Perhaps you’ve heard the Cherokee tale in which an old man was teaching his grandson about life. “A terrible fight is going on inside me,” he said to the boy. “It is between two wolves. One is evil and the other is good. The same fight is going on inside you – and inside every other person, too.” The boy pondered this for a moment, then asked, “Which wolf will win?” To which the old man replied, “The one you feed.”
This story is particularly fitting for the upcoming Full Moon in Cancer, sign of nourishment (Dec. 22, 9:48 a.m. PST). Generosity or greed, patience or irritability, self-acceptance or self-denial – what will you be feeding at this Full Moon? With the Sun and Saturn in tough Capricorn opposite the Moon in tender Cancer, it could go either way – but you’re always at choice. The Moon is full at the Solstice this year – a rare event that the Almanac says has only happened ten times since 1793. It’s a perfect opportunity to go within (or into the wilderness if you can) and nourish yourself with what’s real and true.
Those of us in the Northern hemisphere are facing down the cold of winter as the Sun enters Capricorn. Patriarchal Saturn sits within orb of the Sun at this Full Moon/Solstice, lending an air of seriousness to the proceedings. Yet Uranus in late Aries, in an out-of-sign trine to the Sun and Moon, could also bring unexpected news or a turn of events that loosens the restraints and helps us relight the spark within. Mercury conjoined Jupiter in Sagittarius fosters renewed hope, and Venus trine Neptune in water signs softens the borders between your heart and others’, while the Moon in sensitive Cancer causes feelings to flow. Everyone will be sensitized and in need of physical and emotional nourishment.
Both the December and January Full Moons have been called Wolf Moons by native tribes in the Northeast part of what’s now the U.S. The name was inspired by the wolves that gathered outside the villages, howling hungrily amidst the bitter cold and deep snow of winter. At this time of year, fires were kept blazing day and night. People would huddle around the flames, surrounded by kin and community, telling tales and dreaming of spring. In this way they were reminded that they were not alone – and that the light and warmth could be found within.
Cancer-Capricorn is the axis of the ancestors – either by blood or by choice. Light a fire (or at least a candle) at this Full Moon/Solstice to honor the memory of those who came before, and ask for their blessings. And as you gather with others during the season, remember to keep feeding the wolf who serves you best.
Our dog, named Luna (Moon in Latin), was unfortunately ill for a few week right around her solar return/birthday. We were blindsided by her illness and 2 different vets misdiagnosed her. We had to put her to sleep after consulting vet #3 on Monday, Dec. 17th, 2018. We had 11 good years with her and she was the best dog ever. Last night was the full moon (Luna) in Cancer. I persuaded my husband to stand outside with me and admire the moon and think of our dog. My own moon is in Cancer and I was very much “her mother.” I feel like I lost a daughter and my Leo husband (with Cancer rising) has lost his best friend. I hope we can move beyond this. She was a rescue dog with either Scorpio or Sagittarius Sun.
Oh Diane, I am so very sorry for the loss of your baby. Thank goodness you had 11 good years with her! But I’m sure that it’s hitting both you and your husband hard, given your Cancer placements. And not an easy time of year either. Be sure to create a little altar to her with a picture and her favorite toys, light a candle and wish her well on her journey. I’m sure she’ll be watching over you if she can. And although you’ll never replace her, I’m sure you’ll find another baby to love when the time is right. Big hugs…
I really enjoyed your article! Do you do I societal readings?
Hi Jenny, so glad you enjoyed it! Not sure what an I societal reading is, but I certainly do personal consultations. You can visit my Consultations page at http://www.astroalchemy.com if you’d like to find out more. Happy holidays!
You are so welcome, Alessa! Holiday blessings…
for you too.
I find the story you told so true, so near, so special. in itself a breeding blessing. it moves me. thank you again!
simon, how have you been? whatever happened to your book as I have been anxious to read it but having issues of my own have sort of dropped away from life for a while..
Hi Sylvia, I was wondering what happened to you! Hope you’re okay. You can still get Moon Power if you like, at https://www.amazon.com/Moon-Power-Rituals-Connecting-Goddess/dp/1592337597/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1545437456&sr=8-1&keywords=moon+power+lunar+rituals+for+connecting+with+your+inner+goddess.
Holiday blessings to you!
wonderful! thank you