CANCER ~ THE CRAB 21st. June ~ 22nd. July

Cancer is the fourth sign of the Western zodiac. Its symbol is the Crab. The glyph for this sign shows the crab’s claws, characteristically protecting its armour-plated body, or the crab’s eyes - cautiously peering out from its shell. Both interpretations provide insight into the Cancer personality. These are inherently cautious, shy and retiring characters - quite timid, vulnerable, apprehensive and even suspicious until their trust is won. However, this underlying softness is disguised beneath their hard shell and fearsome claws, a deterrent to those who might violate their inner sensitivity. It can take a long time for a Cancer to emerge from their shell. Once hurt they will again withdraw and any ill-treatment, whether intentional or not - will never be forgotten. Being a water sign these are innately sensitive souls. They are imaginative, intuitive and emotional creatures who need to feel loved, cherished and protected. In turn they are themselves romantic, sentimental, caring, sympathetic, thoughtful and understanding. Cancers often have good memories and feel a strong link with the past. However, due to the inconstant nature of their ruler the Moon, Cancers also exhibit great variance in their behaviour. In contrast to what has already been said, at other times they may be crabby, snappy, cutting, defensive and hostile - or withdrawn, uncommunicative and completely immersed in their real or imagined woes. As the Moon waxes and wanes, so Cancer’s main failing is this emotional fluctuation, often simply termed moodiness. Capable of great sweetness, charm and generosity on a good day, sensitive subjects should not be broached when they are tired, worried or hungry. Emotional security is of primary importance to Cancers and helps ensure the more favourable expression of this sign’s potential. Most frequently this finds manifestation through the desire for a stable and secure home and family life. There is a great need to belong somewhere, to nurture and to be nurtured. There is often a fondness for children, animals, plants and gardening. The parental and protective instincts are strong. Domesticity is generally high on the agenda, with a particularly notable link to the maternal influence - sometimes difficult in youth, but always important and usually close. Cancers need a safe base where they can withdraw and nourish their sensitive psychic natures. They are great worriers and are often wounded by life’s harder edges. Domestic responsibilities may be used, perhaps unconsciously, to cover their natural reserve and reticence. In Cancers of both sexes there is an association with food and with cooking, feeding others and looking after their welfare. Cancers themselves will raid the fridge when feeling hurt, lonely or depressed! Cancers do not generally approach life head on, preferring like the Crab a sideways trajectory - hence the vacillation and procrastination associated with their behaviour. They are shrewd, thrifty and sometimes mean with money, but at other times show excellent fiscal acumen and can be very good in business. Cancers are often found travelling, but usually feel the call to return home, or at least somewhere that reminds them of home. Their other less desirable characteristics may include touchiness, a tendency to hoard, an overprotective, smothering or clinging attitude and the inability to let go - even in situations that have clearly passed the point of no return. Nonetheless, the plus side of things - and again we encounter this dichotomy - is their alternate display of bravery, determination, tenacity and strength of character, especially where the welfare of their loved ones is concerned. As all of us who’ve ever tangled with this aquatic crustacean will know, those claws can be lethal and vice-like in their grip… © Paul Wade 1999

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