by Robert Wilkinson
Years ago I saw that the positive qualities of each sign are a direct reaction to the negative qualities of the sign preceding it. For instance, positive Libra traits are a direct reaction to the negatives of Virgo, and positive Pisces traits arise from the negatives of Aquarius. This is a profound concept and shows the way to antidoting negatives without struggling with the qualities of the sign itself or its opposing sign.
I last gave this to you about 7 years ago, and figured it was time to take a new look at the subject. I have re-written parts of it to make it more readable, and added another section. Since this material is key to understanding the traits of the signs, we can get clear about how to turn negative reactions to positive functioning.
Most astrologers know that if we want to work on negative qualities in a sign, we can use one of two equally valid methods. We can a) deal directly with those sign traits, turning them from the lower to the higher (using positive Scorpio energy to transform negative Scorpio traits), or b) use the positive qualities of the sign opposing the one we're trying to deal with (using positive Taurus traits to antidote negative Scorpio traits).
The former method is self-evident (think fighting fire with fire), while the latter involves the principle that since any sign externalizes through its opposing sign, then using the "tension of opposites" antidotes the negative quality (think fighting fire with water). In actuality, it’s using Fire and Air to antidote each other, or Earth and Water. However, there is a third method by which we can transmute a negative into a positive.
I won't go into an exhaustive list of the positive and negative qualities for each sign, since that would be a book-length piece and these qualities are easily found in any basic textbook or astrology internet site. Instead, today I'll outline a general pattern, and let you fill in the inferential blanks (plus it will help students of the craft get clear about what signs demonstrate what qualities!)
The concept of the positive qualities of each sign being the reaction to the negatives of the sign preceding it yields some intriguing associations. I'll begin the pattern of -/+, -/+ qualities to whet your appetites, and let you explore the signs from there. Enjoy moving through the qualities of the various signs and extrapolating how the next sign’s positive traits antidote the negatives of the sign preceding it.
The initiative and need for direct action of Aries is a reaction to the procrastination and ambivalence of Pisces.
The steadiness and calm of Taurus is a reaction to the impulsiveness and state of constant excitement of Aries.
The adaptability and willingness to experiment of Gemini is a reaction to the inertia, stubbornness and simplistic way of seeing things of Taurus.
The tenderness and personal caring of Cancer is a reaction to the impersonality and lack of attachment to any one view of Gemini.
The extroversion, demonstrativeness, and grand style of Leo is a reaction to the introversion and insecurity of Cancer.
The humility and practical service of Virgo is a reaction to the bombast and egocentric dominance of Leo.
The balanced view and grace of style of Libra is a reaction to the critical narrowness of Virgo.
The depth of insight and relentless pursuit of all-embracing feelings of Scorpio is a reaction to the superficiality and indecision of Libra.
The wide scope and humor of Sagittarius is a reaction to the focused intensity of Scorpio.
The responsibility and persistence of Capricorn is a reaction to the insouciance and need to escape from limits of Sagittarius.
The idealism and dedication to a larger ideal of Aquarius is a reaction to the suspicion and self-interest of Capricorn.
The compassion and forgiveness of Pisces is a reaction to the fixed ideas and sterile detachment of Aquarius.
More? Check out these quick keywords:
Aries: Quick temper. Taurus: Easygoing.
Taurus: Gets stuck easily. Gemini: Versatile.
Gemini: Inconsistent. Cancer: Reliable.
Cancer: Timid. Leo: Bold.
Leo: Subjective. Virgo: Discriminating.
Virgo: Nitpicky. Libra: Sees the beauty.
Libra: Insincere. Scorpio: Total commitment.
Scorpio: Secretive. Sagittarius: Wide open.
Sagittarius: Overconfidence. Capricorn: Pragmatic.
Capricorn: Pessimistic. Aquarius: Progressive.
Aquarius: Sees all as equal. Pisces: Sees shades of bad and good.
Pisces: Lacks confidence. Aries: Just do it!
Ready for another round?
Aries: Fast pace, never settled. Taurus: Enjoys life at a slow steady pace.
Taurus: Doesn’t budge. Gemini: Wants to know more and more.
Gemini: Scattered. Cancer: Focused.
Cancer: Plays it safe. Leo: Lets it all hang out.
Leo: I’m in charge. Virgo: How can I be of service?
Virgo: It’s not perfect. Libra: Perfection is relative.
Libra: Whichever way the wind blows. Scorpio: One pointed concentration.
Scorpio: Too far down under pressure. Sagittarius: Sees the humor dancing with a larger life.
Sagittarius: Don't fence me in. Capricorn: I accept responsibility.
Capricorn: Wants personal power. Aquarius: Sees a greater universal good.
Aquarius: So detached and abstract they're not there. Pisces: Deep and broad empathy.
Pisces: Too many ghosts of the past. Aries: There is no other time but now!
and the beat goes on and on and on....
© Copyright 2019 Robert Wilkinson
LOVE THIS!! I'm printing out and putting on my desk at work. Robert, I know you are very busy, but could you pleasepleaseplease do the same (brief description, keywords, another round) for the planets? It's so succinctly enlightening! I need to learn this and live it. Thank you.
Posted by: Char | January 13, 2019 at 01:44 PM