provides many material things to compensate for lost time, this can become problematic. Father may be viewed as optimistic or enthusiastic, and John will look to Father to provide inspiration and praise for his achievements.
Then, there is a need for solidity, structure and safety -- and most children look to parents to establish this for them. A child is not capable of understanding the ways of the world, but will learn about them eventually. Nor does a child understand the need for limits. It’s up to parents and teachers to set these limits and expose a child to the rules of life. These rules, tests and structures are identified by the energy of Saturn.
There can be a downside, since Saturn energy feels judgmental and limiting much of the time, especially in childhood. Many children are anything but delighted at the prospect of being "responsible" -- that’s what adults are supposed to be, not kids!
The placement of Saturn not only symbolizes the parents, but also authority in society. Saturn does not necessarily represent one parent or another. Here is discipline, structure, and stability. This is also tradition. For the better part, what Saturn symbolizes is the story of how John needs to be stabilized and what he requires in terms of a sense of safety and security.
Saturn in Taurus signifies a need for consistent, stable lessons and teachers. John will need to see parents as providing reasonable, loving restraint, and he will appreciate sound material and personal stability. John will definitely model the parents’ attitudes toward natural and personal resources.
Saturn in the 1st House cries out for confirmation of the Self . John needs to be positively acknowledged by parents and teachers. He will look to parents to understand how to handle responsibility, and consistency from parents is hugely important.
Ultimately, as John moves through the various ages and stages of childhood, he will be able to incorporate all these qualities and expressions once seen through others, into himself. However, some vestiges of our childhood remain throughout a lifetime. Think of the concepts in this report as the building blocks for the person who will become John through the course of these early years. And enjoy every moment of your journey together!
Text Copyright 2000 by Gloria Star. All Rights Reserved.