There is a misconception in popular culture about what the Sun sign in our natal horoscope represents. Many people mistakenly assume we “are” our Sun sign. Reading descriptions of our Sun sign in books and on the internet and social media, we may feel the traits do not accurately reflect our self image. We may not relate at all to specific characteristics we read about. This is because the Sun is only one of many planets in our horoscope. Each planet in its sign and placement in the chart represents specific archetypal principles and urges that contribute to our total personality. Depending on their placement and relationships in the chart, some planets may take on a stronger role and overshadow the Sun. Or, the Sun may be hidden from our awareness in an unconscious part of the chart. Because the interpretation of our Sun sign is not as straight forward as we would like, we may conclude astrology isn’t accurate or meaningful, and doesn’t “work.”
The Sun is the central force in our solar system, radiating life-sustaining warmth and light. In astrology it represents the archetypal force that provides energy and vitality. It lights us up and makes us feel alive. Through our Sun we feel a connection to Spirit, to Source, and gain a sense of divine purpose in our life. The Sun urges us to individuate as separate, autonomous sparks of the divine light of which we are all a part. Operating through our heart center, the Sun encourages us to fully engage with life in our own individuated way.
The Sun in our natal chart challenges us to grow towards it, fulfilling our unique personal purpose. Becoming our Sun sign does not happen automatically. We must first learn how to “do” our Sun sign. The sign of our Sun indicates the style or manner in which we can realize our potential. The house placement of the Sun in our natal chart reveals the area of life where we can shine. It tells us what we need to work on so we can feel vital through our distinctive creative self expression. We must use our will and personal energy to develop the qualities, gifts and talents of our Sun and apply them in the area of life indicated by the Sun’s house. Then we must gather our courage and make the effort to utilize and express our Sun’s qualities in the greater world with heart-felt generosity.
When we understand what our Sun requires of us, and adopt and express its attributes, we experience more personal joy and satisfaction in life. We become more enthusiastic about becoming our Sun sign as we discover it lights us up. It feeds us energetically, recharging our personal battery. We feel empowered, more willing to act spontaneously with confidence to attain our personal goals. We feel proud of our accomplishments and develop self-respect. Through our actions we influence others, inspiring and encouraging them to embrace life, find their greater purpose, and shine their own light in the world.
“Just as each snowflake is unique, so is each person. Your primary purpose in life is to experience life from one individual, unique point of view. You are an expression of Infinite Being as it experiences itself from all possible viewpoints.” ― Owen Waters