We are meant to be whole. The Ascendant and Descendant as opposite points are linked, each point tries to modify and balance the other. Who we are is shaped as much by our sense of self (Asc) as by what we attract & meet in others (Dec).
The signs that are linked in this relationship are: Aries/Libra Taurus/Scorpio Gemini/Sagittarius Cancer/Capricorn Leo/Aquarius Virgo/Pisces
As an example of how the Ascendant & Descendant might work, we will use the Aries/Libra pair.
If Aries is the sign on the Ascendant, then Libra will be the Descendant sign. Greeting the world as the Aries adventurer or go-getter means putting “me first!. With Libra on the Descendant, we attract partnerships that require the balance of yours & mine. As an Aries Ascendant we will often experience frustration as when we freely express our assertiveness ( which is being true to our Aries Ascendant), we find we are asked to stop & to include consideration of another. One response might be to just give in, “to preserve the peace”. However, denial of self-expression always has repercussions. The Libra Descendant person in modeling diplomacy, cooperation & collaboration provides us with examples of other ways to behave in relationship, opportunities that allow us to grow & thrive.
Awareness of the Ascendant/Descendant is the key to navigating successfully this polarity. At best, through our relationships with others we learn of our weaknesses and blind spots. Hopefully in our partnerships, we are exposed to the qualities we need to learn & are inspired to develop these so as to be our most complete selves.
¹For more information on Natal Chart Elements, https://www.thoughtco.com/chart-parts-and-points-207194
²The Twelve Houses by Howard Sasportas