The Asteroids: Ceres, Juno, Pallas Athena, and Vesta

These are a few of the asteroids which modern astrologers sometimes consider when analyzing a chart:

	Ceres has to do with how we nurture and are nurtured. Mother/daughter issues may also surface during Ceres transits. In Greek mythology, Ceres is the grain goddess. When her daughter, Persephone, was abducted by Hades (Pluto), she withheld her nurturing from the Earth by bringing famine. When Persephone was returned to her, she brought abundance to the Earth once more. Ceres is associated with Cancer, a very nurturing sign.
	Juno is the relationship asteroid. Where she is located in our charts, we may find issues of power and jealousy in relationships. In Roman mythology, she is the wife of Jupiter, who was always cheating on her. Juno is associated with Libra, the sign governing relationships.
	Pallas Athena is the asteroid of creative wisdom. In Greek mythology, she was born by springing out of the head of Zeus (Jupiter) fully formed. Where she is found in our charts, we can experience great creativity and wisdom.
	Vesta is the keeper of the sacred fire and goddess of the hearth. In ancient Rome, her attendants were the vestal virgins, women who were dedicated to the service of the goddess and took vows of chastity (not the same thing as celibacy). The point where Vesta is in our charts indicates what we cherish deeply and hold sacred. Often this is such a deep place within ourselves that on the surface we are not aware of it. Vesta is associated with Virgo the virgin.