Astrology to Chattanooga
Two other women, Jennifer and Melissa, and myself began the Astrology-Chatt Meet-up with the hopes we would find some like-minded people interested in talking about what many in the Bible belt consider devilish. It still amazes me that some people have the idea that astrology is anti-religious or anti-Christian. I think I find it so amazing since I know the history of astrology and know that the basis of it is very religious in that it is about God’s presence on earth. And that Christianity used to integrate astrology into its teachings. Thomas Aquinas, a great theologian, discusses astrology as valid in certain contexts.
Just recently my husband Bill reconnected with some old neighbors who are now doing missionary work in Africa, South America, and other countries. They go under the auspices of being language teachers (which they are not), but use that as a means to gain access to people. When he told them he was married to an Astrologer they sent him an email saying they were sorry he had drifted from the path, and then cut off contact with him!! He wrote them back to say that it was difficult to see how they could be so closed minded to other beliefs of Americans while at the same time receptive to the beliefs of people in rural countries, and he was surprised to see them act in such an exclusive manner. After about 2 weeks they responded that Bill was right, and it was un-Christian to judge people so harshly. And in prior astrology classes that I have taught, some students would say that when they told neighbors they were going to astrology, the neighbors replied they might as well go to Hell!!! Amazing. Especially in this day of global citizenship where a compassionate heart and open mind are essential to being part of this ever changing world.
So our Astrology Chatt that we had on Saturday was a great success. In one month we’ve had 18 people join, and 9 came to the first meeting. We had people who had studied 30 years and people who pondered astrology for 30 days. Great mix. Looking forward to more.
What types of responses have you had when you mention astrology?
In peace, Lilan
Thank you for such a thoughtful reply. I bet there are many others who find this same challenge when it comes to embracing astrology as a path of self knowledge, and in my case, a way to God.
Lilan ~ This could be a great topic for a future meet-up. I’d be really interested in hearing others’ experiences.
I have had similar experiences with good friends of mine who are of the Christian belief.
This topic is something I have struggled with, mostly because I recognize a practical and relevant purpose for Astrology in my own life. I have always struggled spiritually, mostly because I can’t bring myself to whole-heartedly agree with what is being taught in any particular religion, specifically Christianity. I’ve grown up in an area that is strong in Christianity, respectfully. But, I’ve never been able to establish a close connection with it, probably due to my tendency to question and look at logic and practicality in daily well being.
I hope to make it out to some of the meetups, especially if the gap between having faith in God and utilizing Astrology in daily life is being addressed, and others share the same curiosities and difficulties in being openly curious about Astrology.
Thank you for proving that one can have faith and spirituality, along side or because of the relevancy of Astrology to the individual! Keep it coming!