Capricorn: Self-Reliance and Integrity by Pam Younghans This is the tenth article in a series exploring the 12 astrological signs. In Western Astrology, the sky is divided into 12 equal sections, beginning with Aries at the Vernal Equinox and continuing through the rest of the zodiac. Exact dates for the beginning and ending of each sign vary from year to year. Please consult a qualified astrologer to verify your sun sign, and to get a more complete picture of your entire astrological chart. Although the following description applies especially to those who were born when the sun was in Capricorn, it also applies in varying degrees for everyone, as we all have Capricorn represented in our charts. From earth's perspective, the sun appears to travel through the sign of Capricorn each year from approximately December 21 to January 20. This means that if you were born between these dates, your astrological sun sign is Capricorn, and your animal symbol is a mythological creature called the Seagoat. The Seagoat is an interesting embodiment of your best qualities, Capricorn. Being half mountain goat and half fish, this animal is able to climb tall mountains and swim deep oceans, all through its own determination and discipline. It does not need to rely on any one else to assist it in its journey, and this is key to understanding Capricorn's intention and higher purpose. The astrological signs follow a sequence of growth from initiation (Aries) to transcendence (Pisces). As explained in last month's article, Sagittarius is concerned with discovering the meaning of life through physical, mental, and spiritual exploration. Taking the next step in the process is up to Capricorn. Having found a sense of purpose, it is now time to set and achieve concrete goals that utilize that newfound wisdom. Some of the archetypes used for Capricorn are Achiever, Hermit, and Authority. These personality types have in common the ability and desire to be self-sufficient and to develop the inner strength needed to accomplish whatever goals are set. It is important for you to know, Capricorn, that what you have achieved has been through your own efforts. Feeling self-reliant is one of your greatest personal fulfillments. Capricorn is an earth sign, indicating that you have a very practical and sensible focus. It is also known as a "cardinal" sign, which infuses your personality with the desire to be a leader rather than a follower. You have the ability to take a project from beginning to end through your desire to prove yourself, but you would much rather be in charge and delegate the more menial tasks to others who are more detail-oriented. Each zodiac sign is associated with a planet that reflects similar qualities; for Capricorn, that planet is Saturn. In mythology, Saturn (Kronos to the Greeks) was the god of the earth, governing the passage of time and natural law. He was a strict disciplinarian, expecting hard work from the mortals in his realm. Rewards were given for tasks completed well; crops flourished when the farmers were diligent and responsible. However, those who were lazy or less focused were judged harshly, and suffered for their lack of self-discipline. High expectations are a part of your make-up, Capricorn. You can achieve anything that you set your intention to, and you demonstrate to others the positive qualities of goal-orientation that they may also develop those qualities. As with all the signs, there is potential for both constructive and destructive uses of your primary traits. The difficulty arises for you, Capricorn, when the goal takes over and becomes more important than anything else in life. One of the less-positive archetypes that could be used for your sign is the Workaholic/Overachiever. It is important that while keeping your sight on the mountaintop, you also allow time along the way to enjoy the flowers and to drink from the stream at your feet. Ambition must be balanced with attention to spiritual and emotional needs. The choice you have is one of degree. Since you are a Capricorn, worldly accomplishments and self-mastery must be part of your reality if you are to experience the type of growth intended by your sign. But the greatest sense of satisfaction comes when the goals you have set and achieved are aligned with your integrity and your understanding of what is truly important and meaningful in life. It is not enough that you become the head of a corporation; that position must also allow you to advance your values or a greater cause in which you can believe. As an earth sign, you are usually most comfortable with the other earth signs (Taurus and Virgo), for they share your practical perspective and naturally understand your strong connection with this physical reality. The water signs (Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces) nourish you through their reminders that you are a human being with emotional needs, not just a work machine. In general, the fire signs (Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius) may seem too unpredictable for your cautious nature. The air signs (Gemini, Libra, and Aquarius) are usually social and gregarious, which can interfere with your need for solitude. In the physical body, Capricorn is associated with the knees and lower legs. These areas symbolize both the strength and the intention you need in order to achieve the goals you set. They are also potential problem areas, indicating when your actions are not aligned with your higher purpose. The calves may stiffen when your accomplishments are not firmly grounded in your values and the fear of moving forward is stronger than the inspiration that guides you. When your focus on the goal is interfering with your ability to be flexible and aware of other needs in your life, your knees may reflect that resistance. In order to maintain balance, it will be important for you to heed the messages of Cancer the Crab, the constellation directly opposite the Seagoat in the sky. While Capricorn is inherently rational and oriented towards practical success, Cancer understands the need for emotional nurturing and a sense of home. Without that perspective offered by Cancer, your life can become so achievement-oriented that you forget to water your plants, feed yourself nourishing foods, and even develop emotionally rewarding relationships. These aspects of life, which can seem totally unrelated to what you see as your primary goal, are the foundation that supports all your efforts in the world. As the tenth sign, Capricorn, you are at the highest point of the zodiac wheel. It is your mountaintop to claim. In achieving the goals you set, you can become a guide and a resource for many others, as long as you maintain balance and perspective. Enjoy the entire view from your vantage point, and don't forget to come home for dinner. Pam Younghans is an astrologer and teacher, offering personal consultations and classes at Longevity Holistic Center on old Main Street in Bothell, Washington. To schedule a consultation, receive Pam's complimentary weekly forecast by email, or if you have questions: call (425) 445-3775, email <astrologerpam@aol.com>, or see Pam's website at <http://www.pamsastrology.freeservers.com/>.