Words for the Wise: Practice Gratitude

The Current Cosmic Mojo: Overview

The second half of September 2025 might be likened to being similar to a circus with simultaneous high-profile events in multiple arenas. This article offers insights into only one sliver of the highly active astrological content of the times. If you want to apply astrological concepts to understanding the big picture regarding the state of the World I invite you to scroll to the end of this article where I offer guidance on finding comprehensive astrological information. This Mojo focuses on 1.) the impact of the September 21 New Moon as a good time to plant seeds and the impact of the September 22 Fall Equinox as a time to celebrate harvesting.

Introducing This Week’s Theme of Gratitude

Gratitude is reputed to be a state of being that has the power to positively shift our experience of life and living. At the time of this writing I am experiencing persistent sciatica nerve pain. It has landed me in a quite vexing place where I am experiencing 24/7 pain. (This is not fun! It, in fact, is quite very challenging.) Thus, when focusing on writing a newsletter that coincides with the Fall Equinox, a time that is typically associated with harvesting the bounty of Mother Nature, I turned to AI to suggest a theme. The subject of gratitude was strongly suggested. When I asked ChatGPT for input it returned information that was full of praise for the power of gratitude to produce positive results.

In Praise of Gratitude (AI Generated Content)

“When we cultivate gratitude, we train our hearts and minds to notice what is working, what is beautiful, and what is supportive—even in the midst of challenge. This conscious choice changes our perspective from lack to abundance, from stress to peace, from self-doubt to empowerment. Modern research backs up what wisdom traditions have long known: practicing gratitude strengthens mental

health, improves physical well-being, and deepens our relationships. Gratitude has the power to shift brain chemistry. Neuroscience shows that when we focus on appreciation, our brains release dopamine and serotonin—the “feel-good” chemicals that naturally elevate mood and reduce stress. Over time, these practices actually rewire our brains to notice the positive more easily, creating a cycle of resilience and joy.”

Gratitude and Life Challenges

According to Chat, “Gratitude doesn’t ignore challenges, rather it transforms how we face them. (NOTE: Now two months into seeking healing and finding only minimal relief my response is: I HOPE transformation will be in my future and if expressing gratitude is a ticket – I’m all in!. ChatGPT assures: “When gratitude is practiced regularly, it becomes a steady anchor, reminding us that even in uncertainty, there is always something to appreciate.”

Targeted Celebration Practices

Throughout history the Fall Equinox has been, celebrated when the Sun enters the sign of Libra. Unique to the 2025 equinox is that the Sun is directly opposite the key transiting planets: Saturn and Neptune in Aries. The joining of these two planets happens about every 36 years. The impact of the upcoming exact conjunction is a BIG DEAL. The last time they conjoined the Berlin Wall fell. Currently, this conjunction is anticipated to be particularly strong because notably it is happening at zero degrees of Aries.

This is notable because sero degrees of Aries is on the World Axis. Prevailing wisdom among astrologers is that this time will be highly impactful both on global and a personal level. The date for this conjunction to be exact is February 20, 2026. This is almost to the day exactly five months away from the equinox. Recall, the advice offered by Chat: “When practiced regularly, it becomes a steady anchor, reminding us that even in uncertainty, there is always something to appreciate.”

A Suggested Uplifting Activity – A 5 Month Gratitude Challenge: Commit to creating a weekly list of five gratitude items per week for five months. The resulting list will exceed 100 items. For variety’s sake, you might incorporate responding based upon each of the descriptions listed below.

Gratitude by the Sign

Each sign has an emotional style. Learning about your particular natural gratitude style may help you cultivate ways of expressing gratitude that feel natural and supportive. The following are sign-by-sign suggestions for aligning a gratitude practice with your Sun or Rising sign:

Aries: Practice gratitude by celebrating how proud you are of yourself for the times when you are/were courageous.

Taurus: Express being grateful for the ground beneath your feet. Additionally, acknowledge simple comforts that bring you joy.

Gemini: Write or speak your thanks by composing and sending gratitude texts, writing notes, or journaling.

Cancer: Honor loved ones. Design gratitude rituals focusing on family, friends, or home. Offer thanks for emotional connections.

Leo: Express gratitude through creativity. Make art, sing, or perform a gesture that reflects joy and appreciation.

Virgo Be thankful for progress, not perfection. Regularly list small steps forward appreciating your own effort.

Libra: Practice relational gratitude. Share appreciation with a partner or friend understanding that your balance thrives when others feel seen.

Scorpio: Acknowledge transformation. Reflect on a challenge you have overcome. Give thanks for the strength inspired in you.

Sagittarius Acknowledge how you have expanded your horizons. Make note of lessons learned.

Capricorn: Recognize your achievements. Write down successes, big or small, and appreciate the discipline that made them possible.

Aquarius: Celebrate community. Give thanks for friends, groups, or causes that connect you to your goals.

Pisces: Thank yourself for your demonstrated capacity to be optimistic.

Comprehensive Explanations of the Current Astrological Times

The references below come from the YouTube postings of Pam Gregory, an esteemed astrologer. She views astrology as a tool for reminding us that we are part of something much larger.

About the Fall Equinox: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E5xsoQXtkjI

About the Solar Eclipse:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=74YzvUrEs-I