Are You a Pirate or an Able Seamen?

"Why join the navy when you can be a pirate?"  Steve Jobs

Especially if Johnny Depp is your co-pilot.

Let's say pirates are unconventional, rule-breaking mavericks. (Not cut-throat criminals in need of a wash.)

We're talking metaphorically here.

In contrast, the navy is all about obeying orders, being part of the fleet, asking no questions.

Pirates = Uranus
Navy = Saturn

Being a pirate (at least in the movies) is all about making it up as you go along, navigating by the stars, flying by the seat of your pants and reinventing yourself as required.

Being an able seamen means knowing and understanding the rules of the sea, being part of a team, being able to use your tools properly, and keeping your ego under control.

Yes, well…

Astrologers are, of course, traditionally ruled by that old wizard Saturn, but the new ruler is most definitely Uranus. You can see this when you look at astrologers' charts or if you check Uranus transits to your own chart. You'll find your interest in astrology (almost inevitably) was sparked during a Uranus transit – or that you're just a born Uranian.

Naturally, since it's astrologers talking about astrology, there's some disagreement. Rob Hand, for example, says the real ruler of astrologers is the trickster planet, Mercury. Now that opens a whole new set of possibilities.

You know, to make a really effective pirate, you have to understand the navy – even if you don't want to join.