posted October 04, 2004 03:13 PM         

I'm a lot stronger in Astrology, I understand aspects, and the house system very well. The problem is memorizing and interpreting all the signs in the planets while they aspect so and so in a specific house, while considering the transits, progression, the solar return, and the solar arc amongst it all. Then that is when things get complicated, and once again I can only scream out keywords off the top of my head. I know all the meanings of the planets, but in keyword language!

With all that I know, which is still very little, I'm only a senior in high school, gimme a break!!

posted October 05, 2004 12:14 AM         

This may not come across in the way that I mean it... but I tend to stay away from "certifying boards". All they are certifying is that you have learned "their approach" to astrology.

There has been a sad trend among modern astrologers to try to psychologize astrology,as if that were the only way to practice the art. Personally, though it may have done a good deal to increase the "acceptance" of Astrology, I think it has done nothing for the quality of the astrologer in general.

So, though I belong to the NCGR (National Council for Geocosmic Research) I have not taken any of their certification tests. I do not feel that my practice of Astrology depends upon the approval of anyone other than my clients or my students. But if you feel that would be essential or beneficial for your practice, I say do it and be proud of the accomplishemnt.

I learned Astrology from an "old time" astrologer.. the kind NOT afraid to make specific predictions. Now, this is not fatalistic astrology by any means, but it means bringing Astrology "down to Earth and making it very practical".

I am also not afraid to Spiritualize Astrology, when the situation calls for that. However, I use it to diagnose illness, predict events and things of that nature.. which was more the way Linda practiced the Art, than say, Liz Greene and others of that school.

In terms of Tarot, again, I am not certified as a practitioner. I have been reading the cards for over 20 years, and my accuracy and skill has been honed "in the field" as it were.

I am not against certification.. not at all... but I also want people to consider what that might mean.

Usually the certification boards want you to take their classes in order to prepare for the tests. Now you are forced to study what "they" think Astrology is. If they want you to incorporate Chiron say, and you do not believe that Chiron really means anything, then you will not pass their test. If they want you to learn Astro-cartography, and that is not something in which you may be interested, again, you lose.

You pay a fee to take the test, and then you become board certified. Does that mean that you are really GOOD at Astrology or Tarot? Not necessarily. What it does mean is that you can answer questions the way "they" (the board) think they should be answered. Does it mean that you are better at it than the little old lady down the street who has been DOING it for 50 plus years? Possibly. But probably Not.

Do what you love to do, in the way that you love to do it. Follow your interests in the Art. You may be drawn to Medical Astrology or Horary as I am, or you may LOVE, LOVE LOVE, psychological or mythological astrology (which I do not). But you will learn the Art YOUR WAY. The clients that you can help will find their way to you, or you to them, and that is how you will become "professional". A certification is nice... but what does it really mean? And that answer will be different for each and every one of us.

I hope this helps somewhat...

In the Light...
A

posted October 05, 2004 04:02 PM         

I can easily say how you've captured my trust and admiration. I have many questions that need answers over my Astrological chart. Can we discuss the matter further by email? Yes, I am under eighteen, which means I have to speak to my parents first about paying you, my mom is my forced financial consultant, and she has a Capricorn Moon which means money won't go anywhere without her knowlegde. But she's also a generous Pisces; therefore, we will work it out. Can we discuss more by email such as terms and conditions?

posted October 05, 2004 07:50 PM         

Star...

You don't have to worry about the money... unless you are asking for a complete interpretation I can handle a few questions about your chart, in the interest of helping a fellow astrologer (in the making).

I don't LOVE psychological astrology as a field, doesn't mean I can't interpret charts that way.. I just tend to think that is the least important aspect of a reading for a client... remember, Astrologer dos not mean PSYCHOANALYST... unless you are qualified to be a psychoanalyst... see what I mean?

I find most clients want to know: Is this the right person? Should I take this job? Tell me about my health. Will I make money as a singer? and so on and on... Psychological astrology really won't help you answer those questions. See what I mean?

So.. you can e-mail me at the aselzion@linda-goodman.com address.

In the Lght...
A

posted October 07, 2004 10:34 PM         

Yep I did..

Just haven't had a chance to return the e-mail yet.

Parades, upcoming Tarot class.. work, work work!

But get it I did!

Star...

Will reply asap!

Peace and Light...
A

posted October 14, 2004 01:07 AM         

And you are not being ignored, just put temporarily on hold for my crazy life!!

All I can say is with some of my patients and friends even, it's been an interesting ride on the Bi-Polar coaster these past few days !!!

Keep the Faith...

A