I've said to a few friends recently that the period of the last two weeks of December summarises not only all of 2008, but also the time since 1995 when Pluto moved into Sagittarius, and that I expected specific developments, some of which I've written about in this column, before 2009.  Everyone I speak with seems stretched, drawn, tired etc. etc., and it's hard to stay upbeat and positive at times like these even though that is specifically what is asked of us.  And now it changes.  Now, the incessant struggle and head banging of recent months reaches a still place, a null point, a moment of utter and perfect balance and poise ' it is the Solstice (Latin ' Sun still).  The Earth has reached maximum range on its yearly wobble, and now strives to return to balance.  I understand why the plains Indians still dance every day, because the Sun needs to rise.  If they didn't dance, there would just be a neutral ball of gas on the horizon.  At this time, honour the planet you live on and watch the sunrise from a point of prominence or even of cultural significance, and dance the New Year in.  As of tomorrow, the light is coming back to the northern hemisphere.  I claim my ancient cultural heritage as an astrologer and geomancer and choose this natural time as the ending of the old year and the beginning of the new.  And, as at this time every year for a fair few years now, I leave you (if you're in the UK) with 'Tomorrow morning, dawn, Stonehenge.  SEE YOU AT THE STONES'.