Cradle

A Cradle is an aspect pattern made of four planets linked by a chain of three sextiles, with the two planets at the ends of the chain sitting in opposition. The connecting aspects also form trines across the figure, so the shape hangs below the opposition like a basket or cradle, full of supportive links. A Cradle pairs the tension of a single opposition with an unusually full set of harmonious outlets. The opposition creates a problem to solve, and the run of sextiles and trines provides several gentle paths toward solving it. A person with a Cradle often has hidden resources to draw on in difficulty, talents that come to the rescue when the opposition's strain is felt. The shape can be protective, even sheltering, which is part of why it carries its name. The risk is leaning so heavily on its comforts that the opposition is soothed rather than genuinely resolved. The work of a Cradle is to use its many harmonious links to actively heal the tension at its base instead of merely cushioning it.