An essential step in learning Astrology is an in depth analysis of one's own Cosmic Chart. There are two basic types of Cosmic Chart Analyses: those made by computers and those hand made by astrologers. In terms of quality and usefulness the analysis done by an astrologer is infinitely better than a computer generated report.

Not now, not never would a computer be able to analyze a Cosmic Chart with the wisdom, insight and relevance to the clients present reality that an astrologer can put into his readings. Therefore, if you are looking for a professional, in depth astrological analyses I would advice you to seek a professional astrologer. Current prices for such a service varies from about a hundred to about 300 dollars for a written report usually taking from 10 to 30 single space typewritten pages. As of now [January, 1994] for example, American Astrology's Personal Services Department charges $120.00 for a Birth Chart Analysis [and ask for at least 100 days for completion of this analysis "for it is a detailed, time-consuming work."]

These prices are for an in depth written report done personally by a professional astrologer. A second alternative is the face to face reading where you visit your personal astrologer's office, give him your birth data and ask for his advice in whatever you wish him to help you. The astrologer then erects your Cosmic Chart and use it to answer your questions. For such a reading prices varies from as little as 10 dollars to several hundred dollars depending on the fame, reputation, and social consciousness of the astrologer [and of course, the client social standing and ability to pay.]

To get the most of these face to face readings it is advisable first to get a good understanding of what Astrology is all about, and a good written interpretation of the Cosmic Chart. This way no astrologer would be able to bluff you with superficial readings for you would know when he is bluffing and when he is not. Furthermore, since you'll understand the technical terms of Astrology as well as its scope and limitations, he'll be able to counsel you in much more clear and specific terms.

A third alternative, good as an introduction to Astrology, is the previously mentioned Computer Generated Report. Such a report don't interpret the chart based on the clients present reality or life's history; it only puts together a series of previously written paragraphs for a limited combination of factors in the Cosmic Chart. For example, there is a paragraph for the Sun in Aries; all those with the Sun in Aries will have this same paragraph in their report. There is another paragraph for the Sun in Pisces, another for the Moon in Leo; another for Jupiter in Cancer, etc. etc., till all the predetermined combinations of planets, signs and houses are covered.

For this kind of report the computer operator (usually and hopefully an astrologer) enters the client's birth data into a computer program which first calculates the Cosmic Chart and then puts together the paragraphs corresponding to the planet, sign, houses, combinations found in the Chart. Such a report is not an in depth astrological analysis, but since it is automatically generated by a computer, its price is much lower: from as little as 10 to as much as 70 dollars per report.

Notwithstanding its limitations, this kind of computer generated report serves as a good, somewhat personalized introduction to Astrology; and could even become a good source of inner understanding provided that it don't be the only source, neither it be used as the primary factor upon which to make fundamental decisions. When needing help in making such decisions I'll advice you to seek the help of a Professional Counselor; be him/her an astrologer, minister, social worker or psychologist... (although sometimes an elder, mature, responsible and wise friend does a better job).

Beware and Bewise

Beware, however, that each and every adult and mentally healthy person is personally responsible for her own decisions and for the consequences therein. To make a wise choice is our responsibility to seek orientation and counseling from those who know more than us about the matter at hand. This function of providing the client with reliable information is the primary duty of the professional counselor no matter what his political, philosophical or religious orientation. Is then up to the client himself to analyze the information and or advice he has been given, sift it through the screen of his own personal priorities and ethical values; discard what he then considers unethical, unwise or simply not convenient, and use and or apply what he finally considers good, convenient, wise and ethical.

The counselor who knowingly gives bad advice is by all means guilty if not legally at least morally for his wrong action; but this by no means exculpate the client for his own guilt in following bad advice, neither does it protects him from the negative consequences that sooner or latter may come upon him. Therefore, inform yourself, seek and use the services of professional responsible counselors, keep an open mind, don't discard a priori any idea, but remember that you will be the primary beneficiary or victim or your own actions. Act, then, with wisdom, prudence and understanding. God Bless You.