QUOTE(plainsight @ Sep 24 2006, 11:58 PM)
I think Xena was a stupid name to call a planet, especially since it was named after a fictional character. Krypton would have been a better name, but geez what were those nerds thinking. I heard they're calling it Eris now, which I think is a bit more appropriate, considering.
It's probably not for me to say, but in terms of astrology, why would anything change? Just because we discover something new and decide to stick the term planet on them doesn't mean they're now going to have a more significant impact on the universe. The realization is new, but the affect is not. I think I'm confusing people.
On the contrary, awareness of new planets, and the process of elucidating their impact on our astrological composition reflects an expanding awareness in mankind. As though aspects of our subconscious are become more a part of our regular consciousness. Although, I do agree that Xena was a kind of geeky choice of name for it.... where did Xena (the name) come from, BTW? I am lazy in asking, but if I find the answer before anyone else answers it here, I'll post it myself.
Pluto being stripped of the planet title seems like one of those pointless affairs - why not call it a planet? - purely a matter of orginization. Still, death is a kind of non-entity entity in life - the void that defines the container, if you will. So, for it to no longer be a planet, but still define us in it's own significance as the planet ruling or representing death, seems appropriate to me.
It's been a while since there were new astrological components, maybe i'm just one of those goofy astro-geeks, but I find it all very exciting. And the timing, you have to admit, is pretty rad as well - creeping closer to 2012, the supposed ascension date(/apocolypse/epoch/new age), the end of the mayan clanendar that has some kind of significance - it falls in line with the obvious shift in human consciousness already taking place.
I wonder what the new planets will govern? It would have to be aspects of our consciousness not previously recognized as part and parcel to the human condition...
So much fun!
peace