The sign of Libra is associated with harmony, balance, justice, partnership, and right human relationships. Personally, I am a Libra Sun with Venus also in Libra (its natural ruler), so for me everything is about Relationship. Imagine my dismay at news stories over the past few years which seem to underscore a general lack of understanding for the importance of cooperation and collaboration within the greater collective.
This is certainly not a time for any of us to sit back and just observe, expecting that others will take a stand and set things right. We, as a civilization, seem to be running full-on into the arms of insane and inane potentialities, just “hoping” that somehow things will turn out alright. Someone once told me that there would be nothing I could do “to change the world”, that I’m “just an ordinary person and really, what could I possibly do to make a difference?” Well, perhaps I can’t, but that doesn’t mean I shouldn’t try. Today, I was reminded of a quote by Martin Luther (c. 1453 – 1586), “If you want to change the world, pick up your pen and write.”
So here I am! The pen has been replaced by the keyboard, and today our potential reach far exceeds anything Luther could have imagined. Through the medium of the internet and social networks, it seems this “reach” has further contributed to the woes of the world. Examples of sensationalized journalism, selective grandstanding, and self-promotion, by those who lack the Soul to care more about Humanity than they do about themselves, have become all too frequent occurrences. We need to lower the noise and instead direct our attention towards helping a positive shift in the conversations.
Perhaps I’m more drawn to this discussion because we are in the Libran part of our zodiac cycle. However, conflict-ridden issues are becoming far more prevalent in the world at large. The looming election in the United States which seems to have polarized a nation, and has the world sitting on the edge of their collective seats; the recent “Brexit” vote, where Britain voted to exit the European Union; and the issue of Quebec sovereignty in Canada that continues to be a topic of discussion, are just a few of the tensions currently in play. This is a time when we should be focused on coming together with a view to inclusiveness rather than separateness, collaboration instead of conflict, and compassion versus callousness. It seems that we have lost sight of the fact that we are all one humanity!
This IS the dawning of the “age of Aquarius” where the collective is both the focus and the solution. No one person, single idea, or individual cause is more unique than the next. The right to be an individual is a theme that has been advocated by numerous humanitarians and cultural anthropologists over the centuries. When will we fully embrace the fact that we each have the right to our own opinions, our own voice, and our best self expression? When will we understand that we even have the right to disagree? That is what debate is for…non-violent debate of course.
Each and every one of us has different ideas, skills and gifts. The true value, the real treasure, is in those differences. But, now more than ever, it is essential that we respect our diversity, appreciate one another, and collaborate. The actual potential and power of positive “relationships” is astonishing. The old saying “the whole is greater than the sum of its parts” reflects this and is really the entire premise of synergy and collaboration.
The next time you are faced with a conflict, either as participant or observer, I challenge you to ask yourself “How can this situation be resolved peacefully, in a way that benefits both sides or at least results in an equitable solution?” We have numerous opportunities to weigh in on matters that affect us, our communities, our countries, and our world. For example, the right to vote has been hard-won in many countries and cultures, yet voter turn out has been reported in record low numbers in recent years. Too many of us sit on the sidelines. Make your voice count by exercising your right to vote…every opportunity!
Building a world to reflect “right human relationships” begins within our own immediate sphere of influence. Relationships with family members, colleagues, partners…they are all significant. The role of Libra is to think, listen, observe, weigh the facts, consider the consequences, and arrive at an equitable and just solution. So, consider how you might collaborate on a project, idea, or initiative to achieve an impactful result or even begin to positively facilitate a change, whether in your immediate community or on a broader scale.
Involve yourself where you have a particular interest and feel you can make a difference. Participate in your PTA, or at least attend the general meetings if you are concerned with what’s taking place in the school system. Get involved in municipal elections or attend the regular council meetings…offer your thoughts and ideas on the local issues. Volunteer for a charity, project or cause that you feel strongly about. There are countless ways to engage and help to shift the conversations that are taking place. The first step is your decision to participate.
If we all moved forward with a little more “Libra” governing our thoughts and actions, couldn’t we each begin to make change in the world? Don’t you think the potential for greater peace and harmony is worth a try? As you ponder these questions consider the words of a famous Libra Sun, Eleanor Roosevelt, “It isn’t enough to talk about peace, one must believe in it. And it isn’t enough to believe in it, one must work at it.”
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