Astrological Biographies – Combining Your Resume and Natal Chart

Astrological Biographies

Aside from the client work I perform as a consulting astrologer I also utilize my writing and public relations skills to help promote individuals seeking new employment or enhancing an existing career/business/service.

Often times as we promote ourselves we are expected to create a short biography whether it’s for our resume, the about page on our blog/website or for our marketing materials used to seek further consideration of services rendered. Typically a person will find it quite challenging to come up with a creative biography that captures their true identity or allows them to stand apart from their competing peers.

Since I like to believe that no two people are alike and our astrological/natal chart reveals our core identity and personality, it is only fitting for me as an astrologer and writer to combine these two talents to produce attention grabbing and heart-warming biographies. I essentially will combine a person’s resume with their birth chart to showcase one’s talents and accomplishments while also expressing their motivations and desire to produce the essence of their work.

As a former recruiter I have reviewed thousands of resume, likewise as an astrologer I have researched hundreds of charts – both revealing one’s abilities and achievements.

Bios can vary from 50 to 2000+ words depending on what your needs may be. Bios can be one sentence such as in an elevator speech or as long as a chapter in a book that highlights your life, personality and successes.

If you are about to embark upon any of these reasons to have/need a biography, consider contacting me:

Need for “about page” on website/blog

For Resume or CV

Marketing materials to include brochures, newsletters

Ideal for branding your personality

Your book or other such publishing such as a guest blog, newsletter, articles

LinkedIn bio

Needed for job hunting especially if you are freelancer

For rates and other questions please contact Linda at LMFuriate@gmail.com.

It is essential to have accurate knowledge of your birth time to obtain a more in-depth biography.

 

Are You Confused Right Now?

This post today is for all of you born between December 1959 and September 1961. Have you ever felt so lost and confused in your entire life as you do right now? Are you experiencing self-doubt and major uncertainty on the direction of your life and feeling anxious beyond your normal and occasional feelings of inadequacy that most of may feel from time to time? Words to describe this past year or so would be nebulous, extreme confusion, intense restriction, self-pity and limitations. We may find ourselves running off to escape the realities of life all the while knowing we need to be responsible for ourselves and those around us; however we don’t know how to push forward without guidance. Pouring a glass of wine and saying ‘screw it’ feels more comforting than searching the wants ads for a job or figuring out what we plan to do with the rest of our lives. It’s as if this past year God has turned off the ‘I’m here to walk with you’ sign and now it’s totally up to you to find your path in life. There’s no more negotiating with the heavens to offer up that one last favor to get what you think you want out of life. Do you feel like the door to Spirit is closed?

It’s times like these that I am so thankful I am an Astrologer!

Those of us born in the time frame listed above had the planet Neptune transiting at approximately 6-9 degrees of the zodiac sign of Scorpio. (This is pretty much everyone I graduated from high school with.) Neptune is considered a generational planet in that it transits a sign at certain degrees for an extended period of time moving much slower than say the planet Mercury which rotates the Sun approximately every 88 days whereas Neptune takes 165 years to orbit the Sun. Mercury may move through the constellation of Scorpio in as little as 2 ½-3 weeks, while it takes Neptune about 14 or 15 years. Neptune rules the oceans, its dreamy, mystique, full of spirit and delusional as it is associated with fog so we become confused and disoriented. The planet Neptune and its association with the sign of Pisces rules drug and alcohol addictions, dance, glamour and anything illusionary. Its where we tend to deceive ourselves or seek the ideal.

As we age moment by the moment the planets continue on in their transit through the sky. As an astrologer who enjoys doing some prediction – or at least interpreting why one is currently experiencing certain issues I always look to the planet Saturn. Since December 2012 Saturn has been transiting back and forth (retrogration) over these 6-9 degrees of Scorpio making its final pass this month of September. Saturn is the planet of restriction and limitation. He is like the father figure telling us to grow up and be responsible, but not having the warmth and heart to show us how. Saturn in Scorpio expresses an intense desire and determination to transform a part of ourselves, however as he sits on top of our natal Neptune therein lies the intense confusion and feelings of inadequacy. The last time we had such strong feelings for a lack of direction was around 1983-84 when most of us were beginning a new path after graduating college. I ask each of you to re-examine those early years of what you thought you wanted out of life, more than likely that is where you will find your same sense of joy and accomplishment yet with 30 additional years of life experience. The key will be to dig deep to find our real motivators for making the decisions we did 30 years ago to now build upon those mistakes, joys and life lessons to move forward into a life of peace, tranquility and sense of accomplishment.

For those of you born after these dates in the early 1960’s get ready for the same adventures.

Even though you may be experiencing relationship issues, financial woes or a sheer lack of enjoyment for life the real truth of these issues may be found in a deeper more psychological part of self. I am always available for consultation to help determine what area of life may need re-examining.

Offering peace and joy,

Linda Furiate

www.ofuniversalmind.net

Linda@ofuniversalmind.net

Kitchens to Keep

Kitchen/Curio Cabinet & Pantry Cleaning

Is your Kitchen disorganized and dirty? Do you find yourself spending too much time looking for what you need?

Are you planning a family event in your home and are embarrassed with the inside of your kitchen cabinets?

Are you tired of having to clean dishes or pots and pans just taken from the cabinet prior to using them as they have collected years of dust and dirt?

Then consider Kitchens to Keep to bring joy, beauty and cleanliness back into your family’s favorite gathering spot – Your Kitchen.

Cleaning Services Provided:
Kitchen Cabinets
Curio/China Cabinets
Pantries
Refrigerators
Additional Services:
Kitchen Set up & Organization upon move in/move out
After Construction Dust Cleanup

Kitchens to Keep is beyond your every day cleaning service

Linda Furiate, Owner
Columbia, MD 21044
(443) 794-5087
LMFuriate@verizon.net 

 

Yoga Teaching without Sight

This article is re-posted from Jill’s List. Kelly has been a dear friend for over 30 years. Her spirit and enthusiasm for life simply amazes me, despite her total loss of vision. Linda Furiate

In this fast-paced, high tech world that we live in, finding a balance of mind and body is a challenge but also a necessity for good health. Yoga is a perfect way to bring these two entities together.

Being a forty-nine year old woman, wife, mother and business owner, I have my share of challenges. In addition, I am blind which requires even more determination to find a balance between health and success.

I am one of those people who found out the amazing benefits of a regular yoga practice the hard way. In 2006, I hurt my back and was in physical therapy for six weeks, and still was not even close to 75% mobile. I have always been very active and maintained a weekly work-out routine, so you can imagine how frustrating this was for me.

In the fall of 2006, I received a call from a friend of mine at our local YMCA informing me of yoga classes starting soon. My first thought was that I couldn’t move very well, so how was I going to do yoga? I had heard that yoga was based on meditation and spiritual connections. Being very close to God and very spiritual myself, I thought I should give it a try, and if I couldn’t do the poses at least I could learn how to cope with my pain through meditation.

As it turns out, I loved yoga and it helped my back as well as my whole body tremendously. Being a blind student was a challenge for me and also for my teacher, but I took the initiative and hired my teacher for private instruction. During my sessions, my yoga instructor would tell me how I was helping her to be a better teacher and she encouraged me to become a teacher myself.

I took her advice and practiced for another year before I applied for RYT 200 certification classes in 2008. I had major challenges in achieving this goal but nothing was going to hold me back. I started adding meditation to my prayer time, and breathing exercises throughout this process. This was an incredible combination of mind and body balance that helped me focus on my goal. I wish I would have had this balance of mind and body when I was a part of corporate America and its pressures for 25 years, but in saying that, I know that I am who I am today because of what I accomplished in the past.

Opening my home studio in September of 2009 was a dream come true for me. Creating the name was easy. Yoga One on One, which was exactly the path I was on. I have had the honor and the pleasure of introducing new students to the wonderful world of yoga and its many pathways to a stronger and more flexible body, and a sounder and more productive mind. I also encourage my students to focus on their strengths, not their weaknesses. I am a hands-on teacher. I use the eyes I have in my ears and in my hands to be the best yogi I can be. There is so much you can learn about your students by listening to them. How they are breathing, how their body is moving and what, if anything, they are saying during the practice. Placing a hand on their spine can tell me a lot about their alignment. I always ask permission before I place my hands on their body.

Sometimes I think that I have an advantage over a traditional teacher. I can’t read a class plan so everything comes out of my head based on the presence of my student that day. I have a sequence planned but it may not be fitting for that session, so I just go with the flow. If you have never taken a yoga class before, I encourage you to try one. I would also recommend that you do your homework and find the appropriate class for you. Yoga classes vary in levels and styles. Find the one that is right for you. If you can afford it, I suggest doing as I did, and arrange a private session, or practice beginning poses and body alignment before your first class.

Never give up on your goals and dreams, there is always a way to achieve them. I would like to share with you the mantra that I wrote in Yoga Teacher Training that my students and I say to close our yoga practice.

“With each breath our heart expands, With each breath our spine extends, With each breath our mind opens, With each breath our body mends.” Namaste!

Kelly Konopik James is a RYT 200, and the owner of Yoga One On One, LLC, a yoga studio in Elkridge, MD specializing in one on one yoga classes. She is also an Usui Reiki Master, who feels strongly about the power of the human touch, and the positive effects it has on the body. She is a very spiritual person with a thirst for learning and commitment to continue to build her practice. Kelly has faced many challenges in her previous careers, but she feels empowered and strengthened from all experiences both good and bad. She feels these experiences will make her a better practitioner as she moves towards the next fifty years of her life. Being a woman, wife, mother and business owner, she feels very blessed to be the person she is today.

By Kelly Konopik James
March 18, 2013
To contact Kelly, e-mail her at yoga.1on1@verizon.net

Astrologer helps people who have suffered disability and illness

Baltimore astrologer Linda Furiate has been helping people who have addictions, disability and illness achieve their life goals and dreams.

Her astrological specialty is working with people who have drug and alcohol addictions as well as those who have experienced a major life setback due to a diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson’s Disease, cervical dystonia or paralysis.

“By looking at their charts, I can help them understand who they are which allows them to make critical life choices and motivates them to achieve their life goals and dreams,” Linda Furiate said.

Linda Furiate has also recently started providing personal forecast readings through It’s In The Stars at http://www.itsinthestarsonline.com.

It’s In The Stars website founder, Elizabeth Ball said, “I am very proud to welcome Linda to our team of astrologers”.

Linda Furiate’s clients, who live around the world, consult with her to help understand what’s going on in their lives.  

Customers can visit the website to book a range of astrologers such as Linda Furiate who is based in Baltimore, as well as others in the United States, Australia, United States, Canada, and New Zealand.

Her clients are often very concerned with what their special destiny is.  

“Many people want to understand their partner better, know good timings for planning important events and for understanding why they feel like they do at the moment,” said Linda Furiate.

According to Elizabeth Ball, you don’t have to live in the same city for an in-person consultation.

“All you need is a laptop or PC and a Skype connection and you can talk with them no matter where you live in the world.”

It’s In The Stars features a select group of expert astrologers who help clients understand their chart, discover the planetary links between them and their partners, and find out how to best navigate times of change.

“You can read each astrologer’s biography and see if what they provide resonates with you,” Elizabeth Ball said.

The astrology consultations also make wonderful, unique birthday gifts for someone special.

“Simply enter in your three preferred dates and times with your preferred astrologer, and he or she will confirm your 60-minute reading with you.”

It’s In The Stars at http://www.itsinthestarsonline.com has been delighting couples, parents and individuals with its high-quality astrology reports about relationships and children since 2005.

 

 

Book Review by Linda Furiate

Death in the 12^th House: Where Neptune Rules

Written by Mitchell Scott Lewis

As an astrologer and public relations professional I was excited to receive a copy of Mitch’s second, in a series of books. Death in the 12^th House: Where Neptune Rules was a much anticipated read. Like his first book Murder in the 11^th House, it was one that I didn’t want to put down as each brief chapter led to another twist and turn that delighted my sense of intrigue.

In Death in the 12^th House, Mitch takes us on a journey inside the world of rock ‘n’ roll music when the creative musical genius and 58-year old rocker, Freddie Finger is found dead. Freddie’s daughter and actress Vivian Younger, hires David Lowell, astrologer and detective, to help solve the mystery as to who killed her father, whom she dearly loved.

Throughout the read, Detective Lowell is sifting through the astrological charts of anyone and everyone who may have had something to do with Freddie’s death as he tries to find motive. Mitch provides the astrological data (date, place and time of birth) of numerous characters while offering up interpretation and prediction. As an astrologer myself, I must say his delineations were spot on.

The storyline itself moves along brilliantly as the author pieces together an ever-twisting and edge of your seat, exciting and rather comical plot that reveals many hidden truths about Freddie, his musical career and his tumultuous love life, while also educating his reader as to why Freddie may have attracted a long list of suitors who wished him death – many of whom having the potential of immense financial gain in his demise.

I highly recommend Mitch’s book to anyone who loves a great murder mystery written with that Gemini quality wit and to any Astrologer who wants deeper insight into the 12^th house and planetary aspects that may help or hinder a person’s integrity to commit murder.  In this 2^nd book, I really appreciated how Mitch began to tear down the emotional walls that Detective Lowell built regarding his own personal life. By doing so it makes this reader more fascinated and connected to the lead character. I love the way Death in the 12^th House ended; I am so looking forward to Detective Lowell’s next murder case to solve.

http://www.ofuniversalmind.net

BDTB2 – Interview with Marcha Fox

BDTB2 – Interview with Marcha Fox and Linda Furiate

Linda Furiate: It’s somewhat unusual for an astrologer to also have a physics degree. How do you explain reconciling two disciplines that are usually diametrically opposed?

Marcha Fox: It’s ironic that the people who believe in 11 dimensions and multiverses (the fancy name for more than one universe) are the first ones to put down astrology. Especially since the first astronomers – Kepler, Galileo and Copernicus, were astrologers seeking more accurate data.

Linda: Your talk for BDTB2 is entitled “Defending Our Universe.” Tell us more about this.

Marcha: As astrologers and for those who believe in astrology, sooner or later we’ll encounter someone who thinks we’re being duped by something that is no more than myth and superstition. I aim to provide various facts to respond to such statements which may make people stop and think and possibly do some serious investigation for themselves. Most unbelievers do so because that is what they’ve been told yet anyone who investigates astrology personally will discover its validity otherwise.

Linda: Is that how you came to be a “believer?”

Marcha: Yes. As a physics student I was initially brainwashed that there couldn’t be anything to astrology. I was writing a novel back in the 1980’s where the main character was a physicist and I wanted to make his ex-wife as annoying as possible so had her interested in astrology. In order to develop her character I had to learn something about astrology and in the process of my research I became converted myself.

Linda: Who are the groups most likely to oppose astrology?

Marcha: They seem usually to fall into one of three groups: General skeptics, scientists, and those who have been told by religious leaders that it is “of the devil.”

Linda: Do you deal with each group in the same way?

Marcha: No. And the first thing to consider with any of them is whether you’re trying to teach a pig to sing, which will frustrate you and annoy the pig. Skeptics in particular have their own beliefs set in stone and are usually a waste of time trying to convince. Your own personal testimony will mean nothing and it’s unlikely they’ll be willing to investigate astrology personally. From experience, dealing with skeptics is typically a waste of time.

Linda: What about the others?

Marcha: With scientists you can sometimes get to first base by appealing to them to use the scientific method of investigation, even though the data will be empirical. You can’t prove astrology with mathematical formulae but you can make some headway with a preponderance of data. My first response from those with religious objections is how could God’s creations give a message from the devil? Most religions don’t claim astrology doesn’t work. Their main concern that astrologer’s will provide inaccurate information. Many of my clients are practicing Christians showing that there must be something lacking in these imposed objections.

Linda: Do you think astrology will ever be proven scientifically?

Marcha: Astrology ties more easily into disciplines other than the hard sciences of chemistry and physics. It’s not likely to ever fit into simple mathematical formula such as E = mc2. However, it may be able to find credibility through research in parapsychology. A trained astrologer can usually tell from someone’s natal chart if they, of example, have psychic ability. This could help select test subjects who would have a higher probability of displaying these abilities in a given trial or experiment. There are enough practicing psychologists using astrology today that clearly it’s a useful tool.

Linda: What do you think it will take for astrology to be accepted into the mainstream?

Marcha: I think initial acceptance will come as psychologists continue to use it in their practice. From there it’s not much of a leap to be accepted by parapsychology researchers investigating consciousness and psi phenomena if they are able see a relationship between these certain abilities and the subjects’ natal charts. Once accepted in this realm, then the theory of biocentrism, which states that consciousness is the key element to existence, acceptance may be more forthcoming. Then, since biocentrism is compatible with quantum physics regarding the affect of an observer, that would get you some credibility with physicists. They may not ever be able to identify astrology’s physical mechanism to their complete satisfaction but, after all, the latest in string theory proposes 11 dimensions. Why can’t astrology simply exist in one of them?

Log onto http://www.astrologyconference.org to learn more about Marcha’s lecture “Defending our Universe” and to register.
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Breaking Down the Borders 2 – Speakers Talk about Their Lectures

BDTB2 – Read What the Speakers Have to Say About Their Lecture

As a way of gaining insight into the BDTB2 speaker’s lectures I asked them to offer us a brief preview of their lecture. I also wanted to know who should be attending and what one may expect to learn. Be sure to register for your favorites as seats are filling up quickly.

Here’s what our speakers had to say:

Pemo Theodore – Clarifying All Levels of Intimacy through the Love Asteroids
Saturday, 1 December 2012 6:00 p.m. GMT

Do you ever feel limited trying to understand the complexities about how we relate & our needs in relationship by looking at Venus, the Moon & 7th house? Do you really want to get to the Heart of relationship issues? The Love Asteroids provide incredible detail & clarity when looked at natally in relation to Venus & 7th house. Any relationship when viewed through the lens of the Composite Chart also is brought into high definition & clarity when using the Love Asteroids. Relationships & relating are full of mysteries and understanding the asteroids can help shine a light on what can sometimes appear pretty foggy.

To attend this lecture you need to know the basics of astrology and have an interest in relationship astrology. Be prepared to add new tools to your toolbox.
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Bruce Scofield – What We Really Know About the Mayan Calendar
Friday, 30 November 2012 10:30 p.m. GMT

I’ll be speaking from a no-nonsense point of view about the Mayan Calendar media event that is taking place now. There is a lot of mis-information out there and also some wild ideas floated by a number of self-appointed, non-native, New Age writers and speakers. My job is to present the facts and analyze them.

You may wish to attend this lecture if you are interested in the Mayan Calendar madness that is percolating below the surface of mainstream society. If you are the type of astrologer that is interested in questions like “what is astrology, really?” and “who should we believe when it comes to media events such as this one,” or better yet, you actually want to know something about a subject before letting other people do your thinking for you, you should sign up. On the other hand, if you are seeking some special astrological technique that you could immediately employ in your chart work that will surprise and amaze your friends, family and clients, you would get nothing out of this talk.
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Michael Erlewine – Buddhism and Meditation in Astrology
Saturday, 1 December 2012 9:00 p.m. GMT
I have been trained in meditation and Buddhist practice for over 35 years, read Tibetan, have published several books on meditation and scores of articles on related topics, and have run a dharma center teaching these topics for over 25 years.

As a counseling astrologer of almost fifty-years experience, I have found the traditional mind-training methods of the Tibetan Buddhist an invaluable aid in working with my clients. It is an assumption on the part of many astrologers that the mind, just as we have it at birth, is good to go, and needs no improvement.

Many Asian disciplines point out that our mind, like a dirty pair of glasses, has all kinds of obscurations that can be removed, giving us access to intuitions and clarity in handling our counseling workload.

This talk will be about how best to take advantage of these mind-training methods to improve your ability to help clients.

Professional and amateur astrologers who do readings for their clients should attend this lecture. We know how to read a chart, but we may not have the psychological tools we need to anticipate and best work with the problems that will be presented to us through clients. This talk will help to provide those tools so that we may better serve our clients.
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Joyce Hoen – Prenatal Progressions
Sunday, 2 December 2012 10:30 p.m. GMT

Anyone who has ever worked with secondary progressions can attend this lecture. The lecture however, does not deal with ordinary secondary progressions, but using the same technique, we will regress in time rather than progress in time, thus finding out how prenatal patterns which were operative in our families are part and parcel of our own chart and lives!
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Roy Gillette – Understanding World Change
Saturday, 1 December 2012 7:00 p.m. GMT

Understanding astro-cycles, astrologers learn from the past, but realize we cannot return to it. I will consider the nation charts of USA, China, the European Union, Turkey and Brazil. It is suggested that with Pluto in Capricorn and Neptune in Pisces, “consolidation and kindness”, not “growth” is the solution to world economic and social problems.

Any astrologers fascinated by the incredible relevance of mundane astrology and anyone seeking (or thinking they know) the answer to the economic and social challenges we all face should attend this lecture.
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Christeen Skinner – Harmonics
Sunday, 2 December 2012 7:00 p.m. GMT

Horoscopes can be geometrically simple and easy to read but most are complex. For example, you may not have a traditionally ‘close’ aspect between Mercury and Uranus (often seen in the charts of astrologers) but there will be an aspect between these two planets even if that aspect is not obvious to the naked eye.

Using harmonic techniques you can explore the relationship between any two planets and ascertain the years when those planets will work together most obviously. From the 2nd harmonic (180 degrees apart and a useful tool to understanding relationships) to the 125th harmonic, showing moments when habits and addictions may be broken, harmonics offer extra tools for use in interpretation.

The second, fifth, seventh, ninth, and eleventh harmonic will be covered. I aim to show which of these you should reach for before the client arrives so as to be well prepared for your encounter.

To benefit from this session you need to be familiar with your own chart and the symbols for different aspects – and that’s all.
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Erin Sullivan – Cosmic Shamanism: The Sighting of the The Outer Planets
Sunday, 2 December 2012 5:00 p.m. GMT

The charts of the sighting of the outer planets, Uranus, Neptune and Pluto were times of massive metamorphosis in the global experience. Each sighting birthed a new consciousness AND established a new motif/theme of people’s potential, activity, major changes in options in lifestyle and world-views. We will explore the charts and their relevance to new discoveries, alternatives and potentials in the human experience, and what that did for individuals. This talk leads into the interpretation of the transits of the outer planets as “shamans”, in that they lead us to a horizon never before seen and across that horizon to new developments in our own consciousness and options! A powerful tool in counseling people with outer planet transits, as well as analyzing global trends.

This lecture is aimed at all levels, from the early learner to the professional astrologer. Each individual will be able to apply the information into their work/study. The attendee will gain a ‘big picture’ view of the meaning/importance of the Outer Planets – Uranus, Neptune and Pluto as archetypal agencies as well as the powerful long term transits of each of these planets to the natal horoscope.
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Claire Chandler – Astrological Symbolism in Ancient Magic
Saturday, 1 December 2012 4:00 p.m. GMT

Magic is a much used and little defined word and one sometimes invoked along with astrology. Few astrologers have looked to see how astrology and magic actually worked together, know how the ancient world viewed astrology or how that legacy affects and influences our modern approach to these subjects. After all Greek and Latin are entwined around the roots of the English language.

There will be historical content in this lecture, so obviously those interested in the history of astrology would be interested, but I also hope to open up the lecture to cover aspects of magic and astrology and there should be rich food for thought concerning astrological practice.
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Gloria Star – The Astrology of Childhood
Friday, 30 November 2012 8:30 p.m. EST (01:30 a.m. GMT – Saturday, 1 December)

Astrology is an exceptional tool for child guidance, but the concepts and qualities we apply through astrology need to be adjusted when applied to children. In this class, we look at childhood through the lens of astrology, hopefully with vision more finely tuned as we’ve all gone through this period in our own lives! Integrating developmental psychology within a metaphysical framework is both challenging and rewarding. Whether you’re hoping to use astrology to better understand your own children, grandchildren, or students or if you want to gain more insights into your own childhood, this class is filled with great information!

Early intermediate to advanced astrological knowledge will be helpful to those attending this class.
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Greg Bogart – Progressing the Birth Chart
Friday, 30 November 2012 10:00 p.m. GMT

Progressing the birth chart is both the key to predictive accuracy and the means to understand the unfolding of personality over the course of time. This workshop will teach several methods of progressions in a live demonstration format. You will learn about your own chart and also how to apply these methods to working with clients.

Participants should be familiar with the basics of natal astrology.
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Eric Meyers – The Planets and Awakening
Friday, 30 November 2012 7:00 p.m. GMT

I’ll be speaking on the range of consciousness which interacts with each of the planets. We are in a process of awakening, which basically means moving from unconsciousness to greater awareness. Where we fall on this range determines how we partner with each planet. In the darkness of egoic defense mechanisms and survival needs, the planets are used only for self-interests. When we become more awake or enlightened, each of the planets takes on broader roles in our collective evolution. We’ll look at each of the major planets in astrology in light of this important variable.

Anyone interested in spiritual growth is more than welcome to attend. Participants will find an additional framework to understand the scope and functioning of planets. Instead of forming judgments about the planets (benefic/malefic), we’ll explore that how they manifest is completely up to our own quality of consciousness. We are in a co-creative relationship with the universe, and our level of awareness is the prime variable in understanding our role.
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Michael Munkasey – Compatibility: Its More Complicated that Sun Signs
Saturday, 1 December 2012 11:30 p.m. GMT

Compatibility, as one of the eleven “practices” of astrology, holds great interest. Just tallying the large number of astrology books written on this subject shows that. But, just what is “Compatibility”? How is it that a strong attraction of (say) three years ago turns into apathy today? Is Attraction the same as Compatibility? Or is it just one part? Is it the Sun or the Moon (or Saturn or whatever) that astrologers should first consider when comparing charts between two persons?

How would traits like these show in the layouts between two charts: Tolerance for Shortcomings, Communication, Growing along the Same Life Direction, Offering Support, Handling Conflict, Respect, etc.

In the 90 minutes I have for this interaction I do not say that I can cover everything, but I can certainly point out some useful and practical insights that may just improve ways that you can look at two charts in a “Compatibility” way.
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Georgia Stathis – Rulership: From a Modern Perspective
Sunday, 2 December 2012 8:00 p.m. GMT

We all need reminders, refreshers on rulerships, whether we use modern or ancient ones. This lecture focuses primarily on Modern rulership delineation with some reference as a contract and compare to classical. I was a teacher at Kepler College and suggests that without using rulerships we only get half the story when we delineate.

Beginners, Intermediate and even some advanced students and astrologers would benefit from attending this lecture. The idea is to spark some thought or revisit some memory in terms of how we read horoscopes.
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Rod Suskin – Astrology for Spiritual Guidance
Saturday, 1 December 2012 5:30 p.m. GMT

My lecture aims to provide practical ways for an astrologer to help a person find and follow their spiritual path, and to answer questions about their spiritual life without having to resort to any alternative or special belief systems. Too much spiritual advice in astrology assumes the client will believe in things like past lives, karmic lessons, etc., when in fact astrology does not necessarily offer those explanations for the spiritual experience. Many astrologers feel stumped by the question, and many students struggle to find authentic answers to spiritual matters with astrology.

Sticking to well established, traditional meanings of astrological significators, and using standard , well-known methods in astrology, I will show you how to offer legitimate advice based on sound astrology not your own belief systems, and how to gain insight into the client’s needs and ways of construing the spiritual life. I will also introduce just a few lesser known methods to suggest avenues for further exploration and deeper work. I use a mixture of modern and traditional methods while I am very firmly rooted in the traditional approach.

The lecture is aimed at both practicing astrologers as well as experienced students, although even novices will be able to understand and use a lot of the material. The lecture will also help you understand how astrology traditionally deals with matters of the soul so that you can develop your knowledge and ability as an astrologer without having to subscribe to other systems outside of astrology itself.
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Ani Bettati – Planetary Cycles: Saturn
Sunday, 2 December 2012 4:30 p.m. GMT

The Cycle of Saturn has clear manifestations in our lives, because this energy develops the spinal chord of our growth and allows us to integrate higher levels of all the Natal Chart. The energy that activates Saturn through the 12 phases enables us to become totally conscious, and overcome concepts of restriction, fears and feelings of limitation and as a consequence contact with freedom.

We can observe in a chart the Cycles of Saturn and its path through the twelve houses and simultaneously through the conjunction, squares and opposition to the natal Saturn.
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Maria Simms – Becoming Whole
Saturday, 1 December 2012 10:30 p.m. GMT

From the beginning of astrological study we become aware that the signs are grouped into elements and modes…but how deeply have you truly thought about that, for yourself and for each person whose chart you study? When you truly sense…and feel…the ancient elements of fire, earth, air and water, know which element is dominant in a chart, and how it expresses in the person, you have a highly important key to understanding. Then when you consider the polarities or masculine and feminine and the modes of cardinal, fixed and mutable, you gain a deeper sense of who this person truly is. You’ll find it easier to recognize blockages and blind spots, and how what might seem to be a challenge can be transformed into an asset and an ability. Your increased awareness of these basic categories, these tools of the ancients, can become your tools of the Now. You’ll expand your ability to bring your own elements, modes and polarities into a balance that works well in your life, and you become Whole – empowered to creative your future with confidence – and assist others whose charts you read.

This lecture is appropriate for students of every level of astrological knowledge. Technically, we’ll be dealing only with knowing how to identify the element, mode and polarity of each of the twelve zodiac signs and what each means. Then we’ll see how to determine from a simple wheel chart which element, mode and polarity is dominant for the person. In some cases, we’ll see that a chart can “break down” to one clearly dominant sign, while in other cases more than one sign might have equal dominance. Identifying the primary emphasis of element, mode and polarity can be a highly important key to understanding the astrology and the basic nature of a person, including a deeper understanding of self.
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Monica Escalante-Ochoa – Who is Right: Western Astrology or Vedic Astrology?
Sunday, 2 December 2012 9:00 p.m. GMT

I have been a western astrologer for more than 20 years and a Vedic astrologer for more than 10 years. I find both types of astrology really interesting to use to offer better natal readings as well as to provide more effective predictive trends to my clients.

As most Vedic astrologers from the western part of the world I started with the Western Astrology, but as soon as I got the opportunity to know about Vedic Astrology I started using both types of Astrology and finding more precise explanations.

I feel the most interesting part of this lecture is that after giving all the theory we will review some real examples of charts in both western and Vedic form while discovering how effective both types of astrology are.

This lecture should be interesting to all astrologers who have an open mind and believe that there is more than one way to “do” astrology. This lecture will help western astrologers learn Vedic and the Vedic astrologers will learn the basic of western astrology.
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Understanding Saturn and his Passage through the Depths of Scorpio

Understanding Saturn and his Passage through the Depths of Scorpio

By Linda Furiate, Dipl., IAA

The planet Saturn is the 6^th planet from the Sun and the second largest in our Solar system after Jupiter. Saturn’s passage through our tropical zodiac takes approximately 29.5 years to complete his journey around the Sun. This means he spends about 2 ½ years in each of the 12 astrological signs. On October 5, 2012 at 4:34 p.m. EDT Saturn will move into the watery sign of Scorpio entering at zero degrees while continuing on in his journey for thirty degrees to complete his 2 ½ year cycle.

In mythology Saturn, referred to as Kronos by the Greeks, is known as the earth god born from the earth-mother Gaia. In astrology Saturn is associated with the 10^th archetype of Capricorn and is considered cardinal earth energy. His purpose is to bring forth solid materialism in the form of social and physical structure. He is considered to be the very backbone and support of one’s life. For this reason, it is not uncommon for an individual to seek out the guidance of an astrologer (or other helping professional) when one is having a heavy or negative Saturn transit. Saturn’s job is to keep us in check while bringing us to our knees, making it obvious of what we need to do to bring us back into reality. He wants us to be the best that we can be and will make it known when it is time to get a better job, redefine a bad relationship or force us to become more financially responsible. By placing what some may call limitations, Saturn is holding us accountable asking us to be more responsible to Self.

Mainly Saturn operates out of fear. His virtues include – self-control, caution, thriftiness and dread, all of which are rather dreary. His purpose is to bring us limitation, frustration, sorrow, patience, self-denial and hard work when we are not acting in our best interest. However, on the bright side when we make that commitment to building purpose to our existence, Saturn is the first one to step up to offer us wisdom and the self-discipline to allow us to put forth the effort to achieve our goals. This is typically experienced through blood, sweat and tears and with a lack of humor – unless we can laugh at ourselves. Saturn’s lessons may be equated to our father standing over us demanding that we act responsibly while he measures our level of maturity. It is through his demands that we gain a true sense of freedom and self-understanding so that we may go out into the world as a self-sufficient adult. Saturn’s journey throughout our natal chart offers us the potential for great accomplishments and the joy of recognition in our outer world.

In order to understand Saturn as he transits through the sign of Scorpio let’s first talk about Scorpio. Scorpio is a fixed water sign and is associated with the swamp casting upon it a shadowy and somber characteristic. Scorpio’s role in the zodiac is about our neurosis’, healing and the ultimate desire for transformation. Scorpio energy is intense and passionate with a strong desire for sexual intimacy in order to transcend physical reality and to become one with another. It is through our relationship to another that allows us to heal from our emotional wounds that have made us to feel inferior and fearful of deeply expressing our intimate selves.  

While Saturn has been in the sign of Libra from October 2009 through October 2012 both personally and collectively we have focused on our serious relationships or relatedness to another.  In Libra we have been tested to re-gain the balance and fairness in our partnerships. Are we giving too much of ourselves and not equally gaining from the other? Or quite the opposite, are we failing to commit and blaming the other for our disharmony? Either way Saturn has been challenging us to seek the balance of equanimity with those whom we relate. 

As Saturn moves through the zodiac into the sign of Scorpio we build upon the theme of relationship in the sense of what we value and hold sacred with another. For our relationships that held together during the Libra phase now comes the time for healing, but not without a price. Scorpio’s intention is that of desire – a desire for intimacy, shared values, control, manipulation and the psychoanalysis of our shadow side. He asks us to expose our neurosis and by doing so will lead us to ultimate transformation if we are willing to penetrate the depths of our being.

This all may sound rather daunting, although if we go back to the brighter side of what Saturn represents we are now being awarded the opportunity to find the ultimate purpose to our inner and intimate self and bring forth all of those phobias about ourselves that we have kept buried for decades. We may realize that all of our fears have come from a place of our own insecurities that have brought us limitation, frustration and great sorrow while denying ourselves the simple pleasures of existence. As we learn to heal and expose this hidden shadow side of self through our most intimate relationships this will allow us to transform our being offering us the love, abundance and spiritual regeneration we are all seeking.

In order to understand what may need healing in your life think back to December 1982 through November 1985 when Saturn was last in the sign of Scorpio.

This article may not be for the light hearted – for that is the nature of Scorpio who is deep, dark and secretive, yet passionate, penetrating and invigorating.

Author Bio

Linda Furiate is a consulting astrologer and the founder of Of Universal Mind, a website decided to helping others find their true spirit through one’s natal chart. Her practice is located in Columbia, MD and she offers astrological consultations and readings to a worldwide clientele via the phone or Skype. Linda may be reached through her website www.ofuniversalmind.net.

Astrological Community Receives Sound PR Advice From Award-Winning Journalist Art Harris

Award winning journalist Art Harris has some advice for the astrological community.

In an interview posted on the Astrology News Service (ANS) website, the former Washington Post and CNN news reporter suggested the community is better served by a proactive media relations strategy.

The more the community is able to attach its message to breaking news the better. Keep doing studies, making forecasts about major events, profiling newsworthy personalities and offering insights into why certain things have happened the way they have.

Also, predict what might be new on the horizon, he said.

As a correspondent for CNN and Atlanta Bureau Chief for the Washington Post, Harris won two National Emmy Awards and 11 National Headliner Awards for consistently outstanding feature writing and investigative reporting. He’ll be offering more advice to the astrological community when he appears as the featured panelist on a community issues program, Working with the Media and Public Relations, which is scheduled for Thursday afternoon, May 24, 2012 during the United Astrology Conference in New Orleans.

Harris will be joined on the AFAN-sponsored panel by three members of the Astrology News Services Editorial Board – Gloria Star, Donna Woodwell and Managing Editor Ed Snow. Also participating in the program will be the UK’s Roy Gillett, Australia’s Chris Turner and American astrologers Eric Francis, Jack Fertig and program moderator David Railey.

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Linda Furiate from debilitation to determination

I’s like to share a recent Howard Magazine article on living with cervical dystonia. http://www.baltimoresun.com/explore/howard/publications/howard-magazine/bs-exho-linda-furiate-from-debilitation-to-determination-20120328,0,3345041.story

Linda Fuiate

Mars in Virgo and His Retrograde Cycle through the Chart

By Linda Furiate, Dipl.,IAA

Mars is the red planet, fourth from the Sun in our Solar system and is associated with warrior like qualities, assertive energies, our will, our drive and how we initiate our desires and ambitions. In modern astrology Mars is ruled by the sign of Aries, that of cardinal energy whose wit is to act compulsively, courageously and independently while eagerly willing to take the lead setting off to greet pioneering endeavors. His motto is declared ‘therefore I am’.

Before the discovery of Pluto, traditional astrologers considered Mars to be under the rulership of Scorpio as well as Aries. Here Mars is ruled by fixed energy and tends to act more deeply and passively allowing for more of a penetrating nature. His motivation to be vengeful and violent is driven by his passionate desire to probe the depths of secretive investigation in order to gain in power and awareness.

Mars takes 687 days to orbit the Sun, spending approximately 57 days in each astrological sign while stationing retrograde every 25 months. On January 23, 2012 Mars began his retrograde cycle in the sign of Virgo. Mars will stay retrograde for a period of 80 days turning direct on April 13, 2012. We will typically know when Mars is about to turn retrograde when Saturn is about to change signs. Saturn was at 29° Libra when Mars turned retrograde. Because of the retrograde cycle Mars will remain in the sign of Virgo for nearly 8 months. This is about 4 times longer than its usual approximately 2 months. So what is this telling us and how may the Mars in Virgo retrograde energy play out in our chart?

First, let’s understand the energy of Virgo. If we look at the modern rulership of Mars in Aries we notice that the energy between Aries and Virgo creates a quincunx aspect (150° by sign). Hence while Mars transits the sign of Virgo we first note that adjustments in our way of expressing our energy will be altered or will need to be altered. While Mars wants to drive us forward in a competitive nature, in Virgo, Mars is asked to become more practical. He is now forced to be more discriminative and analytical in order to push forth his desires which may not always be an easy task for this self-assured and disruptive ball of energy. Since Virgo rules our habits and routines with Mars here now is a great time to work hard on developing new systems that allow for a more healthy and productive lifestyle. Mars in Virgo is a time to make manifest all that we want to produce to make life more efficient while being open to change. You may even find yourself more willing to step up and to be of service to those in need.

Like with any personal planet transiting retrograde it is not typically a good time to start new projects. Because we are dealing with Virgo energy with the current Mars retrograde cycle common sense tells us to reconsider putting forth energy into an area of life, indicated by house, that will provide for a more healthy and productive existence. We can commence with a walking meditation while reflecting on our own behavior and how our past more assertive and aggressive energy may have had a negative impact on our health.

Take a look at your chart to see what house Mars in Virgo is transiting retrograde to offer you clues as to what area of life needs your re-view while focusing on what may enhance your health and overall well-being. Here’s a small sampling of when a retrograde Mars in Virgo revisits the 1st house -reconsider ways of enhancing your physical appearance to make you more marketable. In the 2nd – focus on ways to reclaim your self-worth and re-build financial security. In the 3rd – consider finishing up your education or working out difference with a sibling. In the 4th – clean your house or decide to get back and organize your family genealogy. In the 5th – slow down and spend more play time with your children and show them how to create a healthy productive lifestyle. In the 6th – break an old habit, this is an excellent time to quit smoking – it is best to have a detailed program to guarantee success. In the 7th – consider your close relationships and those you have been critical towards, offer practical solutions to regain harmony. In the 8th – reinvestigate surgical procedures that will enhance your health or make a follow up appointment to see your therapist. In the 9th – return to a past spiritual guru or re-read a publication dealing with your higher mind and overall life philosophy. In the 10th – take a mental health day from the office or clear out all of that unnecessary paperwork from your desk. Reassess some of those healthy habits and routines that got you the job in the first place. In the 11th – meet up with some long lost friends and go to the gym. In the 12th – regain your trust and faith that no matter what crazy stuff has been going on in the past 80 days, know that this too shall pass.

I welcome your feedback and comments on how the Mars retrograde cycle is affecting your life.

Stay well,
Linda Furiate

Book Review by Linda Furiate

Murder in the 11^th House by Mitchell Scott Lewis

Released September 6, 2011 Murder in the 11^thHouse focuses on David Lowell, an astrologer/detective who engages the astrology charts of those who have knowledge of the murder of an attractive, up and coming Judge in New York City. Murder in the 11^th House is the first in a series of books for the Starlight Detective Agency written by astrologer Mitchell Scott Lewis.

David works with his daughter, Melinda, a young defense attorney who is also a student of astrology. Together they seek to unravel the mystery as to who killed Judge Winston as Melinda tries to prove her client, Johnny Colbert innocence.

Mitchell does an excellent job weaving astrology into this detective work as he sorts through countless astrology charts seeking to understand those who knew Judge Winston and figure out why they may have had motive to cut short her existence.

I found Murder in the 11^th House not to be your typical astrology book, yet Mitchell explains aspects well enough that even those who know nothing about astrology can make sense of his analyses.
And for those of us who are more experienced astrologers, Mitchell is able to interpret planetary configurations while providing thought provoking delineations throughout this book to keep the reader engaged not only on the astrology, but more importantly on the intriguing and titillating murder plot.

To learnmore about Murder in the 11^th House visit www.mitchastro.com.

Cosmic Motion – June 2011

Cosmic Motion with Linda Furiate

After coming off a pretty laid back month filled with a lot of new activity it’s time to wind up our curiosity and put on our thinking caps as the Sun enters Gemini on May 21 @ 5:21 a.m. EDT., just in time for a socially active Saturday evening where laughter and friendship abounds as the Sun trines Moon in Aquarius. Be careful to keep the spirits at a minimum as all of that chatting and socializing may find you pouring in the wine as you spill out the words, waking up in the morning with a nice little hangover when the Sun sharply dances around Neptune. Monday 5/23 when Venus, the planet of love and pleasure joins up with a resourceful energetic Mars in Taurus, you may want to ditch work in favor of heading off to the mall or the Home Depot to finally purchase those things to help aid in your Spring spruce up. With Sun in Gemini and the personal planets in Taurus this is an excellent time to get outside and engage in conversation with all of your neighbors while digging in the earth as you plant those flowers and shrubs you just purchased. When the Sun sextiles Uranus on May 25 you may find some new surprises and opportunities to travel as we approach the Memorial Day weekend, an event celebrated here in the USA kicking off the summer months.

 June starts off with a Solar Eclipse on June 1 @ 5:03 p.m. EDT at 11 deg 02 min Gemini. According to Bernadette Brady in her book “Predictive Astrology – The Eagle and the Lark” this Saros series of eclipses is about groups and associations with its energy being about large, ambitious group projects. Saturn is also in sight of the Sun’s eclipse building upon the theme of communication and commerce making this new Moon a new beginning to easily get out there and socially network your way into learning how to mix business with pleasure. Get out your pencil and paper to write down all of the brilliant ideas that fill your mind. Be watchful as Mercury makes a harsh angle to Neptune as Neptune turns retrograde on June 3. You may find yourself talking about matters that offer no clarity and lead to deeper confusion.

On June 4 Jupiter eases its way into Taurus. Take these few days/weeks prior to the 4^th while Jupiter is still in Aries to initiate and discover as many new opportunities or desires as you can muster. Utilize that warrior spirit deep within to get out there and work your magic as you expand your future. Once Jupiter finds his way into the methodical and stable sign of Taurus you may have the occasion to manifest your dreams while slowly building upon your values, material assets and your ability to earn personal income. Be willing to remain practical in your desires and do not allow hard work to escape you, as you know anything worth having is worth working toward. Fortunately Jupiter’s transit through Taurus is for one year so you have ample time to secure your future.

On June 12 Saturn stations direct after its four month journey retrograde in the sign of Libra. How have your relationships been altered these past four months? Have you been more controlling than usual taking on the responsibilities of others feeling as though you are the more structured or disciplined one rather than your partner (the other) and then blaming them for your faults? When Saturn in Libra is Rx we are faced with issues of boundaries in our relationships, we tend to want to control the other rather than trust Universal intelligence. So as Saturn gains forward motion learn from your recent actions and gain the wisdom of the ages to help mend a healthy relationship, while letting go of the ones that limit your individuality within the partnership.

The second in a series of eclipses is the June 15 Full Moon Lunar Eclipse @ 24 deg 23 min Sagittarius. As the Moon’s full emergence is shadowed by the light of the Sun she has us yearning to speak our truth while illuminating our philosophical quintessence allowing us to come to the realization of our own personal perceptions or opinions and that of our higher self, bringing us a certain awareness. This may be a time when we wish to bask in the glory of our own all-knowing.

Enjoy the last few weeks of spring in the northern hemisphere. Change is in the air so learn to be flexible and see what you morph into.

Happy Father’s day to all of the dad’s out there on June 19 – be careful not to get into any power struggles with your words on this day – you may end up crying.

Dates to Observe *

5/21/11 @ 5:21 a.m. – Sun enters Gemini

5/21/11 @ 11:55 p.m. – Moon trine Sun

5/22/11 @ 3:32 a.m. – Sun sq Neptune

5/23/11@ 4:27 a.m. – Venus conjunct Mars

5/25/11 @ 2:48 a.m. – Sun Sextile Uranus

6/1/11 @ 5:17 a.m. – Sun trine Saturn

6/1/11 @ 5:03 p.m. – New Moon – Solar Eclipse – 11 deg Gemini

6/2/11 @ 4:03 p.m. Mercury enters Gemini

6/3/11 @ 3:07 a.m. – Mercury sq Neptune

6/3/11 @ 3:28 p.m. – Neptune stations retrograde

6/4/11 @ 9:56 a.m. – Jupiter enters Taurus

6/4/11 @ 3:58 p.m. – Mercury sextile Uranus

6/8/11 @ 10:42 p.m. – Jupiter sextile Neptune

6/9/11 @ 10:23 a.m. – Venus enters Gemini

6/10/11 @ 4:25 a.m. – Venus sq Neptune

6/12/11 @ 10:36 p.m. – Venus sextile Uranus

6/12/11 @ 11:52 p.m. – Saturn stations direct

6/15/11 @ 4:14 p.m. – Full Moon – Lunar Eclipse – 24 deg Sagittarius

6/16/11 @ 3:09 p.m. – Mercury enters Cancer

6/17/11 @ 12:53 a.m. – Mercury trine Neptune

6/17/11 @ 8:35 p.m. – Mercury sextile Jupiter

6/18/11 %@ 12:32 a.m. – Venus trine Saturn

6/18/11 @ 4:11 p.m. – Mercury sq Uranus

6/19/11 @ 3:18 p.m. – Mercury oppose Pluto – Father’s Day!

6/20/11 @ 10:50 p.m. – Mars enters Gemini

* All times EDT

The Complete Idoit’s Guide – Astrology Dictionary Book Review

I recently was sent a review copy of a newly published book written by Arlene Tognetti and Stephanie Jourdan, Ph.,D. with Cathy Jewell. It is another book in the Complete Idiot’s Guide series, with their book entitled “Astrology Dictionary“. Upon reviewing the book I found it to be an informative tool to be used by beginner astrologers or for those who would like one book to reference when they are unclear or in search of astrological terminology. The book lists over 1,000 terms and also provides a very brief insight into interpretation. By no way is this new “Idiot Guide’ meant to replace other astrology books, but rather it’s a fun tool to add your growing library. Arlene, has been a student of astrology for nearly 40 years. Her intention with her new book is to educate young people about astrology so that they may develop a greater interest in learning this craft. She feels that we are all in constant discovery of ourselves and that astrology is the perfect tool to help us discover our true nature.  Reviewed by Linda Furiate