| The Planets |
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Chiron
One of the most recently discovered heavenly bodies is a planetoid named
Chiron. Although there are differences of opinion over the actual
classification of this body (some claim it's a comet or an asteroid), its
power is widely acknowledged. It was first sighted in 1977 on its trek
between Saturn and Uranus.
The Planet was named after Chiron, the Centaur (see Sagittarius). In Greek Mythology,
Chiron's mother was a water-nymph who, while trying to run from Zeus'
amorous overtures, turned herself into a horse. She did not escape,
however, and Zeus impregnated her. When she gave birth, she was shocked to
see that her newborn was half horse, half boy. The mother was so terrified
that she prayed to the gods to be changed into a tree. Her wish was
granted. Thus, both of Chiron's parents abandoned him. Instead of dwelling
on that, though, he became a skilled teacher and healer. One day, while he
was handing a poisoned arrow to a student, it dropped and pierced his leg.
Since his father was a god, he was immortal, so he could not die. In
terrible pain, he prayed to the gods to let him die. They, in gratitude for
his teachings, let him out of his misery and placed him in the sky.
Chiron is the wounded healer. This Planetoid is for everyone who, rather
than giving in to despair amid their own suffering, reaches out so others
will not have to experience the pain they've felt. Many people who have had
a painful childhood grow up to be psychiatrists or therapists so that they
can help other people get through the same things that hurt them. Parents
who have lost children to drunk drivers go on to form support groups so
that other parents know they are not alone. These people feel the influence
of charitable Chiron. It can be healing for a person to help others cope
with a pain that they themselves have lived through.
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