Happy New Year! Welcome Fall! Welcome Spring! plus a late summer poem

midtown late summer vision

these late summer nights
window open after a long hot day
fog bursts in damp air
sycamore leaves crackle
light outside flicks on
two possums wander the yard

It’s summer no longer around my home town in the northern hemisphere: it’s now officially fall and winter has turned to spring in the southern hemisphere. The days are equal in length, and for many cultures, including the Chumash, it’s the mark of the new year, a time for new beginnings. Once the Man goes up in flames, it’s the New Year for Burners, too! For more 2009 Burning Man photos, check out these FROM CARNIVILLAIN– aka Mr. Nightshade http://theblight.net/09/bm/

According to Astrology.com,

On September 22, the Sun enters Libra, marking the autumnal equinox in the northern hemisphere, and the vernal equinox in the southern hemisphere.

Days get gradually shorter as we near winter and the last quarter of a most difficult year. This year’s fall equinox occurs as Mercury connects with the Saturn-Uranus opposition, emphasizing the importance of weighing the pros and cons before you make important decisions during this period.

The word ‘equinox’ is derived from the Latin word that means ‘equal’ and Libra is a sign that is interested in fairness and equality. It is time to compromise, and those who know how to conduct themselves with poise will be miles ahead of everybody else. Meet people halfway when possible and seek common ground rather than highlight your differences. The Sun also squares Pluto now, intensifying all of your relationships. Yet, at heart, Libra is a social sign and relationship oriented, making this a perfect juncture to reach out and spend quality time with those you love!

This is also the time of the harvest — a time of gratitude and abundance — so look back on the past year and reflect on what you’ve experienced and learned. The equinox provides a perfect opportunity to release excess baggage and stagnant energy you may be carrying.