This December we get to see two Full Moons and the culmination of a planetary conjunction that has been part of this year’s theme. The month begins with Uranus starting its forward motion once more. It has been in retrograde since early July and this change of energy occurs just in time for the Full Moon on the 2nd. The Uranian spark could bring quite a lively addition to the already busy Gemini Moon. Expect the unexpected particularly when it comes to messages, conversations and communications generally. The last New Moon of the year in Sagittarius on the 16th is a good time to consider your direction for the New Year ahead. The darkest days of the year approach with the winter solstice on the 21st. Focus is on the inner life, review progress, make plans and plant the seeds of aspiration. The Solstice also sees the final phase of the triple conjunction that has been a major astrological theme in 2009. Jupiter connects with Neptune at 25° Aquarius before moving on into Pisces in January. The first two conjunctions were on May 27 and July 10. Jupiter takes about 12 years to orbit the sun, and Neptune requires about 165 years to complete one revolution. The last time this occurred was in 1843. This year Chiron was closely involved with the union. Those born with critical points or planets between 22–29 degrees Aquarius, Leo, Taurus and Scorpio experience the dynamic most strongly. Aquarius, the sign of the water bearer represents the flow of wisdom from the divine wellspring, the sum of our shared experience. It’s an impersonal sign that represents the principles of equality for the masses and the possibility of a bright new world and future caring more for the good of all than individual needs. Sometimes though it becomes fixated with its own ideals or opinions believing they are the only and right version of democracy, human rights or freedom. In mythology Chiron had extraordinary powers to heal others, but couldn’t heal himself. In Astrology he represents the emotional, physical and mental pain and suffering that is part of the human condition and also the sincere urge to help those most affected. Other worldly Neptune inclines us towards romantic thoughts, forgiveness, ideals and the need to escape into a place without pain, deception, delusion or brain washing. Throw Jupiter the expansive planet of hope and optimism into the mix and we get the potential for something quite magical at least or at worst, misguided altruism. This significant planetary trio is urging us to deal with issues of our own wounded self-esteem and stop inflicting pain on others through over compensating for our perceived inadequacies and personal delusions. Working towards a more inclusive and brighter future in which we know how to manage our social and cultural affairs is the prompt. Difficult emotions can be resolved as an awareness of negative patterns in relationships from the past become apparent. We glimpse our true potential but be aware of the inclination to expect too much of ourselves and of others. If our expectations are too high we may feel we were deceived when our human side lets us down again. Resist the knee jerk urge to rebuild the defences once more, allow a new possibility to emerge.