Sun & Ascendant Stars

Dear Astrology Room

Hi I'm Libra (29/09/78) with Sagittarius rising. Now, I have of course experienced rough and tough Saturn in my life, and know for Librans he's hanging around for another year. But for Sagittarians the stars say life is really improving. Should I be reading Sagittarius horoscopes as well as Libra or does Saturn cancel out my rising sign good stuff?

San

Dear San

When it comes to our Sun sign and what sign we have rising at the time of birth there is a difference. The Sun indicates the core of our personality, our innermost traits and the life goals we wish to achieve. The type of goals that fulfil us and the way in which we express our true nature are all determined by the sign that the Sun falls in.

While the Sun acts as the ego force of our nature, the rising sign (also known as the Ascendant) influences the way in which we approach life, our attitude to the world around us and the way in which we go about achieving our goals. It also represents how others may see us (first impressions) and how we also see ourselves. It is if you like, the lens that we view the world through.

With this in mind you will find that although many Librans will share the same basic principles of fairness, harmony and the need for partnership, the way they go about seeking these things may be very different. For instance, as your rising sign is in the very fiery sign of Sagittarius you may enjoy taking risks, have an optimistic view on life and apply huge doses of faith to achieving what you set out to do. Whereas a Libran who has Capricorn rising may see things very differently. They may be much more cautious, practically minded and believe discipline and hard work is the only way to achieve their goals.

It is best to read only the Sun sign horoscopes for Librans, as the Sun is the most powerful force so therefore will have the most influence on your character. But it also might be a good idea for you to have a read up on the traits of Sagittarius, as you will recognise some of these in yourself and then be aware of how you have incorporated them into your expression and outlook.

Just a quick note on Saturn. When this planet makes any kind of contact with our natal Sun it is often a testing and demanding time for us. However, once he has moved on we begin to see the fruits of our labour from all that hard work and effort that we had previously applied in order to overcome the difficulties facing us. The lesson may be harsh but the rewards will be long lasting!

I hope that helps in some way and clarifies the difference for you.

Take care

Lisa