Getting to Know Don McBroom

My first exposure to astrology was in rural Oklahoma where my father was a wheat farmer. I observed that certain farming tasks were consistently performed during a particular phase of the Moon. I neither understood nor doubted the wisdom of using celestial events in the planning of earthly endeavors, and just accepted it as the way things were. This observation impressed upon me at an early age how the practical use of cyclical events can impact the desired outcome when we use all the tools at our disposal - both physical and metaphysical.

My conventional education and scientific interest eventually led me to a 26-year career as a hospital pharmacist, but in the mid-1990's astrology re-entered my life. Despite (or perhaps because of) having a strong scientific background and perspective, it soon became obvious that astrology went well beyond the "for entertainment purposes only" disclaimer.

Recognizing the need to augment my studies, I enrolled in Noel Tyl's Master's Certification Course which provided a structured and consistent approach to chart analysis and synthesis. I made a final transition from pharmacy and opened my astrology office in June of 1999, receiving my Master's Certification from Noel in December of 1999, graduating with highest honors.

Although pharmacy and astrology might seem quite different, both involve a role in providing something that is potentially beneficial to the patient/client. As I am a Cancer, both careers exhibit a degree of nurturing, but not in an, "Oh, you poor thing" manner, but rather, "this has the potential to make you feel better." Objectivity and a degree of detachment are also necessary in both professions, so my Uranus in Cancer conjunct the Midheaven at the Aries Point has been helpful.

A source of continual fascination is that each astrological measurement - whether life-long as in a natal measurement, or one in effect for a much shorter time - brings with it the suggestion not of what will be, but what can be. While astrology suggests the possibilities, our free will allows us to determine the specifics of how these influences are used in pursuit of our individual needs, goals, and desires.

Don is the author of Midpoints: Identify & Integrate Midpoints Into Horoscope Synthesis (Llewellyn Publications). He offers weekly classes for advanced students and periodic workshops for students of all levels at his office in Tucson, AZ, (Personal Astrological Consultations). His website, www.donmc.com offers two new articles monthly with complete archives of past articles such as What You Should (and Shouldn't) Expect From An Astrologer.