Feature Articles

 

A Journey through the Zodiac:
Taurus — April 20-May 20

by Pam Younghans

This is the second installment in a monthly series exploring the 12 astrological signs. In Western astrology, the heavens are divided into 12 equal sections, beginning at the vernal equinox with zero degrees of Aries and continuing through the rest of the zodiac. The dates given above are only approximate; exact dates for the beginning and ending of the signs may vary from year to year due to our system of “leap years.” Please consult an ephemeris or a qualified astrologer to verify your sun sign, and to get a more complete picture of your entire astrological chart. Although the description that follows may be especially pertinent for those individuals who were born when the sun was in Taurus, it is also applicable in varying degrees for all of us, as we all have Taurus represented somewhere in our charts and somewhere in our lives.

Astrology is a part of our mainstream consciousness more fully than many of us realize. When you answer the question, “What’s your sign?” you are revealing a basic knowledge of your astrological chart. If you were born between the dates listed above, you probably know to answer, “I’m a Taurus,” meaning that when you were born, the sun was aligned with the constellation and energy of Taurus the Bull.

Your sun sign describes the kinds of experiences you need to feel fulfilled, who you feel you are at your core, and many of this lifetime’s purposes in your ongoing process of growth. As the Bull, your core personality is best represented by the story of Ferdinand the Bull, who preferred sitting on the hillside smelling flowers over fighting in the bullring. You blossom in this physical world, enjoying all the sensory pleasures of sounds, sights, scents, tastes, and textures. Activities like working in the garden, hiking in the mountains, enjoying a delicious meal (or dessert!), listening to your favorite music, and petting your faithful pet are all part of what helps you feel at peace within.

It is that inner serenity that is your primary goal, Taurus. Your life lessons will assist you in establishing a sense of security and peace that no one can take away from you, that no circumstance can destroy.

As a Taurus, you are learning a new level of self-worth, one that cannot be thrown off track by the opinions of others.

As a Taurus, you are the second sign of the zodiac, following on the heels of Aries’ powerful leadership. Although Taureans can also be leaders, your strengths lie in creating lasting foundations for yourself and others. The archetypes associated with Taurus are Earth-Spirit, Musician, Builder, and Quiet One. You are the steady rock upon which mansions are built and upon whom others rely. When you are at peace within yourself, others sense a steadiness and calm that helps them also find that feeling inside themselves.

You are an earth sign, indicating a strong connection with this reality and Mother Earth. Your ruling planet is Venus, the goddess of love, known for her enjoyment of simple pleasures as well as all that is beautiful and peaceful. You are also what is known as a “fixed” sign, indicating an innate ability to stick with a project through its mundane building phase, and yet also showing a certain stubbornness and distaste for change. You have an affinity for people born under the other earth signs, with whom you share a practical understanding of this reality. You may also be drawn to those born under water signs; they supply the energy you need to feel nourished. Fire and air signs may be perplexing to you, as their less tangible energy is not as easily understood in “earth terms.”

As a Taurus, you are learning a new level of self-worth, one that cannot be thrown off track by the opinions of others. Your path is slow but steady, for you are also learning the qualities of patience and persistence. You know at your core when circumstances are not aligned with your higher good, for your physical body reacts with discomfort. Excessive noise, conversation, and turmoil are disturbing to you, for they interrupt that connection with the inner silence that is your guiding light. You are learning to live according to your own values, to take life a step at a time, to keep your boundaries strong, and to stay always in an “attitude of gratitude,” for it is in this space that true peace is found.

It is your choice, Taurus, to decide how you will express the basic qualities and desires of your sign. Because you like things to be comfortable, you may stubbornly resist change, for change requires adapting to new ways of being. The main trouble arises when you search inside for answers and find yourself drawn to something because it is familiar. Sometimes you may hold onto old patterns, situations, or relationships, not because you like them or because they’re working well for you, but because you’re accustomed to them. “Forgiveness” is an important word for you to keep in your vocabulary, Taurus, for in forgiving people and situations you can release your past and move forward with true peace of mind.

Also be mindful that in your search for inner peace, Taurus, you do not merely settle for the external security of material and financial wealth. Worldly security is important for you, as a symbol of your self-value and as an honoring of your physical needs; but you must also develop the internal serenity that is at the heart of your search in order to find true completeness.

On a physical level, Taurus corresponds with the throat, vocal chords, and thyroid. You, like many Taureans, may enjoy singing or other musical expression. The neck area also relates to Taurus the Bull, who can get “stiff-necked” in response to challenge or change. When you are stressed, tense, or tired, you may find this area of your body most affected. A good neck/shoulder rub or overall massage can do wonders for you when you are in need of relaxation.

Taurus, you have been given the ability to enjoy the simple gifts of life. The rhythms of nature and music soothe and fulfill you. You are not inclined to drama or over-analysis, preferring to find satisfaction in the physical here and now. These characteristics give you the steadiness and stability on which others rely in time of need. As with all the signs, however, it is important for you to incorporate some of the higher qualities of your opposite sign into your character.

Scorpio, the sign that appears exactly opposite Taurus, is perhaps the most intense sign of the zodiac, ready and willing to dive headfirst into the depths of human emotions. While your primary goal is simplicity, Taurus, for your highest growth you must also learn to utilize Scorpio’s acceptance of complexity and willingness to examine all aspects of earthly experience. Only then can you truly find your place of peace, having overcome your fear of the dark.

As you travel on your path, Taurus, you will come to appreciate this simple quality of inner peace as your true foundation. When you have found that serenity, your outer world will reflect your inner values, and even in the midst of life’s changes, you will be assured of stability and fulfillment.

Pam Younghans is an astrological interpreter and counselor with offices in Bellevue, Washington. In addition to private sessions, e-mail consultations, and classes, Pam offers a free weekly astrological update by e-mail. For more information, call (425) 445-3775, e-mail <AOA444@aol.com>, or see Pam’s Web site at <http://www.pamsastrology.freeservers.com/>.

Last month’s feature on Aries can be read at <http://newtimes.org/issue/0204/aries.htm>.