Astrology maps the potential for harmonious, lasting relationships. How does astrological information compare to other methods used by those seeking the prefect mate?
One of the most frequent questions asked by those consulting astrologers is “When will I meet my true love?” or “Is my current boy/girlfriend the ‘right’ one for me?” People want to connect, believing the perfect love match will bring happiness and an end to life’s problems. The quest for the perfect partner is big business these days. Recently, the Today Show aired a piece on a new company that thinks they have found the certain, scientific way to make a perfect love match. Send in a sample of DNA and for several hundred dollars, true harmony and happiness will follow when the sample connects with another similar DNA pattern. How does astrology reveal the perfect partner?Traditionally, an astrologer rates the compatibility between two people by assessing the sign and house placement of the major relationship planets, Venus and Mars. The Sun, Moon and Mercury positions are also be considered, along with relationships between these and other planets. Like DNA strands, the belief is that when a couple's planets are harmonious and in good aspect to each other, there lies the greatest chance for happiness and longevity in relationship.
Compatability in the Stars
Traditional rules of astrological compatibility say planets in harmonious elements get on best: air with fire; earth with water. Thus, Aries, Leo, Sagittarius (fire), Gemini, Libra and Aquarius (air) are one group of compatible signs and Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn (earth), Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces (water) are the other group of compatible signs. While frequently couples will have relationship planets in harmonious elements, is this always true? Let’s look at Venus, which rules what and how we express love. Does having Venus in harmonious signs guarantee a couple’s contentment? Take a pair with Scorpio Venus and Capricorn Venus for example: they are in harmonious elements, but would Scorpio’s intensity and love of mystery be satisfied with the steady, traditional, “I told you I loved you last year” Capricorn Venus energy? Would unpredictable Aquarius Venus resonate to the commitment energy of Venus in Libra, the loyalty needs of Venus in Leo? The old saying goes: "opposites attract". And sometimes the 'edge' created by a disharmonious pairing not only attracts but keeps attraction strong.
Astrology versus Science
The Today Show reporter found that the scientific approach also had exceptions. A blind study done with a couple happily married for 15 years showed low scores on their DNA compatibility. So much for certainty. Lasting relationships are as much about learning lessons and growing into new understanding as they are about peace and protection. Because of this, astrology provides more than a simple comparison of data. It also provides information on the purpose and lessons being offered in any partnership. Understanding and honoring each individual's unique expression enriches love and opens the door to true intimacy.
Making Sense
Love doesn’t always ‘make sense.’ And while there are certain pitfalls to avoid and a need for common ground in some areas, being open to the lessons and opportunities that come with differences might ultimately deliver the greatest reward.
