Astrology of Joy

Newsletter 15/SEPTEMBER/2025 Saving the World

Written by

David

in

Astrology Monday! Solar Eclipse and Humanity's Pain 😔
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This Week’s Focus

Saving the World Begins with Saving Ourselves
Issue 37 Volume 8          15 September 2025
So many gods, so many creeds, so many paths that wind and wind while just the art of being kind is all the sad world needs. Ella Wheeler Wilcox (1850 – 1919), American author and poet; from her poem Voice of the Voiceless.

Image Credit: La Mélancolie (1785) by Louis-Jean-François Lagrenée
I’m tired, boss. Tired of bein’ on the road, lonely as a sparrow in the rain. I’m tired of never having me a buddy to be with, to tell me where we’s going to or coming from, or why. Mostly, I’m tired of people being ugly to each other. I’m tired of all the pain I feel and hear in the world every day. There’s too much of it — it’s like pieces of glass in my head all the time. — John Coffey, central character in The Green Mile (1996), played by Michael Clarke Duncan, from the novel of the same name by Stephen King

Dear wonderful neighbour and fellow traveller;

As an astrologer, I see a world stumbling headlong into very difficult times. As an archaeologist of current events, I see these difficult times riding on the back of misinformation and disinformation that take advantage of the inherent prejudices arising from our pain body. As a yogi and mystic, I know I can only control my own destiny and not the destiny of the world. As a human being, I hope and pray we all stop pointing fingers and have the courage, instead, to look at the reflection in the mirror of our own unconscious.

Disclaimer: So that you might read the following with an open mind, I wish you to know that I am, and have always been, an independent. I belong to no tribe. I belong to humanity and seek to support fundamental change in the world through that which supports a higher consciousness. This means discipline, for there is no gain without discipline of body, mind, and spirit. Taking sides is not an option…

The recent murders in the US of Charlie Kirk, a conservative podcaster, and Iryna Zarutska, a young Ukranian refugee, exposed the ugliness in human beings, not only within the radicalised ‘Reddit kid’ who fired the bullet that killed Charlie or the schizophrenic with a lengthy criminal record who knifed Iryna to death, but the ugliness within each of us that exists in the ideological tribalism that shapes our thoughts and actions and blinds us to the existential threat hiding in plain sight. 

Far too many of us are invested in our pain body, the conditioned self that dictates how we think and live. We rationalise away the hate and violence of our ‘tribe’ and look the other way when strangers are in need. The video of Iryna’s death on a subway train in Charlotte, North Carolina, is one of the most difficult I have watched; as a historian and archaeologist of now who has reviewed much death and destruction, this is saying a lot. She died alone, frightened, confused, holding her neck where she was struck three times, not realising her life was slipping away with each beat of her heart. The train’s CCTV shows a woman who sits adjacent and several people who walk by — they all do nothing. One man even points to Iryna, but simply stands there as if he is waiting to buy a ticket to the movies. 

This is tribalism. It turns us into statues of indifference, an apathetic piece of humanity who avoids getting involved or doing what is needed because someone exists outside our accepted group. In Charlie Kirk’s case, we shrug our shoulders and shake our heads, believing his ‘far-right’ views brought the assassin’s bullet. Karma is karma, we say. Yet, me make no effort to separate fact from fiction. We hang onto our nonsense like a dog on a bone who does not realise the blood he tastes is his own. We are losing the blood of our humanity drop by drop every day and never sense its passing.

A Rutgers University study released in April 2025, conducted by the Network Contagion Research Institute (NCRI), revealed that 55.2% of left-of-center respondents said murdering President Trump would be at least somewhat justified, while 48.6% said the same for Elon Musk. The study also found that 39% of U.S. residents believe destroying a Tesla dealership in protest is at least somewhat acceptable. Even more concerning: 13% of left-of-center individuals stated that killing Trump would be “completely justified”.

Have we gone mad? Have we completely lost our moral compass in the fog of narcissistic compassion? Are we now embracing an assassination culture where a person deserves to be killed if their opinion differs from ours? 

Ideological tribalism brings destruction no matter what side of centre we place ourself. Unless we are able to think independently, we are part of the problem and the reason we don’t think for ourselves is because we have spent a lifetime protecting a personality based upon our past trauma. We attach ourself to like-minded people and together we become a collective consciousness of ignorance, hate, and contempt where the ‘other side’ is always wrong. If we are to evolve into a truly inclusive world, we must reject the tribe.

The world is not how we see it and never was. This is not only a fundamental principle proven through decades of brain research and behavioural science but is found in the teachings of every exalted soul who has ever sought to open our eyes to what is meaningful and true. We demonise some and place on a pedestal others, unaware that we are being played like fools.

Who controls the past controls the future: who controls the present controls the past. — from George Orwell’s novel 1984

The media purposefully misleads us. They stoke the fires of division because they have built their empires on sensationalism. Much worse, they are owned by wealthy elites who seek to control public opinion, if not through war, through division and fear. This is how they maintain a hold on power and wealth. What is truly frightening is that it matters not to them who holds the political reins. They are opportunists and simply adjust their methods to reflect whatever political party is in office.

There’s a better way. Much better. It’s made of no more than seeing how we’re being played and simply and peacefully refusing to be played anymore. — Neil Oliver, Scottish archaeologist and social commentator

Charlie Kirk was not an extremist and his views were not far-right. He firmly held conservative views and many of us likely disagreed with at least some of those views, but that was his point: that strong opinions on both sides could come together and peacefully discuss the issues of the day without hate and violence. He believed in the need for dialogue between the ‘right and left’ and sought to encourage healthy debate on college campuses. Ironically, he was shot in the throat, perhaps on purpose — symbolic of the extremist’s view that abhors dialogue and freedom of speech.

Understand this: we are the problem and we are the solution. It begins by rejecting our conditioned, knee-jerk reaction to everything that happens in life. We suffer a poverty of consciousness that stems from a lack of spiritual integrity. We have invested our very life force into our opinions which become not a matter of opinion, but ‘my truth’, one of the greatest divisive distractions of modern times. ‘My truth’ does not exist and is the basis for all the hate we see in the world.

There is hope; there is always hope. After an eternity, a passenger entered the train car and saw Iryna lying on the floor in a pool of blood. He quickly came to her aid, took off his shirt, and tried to save her life. For Iryna, this selfless act of kindness was too late, but perhaps it is not too late for us. This unidentified man revealed the best in humanity, what we all have within us that makes the world a place of good in at least equal measure to what is evil.

As always, it’s up to us. May we all have the courage to choose wisely.

Warm thoughts and many blessings,

David 🙏🏻 🤗
astrologyofjoy.com
Astrology Monday:
Just the facts, please! 
An American icon from 60s television, hard-boiled detective Joe Friday always insists on “just the facts”.

This week’s no-nonsense forecast:
Worldly fulfilment
Solar Eclipse
Material connection and abundance get a boost from learning where you are not embracing your natural talents and abilities. Once realised, you can adjust your life to make sure those talents are being utilised in the best possible way. See the Moon Planner section below.

Saturn retrograde in Pisces
This combination causes fear and concern because our imagination can get away from us. However, Saturn’s retrograde status helps us recognise previous fear-inspired choices so we can create a better plan to resolve current issues. If struggling, rethink your game plan.

Mars in Libra
Mars is our will to get things done. In Libra, it helps relationships bring more fulfilment, if not in romance, then at least in the practical matter of being together.

Spiritual fulfilment
Solar Eclipse
Being false stems from the fear of losing control. What you are seeking to use as the controller, however, is your fear… see the problem? Step back, look at your life objectively, then have the courage to be who you always knew you were. See the Moon Planner section below.

Ongoing
Uranus in Gemini!
Uranus is in Gemini thru 8 November, giving us a preview of the next seven years beginning 26 April, 2026. Uranus is your authentic nature yearning to be freed. If you are struggling, it simply means you are not honouring your authenticity. You are living a lie and Uranus wants to put an end to your falsehoods and pretence. Let it show you the way.

Jupiter in Cancer
Jupiter in Cancer is an opportunity to find fulfilment through service, creativity, and abundance. Keep your Jupiter pointed high. Jupiter can become distracted and very ordinary through material goals. Nothing wrong with these as long as they don’t take the lead.

Astrology Monday

Weekly Planning Forecast

Virgo Sun…
23 August — 22 September

The Sun in Virgo highlights an important attribute of the Virgo nature: it’s a sign that indicates the building of something wonderful for the benefit of human beings, whether in thought or in deed. If you have the Sun in Virgo in your birth chart or Mercury, Saturn, or Rahu, you have an abundance of this attribute. Indeed, it is deeply ingrained in who you are and can serve you well when you recognise its worth.

Virgo relates to the physical world and the things we attempt and accomplish in the outer world in order to find fulfilment: education degrees, job, career, house, car, etc. Spouse and family come in the next sign, Libra. Though our search for happiness in the outer world ultimately leaves us unfulfilled, as it should, it is a necessary part of the journey we human beings take from material to spiritual. 

Sun in Aditya Tvashta…
Fun Fact: Zodiac comes from the Greek zodiakos (kyklos) which literally means “circle of little animals” and reveals how astrological knowledge was shared between the cultures of Greece and India beginning in the time of Alexander the Great.

Before the arrival of the Greeks, the ‘zodiac’ used in India was a 360 degree circle based upon the Sun’s movement (Adityas). The Aditya corresponding to Virgo is Tvashta which relates to the chariot maker. This highlights the nature of Tvashta as the sign that relates to building something that allows human beings to have an easier and more comfortable existence, to “move” from one aspect of life to another. 😊
 
Moon Planner
Has the Moon got you hurried and harried?

No worries! The Moon represents the feminine and your capacity to receive and recognise the resources you have available to fulfil your emotional needs.  Too often, we get distracted with what is not ours and miss out on the available opportunity, experiencing disappointment and disillusionment, or worse, we become like my hairy friend, Monsieur Lou Garou. 🤭

This week
Solar Eclipse September 21!
A solar eclipse heralds an end to one cycle and the start of another.
When: 21 September 2025 Partial eclipse (BST): 18:29 thru 22:53; Max eclipse 20:42
Theme: What do you need to let go of to build the life you want?
Maximum effects: Mostly 21 August thru 21 October.

Who will it effect most?
The Solar eclipse is at 29˚ Virgo. It effects most strongly those with planets within 5˚ (in Virgo or Libra) or on a house cusp, but will also effect those with any planets in same sign (Virgo), especially those sensitive to eclipses.

Carry through theme from first eclipse in cycle 19 July 1917 @ 03:42
Pluto conjunction to eclipse reveals how the current eclipse will carry a theme of breaking down emotional needs in order to move from dependence to independence.

Current eclipse ramifications
Tends to reveal one’s long-term worries about loved ones, health issues, or business viability. These can seem fated or destined (Saturn, Neptune, Mercury, Venus influence). Find resolution by digging deeper within your own inner storehouse so you can be reminded of your deepest desires. Authenticity attracts joy, fulfilment, and success. Always.

Reminder: Lunar Eclipse that occurred on September 7!
Lunar eclipses give fruits according to how you have been living in thought and action.
Theme: Am I being true to myself in my plans and endeavours? 
Maximum effects: Mostly felt August 8 thru October 8.

Who will it effect most?
The eclipse is at 15˚ Pisces. Its effects are felt most strongly by those with planets within a 5˚ orb of the eclipse or on a house cusp, but will effect any planets in same sign (Pisces), especially those more sensitive to eclipses.

Jupiter keeps your spirits up and, more importantly, indicates the potential for you to truly understand where you are limiting yourself either through unrealistic expectations or because you are not surrendering to your authentic nature (full potential). Ask yourself where it is you are false which keeps things from fully blossoming. With sincere self-examination and analysis, you can discover where you got off-track allowing you to build a better plan of action.

 ☺️
New! Astro-Coaching!
Eclipse season is a perfect time to transform your life. Even when challenging, eclipses are filled with possibility. Astro-Coaching brings together Vedic Astrology and Transformational Coaching to help you transcend your  struggles and embrace your unique, authentic path. For more information, please write to me here.

If you want success, the foremost thing is to ensure that you are not the obstacle to it. — Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev, yogi, mystic, humanitarian, NYT bestselling author
Important dates (2025 — 2026)
2025
JUL 14 — 8 NOV: Uranus in Gemini! Revolution brings innovation. Bend, but don’t break.
AUG 6 — SEP 22: Mars in Libra: right action in relationship brings bounty.
SEP 1 thru 28 NOV: Saturn retrograde in Pisces; great time to review long range plans.
Now thru 2026 and beyond
Now thru JUL 26 2026: Rahu in Pisces: Loss of boundaries; excessive empathy; heightened creative expression and imagination.
Now thru JUN 30, 2026: Jupiter exalted in Cancer: Heart-centred approach brings rewards when emotions are tied to your good intention and not selfish gain.
SEP 1 2025 — FEB 13 2026: Saturn in Pisces: Tendency towards fear-based decisions; loss of boundaries; strong creative ideas
FEB 14 2026— APR 12 2028: Saturn in Aries: Weakening foundation; supports taking calculated risks. Prudence is fine; obsessively cautious denies needed change.
Hero’s Journey
The journey of the hero is about the courage to seek the depths; the image of creative rebirth; the eternal cycle of change within us; the uncanny discovery that the seeker is the mystery which the seeker seeks to know. ~ Joseph Campbell, 
True gurus are those who have reached the highest expression of human potential and help us find the way. I most often quote Sadhguru and highlight his practices and events simply because he is arguably the most publicly available guru today. Initially, his mission on Earth was to install the Dhyanalinga, an energy form not seen for over 2000 years, but something wonderful happened after his body recovered from the enormous energy drain of such a profound process: he decided to stick around to touch the lives of as many as possible… 😉
Upcoming “don’t miss” hatha yoga programmes offered across Europe (incl Glasgow):

Free and low cost programmes and discounts…
Miracle of Mind! FREE Meditation App!

Recent science shows that even a short amount of time is enough to spark positive neuro-physical changes in your brain. Stick with it, and these quick sessions build up, boosting your mental resilience and overall happiness.

Launched by Sadhguru this past Mahashivratri, Miracle of Mind is a free app to download that empowers you through a daily 7 minute meditation. For more information, follow this link.

 
Consultations
*** 20% paid for referrals astrologyofjoy.com/special-offer

What is the Astrology of Joy? It’s a tool for finding your bliss and living a joyful life. It’s a gentle “push” to get you back on the right track. Based upon the time-honoured system of astrology practiced in India for thousands of years, Astrology of Joy is inspired by David’s four decades living in ashrams, seeking truth, and learning from enlightened beings who taught, “You are more than a body and a mind. You are That!” 
 

New! Astro Chat
£45/hr… This reading is an open-ended discussion with me that works best as either a follow-up or a general exploration of any current issues in your life. Designed for the budget conscious or anyone seeking a review of their current astrological trends and trajectories. Audio file included.

In-depth consultations… the following readings are comprehensive and detailed and include 2 to 3 hours of pre-session analysis of your astrology charts before we meet.

Natal in-depth overview: perfect for new clients or as a comprehensive review
£199 new clients/£169 returning clients… 2hr online reading. Includes personal eBook and session audio file.
 
Varshaphala (6-month Solar return): 
£169 new clients/ £129 returning clients… 2hr online reading. Includes personal eBook and session audio file.

Specialised Consultations:
£129… 2hr online reading on one of the following (below). Includes session audio file. Optional: £29 add on eBook.
  • Relationship/Compatibility
  • Career/Finances
  • Health and Wellbeing
  • Relocation (analyse up to 3 locations)
  • Spiritual Development
  • In-depth examination of any area of your choosing.

Rahu/Ketu Elemental Reading
£99… 2hr online reading. Includes session audio file. Optional: £29 add on eBook.
 
Muhurta Consultation
Auspicious date determination for wedding, baby planning, business start up, medical procedures, home purchase, etc.
 £79 for three month analysis. Months do not need to be successive.

Financial Hardship? It is my vision to make Vedic astrology available to all those who are willing to take steps towards their wellbeing. If you are eager to use Vedic astrology to make your life into a better reflection of who you really are, but financial resources are a genuine barrier, please contact me about your situation.

For more information, visit astrologyofjoy.com/consultations.


AstrologyOfJoy.com
About David: Personally certified by Dr. David Frawley, author and founder of the American Institute of Vedic Studies, David has been a professional astrologer for over 30 years. David learned the art and science of Indian astrology while a ten-year resident in the ashram of a realised spiritual master. David guides clients throughout the world on achieving everyday fulfilment in their spiritual and personal goals, relationships, and wellbeing.

David served as editor of Isha Yoga’s European newsletter for two years, was Vice President of the Rosia Montana Cultural Foundation in Romania, and has a Masters in Archaeology (with Distinction), studying the challenges and issues facing contemporary society from the archaeological perspective. He also wrote and published a parent-child picture book with his brother, Steve (illustrator), about the life of Adiyogi, the first yogi. He currently resides in Burntisland, Scotland, where he serves on the board of the Burntisland Harbour Access Trust helping maintain public access to the historically significant harbour.
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