Rob Brezsny's Astrology Newsletter http://ezezine.com
Rob Brezsny's Astrology Newsletter
March 26, 2008
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http://FreeWillAstrology.com
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"If I had the influence with the good fairy who is supposed to preside over
the christening of all children, I should ask that her gift to each child in
the world be a sense of wonder so indestructible that it would last
throughout life, an unfailing antidote against the boredom and
disenchantment of later years, sterile preoccupations with things that are
artificial, the alienation from the sources of our strength."
- Rachel Carson, *The Sense of Wonder*
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ATTENTION ARTISTS . . .
I'm looking for artwork to illustrate my future books and CDs, and I'd like
to consider using yours. Tell me where to view your work by sending me
an email: sacreduproar@sbcglobal.net.
I'm interested in two kinds of work:
1. full-color images that would work well as covers for my books and CDs.
To see what my previous covers look like, go to the pages below; click on
the image to bring up a bigger version.
http://tinyurl.com/qaj62
http://tinyurl.com/2ftyq6
http://tinyurl.com/ynq56x
2. black-and-white line drawings or collages for illustrations inside the
books and CDs. To see how I've done this in the past, go here:
http://tinyurl.com/26sbdj
http://tinyurl.com/yp58hn
If I decide to use your work for the cover of one of my books or CDs, I'll
pay you $500.
What I pay for black-and-white illustrations inside the book will depend on
how many I use and other factors.
I prefer to view your work on a web page, so optimally you will send me a
URL where I can go to gaze upon your creations. You could also email me
.jpgs.
What imagery do I like? What am I looking for? I don't necessarily know
(surprise me!), but I am drawn to neo-primitive, archetypal imagery that
blends ancient myth and future revelation.
I won't be able to respond to all inquiries, but will reply only to those
whose art I think might work for me. Please don't take it personally if I
don't choose yours. Of all the great art out there, only a small proportion
will be right for my needs.
Thanks for giving me a chance to see your stuff!
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My book
*PRONOIA IS THE ANTIDOTE FOR PARANOIA:
How the Whole World Is Conspiring to Shower You with Blessings*
is available for sale at http://tinyurl.com/qaj62
To read some of the book online, go to http://tinyurl.com/2ughfv
Here's an excerpt:
PRONOIA NEWS NETWORK
These are our top stories.
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CULTURE WARS A FABRICATION?
The high degree of religious and multicultural tolerance in the United
States is unprecedented in world history. So said sociologist Alan Wolfe in
his book *One Nation, After All,* based on two years of interviews with
200 subjects.
"Wolfe argues that middle-class Americans don't deserve their reputation
as angry, sanctimonious, and narrow-minded," reported Alicia Potter in
the *Boston Phoenix.* "On the contrary, they're optimistic, thoughtful,
and slow to judge."
Wolfe's subjects expressed remarkable acceptance of immigrants, non-
whites, and people of other socio-economic classes.
Wolfe was frustrated by his findings. Because he makes part of his living
writing for opinionated magazines, he yearned for more controversial
data.
"The reasonableness, the sensitivity, the thoughtfulness just drove me
batty," he told Potter. "I just wanted to scream at people, 'Isn't there
something that really just makes you angry and upset?'" (Source: Alicia
Potter, Boston Phoenix, March 30, 1998)
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SINGING DUELS DIFFUSE ANGER
"In Greenland, disputes are solved through singing duels. The quibbling
parties face off and proceed to croon tunes heaped high with insults.
While spectators pass the final judgment on the event, the singing
generally diffuses the anger, and the dueling parties leave as friends." -
*Mental Floss,* July–August 2004
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FREE OF MENTAL ILLNESS
You don't suffer from anthonephophobia, a fear of flowers falling from
clouds.
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REBORN STEEL
The North American steel industry annually recycles millions of tons of
steel scrap from recycled cans, automobiles, appliances, construction
materials, and other steel products. The scrap is remelted to produce new
steel. Every ton of steel recycled saves 2,500 pounds of iron ore, 1,400
pounds of coal, and 120 pounds of limestone. The industry's overall
recycling rate is 68 percent.
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ANIMAL ECSTASY
In his book *Animals and Psychedelics: The Natural World and the Instinct
to Alter Consciousness,* ethnobotanist Giorgio Samorini proves that many
animals deliberately alter their consciousness. His evidence includes robins
that get drunk on holly berries and act "like winged clowns," as well as
goats hooked on caffeine and reindeer that seek out hallucinogenic
mushrooms.
Samorini concludes that the desire to get high is a natural drive.
Intoxication has served as an evolutionary force for some species,
breaking down outworn habits in such a way as to improve long-term
survival.
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CRANE OPPORTUNISM
Between North and South Korea is a long, narrow strip of land called the
DMZ. Designed to be a buffer zone where all human activity is prohibited,
it has accidentally become a nature preserve beloved by white-naped
cranes. The area is a paradise for the birds because it has an abundance
of undisturbed marshland and is free of predators. Luckily, the cranes are
so lightweight that they're in no danger of detonating the many land
mines buried throughout the 370-square-mile area.
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POETRY FACTS
"Poetry is a rich, full-bodied whistle, cracked ice crunching in pails, the
night that numbs the leaf, the duel of two nightingales, the sweet pea
that has run wild, Creation's tears in shoulder blades." - Boris Pasternak
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FREE WORK DONE OUT OF LOVE
The U.S. Labor Department periodically analyzes the volunteer work done
by Americans. In one report, it estimated that between September 2001
and September 2002, 59 million people offered their services free of
charge as they mentored, tutored, built affordable housing, cleaned up
the environment, and helped respond to community emergencies. The
average contribution per person for the year was 52 hours. (Source:
Associated Press)
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TOP SECRET MASS GATHERING
History's largest meeting of world religious leaders was virtually
unreported by the media. During the apparently top-secret event, 200
representatives from every major faith gathered in Assisi, Italy. At the
end of the conference, they issued the Assisi Decalogue for Peace, a
document denouncing all violence committed in the name of God or
religion. It declared, "We commit ourselves to stand at the side of those
who suffer poverty and abandonment, speaking out for those who have
no voice, and to working effectively to change these situations."
(Source: David Waters, religion columnist)
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SIMPLE GIFTS
Habitat for Humanity is a grass roots organization devoted to eliminating
substandard housing and homelessness. Since its inception in 1976, it has
built or renovated 225,000 houses in the United States, and 11,545
elsewhere, mostly in South America, Africa, the Middle East, and the Asia-
Pacific region.
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INTEGRITY INVENTORY
Finland, Iceland, and Denmark are the least corrupt nations, according to
Transparency International's annual survey. (Source:
http://www.transparency.org/)
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SACRED ADVERTISEMENT
PNN is brought to you by this passage from Eknath Easwaran's book
*Gandhi, the Man:* "One of the most radical discoveries Gandhi was to
make in a lifetime of experimentation: In order to transform others, you
have to transform yourself."
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THIS WEEK IN PRONOIAC HISTORY
Pablo Picasso had a difficult birth. When he finally popped out after a long
labor, he wasn't breathing. The midwife decided his face was so blue he'd
be impossible to revive. She declared him dead and left. But Picasso's
uncle, who was in attendance, got up close to the infant and puffed cigar
smoke up his nose. The shock brought him back to life.
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There are hundreds more stories like this in *PRONOIA Is the Antidote for
Paranoia: How the Whole World Is Conspiring to Shower You with
Blessings*
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To read news and features from my book, go here:
http://tinyurl.com/lhwx2
You can buy the book here:
AMAZON
http://tinyurl.com/qaj62
POWELLS
http://tinyurl.com/3dsx6q
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OTHER PRONOIA RESOURCES:
IDENTIFY THE HIGHEST, NAME THE BEST
Top 100 Living Geniuses
http://tinyurl.com/35z4rg
MOVE ME, CHANGE ME, GIVE ME GREAT BLISS
Emily Dickinson's definition of poetry:
"If I feel physically as if the top of my head were taken off, I know that is
poetry."
Here's one person's list of 15 poetry books that fit that description:
http://tinyurl.com/3d7dkh
IDENTIFY THE UNEXPECTED BEAUTY, NAME THE SOUL TWISTS OF
ARTISTRY
Beauty Dialogues: A Blog
http://tinyurl.com/2fddok
(Note: I endorse these because I like them. They are not advertisements,
and I get no kickbacks.)
Please tell me your own personal nominations for PRONOIA RESOURCES.
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FREE WILL ASTROLOGY
Week beginning March 27
Copyright 2008 by Rob Brezsny
http://FreeWillAstrology.com
Grammar key: Asterisks equal *italics*
ARIES (March 21-April 19): It's a good time to start preparing for the
shocks that will arrive when the Mayan calendar ends on December 21,
2012. Some measures to consider: Learn how to use a gun, live off the
grid, and gather edible plants that grow in the wild. APRIL FOOL!
Everything I jut said was a histrionic lie. Here's my *real* message: The
period leading up to the winter solstice in 2012, as well as that day itself,
will bring no more than the usual rate of breakdowns and breakthroughs
that has characterized the last two decades. Of course, that's still more
novelty per year than previous generations experienced in a lifetime. But
you've become pretty good at adapting, haven't you? This week I
suggest you expand your mind even further about the massive
transformations we're in the midst of, and think about how you can
become even more skilled at constantly changing.
TAURUS (April 20-May 20): When you call to get pizza delivered and the
clerk who takes your order asks your name, say you're Paris Hilton. When
someone you're meeting is annoyed because you're late, say you couldn't
help it because you were smoking crack in the bus station bathroom with
your mom and lost track of time. If asked how much education you have,
say you have three PhDs in astrobiology, Russian literature, and whale
songs. APRIL FOOL! In fact, it's crucial for you to be utterly accurate
about yourself. Try to go the entire week without indulging in even one
white lie about who you really are.
GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Danni, the renowned "Psychic to the Rich and
Famous," predicts that disgraced ex-governor of New York Eliot Spitzer
will relocate to Nevada to build an empire of legal high-end brothels that
will feature the services of Britney Spears and other starlets on the
downside. In that extravagant spirit, I prophesy that during the rest of
2008, you Geminis will have love lives that are as tumultuous and
melodramatic and desperately interesting as the romantic escapades of
bi-polar Hollywood idols. APRIL FOOL! Your love life may be unusual,
uncanny, and highly entertaining during the next eight months, but it
won't be painfully funny.
CANCER (June 21-July 22): If you feel possessed by a ghost this week,
don't worry about it: You're just channeling the spirit of a person you
were in a previous incarnation. So yes, you may feel like a puppet whose
strings are being yanked by an invisible entity, but at least you can rest
content knowing that entity used to be you. APRIL FOOL! You should not,
under any circumstances, allow yourself to be controlled by the old days
and the old ways -- even if the invasive force comes in the form of
someone you used to be.
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AUDIO LOVE LETTERS
In addition to the horoscopes that come to you in this newsletter, I create
more in-depth audio horoscopes for your inspiration. I think of them as
my love letters to you. They're $6 if you access them on the Web, or
$1.99 per minute over the phone.
Try them at http://RealAstrology.com.
They're available by phone at 1-877-873-4888
or 1-900-950-7700.
"Your expanded astrology thingees help me remember who I really am." -
Gareth N., Toronto
"I never knew it was possible to get my butt kicked and my head patted
at the same time -- until I listened to you, Rob." -Kristi P., Portland, OR
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LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Author Rick Fields wrote about the time a friend
called to recommend a workshop he'd signed up for. "You've got to
come," the friend said. "This seminar will completely change your life in
one brief weekend." Fields was skeptical. "I don't want to completely
change my life this weekend," he replied. "I've got a lot of things to do on
Monday." I urge you, Leo, to adopt a similar stance toward any big
educational experiences that promise to dislodge you from your routine.
APRIL FOOL! I lied. In fact, the astrological omens suggest you'll benefit
from responding to invitations that just might thoroughly upgrade your
world very quickly.
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): In his science fiction book *The Hitchhiker's
Guide to the Galaxy,* Douglas Adams says "the meaning of life, the
universe, and everything" is the number 42. This week you will prove
that's wrong, as you accumulate substantial evidence that the meaning of
life, the universe, and everything is actually 59. APRIL FOOL! The meaning
of everything can't be reduced to one number, or even to a single theory
or ideology. In fact, the meaning of everything is just the opposite: It's
glorious mystery. It's gorgeous, mind-teasing ambiguity and fertile,
fascinating chaos. Get out there and enjoy the prodigious, kaleidoscopic
truth!
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Ralph Nader for President of the United States!
Ron Paul for Vice-President! Oprah for Secretary of State! Dennis Kucinich
for Speaker of the House! It's time to overthrow the corrupt powers-that-
be and install visionary leaders who will actually work for the good of the
people. APRIL FOOL! As much as I'd love to see those public servants
ascend to high office, it doesn't make sense to fight for that outcome.
For me as well as for you, revolution is not yet in the works. This is a time
to pursue hard-earned incremental improvements that will come through a
pragmatic willingness to compromise. Don't waste your time on all-or-
nothing proposals.
SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): If you're intent on scoring and imbibing an
exotic psychedelic drug from Africa, please seek out stuff that has been
grown organically. If you're planning to acquire a panther as a house pet,
make sure it has been housebroken. And if you find it impossible to
repress your urge to stagger into a bar and find a stranger to take home
for a night of carnal rapture, be sure to practice safe sex. APRIL FOOL!
Everything I just said is a lie. Here's my real message for you: You're
susceptible to rationalizing risky behavior, which could lead you to do
stupid things. I suggest you either postpone sketchy adventures for a
couple of weeks, or else get frank feedback from a clear-headed friend
before diving in.
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AUDIO HOROSCOPES
In addition to the horoscopes that you're reading here, I create more in-
depth audio horoscopes for your inspiration. Find out more at
http://RealAstrology.com.
The audio horoscopes are also available by phone at 1-877-873-4888 or
1-900-950-7700.
"You told me the truth when no one else in my life would." -Darren H.,
Minneapolis
"Your wake-up calls keep me from getting stale." -Arris T., Aspen, CO
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SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Lots of sex: That's the Truth and the
Way for you right now, Sagittarius. It's the only sure method for
enhancing your intelligence, increasing your income, and bringing you
closer to your spiritual sources. I suggest you embark on a non-stop
immersion in erotic experiments, stopping only occasionally to sleep and
eat. APRIL FOOL! There's a crucial caveat to what I just said: Make sure
the sex is blended with dramatic doses of tenderness, love, and
compassion. Otherwise you'll be wasting your time.
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Rightwing politico William Kristol applauded
President Bush's decision to nix better health insurance coverage for kids.
"Whenever I hear anything described as a heartless assault on our
children, I tend to think it's a good idea," he told Fox News. "I'm happy
that the President's willing to do something bad for the kids." In the
coming week, Capricorn, you should adopt Kristol's attitude. APRIL FOOL!
It's true that the demands of innocent young things and sprouting naive
types might inconvenience you. But I urge you to do the opposite of what
Kristol advocates. It's in your long-term interests to be in eager service to
whatever's unripe and unspoiled and growing fast.
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): After mining operations stripped away the
plant life on China's Laoshou Mountain, the bureau of forestry hired
workers to literally paint the bare surface of the whole facade green. You
should take a similar approach to tidying up after your own recent "mining
operation." APRIL FOOL! I was kidding. What I really meant is that you
should do the metaphorical equivalent of planting a lot of trees and
bushes to compensate for the consequences of your "mining operation."
Don't be satisfied with merely cosmetic fixes.
PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): You need more mayonnaise in your life. The
omens suggest you should use it as a condiment with every meal, and
even add it to smoothies and cocktails. To place yourself in maximum
alignment with cosmic rhythms, make mayonnaise a part of your skin-care
regimen, try it out as a brass polisher, and employ it to spice up your sex
life. APRIL FOOL! You didn't seriously believe the planetary aspects are
suggesting you should obsess on mayonnaise, did you? You do need a
new spirit medicine, but it's not made from chicken eggs. Now here's your
*real* horoscope, courtesy of philosopher Jonathan Zap: "Find your spirit
medicine. And remember that what works for someone else, may not
work for you (and vice-versa). Also what works for you when used
consciously, sparingly, in just right the circumstances, might be
disastrous as a habit."
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HOMEWORK: Carry out a prank that makes someone feel really good.
Report results by going to http://FreeWillAstrology.com and clicking on
"Email Rob."
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WANT TO GET YOUR CHART DONE?
I'm not doing personal charts, but I highly recommend my astrological
colleague, RO LOUGHRAN. Her approach closely matches my own. In our
many discussions about astrology over the years, we've had a major
influence on each other's work.
Ro utilizes a blend of well-trained intuition, emotional warmth, and a high
degree of technical proficiency in horoscope interpretation; she is skilled
at exploring the mysteries of your life's purpose and nurturing your
connection with your own inner wisdom.
Ro is based in California, but can do phone consultations and otherwise
work with you regardless of geographic boundaries.
Ro's website is at
http://YourSoulJourney.com
She can also be reached at roloughran@comcast.net
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NEED TO CHANGE YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS?
To join or leave the email list for this newsletter, or to change the address
where you receive it, go to:
http://www.freewillastrology.com/newsletter/
Once you do join, check all the below points to make sure you'll actually
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"Junk Mail" folder.
5. The problems may not have to do with anything you do, but may
originate with your email provider. It may be using a "content filter" that
prevents my newsletter from ever reaching you at all. If you suspect
that's the case, complain. Tell your email provider to stop blocking my
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P.S. I totally respect your privacy. I'll never sell or give away your address
to anyone.
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Submissions sent to the Free Will Astrology Weekly Newsletter
or in response to "homework assignments" may be
published in a variety of formats at Rob Brezsny's discretion,
including but not limited to newsletters, books, the Free Will
Astrology column, and Free Will Astrology website. We reserve
the right to edit such submissions for length, style, and content.
Requests for anonymity will be honored with submissions;
otherwise, reader names, screen names, or initials will be used.
Please be sure to note your preference when sending to us. We
are not responsible for unsolicited submission of any creative
material.
Contents of the Free Will Astrology Newsletter are Copyright
2008 Rob Brezsny
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