The general perception about astrology is that it is a destiny-defining predictive discipline. This belief is based on the premise that the journey of everybody’s life is pre-programmed with no scope for any major change. We are likely to face good or bad times in life depending on the karmas of our previous lives. If we take this concept to be true, it confronts us with a series of questions: What then, is the role of ‘power of free will’ that human beings are supposedly endowed with? If everything about life is predetermined, what useful purpose does the discipline of astrology serve? In this phenomenal world where everything is transitory, how could destiny be beyond change?

In order to understand how valid or fallacious the above concept is, it will be desirable to look into some real life stories of those who could redefine their future through conscious efforts. In one such case, a woman fully committed to her marriage, was subjected to physical, mental and emotional trauma by her scheming in-laws. The reason: The in-laws never took kindly to their son marrying her against their wishes. The problem got further confounded as her naïve husband often fell prey to the emotional tantrums of his parents, and would side with them. The victim had almost reached a breaking point, and apparently, marital separation looked inevitable.

A look at her chart revealed that the Uranus, identified with elders, was posited opposite the lagna lord Jupiter, implying possibility of conflict between the two. Uranus further placed adverse to Saturn meant that the elders were ill-intentioned. Husband indicator, the 7th lord Mercury, well-aligned with Jupiter, pointed to his love for wife. But, Mercury was also placed adverse to both Mars and headless Ketu. It implied that he was a restless guy who may react impulsively without applying proper forethought. Confronted with such a hostile atmosphere, she had to face marital turbulence. And, many astrologers looking at her chart on its face value had predicted a marital separation. Worried, that is when she sought my advice and confronted me with several questions: “Does my husband really love me? Will he ever realise the truth underlying our marital discord? Are we destined to separate?”

The woman was first assured that if she conducted intelligently, she would be able to turn the tide to her advantage. She was advised to temporarily move out of house so that the focus shifted away from her. Her husband would then get time and space to figure out his parents in their true colours. She was also advised not to take a confrontationist attitude and deal with her husband with a touch of love whenever he tried to interact with her. Within six months, the husband realised his mistake. Gradually, they came closer, and today they are living happily together. The in-laws, too, having realised that their son could no longer be manipulated, have stopped playing spoilers anymore.

The message that emerges loud and clear is that the marriages do not fail or succeed simply because they are so scripted in their charts. It is the attitude of the players involved, and how intelligently or foolishly one would deal with the problems coming one’s way is what counts the most. And if turbulence is indicated in the chart, the attitudinal issues also find reflection. The one, who has learnt through conscious efforts to conduct intelligently with prudence and patience, is able to deal with the issues in hand well and change the course of destiny.

Astrology, therefore, when rightfully used, can prove to be a game-changer.

The writer is an astrologer, vaastu consultant and spiritual counsellor. Write to him at G-5, Basement, Jungpura Extension, New Delhi 14 Tel: 9818037273/ 24310031 Website: holisticenergy.co.in