Balncing Our Strengths and Challenges

Each individual birth chart suggests numerous specific strengths and challenges. More correctly, each suggests a rather specific range of likely expectations.

Most of us are acutely aware of our perceived faults and shortcomings. We all have them, but it is often possible to turn these challenges to our advantage. To do so, we need to understand the concept of polarities. As we evaluate each specific astrological influence individually, we must remember that each suggests a considerable range of expression—encompassing all middle ground between the least productive and the most fulfilling.

To further complicate the picture, the extremes of any expectation are not necessarily the best. The pure expression of an energy may not be attainable, and may not even be desirable. For example, there are profound, yet subtle differences between "good" and "bad" character traits.

	Too much patience can lead to procrastination.
	Too much analysis can lead to indecisiveness or a hypercritical attitude.
	Too much sensitivity can lead to vulnerability.
	Too much optimism can lead to unrealistic expectations.
	Too much ambition can lead to greed.

To speak metaphorically, the birth chart represents our own individual toolbox that contains a variety of tools that can be used for dramatically different purposes. The same hammer could be used to destroy a priceless work of art or used constructively to build a secure shelter. Sometimes the most obvious use is not necessarily the most beneficial use—and is almost certainly not the only use.

Ultimately, each of us should strive to use all the tools at our disposal, and in such combination as to accomplish our desired purpose.

Finally, just because we have used a particular influence in a certain way in the past, we're not obligated to perpetually use that influence the same way in all future situations. Astrology can provide a particularly helpful insight and self-understanding that allow us to make the most of our unique individual mix of strengths and challenges.

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