An Astrological Profile for Ben
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 Ben. 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 Ben’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 Ben’s chart, there is an outstanding quality of Fire. Having a powerful influence of fiery energy, Ben is likely to be highly energetic. He needs plenty of room and ample opportunities to assert himself. Sports may be a strong interest, but, at the least, staying active is important. Encourage Ben to funnel these active needs by providing plenty of options, from early sports, like gymnastics or dance classes to recreational activities that involve physical assertion. Babies with strong fire can be irritable if they are not given ample opportunities to get rid of physical stress (yes, babies experience stress, too!). Basically, Ben loves play, and fiery temperament babies and young children need plenty of active time with Mom and Dad. Even when he grows up, play will be important, and he will be happiest when anything feels more like play than work! There can also be selfishness with the fiery quality. One thing to keep in mind with Ben is the fact that you must tend a fire: either to keep it burning or to keep it from blazing out of control.
Lacking or little Air can indicate problems with objectivity and can show a potential for difficulty with communication and relating, in general. Make a special effort to engage Ben in conversation, to read together, and tell stories. Applaud his development of tolerance for the differences between people. Ben might also benefit from the simple exercise of keeping a daily diary.
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.
Ben’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. Ben 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 Ben 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 Ben’s chart during early childhood. Expressing the Sun requires more self-awareness, and that develops later!
Keep in mind that Ben is NOT a blank slate! These drives and expressions can be nourished and supported by understanding family and teachers, helping Ben make the most of these "ingredients" in his developing personality!
Ben can be difficult to figure out sometimes. With the Moon in Scorpio, he loves to be in the presence of others, but does not like excessive attention. There can be a deep-rooted affection for Mother, and a powerful emotional sensitivity toward others. However, Ben can have trouble distinguishing whose emotions are most important and may respond quite strongly when there are high levels of emotional tension.
The way Ben 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 Ben’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.
Make way -- Ben needs to be noticed. Now! Even as a baby, his Leo Sun may draw the spotlight; and one thing’s certain: when Ben wants or needs attention, you will know. During toddler years, a demanding quality can emerge, and setting reasonable limits can be frustrating if Ben gets dramatic. Nonetheless, lovingly defining who has the power is important from a very early age. Yes, you’re reading this correctly: Ben can seem to demand to be spoiled. Granted, Ben may shower you with warm smiles and big hugs, so it’s easy. By the early school years, if given opportunities to take center stage, you may have a budding performer or young leader growing up before your eyes. The preteen years can be another story, since Ben can feel extremely insecure if noticed for the wrong reasons, and, if he is not given proper attention, can become especially disruptive in order to gain notice. If there’s any inclination shown, encourage Ben to run for class President!
Another prevailing quality that’s likely to emerge in Ben’s early years in shown by the sign on his Ascendant, or Rising Sign. In childhood, the Ascendant and the 1st House signify Ben’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 Ben’s basic attitudes and himself, and how he presents himself to the world. The significance of environmental conditioning in Ben’s developing personality is shown by the Ascendant.
It’s part of Ben’s Cancerian Ascendant that shows as Ben’s protectiveness and sensitivity. He may enjoy hanging around close to home, being with Mom or doing family things. He might also like taking care of critters, pets or even babying friends and younger relatives. Stuffed animals may go everywhere he goes.
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. Ben’s Moon is in a water sign, indicating a strongly impressionable consciousness and a tendency to have a "photographic" mind. Imaginative and creative concepts are most enjoyable, and artistic expression may be easier than pure verbal expression (except for acting!).
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.
Ben’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 Ben to move through education with greater confidence. Following cautious observation and consideration, new situations are then less threatening. After that, Ben 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 Ben 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 Ben 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 Ben will project the qualities of Mercurial energy more strongly.
With Mercury in Leo, Ben wants to speak with authority and presence, and prefer discussing something he already knows about. He can become easily attached to concepts and ideas, and may be difficult to persuade once he has made up his mind! Leo Mercury identifies thoughts and concepts with "self" and explores using ideas like "this is small like my toes." Public speaking can be an interest during secondary education years.
Mercury in the 2nd House adds an enjoyment to learning if it’s about the world around Ben. He may also show an interest in exploring the physical environment, nature, and also money. Allowance and managing money are an important part of Ben’s necessary education. In fact, he may have a talent for it once the basic principles are understood.
Jupiter and Learning
Another factor involved in Ben’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 Ben will express confidence and what types of stimulation will build his learning skills. Since Ben has Jupiter in Sagittarius, he just likes to learn! The idea that knowledge is power is no mystery to this child, and he will also appreciate having every opportunity to develop his intellectual abilities to their fullest extent. Travel and language studies can be fascinating, but so may be religion and philosophy.
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 Ben 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 Ben. 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.
Ben’s favorite forms of recreation and sports can include racquetball, handball, table tennis, tennis, scuba-diving, aerobic dancing, yoga, gymnastics, English saddle riding, figure skating, and baseball.
Ben’s Mars in the 3rd House can indicate high activity and talkativeness. Focus can be a problem for him, and having opportunities to stay physically and mentally active will provide direction for energy which could be seen as "nervous" by those who hope to have peace and quiet. This influence adds a quickness to his ability to grasp new concepts. Neighborhood sports and activities with nearby friends can be favorites.
Since Ben has a connection from Mars to Jupiter, he tends to press limits, and can be more accident prone. While this connection increases self-confidence and a willingness to try new things, there can be a tendency to ignore limitations or even to consistently push far past them! Ben can also seem like a speed demon -- even on trikes and bikes. There’s also a tendency to be overly confident and under prepared, since this connection tends to prompt a laziness about working hard to develop excellence. However, if the reward is important enough and this child is taught to respect limitations and rules, there’s tremendous potential for developing physical prowess. The connection from Mars to Saturn indicates a potential for a low level of physical energy. Because of this, Ben needs to be encouraged to devote some time to physical activity in order to raise energy levels. If there is a defeatist attitude, help him learn the importance of overcoming or meeting challenges. Be sure to celebrate accomplishments with him. Ben may also go the other way and decide to overcompensate and train until he drops! There can be increased self-discipline and an ability to set limits and work or train carefully toward goals. Since Ben has a connection between Mars and Uranus, he can be accident-prone, since there’s a tendency to take higher risks and a fascination with the idea of doing what seems impossible. While this may mean that a toddler will try to run before he can walk, the six year old may also think he can fly. During preteen years, there can be an inordinate fascination with activities that test physical possibilities, and sports like skiing might be interesting, or breaking boards with karate moves could be the perfect way to resolve this drive. Later, as an adult, Ben may decide to skydive, bungee jump and be drawn to extreme sports. Since Ben has a connection between Mars and Neptune, there’s an extra physical sensitivity. This can also increase the potential for developing grace. Unfortunately, there can be a damper on Ben’s exuberance and vitality, or he might prefer to channel physical energy into creative activities, like playing music. He might also be able to utilize visualization to improve physical skills. Also, during teen years, these aspects can indicate that Ben harbors powerful dreams about his physical prowess or abilities.
III. Embracing Emotional Drives and Needs
At different stages and ages Ben 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 Ben’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!
Ben’s most powerful emotional needs are symbolized by the Moon, which is the primary indicator of early psychological development. These needs remain with Ben 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 Ben will nurture himself. Even as a baby, Ben has had a strong inner awareness of what is happening. As he grows, more information is absorbed and stored in Ben’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 Scorpio, Ben is deeply sensitive, and has powerful, intense emotions. Because of this, it is often difficult for Ben to openly express his feelings. Parents must learn to observe subtle changes in order to understand what is troubling him. Ben needs to have some secrets, and should be allowed plenty of privacy -- a "secret treasure box" would be perfect. In infancy, Ben will be tremendously sensitive, even to subtle stimulation. Parents and caretakers need to offer frequent soothing, comforting caresses. As he grows, Ben need to learn that deep feelings are okay. If not, Ben may project an emotional coldness in order to hide or repress a keen natural sensitivity.
Ben needs to feel embraced by home and family and may be especially attached to family traditions and holiday celebrations. This is an outreach of the Moon in the 4th House, and also indicates a love of the comforts of home. Something about home may need to go along with Ben as he goes out into the world -- one kind of security blanket or another!
For Ben, the flow of emotions seems natural and unencumbered, since the Moon is trine Venus. There is an easy charm inherent in Ben’s personality that can prove to be a fabulous asset. Trusting inner impulses and needs aids a sense of security and inner peace. He may adore music, the arts and even have an early appreciate for literature and should be encouraged to put effort into developing his particular skills. There can be a lazy attitude, since these things come easily and Ben may not feel motivated to go the extra mile. With Moon and Mars in sextile, Ben may display positive self-assertiveness. It may be easy for him to ask for what he wants or needs, although the nature of the sign placement will be strongly influential in this regard. There’s an easy flow between inner feelings and self-expression, and he can also exhibit a strong sensitivity to the way others react to him. The Moon in semisextile aspect to Neptune stimulates a need for Ben to express tenderness and sensitivity. He may seem to be off in his own world much of the time and needs to be encouraged to develop creative or artistic outlets. Sometimes Ben can feel that others do not really understand what he needs, and learning how to identify and ask for these needs can be a challenging lesson.
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 Ben is relating to others on a more frequent basis, especially during the school years.
Ben is a Leo, basically described in the Underlying Personality section of this report. However, there are factors which alter Ben’s expression and development of his Sun.
The Sun in sextile aspect to Saturn suggests a quality of self-control and enhances Ben’s comfort with the adult world. Learning and educational experiences may be enjoyable, since accomplishing some mastery over information and over the physical plane will be positively self-confirming. Identifying positive role models can be especially helpful, since he may be more comfortable following in the footsteps of accomplished individuals until he establishes a sense of personal identity. Ben may respond well to positive forms of discipline and may be capable of accepting personal responsibility for his actions at an early age.
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.
Self-esteem is another part of Ben’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 Ben 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 Ben’s age, he needs to feel love from others to encourage growth on every level, including the growth of self-esteem.
Ben vibes in on all the delicious things of life with Venus in Cancer. Warm hugs, good food, family dinners -- all these comfort experiences are the realm of Cancerian Venus. During childhood, he may thoroughly enjoy cooking and gardening as part of play. Keepsakes are meaningful even in the early years, and shows of tenderness are always appreciated. Ben may adore stuffed animals, and might also like to start a collection of some sort.
Ben’s Mars shows when he expresses anger and personal strength. As Ben grows up, the way he shows personal assertiveness will be developed.
With Mars in Virgo, Ben needs to keep those hands busy. As a baby Ben may be fidgety and fussy if he is the least bit uncomfortable. Toddler years may find Ben fascinated with dexterity building toys, puzzles, and gadgets. As he grows, developing skills which require dexterity and attention to detail can be extended into sports like gymnastics or dance or art and music (or all of the above). Do not expect that Ben will be neat, since keeping all those tools and toys organized may not be as much fun as pulling them off the shelf and putting them to use. He can become excessively critical of self and others and needs to develop patience with the process of becoming skillful.
Ben’s sense of self-confidence is enhanced with Mars and Jupiter making a healthy contact. He can seem easygoing. Still, identifying and setting limits can be a huge challenge. Unless Ben learns about specific limitations in different situations, he can get into trouble by jumping into something too soon. Ben is likely to enjoy competitive situations and may even welcome any challenge which allows him to prove himself.
There is a tendency for Ben to fall into the assumption "if I really want it, then I can have it." While that may be true, putting forth the effort is another story! Ben may learn to put forth only minimal effort and to expect that someone or something will come along to make up the difference if it is needed. Strangely enough, if Ben can learn to couple discipline and focus with consistency of effort, his abilities can quickly take him to the top. Ben may have an easily excitable, quick, explosive temper. In fact, with Mars and Uranus in a dynamic contact, he can overreact if he feels too inhibited by someone or a situation. These impulsive youngsters may act first, then think about consequences later -- if at all. Learning to consider the results of his actions will give Ben a sense of personal confidence. Since sexual interests may develop early, there may be a tendency toward taking unreasonable risks in the name of "experimentation." Beyond that, the larger issue is that he must learn that responsibility goes hand in hand with freedom. Part of that responsibility comes from understanding that every action has a consequence. Confrontation may not be at all comfortable for Ben, since the connection between Mars and Neptune can dissipate assertiveness and anger. Neptune sensitizes, and the sensitivity to pain (or fear of it) can be increased. Certainly Ben may have angry feelings, but he will have difficulty finding an outlet for them. Anger is not an easy emotion because it can cause so much confusion. Also, expressing anger can ultimately leave him with a feeling of emotional exhaustion. Since a realistic assessment of others is blocked by idealism, Ben may either feel powerless or victimized. This can lead to escapist forms of behavior or tendencies toward addictive behaviors.
Because of the high impressionability, Ben may run into trouble playing too many video games, especially if they have violent content, since it’s easy to live in the fantasy of the experience. Then, if situations prompt any kind of acting-out, the reality base may be limited or inhibited in some way and once in the drama of the situations, he can carry it too far before he realizes what has actually happened. Linking cause and effect can be very difficult for Ben to learn.
On the other hand, Ben may also feel a profound need to rescue others from painful situations -- he can identify with the pain! This can create a trap during the preteen and teenage years, when he can develop a tendency to be drawn into co-dependent relationships filled with addictive behavior patterns. Certainly helping others is admirable, but the other person must learn how to help himself. Most children do not have the objectivity to understand this, and will simply identify with the other person. Parents may need to help Ben identify when it is constructive to help and when he needs to keep a reasonable distance.
Teaching Ben to cope with feelings of despair by using his natural talent of visualizing a more positive reality can help. Encourage Ben to bring vision into action, to see that the hope for a better tomorrow is valid. Dramatic arts can be a good resource for external expression, as can music. Ben may be rather charismatic, and can have a positive influence in the lives of others. During teen years, Ben may overcompensate for assertiveness setting a goal of becoming the super-athlete, or may over-idealize superstars. After all, the line between reality and imagination can easily blur.
Ben 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. Ben was born when Uranus was in Libra (1969-1974), a time when relationships were in crisis. While peace and love were the doctrines of the day, divorce rates were beginning to climb. The importance of equality in relationships and a new model for marriage is part of the quest for this generation’s revolution. New artistic expressions -- witness desktop art and graphics -- are part of the pioneering efforts of this generation. Emotionally, the quest is to establish a respect to unique needs in relationships.
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 4th House frequently indicates several changes in home environment and/or family structure. Ben may always feel a bit like an outsider when it comes to family relations, and is rather likely to assume that he was secretly adopted! Ultimately, he may be the one to break up family fate or challenge family traditions.
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. Children born with Pluto in Libra (1972 - 1984) feel the challenge to break down societal barriers concerning human relationships. Ben and his generation were born at a time when the concept of dysfunctional families and relationships, co-dependency and other previously denied relationship patterns were brought into the open light of understanding. Of course, the changes in these patterns require some time to manifest, and Ben and his peers bear the burden of what has happened as these levels of awareness have been brought to the surface. On a personal level, Ben may feel responsible for the creation of a renewal of marriage built upon balance (Libra) and equality. Alterations in the legal system may be one of the historical markers created by Ben and this generation as they come into power.
As with the other transpersonal planets, the House position of Pluto is the area of life where you help Ben 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 Ben’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 Ben expresses his emotional self.
The Moon’s connection to the Ascendant adds a receptive quality to Ben’s personality. He can also feel self-protective or a bit shy, since there’s greater emotional sensitivity to what others think about him. His emotions are more noticeable. Venus in a positive connection to the Ascendant can bring physical beauty. This planet may create a need within Ben to present the most beautiful image possible. This is a two-edged sword, because he may feel a need to be "perfectly" beautiful. If his beauty does not meet these exacting standards, Ben could feel insecure. Plus, there can be a tendency to overvalue physical beauty. Help Ben embrace the feeling that beauty radiates from within. This Venusian connection is actually more about projecting a loving, graceful quality.
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.
Mercury retrogrades about three times each year. Since Mercury is retrograde in Ben’s natal chart, his reasoning and thinking processes are more sensitive. There may be more deliberation in decision making. Parents and teachers may feel that Ben takes too long to answer questions. Extra patience on their part will encourage Ben to communicate more openly. Ben may find that it is easier to write than talk. Rather than impeding the ability to communicate, this placement often enhances the ability to express ideas through the written word. Many notable writers have been born with Mercury retrograde, including Norman Mailer, Anne Frank, Isak Dinesen, and Henry Miller. Ben needs to learn to trust his ability to express thoughts and ideas, and should be given plenty of opportunities to communicate. This chart placement often leads to some ingenious ideas and concepts. Letter writing may be a favorite pastime, and diaries can be helpful in objectifying thoughts. There can be a strengthening of personal faith with Jupiter retrograde, because ideals and philosophical beliefs are developed within the self. Ben’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.
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 Ben’s ability to trust himself.
One of the most significant ways to help Ben 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 Leo can be developed in the early years by encouraging artistic play with play-acting and story-telling, since using the hands for grand gestures can be great fun. Developing skills in public speaking might be enjoyable later on, since Ben will enjoy using communication as a means of holding the center of attention.
Venus, the expression of artistry, is, of course, an important part of creativity. This is the energy through which Ben 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 Ben to get in touch with expressions that feel good to his heart! Special talents and creative interests can include a wide range of activities that involve deeper emotional expression. He will be most interested in creative activities that incorporate a feeling of nurturance, like cooking or gardening. So, even in early years, invite Ben to share in these daily activities, but make a special time for the more creative side of these abilities to develop. Knitting and sewing might be fun, but should be encouraged gradually to avoid frustration with the detailed elements. In the arts, a love of water colors may be present, which can start with finger painting, and then move on to more skilled expressions as he grows. Photography can be a special joy, too. Music, particularly singing, can be a special area of talent. Then, skills in jewelry making (especially with silver) might grow if, early on, kits are made available, and then a chance to collect special items for use will be fun. Play with dolls can lead to an interest in doll-making or designing clothes or settings for dolls or bears.
Venus in the 12th House indicates a powerful creative imagination. While Ben may need extra encouragement to bring talents into the open, there may be a wealth of inspiration, ideas and images he can express through all sorts of creative endeavors. Photography, acting or dance may be good ways to use this energy.
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, Ben 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 Ben 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, Ben 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.
Realistic teachings make the most sense to Ben. The influence of Jupiter in the 6th House indicates that he will respond best to teachings that can be useful in an everyday sense. If spiritual teachings are too abstract, he will simply not retain them. Ben needs to get into the garden to experience the nature of life cycles, change, rebirth and all the things nature can teach about the truth of life. He can also learn about acts of generosity and extending himself through caring for a pet or livestock -- or even farm or zoo animals! Spirituality needs to be hands-on.
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 Ben 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 Ben 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 Ben’s age will likely have Neptune in the same sign. Many Neptune in Sagittarius (1970 - 1984) children are now young adults and all soon will be entering their adult years. Ben has grown up in an era when knowledge of the different religious and ideals has been more widespread, but he has also seen vestiges of excessive zeal or fundamentalism. For example, the knowledge of heightened terrorism stemming from perceived insults from radical religious groups is part of the collective psyche of Ben and his generation. Since Neptune’s energy can help to dissolve barriers and locate the higher thread of any principle, this generation can have a profound influence on the way media exposes truth and information.
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 Ben can feel a desire to let go or to exercise compassion toward others. The position of Neptune in the 5th House suggests that Ben may have high levels of dramatic, performing and artistic ability. His ability to let go and allow creative expression to flow freely can be remarkable, regardless of the nature of his artistic or creative talents.
V. Perceptions of the Parents
Guess what? You can tell how Ben is likely to see his parents by looking at his own chart! Understanding how Ben perceives Mom and Dad can be especially helpful, since what Ben hopes to see and needs to experience from parents forms the basis of his sense of Self.
When Ben feels happy and full of joy, the world looks bright, too. But if Ben 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. Ben 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. Ben may even see things in Mother that Mother does not recognize as the way she is!
Ben’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 Ben matures into adulthood, these perceptions determine how Ben will play the nurturing and mothering role toward others.
Through Ben’s eyes, Mother seems pretty intense, since the Moon in Scorpio projects qualities of quiet power, insight and sometimes overwhelming emotional intensity onto Mother. Mother is usually viewed as highly spiritual, the projection of the Divine Goddess.
With a harmonious contact between Moon and Venus, there’s a sharing of artistic support between Mother and child. Beauty and Mother may be synonymous to Ben. Mother is also the person he looks to for guidance about social graces. Since the Moon and Mars are harmoniously connected in Ben’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 Ben how to stand up for his needs in a healthy way, since the model she shows can be especially significant.
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, Ben’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, Ben may feel that his or her own individuality is reliable and strong. Ben’s perceptions of Father are strongly symbolized by the energy of the Sun in the astrological chart.
Ben projects the drama and warm generosity of the Leo Sun onto Father, who may seem to represent the qualities of magnetism and personal power. Dad’s praise makes everything okay.
With the Sun in the 2nd House, Ben will see Dad as the source of material security and may emulate his work or actions as a means to provide for himself during later years. Ben definitely needs Dad’s stamp of approval to feel worthy.
Through the supportive energies between the Sun and Saturn, Ben may find that Father is an excellent source of strength and security. There can be a very close relationship to Father, although there is a strong desire to be sure that Father approves of everything. This can be somewhat inhibiting, and Ben may also allow Father’s wishes to overshadow his own desires since this approval seems so important.
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 Ben needs to be stabilized and what he requires in terms of a sense of safety and security.
Saturn in Gemini signifies the need for open communication with parents, and Ben will feel more secure if he knows that his voice is being heard. He may also need to learn tolerance for the diversity of life, and parents whose attitudes reflect this will provide a greater sense of security.
Saturn in the 12th House indicates that Ben needs to feel comfortable with life’s intangible elements. He may have some trouble handing fears. Parents can show him how to determine when something is worth caution, or if it’s just a product of imagination. Then trust of the inner self will grow. Parents can also serve Ben’s needs by sanctioning the importance of dreams and imagination.
Ultimately, as Ben 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 Ben through the course of these early years. And enjoy every moment of your journey together!
Text Copyright 2000 by Gloria Star. All Rights Reserved.