The forces operating in 2010, which were apparent from an astrological point of view, were intense. 2010 was a tempestuous year of passage for many of us. 2010 was an opportunity to break open patterns and blast through belief systems as these archetypal forces propelled us into new territories. Many individuals had breakthroughs, while others had breakdowns.

 

The way these forces played out for my students and clients and me was apparent in the challenges that compelled some people to take risk consciously. Others felt they had no choice, as they were pushed into circumstances beyond their control. These changes reflected a change in or loss of a job, the loss of a home, disease and illness, and the loss of relationships. A sacrifice is called upon or demanded during change of this magnitude. 

 

During Biblical times and earlier, the importance of  sacrifice, that is, a sacrifice of an animal such as a goat or lamb, was recognized. This act took place on a collective ritual level. The sacrificed animal carried the loss of the collective, and it was said that such an animal was given direct access into heaven for the part it played in this ritual. While this sacrifice was symbolic, it served the collective as it transitioned into a new time, a new era, a new turn of energy without too much anxiety and hardship. (See the next posting for additional details and how to work with this change.)

 

Times have changed. A sacrifice such as the biblical sacrifice of a lamb would serve the collective during times of tremendous change. In our times, the sacrifice being called for is on the individual level. 2010 was the year of sacrifice. Those who did not succumb to anxiety or insecurities and who chose to risk moving into change and to sacrifice something in order to allow something new to come in will have an easier time going forward. The period of February through April peaks with excitement and a powerful surge of creative energy, a birthing into something new. This energy is about breaking away from any form of external control. We are witnessing this in the fall of corrupt dictatorial governments.

 

For the individual who is familiar with astrology, all this energy is taking place in the astrological sign of Aries. The focus of this energy is happening in the house that Aries controls in your chart.

For my students…how can we work with these forces? It is important to be grounded during this time of tumultuous change. Collectives as well as individuals will be challenged, so there will be an increase in chaos. It is important to practice heart-centering awareness, and then to create your personal symbol for this influx of energy, such as seeing it as Aries the Warrior. Once you objectify the energy, then you can act upon and with the energy. This can be done by opening yourself through heart-centered awareness and practicing tonglen (sending and receiving compassion) or by being present with the energy/symbol while it is embued with compassion. When you relate to and develop a relationship with this energy, then you become grounded with the energy and you move along your path of truth, centeredness, and integrity.