Initially, one would expect that it would be downright easy to dissect our own charts.  Surprisingly, perhaps, it is one of the most difficult tests of our astrological skills.

Sure, we know all about ourselves...or think we do.  Chances are, we've spent many more cumulative hours perusing our personal natal chart than anyone else's horoscope.  This likely began with an experience similar to the one related in this month's non-technical article, Astrology's Most Important Lesson. 

Initially, we think we've got this astrology stuff pegged.  Then, turning to the next chapter we see "ASPECTS -- How the Planets Interact" or a similar title.  Hey, what is this!  We've already gone through all the planets, signs, and houses and now we find out there's still more to learn!  After all, we already know the important stuff so the rest must just be window-dressing...

This is a major reason that astrology is so fascinating.  Nobody can ever know or understand everything about astrology.  If you're like me, every time you look at your natal chart you see something that -- unbelievable as it seems -- you've never really noticed before or fully comprehended.  Perhaps a different layer of interpretation suddenly makes perfect sense for the first time.

In our astrological development, we begin looking at the charts for people around us (significant others, parents, friends, etc.) and realize that we're really hooked on this astrology stuff.  

We start silently guessing about the horoscopes of that loudmouth at the restaurant, the kids in the neighborhood, people in line at the movies... and that dimwit that just cut us off in traffic. Whether or not we're right, we're learning.  We're making real progress.  Our friends start asking us to "do their charts".

A new dimension of awareness is evolving.  Is everything under the Sun related to astrology?  We smile to ourselves and chuckle -- now that's pretty funny in a really profound way. 

Still, it's hard to be objective about our own horoscope -- just as it's easier to do a complete stranger's chart than a close friend or family member.  By knowing the person, we naturally have pre-formed opinions of what they're like.  To accurately interpret these charts we must suspend disbelief when we see measurements that "don't fit".  Chances are very good that the astrology is right.  We may just not want to admit it or find it awkward to talk to that friend or relative about a specific topic.  This same situation is amplified when we self-analyze our charts.

When it comes to our own charts, as in Astrology's Most Important Lesson in the non-technical section, it's easy to dismiss dimensions of ourselves that we'd rather not identify with.  But once we realize and reaffirm that each indicator or measurement carries with it that wide range of possible manifestations.  There's that silver lining to every dark cloud.

It then becomes necessary to look at ourselves objectively.  It's not anybody's fault that we have that birth chart.  The challenge becomes, "How can I make the most of what I have, steering myself toward the more positive outcomes and away from the less positive ones?"

Hey, nobody said astrology was easy!  If it was everybody would do it.  Rather, it is a useful tool for introspection, allowing us to see what we can become if we use the increased awareness positively.

My challenge to each of you is to identify what you consider the most problematic component of your horoscope and then formulate a way to turn that very same energy into a positive.

It might help to pretend that you're looking at the chart of a total stranger, developing a mental picture of what you would anticipate from this person.  You may see a dimension of yourself that has to this point proven elusive.  And in the process, you'll realize just how good an astrologer you really are.