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In the current era, the sun is set against the backdrop of the constellation of Cancer during July 16 and August 17.The sun sign is indicative of the manner in which the individual finds expression, for it is the source of the life force. The solar energies absorb and reflect the characteristics of the sign in which the sun finds itself: and the individual born at this time of the year will find that, at heart, he or she embodies Cancerian traits. The other two most important personal factors within the birth chart are the Ascendant and moon. If either of these are positioned within the Cancer field of influence, then the individual will also find that he or she reflects Cancerian traits, as would anyone with the Moon significantly placed in their chart.

Cancer is symbolised by the crab, a creature born of the sea, subject to the fluctuations of the tides and therefore directly influenced by the cycles of the Moon. The first image that can be drawn from this analogy is the changeability of the Cancer individual. Cancerians are emotionally sensitive people and tend to flow with the influences of circumstances and people around them. They tend to absorb the vibrations of those around them and are therefore very susceptible to changes in mood. This can have both positive and negative effects for, in one instance, they are able to share an empathy and understanding with those around them whilst, on the other hand, are then vulnerable to those who are insensitive to the needs and rights of others. This empathy will often manifest in some sort of psychic ability, and it is important for the Cancerian individual to ensure that there is some sort of protection around them. This need for protection is partially satisfied by the cautious approach that Cancer takes to life. They make sure of their grounds first before allowing themselves to become too close to a situation. This is why they appear to be shy when, in actual fact, they are quietly assessing the situation before making their move.

The Cancer person does not like disturbances in their personal sphere as they are not able to handle these situations without remaining detached and objective. The tendency, therefore, is to sidestep the trouble spots and to retreat to safer quarters. The sensitivity of the Crab to fluctuations in the environment necessitates that the Cancer person has a secure home base. Because the home is so important to Cancer, this individual tends to take a very emotional viewpoint of the home. It is the basis of their security and they can, therefore, be very possessive of it. This is especially so if the Cancer individual has had a difficult upbringing during childhood. The impressions of what a home should be like are formed during childhood, and it is these impressions that can make or break a Cancerian. Instability during childhood will, in all probability, lead to over-emotionalism, touchiness and anxiety in later life that would prohibit them from establishing a stable home. Alternatively, those who have had a stable childhood will be able to establish the environment which they need.

Cancerians are very protective in nature and strongly reflect the mother symbolism, whether they be male or female. They are very protective of their young and self-conscious of their roles as parents. They can he very patient and understanding of their children's needs. There is a strong desire to nurture and to he nurtured, which increases the importance of children in their lives. Usually a strong bond of affection between the Cancer person and their mother is forged for life, and the fond memories of childhood are always cherished. It was previously mentioned that the Cancer individual would rather avoid disturbances than face them. However, if the problems threaten the home and the children, Cancer will defend and protect to their best ability. Tenaciousness and endurance are two of the strong points of the crab and greatly assist in the defense of all that Cancer holds dear. This even extends to the national front where Cancerians generally exhibit a strong sense of patriotism.

As indicated earlier, Cancer is subject to the variations of the lunar cycle, and therefore reflects the changeability of their environment within themselves. However, as the Moon waxes and wanes through its various phases, a routine cycle is also established that never varies. So it is with the Cancer native that they require a routine to regulate their fluctuating moods. Whilst there may be a desire for travel and variety in life, the Cancerian always returns to the home base for the security and comfort that can only be found in the routine activities of the home.

© Copyright, Alison Moroney, 1990