September New Moon: Conjunction Junction, sort of.

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Hello, all – There’s a lot going on for this month’s new moon, including the Equinox (autumnal, here in the northern hemisphere) and the last eclipse of 2025. There’s also a lot going on in the world right now. I don’t study astrology much, but a whole lot of conjunctions of meaning are definitely echoing in these omens. 

1. Overall Theme: Hawthorn, unpleasantness. Oh, boy, are things unpleasant right now. Hawthorn represents obstacles and hostile forces at work. It’s a reminder to slow down and not make things that are already hard even harder by flinging ourselves upon unpleasantness when we have the choice to be patient or take the long way ‘round. Sometimes, it’s going to hurt no matter what, but we can make an effort to make it meaningful, you know?

   
   

2. Potential & Allies: Elder, for self-examination. This one surprised me but, when I read up a bit on the significance of this lunar eclipse, I noticed that really being honest with myself has never steered me wrong. Last month, Elder was in the position of an obstacle. This month? When we’re struggling to find the most righteous path forward, letting go of illusions that aren’t aligned with our soul’s purpose is always a good choice. Our ability to evolve and learn is only limited by our ability to look at the truth (or the Truth) without flinching. 

   
   

3. Static & Obstacles: Spindle, for busywork. Speaking for myself, I have a habit of getting really wrapped up in preparation when I’m trying to avoid the Real Work. I’ll do everything except what I’m supposed to be doing. Using the self-examination of Elder, take a minute to make sure you’re not busying yourself with work that, while useful, doesn’t drive your goals forward. 

   
   

4. Letting Go: White Poplar, for separation. White Poplar is about floating above problems, not getting entangled. I think it’s also a little bit about thinking of ourselves as Other. Letting go of that desire to create separation is part of finding common cause and extending empathy. It’s hard. Let go of the desire to be detached, as much as you can (safely).

   
   

5. Helping Grow: Birch, for first steps. This one came up in a ritual last night, too. Calling back to Elder, maybe this is a reminder not to carry past pains into the present. Start over as often as you need to. And you don’t need to know how to do EVERYTHING…just the next thing. 

   
   

As always, I’m curious what you see in this month’s reading, especially if you have astrological insights! Please let me know, and feel free to share with any friends you think might get something out of it too. 

Bright blessings,

Nicole

~ Nicole (Nikki, sometimes Saffron Hare) is founder and general manager at Nine Fires Press. Her Druidic practice has included solitary, small-group, and congregational worship, with a focus on liturgy and seership. She loves to fall in love with bad ideas.

#ogham #omens #divination #druidry #pagan