Pattern Recognition

I am teaching a basic astrology course at the moment. This really is the very first steps in how to make sense of all the symbols and how they are positioned in what at first looks like an incredibly complex arrangement. What lies beneath however, is the development of pattern recognition. Such skills are incredibly important in all walks of life if we are to grow and move forward. Symbols play a greater role in our day to day than we may imagine, not just visually but also on a subconscious level affecting our behaviours and motivations.
When we start to question how the roots of our emotions have developed and how they influence our reactions to people and situations we begin to recognise the patterns in our own lives. It is by understanding these that we become empowered, learning to choose how we act rather than permanently finding ourselves at the mercy of our habitual behaviours. We then no longer play the role of pawn, victim or martyr but have some control and influence upon outcomes.
Astrology is a remarkable tool for recognising our traits and characteristics. It brings to light many hidden aspects of our self, including innate abilities as well as inhibitions. By providing a quick and relatively easy route to the psyche we can access supportive strategies and develop these by utilising our strengths. This in turn allows us to balance our development on all levels.
Pattern recognition, whether from a chart or from everyday reality, is powerful. Often people will shy away from any introspection as they are fearful of what may 'turn up'. We are all creatures of habit and the phrase "better the devil I know" is true of the vast majority of us most of the time. We would rather sit with what we have, even if it is uncomfortable or plain dreadful, as the thought of doing the necessary 'work' to change is far more daunting. In addition we all have experiences where we have let go and trusted only to find that something worse has taken up the space created in our lives. This memory prevents us from moving forward as once again fear dictates how we react.
When working introspectively or reflexively it is always good to have a trusted friend alongside (professional or otherwise) who can help us to see the best in ourselves and offer support and companionship along the way. An astrological chart can also assist in providing a suitable map of the terrain.