I’ve never been much into astrology. Besides skimming an occasional horoscope (I’m an Aquarius on the cusp of Capricorn) I’ve mostly passed it off as a bit of fun. That changed this fall when I came across an Instagram reel discussing the major astrological event that would take place on November 19, 2024: Pluto moving out of Capricorn into Aquarius after an intense sixteen-year cycle. The video explained that this change marked the end of a period of challenge and growth, which for some (including my Aries rising and my four Capricorn placements) would mean a bit more ease and flow (may it be so) while also bringing new transformations for others (like Aquarius, sigh…). The information aligned so precisely with the timing and events of my own life that I couldn’t help but be curious about it. I needed to learn more.

It seems, in addition to moving out some heavy energy, Pluto’s transit into Aquarius predicts some stirring of the pot in the years ahead—a period of eschewing outdated systems and embracing new ways of thinking. For context, the last time this particular alignment occurred was the period of the American and French Revolutions. It follows that we might expect some discomfort as we leave the familiar behind in pursuit of a brighter collective future. In considering all of this I realized how closely this also mirrors both the process of getting sober and the growth of the alcohol-free movement itself. None of it is easy, but once your eyes are opened to a new, happier, healthier way of living, there’s no unseeing it.

As I started to study my newfound hobby (yes, I know, where have I been!?) I also discovered astrocartography. In creating my personal map, I learned that the island of Capri, where I was drawn to travel on a solo healing journey this past summer, is smack in the middle of an area that, for me (again), is characterized by difficult challenges and deep personal growth. This was eye-opening considering that every second of my trip to this gorgeous island felt emotionally difficult, like the tectonic plates in my soul were shifting. I left Capri completely spent but also a little freer, having processed some difficult stuff, and ready for a new start.

In honor of Pluto—who is certainly getting even for being demoted to dwarf planet—this issue is dedicated to new beginnings of all kinds. We’re grateful to our writers for sharing their experiences with life’s twists and turns: Sam Bail discusses her move into sobriety and learning to accept what that looked like for her, The Case for Lazy Sobriety, p.12. Whitney Combs opens up about a great loss in her family and how she moved through it with grace, A Journey Through Grief, p.16. Mark LaFaro explores using Dry January as the starting point for much more than a month of sobriety, Dry January and Beyond, p.20. And we talk to mindful drinking advocate, Derek Brown, who reinvented himself and his career as a top bartender and bar owner once he gave up alcohol, Spotlight on: Derek Brown, p.24. We also celebrate the tremendous growth of the AF world with Our 3rd Annual Reader Survey Results, p.35.

A new year, and a new era, is dawning. Change is rarely easy but it is almost always worth the struggle. What will your new beginning be in 2025?