The Moon stirs the depths of earth’s oceans and regulates not only the tides but also human emotions. Reflective in nature, the moon symbolizes the world of dreams, unconscious feelings and powerful emotions. The traditionally feminine orientation of earth’s principal satellite stresses reflective and empathic human tendencies. Those ruled by the number 2 and the sign of Cancer are strongly lunar-influenced, and thus tend to be feeling types who work well with others in group projects.
The Three Qualities (Cardinal, Fixed, Mutable)
Cardinal Signs (Capricorn, Libra, Aries, Cancer)
Cardinal signs are go-getters. They like to start things up. They dislike being diverted from the matter at hand. They generally wish to direct their energy into on endeavor as fully as possible. As pioneers, they tend to be the first to think of a project and to be leaders in their particular sphere. They are at their worst when beset by indecision.
Fixed Signs (Taurus, Aquarius, Leo, Scorpio)
Fixed signs are not easily dislodged. They have a sense of their space and know what is theirs. In the same way, they are more likely to have a good idea who they are and what they want. As they are self-assured, they resist those who seek to dominate them and thus can be rebellious when cast in a subordinate role. Basically, they ask to be left alone. On the other hand, they are perfectly capable of exerting influence, even dominance over others. They are at their worst when beset by emotional instability.
Mutable Signs (Virgo, Gemini, Sagittarius, Pisces)
Mutable signs love variety and change. They are easily bored and demand lots of excitement. Travel is particularly attractive to them. They are rarely happier than when in motion; consequently they seek a change of scene more often than most. People born under mutable signs may not be the most stable emotionally. on the other hand, they are very flexible and thus able to adapt quickly to new circumstances. They understand that the only constant quality in life is change. They are at their worst when tied down.
Water (Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces)
With water-signs, emotional considerations often take an overriding priority in their daily lives. many are highly empathic or sympathetic, and so they are hurt when others do not reciprocate. Their sensitivity to criticism and rejection is very high. Consequently, they can usually tell when someone approves or disapproves of them before a word is said. They have a natural feeling for what people need and consequently, can be very good persuaders, and play on the emotions of others to get their way. Because their feelings run deep they are often serious and profound individuals. Humour has a special meaning to them not only because it can lighten their mood but also because of its ability to dissolve barriers between people. In fact, bringing people together in intimate settings is a special joy for water signs, who usually have only a few close friends. Water signs can be highly sensual— as much as earth signs. However, their brand of sensuality is more of an easy, flowing (clinging) type and is at its best when it does not get too demanding or heavy. Generally, they become very deeply involved in their love relationships, so much so that they often have difficulty detaching themselves.
The Summertime Personality (June 21-September 23)
Those born in the summer have more measured responses than those born in the spring, and although enthusiastic, are more critical. Their energies are perhaps a bit less focuses on initiating projects and more on bringing them to fruition. They tend to be a mixture of introvert and extrovert, but feelings now play a more important role in colouring their lives. Empathetic urges to help and become involved with others are strong during this period. They often experience an emotional interaction not only with people but with their work and environment.
They may not display an overwhelming need to bring their contributions out in the world. Many hidden characteristics develop, and being appreciated is not always the most important thing. Rather than placing their freedom and independence above all else, they are prepared to serve others and also to invest time in them. Summertime people need to be needed.
(Goldschneider + Elffers, 1994)
Mythology of the constellation Cancer
The story begins with Zeus having an affair with Alcmene, the queen of Tiryns. The result of this union was the Heracles (the Romans named him our familiar Hercules), the most famous Greek Hero. Of course, this union and offspring did not go over too well with Hera, the wife of Zeus. Hera, in her jealous state, swore to kill Hercules. Hera attempted to have Hercules killed many times but his imposing strength allowed him to overcome. Cancer comes into this ‘beloved’ scene when Hercules is fighting the terrible water-serpent, Hydra. During the battle between Heracles and Hydra, Hera sent Cancer, the giant crab, to aid the serpent. As the violent fight took place, Cancer was nipping at Hercules feet. But Heracles, being so mighty in strength, killed the crab by smashing its shell with his foot. Hera then placed the crab’s image in the night sky as a reward for it’s service.