Solar Eclipse May 20, 2012 = Sun Gem-Moon Gem

Over at Julie Demboski’s Astrology we are advised to Take Shelter, Be Ready for the weekend of May 18-20, 2012 and as you know, the Cosmos will put on a brilliant display on May 20th with a Solar Eclipse @ 00Gem21.

Perhaps some astro-notes on the Sun-Moon blend of the eclipse may interest you since it’s a double Air combination of energies (mental) and you’re obviously intellectually advanced if you follow Astrology!

Plus, with all the social and systemic unrest in financial markets and governments, it seems notable to me that Sun Gemini-Moon Gemini is the natal personality blend of none other than John Maynard Keynes who informed us that, “Ideas shape the course of history.” I’ll add two more quotes from famous people who share the blend at the end of this post, one of which relates to the social ‘wedge issues’ that Republicans are attempting to divert public attention–and votes–toward during Campaign 2012. Well, the tactic worked for them before, right?

Sun Gem-Moon Gem denotes lots of nervous energy in the Collective as Summer 2012 heats up with impatience toward the emotions of others, and there is a multitude of role-playing, game-playing, lateral thinking, and fast talking (some of which may be duplicitous–Gemini) in evidence. Criticism, analysis, cutting remarks, contradiction, and mimicking of others will be used or experienced with some people being desperate for rational control of our minds.

Lively, friendly gatherings are preferred, yet self-absorption is indulged in, and double standards are on the Gem-Gem menu for the next 6 months under the rays of this Solar Eclipse. Other themes include the usual Mercurial ones: trade, commmerce, travel, communications, and modes of thinking along with computer-related matters; teaching and learning are prominent and in the news, with ‘news’ being a province of Mercury as well.

In the realm of Politics (and Political Astrology), a sextile from Neptune in early Pisces affects both Sun and Moon and we find that leaders (Sun) may use their talents to confuse people by giving fragmented information which divides our attention to various ‘pieces’ of the puzzle rather than to the whole picture; a politician–or his staff members–may be successful in providing only the info that throws the best light upon the politician or party. (What else is new, right?)

Simultaneously, nebulous Neptune’s effect on the Moon (the people; the public) indicates that we must guard against these obfuscations, delusions, and illusions if we wish to avoid being ensnared in the fantasy of false reality. One aid for this is to take time to research (Mercury!) deeply and consider other opinions so that we see beyond superficial ideas and attitudes since surface appearances seldom tell the full–or true–tale of any matter or issue. Yes, half-truths are the handiest and most-often believed tools for deception.

Compassion and empathy will be felt (and needed) by many yet religious leaders may be the very culprits who mislead, exploit, and misdirect us–Mercury rules the eclipse and two of Mercury’s archetypes are The Thief and The Trickster.

Beware too much indulgence in negative escapism which weakens the mind and body such as alcohol and other drugs, or whatever suppresses your truest and deepest emotions (movies, TV, sex, etc.) A respite from duties is fine, of course, but 24/7 avoidance of responsibilities will come back to haunt–it’s usually better to deal with reality before it deals with you in a harsher way.

Expect partisan ‘dog whistles’ and ideological code words and catch phrases to continue to be used in abundance through the summer as Campaign 2012 grinds on; also indicated are: refined feelings, instability (Gemini, a Mutable sign), indolence, lying, strange influences, inner visions, and far-reaching wishes which make for a mentally challenging, stimulating Solar Eclipse influence, and with Mercury ruling Young People, the Occupy Movement gains momentum and takes its place in the news again though some ‘eclipsing’ such as police action is to be expected as The Establishment (Saturn) fights back against social change.

All this being said, we must remember that all eclipses, both Solar and Lunar, are considered ‘wild cards of the Universe’ so it’s impossible to say precisely what unexpected events may occur but quirky disruptor Uranus most closely describes eclipse energy. Where 00Gem21 appears in your natal chart and how the degree aspects your planets and points determine how you will be personally affected. (See Julie’s advice linked above!)

Now here are quotes from two Sun Gem-Moon Gem folk that demonstrate some of the Geminian energies and mindsets we’ll experience with the May 20, 2012 Solar Eclipse:

“One of my chief regrets during my years in the theater is that I couldn’t sit in the audience and watch me.”

–John Barrymore

“As I grow older and older

and totter towards the tomb

I find that I care less and less

Who goes to bed with whom.”

Well put, Dorothy Sayers!

Herman Cain’s natal chart: Saturn/Pluto = Mars

The Planets and Psyche of Herman Cain, GOP Pseudo-Candidate 2012

by Jude Cowell

Not wishing to use space on my Political Astrology blog Stars Over Washington for a man others besides myself consider to be a fringe candidate, I shall publish here for your consideration what I intend to be my only astro-peek at the natal planets and psyche of Herman Cain, Republican corporatist and inspirational speaker.

Is Cain a true contender for president? In his own mind, I’m quite certain he is though as some have said, higher speaking fees may be a primary motivation for Cain’s showing up at GOP ‘prez nom’ debates (or what passes for debates these days.)

A spur to his book sales? Sure but–funny thing–Jerry and Deborah Strober actually wrote Cain’s book, as recently detailed in The New Yorker.

Mr. Cain does like to talk a lot, however, as you may have noticed, and mostly about himself.

Chart shown is set for noon since a correct birth time for Mr. Cain is unknown; please click image for a closer view.

Herman Cain Dec 13, 1945 (noon) Memphis TN

Herman Cain was born in Memphis, Tennessee on December 13, 1945. The closest applying aspect to his natal Sun in Sagittarius is one of opportunity–a sextile (60 degrees) to expansive Jupiter in Venus-ruled Libra.

This aspect describes the basis of his personality and indicates talent in public relations and communications (motivational speaker, preacher), an outgoing nature, and theatrical and political skills. Cain’s Baptist ministry is also described by the sextile to Jupiter, the planet of codified religion.

Sun sextile Jupiter folk believe that routine crushes creativity; rigid schedules annoy them so how the rigidity of the Oval Office would suit him remains a mystery. Irritability would be the result of caging in his large personality in such a way but since he loves ‘the good life’, perhaps concessions would be made in exchange for the presidency’s high privileges.

Yes, Herman Cain is an ‘ideas person’ thanks to Sun/Jupiter and a conversationalist extraordinaire.

A Jupiter/Chiron conjunction in Libra indicates a “maverick with a superiority complex who listens very little to others” (Clow) which supports the Sun/Uranus aspect as detailed in this post.

The two societal planets, Jupiter (expansion) and Saturn (contraction) are square (90 degr = blockages; blindspots) one another (Cancer to Libra) so we see that not all his business decisions have worked out due to faulty judgment. (One could argue that coming on to lady colleagues is a faulty way of doing business–expensive settlements may follow to quieten the ladies who complain!)

Jupiter/Saturn square folk tend to take on responsibilities with too little preparation (for the White House?) and this dynamic energy may lead to an interest in holding a government position; it may also indicate a tendency toward depression. This is an ‘overly conservative–too orthodox–super materialistic’ aspect which adds to his exalted ambitions.

A Charismatic Fellow?

So where in Cain’s natal horoscope is this charisma the media touts for him? Well, his Sun/Jupiter sextile is part of the dynamic yet I suspect the sparks that creative Uranus can bring figure into his live-wire personality as well with a quirky Sun/Uranus opposition, an aspect of one who is invested in being “different” from the rest. We’ve heard this loud and clear during his dramatic debate performances.

A spur to ambition due to early hardships, those born with a Sun/Uranus opposition are high-strung, irritable, and restless, with a need for regular relaxation or health will suffer.

Talent goes without saying yet self-sabotage may occur from lack of compromise with others–Herman doesn’t listen very well to others. This trait may be part of overstepping the line when making passes at women whom his massive ego assumes want his attentions. (See his overbearing Saturn/Pluto/Mars, below.)

He is very competitive in business (as we can tell: “Pizza will come,” said SNL–hilarious!) but less helpfully, this carries over into personal relationships and indicates sudden beginnings and endings which supports a wide Venus/Uranus aspect (which may also provide charisma.)

Cain presents himself in ways that are difficult or contradictory for others to understand–relationships are not easy with a Sun/Uranus individual, and the wide opposition between Venus (attraction principle) and Uranus (behavior) may intensify this.

A Sun/Uranus opposition indicates erratic behavior that can alienate others–which may describe Ms. Bialek’s statement yesterday of her experience with Mr. Cain whose Sun/Uranus aspect shows a potential for promiscuity–he refuses to be confined yet doesn’t mind confining others. Impatience and emotional outbursts can make him unwelcome in many circles.

Confused Emotions?

Another problematic aspect is a possible opposition between an Aries Moon (emotions; feelings; mother; women; family) and nebulous Neptune in Libra, sign of Partnerships. Moon remained in Aries for the 24-hour period of his birthdate with the Moon ranging from 1Ari01 to 15Ari11–therefore, natal Moon is either applying to or separating from, Neptune–or they are directly opposite one another.

If separating, the Neptunian energy is even more unconscious especially with Neptune and the Moon both relating to the Unconscious. Personal relationships suffer from all the illusions this aspect indicates, and Mother is implicated during childhood for she gave Herman incorrect ideas about herself, and therefore, about all women; feelings of loss are prevalent and I hope he didn’t lose his mother during childhood for as a mother myself, I certainly don’t wish to add to any sense of loss with my remarks here.

Anyway, Mom’s description of what a ‘good woman’ is gives a distorted image of women for the adult Mr. Cain and these are the sort of virgin-whore misconceptions that are difficult if not impossible to shake because of their unconscious nature.

A Moon/Neptune opposition indicates much creativity yet can show one who has trouble separating truth from fiction (which can make lies believable, at least to their promoter if not to the public.) Relationships can be disorderly or confused due to fantasies that are created about the self and others; an ‘escapist’ is indicated by this aspect, one who has trouble accepting emotional responsibility for his actions.

Plus, a tendency to feel abused is in evidence when lies or misconceptions are revealed (and I believe we’re seeing this now in his statements.)

And it’s possible, depending on the Moon’s position, that Cain has a closed-circuit-of-energy Grand trine in Fire (Moon-Mercury/Venus-Pluto) which is very creative and inspirational but provides him with a ‘firewall’ against listening to others or letting them into his life in any genuine way.

Venus and The Ladies Return

How interesting that today times a Venus Return for Mr. Cain. The position of Venus @ 9Sag28 may be a little off since we’re using a noon chart but not by much–his current Venus Return times lady accusers returning to his life even though he presents himself as not remembering them. I’m certain he didn’t mean to say that he’s engaged in such behavior so often through the years, their names and faces have faded in his memory!

Plus, natal Venus conjoins fixed star Antares, keywords: a need to avoid obsession (Brady’s Predictive Astrology.) Sounds like he may be obsessed with Venusian ladies, doesn’t it?

Now for the massive trio you see above: Saturn/Pluto = Mars in lusty Leo.

This triple conjunction forms a midpoint picture of ruthlessness, defiance, the drive toward ambition, secret plans, and harsh judgments (as marked on the chart, lower right.) Assaults and violence may also be added to that difficult picture for Saturn/Pluto working together indicates cruelty and hardship but also tenacity and a capacity for very hard work.

The hardworking, running hot’n'cold conjunction between Mars and Saturn is wide (about 8 degrees) and out-of-sign which complicates things–Saturn is ruled by the Moon (8Lib04 at noon) and Mars is ruled by the Sun in the sign of The Seeker (Sag.)

Mars and Pluto are about 9 degrees apart, also a wide orb yet Mars in the middle brings it all together as noted in the midpoint picture above. The archetype of ‘the sex addict’ may be in evidence though perhaps I shouldn’t say so!

(His father’s example and influence are implicated in this–Saturn, the earthly father, is Rx, thus weak or absen, and in its detriment in Moon-ruled Cancer, sign of The Mother, which denotes early emotional lacks and family estrangements–he’s touchy! In adulthood, this creates a strong attachment to material possessions and ‘money = love’ confusions.)

Three other midpoint pictures (that do not depend on an exact birth time) are quite elucidating–one involves the Illuminati-Enlightenment planets of the New World Order, Uranus and Neptune, along with wealthy, powerful (secret backer) Pluto…

Uranus/Neptune = Pluto: one who is easily impressed with or influenced by others; not taking a firm stand (?); abandoning resistance; great losses or calamities.

Venus/Pluto = Neptune: instability in relationships; an impressionable nature; seduction or being seduced; immorality.

Sun/Saturn = Neptune: inhibited mental development; inner peculiarities; a mental, emotional, or physical crisis.

(Midpoints: Ebertin; Munkasey; any, all, or none may apply.)

Another factor about Herman Cain–as you know, transiting Mercury, planet of announcements, press conferences, and debates–is about to turn retrograde on November 24, 2011, Thanksgiving Day (confirm your travel reservations and have your car checked out if driving far afield!)

Thing is, Herman Cain’s natal Mercury on or about 7Sag57 (Rx) will therefore receive three ‘hits’ during Mercury’s Rc phase. The dates of his three-fer Mercury Return to its noon position are as follows:

1. November 8, 2011 (yesterday, for Ms. Bialek’s statement as she ‘returned’ with old information (Mercury)

2. December 7, 2011 (Rx–he may resonate more with this conjunction since natal Mercury is Rx)

3. December 21, 2011

Will Herman Cain’s previous ‘paramours’ and one-offs with the ladies continue to be revealed until or beyond December 21, 2011?

This wouldn’t surprise me at all after studying the natal horoscope of Mr. Herman Cain, fringe candidate.

Progressions of Life
As for the presidency, I like to look at candidates’ Secondary Progressed lunations for the background ‘time of life’ they are in during campaigns and elections, if any. A correct birth time is helpful for this but not necessary though the exact date of a lunation may be off by a few days.

Mr. Cain is now in his Secondary Full Moon stage of life with Sec Full Moon occurring on or about May 21, 2010 @ 26Leo54, a position that links by opposition to US natal Moon–sometimes an indicator of presidential victories.

However, the Sec Full Moon phase shows that he has already extended into the world as far as he can go (as did America with her Sec Full Moon, December 2008) and is on ‘the downside’. Pulling in his ambitions, expansion, and desires will now be necessary as the months go on though he probably doesn’t yet recognize this. (Three years on, America is just now beginning to.)

If Cain doesn’t win the GOP nomination (and I suspect he should look in the Republican cabbage patch for his nomination enemies rather than amongst the Democrats–why would Barack Obama not want a politically uninformed egoist as an easy adversary?) then perhaps he will go with the ‘Full Moon flow’ (light dimming!) and set his sights on something more realistic and appropriate for this time in his life.

Your on-topic comments and opinions are appreciated as always!

~:~

Blog Note: it’s probably on my end, but for months WordPress blogging is difficult and frustrating for every time I type, the auto-save function returns the post field to its starting place which causes lots of jumping about. Therefore, please pardon any typos for I’ve tried to ‘catch’ them all but spellcheck doesn’t work and the rabbit just won’t stay still! Perhaps I can edit out typos later since for now I’m quite wumped out by typing and trying. jc

Update 5:33 pm est: you may also wish to check out Herman Cain’s Sun Sag-Moon Aries personality blend, just published.