Jupiter-Rahu: too much of a good thing?

Rahu is another matter altogether.  Rahu is the ancient Sanskrit name given to the North Lunar Node. The Moon’s Nodes are not planets in any real sense but are calculated points in space that mark the intersection between the planes of the Earth’s orbit around the Sun and Moon’s orbit around the Earth.  These points move backwards across the sky at a rate of about one and a half degrees per month.  The nodes Rahu and Ketu are close by the Sun and Moon whenever there is an eclipse. While the Nodes Rahu and Ketu are not real planets, their effects can be very powerful.  And since eclipses have traditionally been seen as harbingers of change and misfortune, Rahu is considered a natural malefic in Vedic astrology.  However, it is important to recognize that Rahu is not all bad.  In some situations, Rahu can actually bring positive events.  The most recent example of this was this week’s Royal Wedding in which transiting Rahu conjoined Prince William’s Ascendant.  In this sense, Rahu is more of a chameleon that can assume the energy of planets with which it is associated.  Rahu is perhaps best understood as a source of change which disrupts the status quo.  This is derived from the idea that since Rahu conjoins the Sun in a solar eclipse, Rahu is the power to disrupt the light from the Sun.   Rahu also represents the breaking down of barriers and the transgression of norms.  Rahu is unconventional and often rude or indifferent towards traditions and authority figures.  It also has a tendency towards grasping at things beyond its reach.  This can translate into a greedy acquisitiveness or a shopaholic syndrome when it is let loose in the material world.  Because Rahu is somewhat unbalanced, its gains may be disruptive or unsustainable in the long run and may come at the expense of someone else.

When Rahu and Jupiter are in mutual aspect, there is a blending of Jupiter’s optimism and growth with Rahu’s change and disruption.   We could see a rise in exaggeration this week, as optimism gets the better of us as expectations become wildly inflated.  This could be the time when something looks too good to be true, as Rahu creates fantastic scenarios that appeal to our greedier sides or deeply held beliefs.  The risk here is that we may become captive to our narrow self interest and lose sight of the larger obligation we share with other people.  Jupiter-Rahu puts the emphasis on the material realm at the expense of ethics or tradition, so we may be tempted to let the ends justify the means.  The Jupiter-Rahu combination can be great for boosting our confidence for putting ideas into action, but we may need to take care not to trample on the wishes of other people.  So this week could be a good time to take advantage of any new opportunities but we should be make sure they are genuine and do not hurt others.  Doing due diligence is always worthwhile but perhaps no more so that here as Rahu may try to confound our better judgment.  Caveat emptor and all that.

The other highlight recently of course as been the British Royal Wedding.   As I’ve written in detail, the marriage horoscope from the wedding is incredibly powerful and speaks to the high profile and immense popularity of William and Kate.  The 9th house is absolutely packed with planets and this will incline the couple towards a traditional and respected status as they will enjoy a high level of authority throughout their lives.  It is a very appropriate chart for a future King of England.  At the same time, Saturn is quite prominent in the chart as it aspects all of those planets in Pisces and the 9th house.  This suggests that the marriage will endure heavy burdens and responsibilities and there could be some significant difficulty along the way.  William’s own horoscope is also problematic in the marriage and relationship department, so I wonder if this marriage will stand the test of time.  There is a very real chance that there could be some major challenges that he will have to confront including, I’m sorry to say, the possibility of divorce.  His chart isn’t massively afflicted in this respect so there is still some element of doubt on that score, but it cannot be ruled out.   Nonetheless, his chart does look good for eventually assuming the throne.  Jupiter on the Midheaven exactly aspecting the Sun in the 7th house.  A very nice pattern indeed.  We should all have such a fortunate and powerful horoscope.   But most of us don’t, and that is what makes life interesting.

Have a great week,
Chris

Mercury-Mars-Saturn: focusing on the task at hand

This stars this week are the sort that gives astrologers fits.  Early in the week, there will be a fairly intense three-planet alignment of Mercury, Mars and Saturn.  Mercury and Mars will conjoin in Pisces and will almost exactly oppose Saturn in Virgo.  Since both Mars and Saturn are considered first-rate malefics, this may be a stressful and intense time for some people.  According to most astrological theory, this is a fairly nasty combination that does not bode well for any new projects started this week.  To be on the safe side, the thinking goes, it might be a good idea to delay them until next week after this pattern has separated. 

At the same time it’s important to acknowledge that even "bad" planets have good sides.  Mars and Saturn are the bad apples of the solar system  in desperate need of a PR firm to boost their image.  Yes, they are malefic and can cause damage and generate all kinds of stressful situations when they are afflicted in a horoscope.  But Mars also symbolizes action and vitality that is necessary for any decision making process to move forward.  Mars is also associated with taking charge and the expenditure of effort, both of which are useful when confronting challenges in everyday life.  When Mars combines with Saturn, it can translate into situations that require hard work, both in terms of effort and in terms of the nature of the problems encountered. Just which side of this Mars-Saturn pairing we will get depends on how they are oriented in one’s horoscope.  Some people will not notice much of anything at all because the alignment does not fall on a sensitive point in the chart. Others may be compelled through events to take action and respond to the challenges that these planets create.  And no doubt some people will get promoted or win the lottery this week.   The moral of the story is that even bad planets can deliver good results if they are strong in a natal chart.

The Mercury influence in this unholy trinity directs the energy more towards the mind, thinking and communication. So if this alignment is situated close to a key planet in your chart, you may have to confront some hassle or difficulty surrounding communication (computer glitch) or perhaps transportation (car repair).  It may also manifest more positively in the form of addressing a key problem in a constructive and thoughtful way.  Mercury with Mars and Saturn can be an excellent combination for figuring out a complex problem or doing some other mental task that requires intense concentration. 

The most important thing is not to fall prey to negative thinking during this transit.  This is all too common in astrology, especially Vedic astrology, which unfortunately has a reputation for grim readings whenever malefics are involved in a significant aspect.  One of the occupational hazards of astrologers is they can read too much into some transit patterns for good or ill.  When apparently negative transits are in force, many astrologers may go overboard in predicting all manner of hardship and disaster.  Sometimes I have to catch myself from doing this, too, as I let my theoretical imagination get the better of me.  But the key to remember here is that there is a huge grey area in astrology.  Not everything is known about how the planets operate in our lives.  Astrology makes huge assumptions based on a particular set of deductive principles that while sometimes correct are not necessarily going to be right all the time.  For this reason, astrologers will not know the outcome of every configuration of planets.  Some bad planets will give good results, while the opposite may also be true.  When you’re working with such a partial system of knowledge, it’s important to leave enough epistemological space for all outcomes.  When in doubt, stay hopeful but acknowledge the relative probabilities in both directions.

In other words, take everything astrologers say with a big grain of salt.  I know I do.  🙂

Have a great week,

All Pisces: Believe in Dreams

Another week of frustration and less than cheery news from Japan.  Recovery efforts have suffered another setback as authorities have failed in their efforts to stop the flow of radiation leaking into the Pacific Ocean from the damaged Fukushima reactor.  Local officials are now saying that it could take months before the situation is brought under control.  As I suggested at the outbreak of the disaster, I thought the early April period would likely be difficult and could bring fresh challenges as Mars conjoined Uranus in a very sensitive spot in Japan’s national horoscope.  Fortunately, nothing too dramatic has occurred but there is now a growing sense that there is no easy solution to this crisis.  As I noted back in  mid-March, the planets did not favour a quick recovery as April’s alignments pointed to more stress and hardship.  The long Saturn transit to the natal Mercury in the chart will last for several months and will likely keep progress in the clean up slower than expected.  This nuclear crisis is a sobering reminder of the limits of human knowledge in the face of the awesome power of nature. 

Meanwhile in Libya, the NATO-backed rebels have made some progress against Gaddafi’s army but many observers now believe that a stalemate is the most likely outcome in the near term.  I thought we might see a little more trouble for Gaddafi at this point but so far his control over the western part of the country looks fairly solid.  His horoscope (born June 7, 1942) suggests a person with a strong will and determination as his Sun and Saturn are in the sign of Taurus — the bull. His dogged determination is further enhanced because these planets are in the 3rd house from his Pisces Moon.  Since the 3rd house is associated with efforts and initiative, Gaddafi’s Sun-Saturn definitely increases his capacity to pursue his goals.  At first blush, it might seem strange that such a power-hungry dictator could have a dreamy Pisces Moon, which supposedly confers a sense of sympathy and intuition.  While that stereotype can be true of Pisces, I feel it doesn’t adequately describe the broad range of possibilities.  While Pisceans do place a great emphasis on beliefs and belief systems, this doesn’t mean they can’t also be calculating and rational.  While we do not know for sure, Gaddafi may well rely heavily on intuition to make some of his decisions. More importantly perhaps, throughout the course of his political life he has attempted to legitimize his rule by appealing to higher beliefs of Islamic socialism and African unity.  Perhaps those higher Piscean ideals of brotherhood and unity are a better manifestation of Gaddafi’s Pisces Moon.  Even here, however, I would note that some Pisces people may only use beliefs in a superficial or instrumental way in order to realize their goals.  In that sense, the meaning of the signs cannot be taken too literally and have to be thought of at a more abstract level. 

Perhaps the strongest part of Gaddafi’s chart is his powerful conjunction of Mercury and Jupiter in Gemini.  He may be crazy and ruthless, but he is also smart and quick-thinking.  Gemini is a thinking and communicating sign and the placement of Mercury (intellect) and Jupiter (achievement) there is excellent for making accurate and quick judgments and staying ahead of the game.   And we would expect nothing less for a military man who has been leader of the single-party state in Libya for over 30 years.  His Mars-Pluto conjunction in Cancer may provide a partial explanation for his ruthlessness and power-hungry approach to politics.  Mars-Pluto conjunctions tend to be quite forceful in their actions and can sometimes become extreme if other factors in the chart confirm.  Mars is debilitated in Cancer, so that adds to the tendency for his anger to overflow and for actions to be taken without regard for ethics.  Of course, many normal, even-tempered people may have this same combination in their charts but it likely does not figure prominently.  Since we don’t have Gaddafi’s birth time, it’s impossible to say just how these planets are placed in terms of the houses and the angles (Ascendant, Midheaven). I suspect though that Gaddafi’s Mars is probably quite prominent and may form a close angle to the ascendant.  This would tend to emphasize the role of force and action in his life. 

The current transits reveal some of the pressure Gaddafi is under at the moment.  The key source of his troubles may be transiting Ketu (South Lunar Node).  Ketu is now closely conjunct his Mercury (1 Gemini) and creates instability in situations relating to Mercury’s areas of rulership including thinking process, decision-making and communications.  Literally, this may translate into an unstable or changing mind as Ketu tends to alter our usual rational approach to perception.  There may be quicker shifts in his ideas and goals during this transit and he may be more prone to relying on intuition and gut instinct.  Not surprising perhaps, since his country is being bombed and his seat of power is under threat by rebels who want to banish him.   Since Ketu moves quite slowly in its gentle, sliding backward motion, its effects on his Mercury may last for some time, perhaps into May or beyond. 

We can also see that Mercury is placed in the 4th house from the Moon.  And since Mercury also rules Gemini, it has an extra influence on 4th house matters.  As we know, the 4th house is associated with home and residence.   This Ketu transit would therefore tend to put pressure on Gaddafi’s home life and force him to adapt to many unexpected changes.  We might also speculate that this is a transit that might cause someone to leave their current residence.  No doubt, Gaddafi has already left his compound (which has been bombed already), but it’s possible this could signify that he may leave the country entirely over the next two months or so.  It’s hard to say with any certainty when the birth time is unknown, but there are the outlines of some kind of displacement or dislocation in this chart.  We shall see how it all unfolds, but this chart does not indicate Gaddafi will face increasing pressure and may not be able to hang on for long.

For the rest of us, this week may have a distinctly Piscean feel to it as there will be no less than five planets in the sign of the fishes — Sun, Mercury, Mars, Jupiter and Uranus.   This multiple conjunction has been accumulating for the past few weeks but it was always anchored — or it that burdened? — by the opposition to Saturn.  The Saturn influence may have kept a lid on excessively Piscean flights of fancy and compelled a greater adherence to convention and tradition in our goals and dreams.  The Piscean focus on belief may have taken more traditional forms such as we might find with institutionalized religions or mainstream political ideologies.  Both of these areas are somewhat conservative in their goals in that they do not seek fundamental change. 

Now that these planets in Pisces have begun to escape from the full force of Saturn’s influence, it may open up some imaginative space for "dreaming of things that never were".  That inspiring and often mystical side of Pisces may have more room to fully flower this week so it may be a good time to reflect on the true nature of your beliefs and ideals.  Belief is often a better motivator than empirically-based knowledge because it taps into our desire to transcend this earthly life.  The belief in some inherent harmony of all beings and all matter, for example, is a way to transcend the solitude of our individual lives. As precious as our individuality may be, it is still defined in terms of our connections with those who share our lives.  Perhaps in that very Piscean way, the self exists only in context of a larger whole.  

Have a great week,
Chris
 

Week of March 28th

Jupiter-Saturn: constructive compromise or confrontational division

They say astrology isn’t a science.  And they’re right, of course.  Astrology doesn’t conform to the usual standards of modern science.  In that sense, it is more like economics and other "social sciences" where the intrinsic complexity of human beings precludes simple ‘if A, then B’ type statements.  As we know, astrology requires a multi-factored approach which is better suited to more probabilistic predictions.   Planets do not behave like Hume’s billiard balls but are better seen as bundles of potential energy.  When they interact during close aspects, these energy bundles are more likely to be released and manifest as different  psychological states or as significant events.  These planetary aspects do not actually cause events to occur, but are better understood as cosmic timers or giant hands of a clock that correspond to events on Earth.  I’m not sure why things might work this way, but if pressed I would say that there is a fundamental harmony in the universe where energy and matter are interconnected on many levels.  Some of these levels are currently known to science, while some have yet to be discovered. 

We are in the midst a potentially large energy release as the Jupiter-Saturn opposition continues to dominate the sky this week as the exact aspect occurs late on Monday (GMT).  Since these are slow moving planets, its effects are still likely to linger for some time after the aspect.  So that means Jupiter’s preference for giving, tolerance, and growth is still attempting to reconcile with Saturn’s inclination to conserve, limit and constrain. When this Jupiter-Saturn encounter works, it can lead to compromise and a constructive reordering of the situation that solves old problems.  When it doesn’t, beliefs become entrenched and conflict comes to the surface.  We can find ample evidence of the latter as the Middle East remains a region in turmoil as protests have spread to new countries such as Syria, while Libya seems to have entered a full blown civil war since the West has became involved. 

Even in quiet and boring Canada, we can see how this inability to compromise manifested.  Last week, the opposition defeated the Conservative government in a vote of non-confidence to force an election is slated for early May.  (Full disclosure: I am a quiet and boring Canadian)  One reason why the negative side of this Jupiter-Saturn aspect would manifest in Canada is because its national horoscope was under affliction.  The Sun (government, leaders) is under affliction by a square aspect from Saturn.  Since this aspect will only tighten in the weeks to come (Sun=16 Gemini; Tr Saturn=17 Virgo), there is good reason to expect the government to have an uphill battle at the polls.  While it’s possible the government may be faced with other difficult situations that could fulfill the potential of the Saturn-Sun aspect, the fact that an election is underway makes the present government’s hold on power more tentative.  And yet the Conservative party is so far ahead in the polls (39%-25%) over the Liberals, it will take quite an reversal of fortune to see the Liberals win.  But the astrological factors would seem to point to an increased probability of that unexpected reversal, or at least of some significant weakening of the Conservative Party’s hold on power.

In last week’s newsletter, I suggested that Japan’s nuclear crisis was likely continue into April given some key afflictions to its national horoscope, despite the apparent moderation of the crisis.   It seems that Japan has taken a step back in recent days as newly-elevated radiation levels have been reported in the plant and the nearby ocean.  The UN chief of atomic energy has said that the accident is "far from over".   Much of the potential trouble may be triggered by Mars over the next little while as it aspects unpredictable Ketu this week and then conjoins Uranus next week and then opposes Saturn on the 18th.   Since Mars is the planet of quick and intense bursts of energy, there is an increased possibility of sudden events that could force authorities to react quickly in order to secure the situation. 

The upcoming conjunction of Mars and Uranus on April 4 is definitely one to watch.  The willful energy of Mars combines with the suddenness of Uranus to create a huge potential for change in the status quo.  What makes this particular conjunction more powerful this time around is that both planets will be parallel the equator by declination.  If the horizontal measurement of planetary positions through the zodiac gets all the attention in astrology, the vertical dimension of the relative "height" of planets is also worth examining.  The last time Uranus crossed the equator was in August 1969.  At that time, Jupiter was also crossing the equator by declination, thus forming a powerful parallel combination of Jupiter and Uranus.  Jupiter represents progress and advancement, and Uranus symbolizes innovation and change, especially involving technology.  Just two weeks earlier, man landed on the Moon in an epochal triumph of human ingenuity and technological progress.  To be sure, there were other possible events at that time, but the lunar landing fits this combination very well.   Uranus only crosses the equator once every 42 years.  This time around, however, Uranus will not be accompanied by the progressive energy of Jupiter but rather the red planet Mars.  This is a more unpredictable combination and suggests situations and events involving high amounts of energy and force.  If this pairing can be channeled positively, it could correspond with a breaking down of barriers and a realization of freedom and independence.  For this reason, it can be quite a revolutionary energy as constraints are seen as increasingly intolerable under this transit.  In the physical world, this is a more dangerous combination because ‘freedom’ here can mean freedom from stasis and solidity and an increased risk of fundamental disruption as we might find in earthquakes and volcanoes.  The timing of events from this conjunction needn’t be exact, although if we do see something emerge here, it should fall fairly close to it. 

This week Mars is in the spotlight as it squares Ketu, the South Lunar Node at midweek.   Ketu likes change and reorganizing things, so the connection with Mars will likely boost the energy available for adapting to new circumstances and reshaping reality.  There may be a greater appetite for shaking things up this week, so it may be a good time to learn to go with the flow rather than be left behind.  In situations where change has occurred unexpectedly, this could lead to some discomfort and irritation.  Since Ketu is closely associated with other-worldliness and spiritual matters, this could also be a good time to apply some of that action-oriented Mars energy towards areas that fall outside of the mundane realm.  Helping out at or fixing up temples and churches come to mind as the most literal version of this energy, as does providing service in general towards those in pursuit of enlightenment. 

Have a great week,
Chris

Jupiter opposes Saturn: confrontation between old and new

The world is a dangerous place these days.  So much is happening now and most of it is bad.  Japan, Libya, the Middle East in general.  It’s enough to make you look up at the sky and wonder: what the heck is going on up there?  The short answer is: a lot.

Some of the recent turmoil can be traced back to the December-January eclipse period and the configuration of planets at the turn of the New Year.   All three horoscopes featured a fairly high level of affliction that continues to manifest in the recent events in Japan.  These single-snapshot charts can influence events for many weeks and months afterwards through the transits of planets that activate sensitive points in the chart.  For example, the December 21st lunar eclipse occurred at 5 degrees of sidereal Gemini.  The Sun and Moon were in close proximity with the destructive planets Mars (violence, courage, accidents) and Pluto (coercion, power, purging) at the time of the eclipse so this increased the likelihood that some violent events would occur in the period following the eclipse.  Just when this potential would be released is seen through transits.  At the time of Japan’s earthquake on March 11, Uranus, the planet of sudden or shocking events, had moved into a near-exact square angle with this eclipse point at 6 degrees of Pisces.  Uranus may have therefore acted as a trigger that released some of the destructive energy contained in the eclipse.

I have also discussed how the square aspect between Rahu and Uranus through February and March has disrupted the status quo and fueled the desire for change through the Middle East. The eclipses were probably also implicated in this revolutionary wave, as the conjunction of Jupiter (optimism, hope, expansion) and Uranus (change, independence, revolt) occurred on January 4 — the same day as the solar eclipse.  Revolutions typically need to blend positive notions hope and the promise of a better future with a negative stance towards the status quo that confronts and challenges established authority.  In this way, both the positive and negative attributes of these eclipses may have been manifested in the historic movements in the Middle East. 

This revolutionary movement seems to have entered a new phase this weekend as a US-led coaltion have imposed a no-fly zone over Libya.  This essentially amounts to a declaration of war against Gaddafi as the West has realized they had to intervene or else the Libyan rebels would lose.  So that early sense of injustice and idealism is being replaced by an old-fashioned battle that relies on force.  Part of the explanation may be the gradual separation of the Rahu-Uranus square.  As both planets are now separating, that base level desire for change as weakening.  More importantly, perhaps is the approaching opposition between Jupiter and Saturn. 

As the two giants of the solar system, Jupiter and Saturn are enormously powerful planets and move quite slowly.  This gives them a capacity to shape the trends in human affairs in ways that other planets cannot.  Jupiter and Saturn are like a matching pair of opposites not unlike the two poles of a battery — positive and negative.  Jupiter represents optimism, expansion/birth and wisdom while Saturn symbolizes pessimism, contraction/loss, and distortion/deception. Of course, Jupiter isn’t all good and Saturn isn’t all bad, but their intrinsic meanings are usually laid out in this plus/minus schematic way. 

When these opposites confront each other in the sky as they do this week, their fundamental incompatibility comes to the surface.  Jupiter’s penchant for wise counsel and focus on the future is countered by Saturn’s negativity, stubbornness and resistance to change.  Jupiter seeks self-development through an application of intelligence while Saturn prefers to keep things as they are and respect the past and its traditions.  Needless to say, getting things done is such an environment can be challenging.  That may be one reason why the West has chosen to go to war with Gaddafi.  The two sides can’t find a way to resolve their differences any other way than through violence.

Even though international affairs may be visiting the uglier sides of this Jupiter-Saturn opposition, there are still constructive ways to apply this energy in our own lives.  The key for making progress this week may be to defer to Saturn first and then take it from there.  While both planets are powerful, Saturn is often a stronger influence due to its slower velocity.  If Saturn is going to be the more powerful player in the days ahead, it makes sense to acknowledge its symbolic energy first by incorporating some of its positive contributions.  So if Saturn rules tradition, order, rules, and responsibilities, we may be better off taking these into account before we decide to plunge ahead with any new Jupiterian plans.  This is almost common sense anyway, since the most reliable way forward usually takes current ways of doing things into account.   But Saturn can sometimes be intransigent in its views, so we may have to bend over backwards to accommodate its demands.  In other words, a well-organized plan that properly integrates established practices may count for a lot here, as Saturn generally doesn’t respond well to hasty or improvised back-of-an-envelope ideas.  New ideas will have to be laid out in careful detail if they are to succeed. 

There is also a risk that we can become overly pessimistic or fall prey to biased views during this transit.  Saturn can distort our thinking to the point where we only focus on what is wrong with something.  Criticism has its place, but we may have to redouble our efforts to ensure that the criticism is appropriate and is not rooted in narrow or self-interested thinking.  Saturn can have a selfish influence, and when it exercises too much control it can make us believe that our unique subjective experiences are actually an objective reality shared by everyone.  As we know, this is just not true.  Everyone has their own opinions and they usually have good reasons for them.  The best corrective to this kind of tunnel thinking is to canvas others and see how they are making sense of the situation.  It’s only when we lose sight of the whole that we succumb to these kinds of narrow Saturnian errors in judgment.

I’ve recently added a new write-up on the radiation leak at Japan’s nuclear power plant so you might want to check that out.  While the situation seems to be improving in recent days, I’m still concerned that some upcoming Mars transits may correspond with setbacks.  Some of the original afflicting planets have moved off a bit, but the charts still look troubled.  I’ll feel a lot better about the current planetary set-up once we get past the Mars-Saturn opposition on April 18-19.   Whenever these two malefic planets come together, it’s usually a high-stress situation. 

Let’s hope it manifests simply as the hard work and endurance that the Japanese people will need to clean-up and rebuild their country.  Despite the frightening nature of what has been going on there, I have been inspired by their resolute calm and patience in the face of this crisis.  There may well be more inspirational energy available this week as Venus (beauty, social bonds) conjoins Neptune (imagination, ideals) on the 26th.   Amidst the tumult and unforgiving nature of this harsh new reality, there may be a place for unifying vision of art and love after all. 

Have a great week,
Chris

Week of March 14th

Reflections on the disaster in Japan; Jupiter conjoins Mercury

I’ll admit to being quite distracted these days as the emerging disaster in Japan has rendered discussions of the possible psychological effects of weekly transits seem pretty secondary.   The amount of destruction wrought by the 9.0 magnitude earthquake and tsunami is almost unfathomable.  And now the prospect of possible nuclear meltdowns only adds insult to injury.  While I have written a full analysis of the quake on my website, I’ll just mention a couple of things here.

Astrology may have something to say in this latest human drama as there were reports in the mainstream media about a so-called ‘supermoon’ in the days preceding the March 11 earthquake.  Astrologer Richard Nolle and others had noted that the Moon was due to make its closest approach to Earth in 18 years at the next Full Moon on March 19.  Some astrologers were therefore predicting a major natural disaster as the increased gravitational pull from this supermoon might be sufficient to release pent-up seismic or volcanic energy.   Reputable Wall Street analysts such as Paul Montgomery and Dennis Gartman had also made mention of the approaching supermoon and its potentially destructive effects and how it might therefore correlate with declines on the stock market.  It’s noteworthy that neither of these analysts were financial astrologers, but merely acknowledged the possible real world significance of such a ‘wild card’ factor.

While I think the supermoon phenomenon is worth studying, I’m not sure it can explain this disaster.  After all, scientists who have investigated the possible correlation between the Moon and earthquakes have found very little evidence to support this notion.  While the correlation is there, it is tiny and not large enough to have practical use.   Perhaps the take away here is that it is only one factor out of many and therefore we should be careful to not ascribe too much importance to it.   And for what it’s worth, I have been expecting the stock market to decline, but due to the approaching Jupiter-Saturn aspect rather than any presumed lunar influence.

Instead, I tend to think that major events such as this are better explained in terms of the respective positions of the planets.  I have previously noted how the recent square 90 degree angle between Rahu (the North Lunar Node) and Uranus generated a lot of disruption and instability that has manifested in the revolutions in the Middle East.  This aspect is still quite close — just two degrees from exact — and so that is a problematic energy that is still out there.  As I mentioned in my article on the earthquake, the Rahu-Uranus aspect hit the national horoscope of Japan in a very vulnerable place and therefore it played a key astrological role in the current devastation.  And the fact that Uranus entered tropical Aries a day after the quake no doubt also played a role.

We are also approaching a Jupiter-Saturn opposition that is due on March 28-29 and this may have also have been a factor in the Sendai quake.  The squaring off of the solar system’s two largest planets is definitely a significant event in symbolic terms and represents a clash between the optimism and expansionary nature of Jupiter and the pessimism and constraining character of Saturn.  The resulting stress and tension from such confrontations of Jupiter and Saturn can be formidable and they often mark a rise in uncertainty and duress.  The previous opposition occurred in May 2010 and corresponded with the outbreak of the European debt crisis and the subsequent Flash Crash in the stock market. 

The probability for such major negative events is perhaps greater when these tense aspects between planets occur simultaneously.  This also applies to the key snapshots I like to use for forecasting such as eclipses and the New Year’s chart.  Actually, I did mention in my analysis of the January 1, 2011 chart that the planets suggested a higher than average number of natural disasters.  Mars was in bad aspect with Saturn, while Mars, Pluto and Rahu all lined up together in the 4th house of land and population.  Since all three planets are considered naturally malefic, it was not hard to extrapolate that there would a significant amount of seismic and volcanic activity in 2011.   The January 4 solar eclipse was also a very afflicted eclipse since the Sun-Moon conjunction (19 Sagittarius) was closely square to Saturn
(22 Virgo).  Anytime you have a close aspect between the depressing and destructive power of Saturn with the eclipse point, there is an increased likelihood of unpleasant consequences, whether they be economic, political or natural. 

But back to the stars this week.  This week is something of a good news/bad news scenario.  The good news is that Mercury, the planet of the intellect and communication, will conjoin Jupiter, the planet of wisdom and good fortune, on Tuesday.  This is a very favourable pairing for most endeavours, especially those that involve rational action and sharing the results of deliberate study and analysis.  If last week’s Mercury-Uranus conjunction focused on ingenuity and quick thinking, Mercury-Jupiter describes an intelligence that occurs at a more calculated pace.  This is a more reasoned approach that incorporates the idea of exhibiting accomplished skills and knowledge that is capable of delivering a respected opinion or advice to those in need.  Since the conjunction occurs in Pisces, there may be greater interest in humanitarian or spiritual matters.  Helping or guiding Japan comes to mind here. 

But the bad news is that this conjunction will occur in opposition to grumpy, old Saturn. Since there is still almost two weeks until the opposition is exact, it is quite possible that we will not have to grapple with the full effects for a while.  Nonetheless, Saturn introduces a more distorting or sober influence on the proceedings.  Saturn is all about denial and delay so there is an increased likelihood that progress may be somewhat slower than expected.  Sometimes, this is just what we need as progress is perhaps more long-lasting if it has been planned correctly and we adhere to rules and methods.  Saturn likes to keep things routine and orderly so there may be a focus on organizing and adding structure to one’s life over the coming days.  The emphasis may be more on scheduling tasks and activities rather than spontaneity.  Saturn can also distort thinking so that we become immune to facts and fall victim to bias.  There is a greater risk of one-sided perceptions here that emerge from deep-seated prejudices.  Perhaps that isn’t good news for the ongoing protests in Wisconsin or the strife Middle East.

So the trick may be to learn to work with the limitations imposed by Saturn as we harness Mercury’s powers of discrimination and Jupiter’s ability to render sound judgment.  As long as we don’t succumb to Saturn’s heaviness, we can still move forward using the best of our intelligence in a structured way.   So be creative, but maybe only between 4 and 5 p.m. after your other work is done and the boss has gone home.

Have a great week,
Chris

Mercury-Uranus conjunction: human ingenuity on parade

One of the distinctive traits of the human race is our adaptability.  We aren’t the fastest animal on the planet and we aren’t the strongest, but our brains are sufficiently developed that we can adapt fairly quickly to changing circumstances.  That adaptability has fostered an enlargement of our brains to a point where we have reached a positive feedback loop: larger brains leads to more adaptive skills, which leads to still larger brains. 

The invention of computers and other new forms of information technology has presented the human species will yet another adaptive challenge.  As the speed of communication accelerates, we need to adapt to a much faster and fragmented world.  Traditions may still be respected and daily routines still followed, but there is now an greater open-endedness to our lives as technology recasts the contours of the human experience.  E-mail, cell phones, and the various forms of social networking increase the density of our communication and re-orient our mental framework towards a more rapid and shorter style of interaction.  Multi-tasking increasingly seems to be the necessary adaptive behaviour in this wired world. While this quick and flexible mental approach undoubtedly has its place, it has recently come under scrutiny since evidence suggests that attention spans are shrinking, especially in the young.  The result is that we may be better equipped for shorter, quicker tasks but our distracted attention makes it more difficult to concentrate for longer stretches and perform ‘higher’ intellectual functions. 

The reason for this long-winded introduction is that the astrological highlight this week embodies much of the energy reflected in this technological revolution as Mercury conjoins Uranus in the sign of Pisces. Mercury is the planet that symbolizes intelligence, communication, analysis and dexterity.  Mercury is a rational and logical influence in our lives and directs our efforts toward solving problems and sharing our ideas and perceptions with others.  Uranus represents originality and freedom and is closely associated with creativity, technology and invention.  The combination of these two planets this week will underline the importance of quick thinking and making snap judgments and developing new solutions to age-old problems.  Since no two planets reflect this notion of technologically-driven multi-tasking quite as well as Mercury and Uranus, this may be a good time for investing in a new phone or computer or broadening your horizons to include more of the wired world into your daily life. 

What’s intriguing about this Mercury-Uranus conjunction is that it occurs in close aspect with Neptune and Rahu.  We talked about Rahu last week and while it definitely has its dark side, it also tends towards innovative thinking and searching out new possibilities.  Amid all this dry, rational innovation, however, the week will also feature a softening influence from visionary Neptune.  Neptune concerns itself with human ideals and the imagination and can reflect a heightened sensitivity to the feelings of others.  When Neptune is prominent, it often fuels an interest in the highest human ideals and may manifest in the form of artistic or sacred pursuits.  If Mercury calculates and analyzes, and Uranus accelerates and breaks free, Neptune dreams and inspires. 

So the influence of Neptune this week may provide a very nice imaginative counterbalance to the ingenuity and rationality of Mercury and Uranus.   As a result, communication and thinking processes may be infused with insight, intuition and vision.  Where Mercury-Uranus creates epiphanies and lightning-quick insights, Neptune invites revelations that inspire us to new heights in the aesthetic and spiritual realms.  This is therefore a fairly rare alignment of planets that should greatly enhance any new projects or tasks begun this week, especially if they are in the fields of communication or technology.

As with all planetary patterns, there is a risk that the more negative sides may manifest especially in people whose horoscopes may be afflicted at the moment.  We should therefore be careful about trying to do too much at once as our multi-tasking efforts may produce confusion, impatience and nervousness .  We may feel so stimulated by all these brilliant ideas and experiences around us that we neglect the more down-to-earth and mundane areas of life.  Even Steve Jobs has to take out the garbage and do the laundry.   The strong Uranian emphasis here may also represent a reluctance to compromise as we fall in love with the originality of own ideas or suffer the ‘too clever by half’ syndrome where solutions are too complex to be truly effective.  This is one of the common pitfalls when Mercury’s rationality is combined with Uranus’ need for speed.  We can become so absorbed by the process of thinking that we block out other types of perception and experience.  Thinking too much is therefore a real possibility this week, especially in at the expense of the emotions and the senses.   Insight and logic may be able to discover a fascinating new process to produce wine more cheaply, but rationality has no say in the enjoyment one gets from actually drinking it.  But no doubt a Mercury-Uranus person would figure out a way to account for the genetic variations in human taste buds and come up with even tastier vintages that better fit our biological uniqueness.  Here’s to human ingenuity!

Have a great week,
Chris

Rahu-Uranus square: addicted to freedom?

Can addictions be healthy?  Drugs, alcohol, sex are the most common forms of addictive behaviour and create a negative image of addiction.  Addictions have such a bad reputation that even formerly ennobling activities like work can be seen as unhealthy if taken too far.  If you work too much to the exclusion of most other things then you’re a workaholic.   Of course, "too much" is a subjective notion and one person’s workaholic is another person’s go-getter. 

Our understanding of addictions and obsessive behaviours may be in the spotlight this week as there is a fairly strong Rahu influence through the close square aspect between Rahu and Uranus that is exact on Friday March 4th.  Rahu deserves a brief introduction since it is not one of those familiar, observable planets in the night sky.  Rahu is the traditional Sanskrit name for the North Node of the Moon.  (Ketu is the name given to the South Node.) Just in case you were wondering, a node isn’t actually a planet but is merely a calculated astronomical point.  Specifically, the Moon’s Nodes are two opposite points that mark where the orbits of the Moon and the Earth intersect.  These points move backwards at a rate of one and a half degrees a month.  While they are not actual planets, empirical observation through the centuries suggests that these points are nonetheless quite powerful in their effects.  The most obvious instance is during solar eclipses where Rahu lines up in conjunction with the Sun and the Moon.  This association with eclipses and the interruption of the Sun’s light is the main reason why the Moon’s nodes are seen as inherently malefic in Vedic astrology.  

Like most planets, Rahu has both good and bad sides.  Although it is considered a natural malefic, Rahu can be quite positive when it is well aspected.  Since Rahu symbolizes attachment and power-seeking behaviour, it is often very strong in the charts of people who seek material gains or social status.   Since it is a restless energy, Rahu does not respect tradition and has a tendency to break with the status quo.  Researchers and scientists who discover new ways of doing things and focus on technological innovation often have a strong Rahu in their horoscope.   Similarly, unconventional people who like to do things their own way often have Rahu in a prominent place in their chart.

When Rahu is poorly-placed in the chart, however, its negative side comes out.  It can be quite a disruptive influence as it seeks change for its own sake.  Since Rahu is rarely content to stand still, it can often translate into restlessness and an unhealthy acquisitiveness which may express itself as a ‘shopaholic".  A rich person who focuses solely on making money to the exclusion of everything else is another example of this problematic side of Rahu.  The person may be wealthy, but the Rahu influence will make them unhappy with what they have as they constantly seek to acquire more.  Rahu can get obsessive in its interests and when it gets really intense, it can manifest as an all-out addiction. 

What’s interesting this week is that Rahu forms a close alignment with Uranus, the planet of change, originality and freedom.  To be sure, there are some overlapping symbolisms between these two planets since both reject the status quo and established order and crave novelty and change.   We don’t have to look too far to see how this rejection of tradition might be playing out in the Middle East these days.  Some of the reason for the ongoing unrest may well be linked to this Rahu-Uranus aspect, although as I noted in a recent post on my website, the larger wave of rebellion that is sweeping that region is more likely traceable back to the solar eclipse of January 4th, as well as the afflictions to the charts of the specific countries involved. 

The take away here is that the Rahu-Uranus aspect has the potential to be a very destabilizing and unsettling energy.  Since both planets aim to disrupt routines, there could be a lot of distraction out there that may divert our attention away from our responsibilities.  In limited amounts, this shift in emphasis is probably a good thing since it prevents getting trapped in the inertia of dead-end situations.  Change can be a good thing when it occurs in a measured way.  So it’s definitely a good idea to get out there and feed your inner radical this week.  Check out and see what the cutting edge people are up to and eavesdrop on the in crowd. 

The trick may be to avoid going overboard and running away from one’s life in the quest for some imagined greener pasture.  The Rahu-Uranus pairing puts a high premium on freedom and doing one’s own thing, even if it generates some nasty consequences.   This Rahu-Uranus influence may even generate an addictive or obsessive approach to freedom and breaking boundaries.  Trotsky’s notion of Permanent Revolution might be the historic manifestation of this combination, but the downside here is pretty obvious given how the Russian Revolution ate its young.   On a more individual level, this restless urge to break out and may be more akin to the movie Thelma and Louise or Jack Kerouac’s depiction of compulsive traveling in On the Road.   This restless impulse towards personal freedom could be a good thing if you are opposing a thuggish Middle Eastern dictator, but perhaps less so if you work in a large organization with formal rules and a boss with a limited tolerance for creativity. 

Have a great week,
Chris

Sun-Mercury conjunction in Aquarius: I think, therefore I am

This is a good time to get some thinking done.  The main aspect this week is the Sun-Mercury conjunction in sidereal Aquarius. The conjunction actually takes place on Friday but it will gather slowly enough that its influence may be felt for several days.  In Vedic astrology, this combination is said to create an auspicious Budha Adhitya yoga.  The joining of the King (Sun) with the Messenger (Mercury) produces knowledge and an organized state of affairs that can widely shared for the benefit of others. 

In lay terms, the Sun represents the self or ego and Mercury symbolizes the analytical and communicative mind.  Together, they can enhance mental focus and increase our need to communicate rules and order as we perceive it.  This combination reflects a clever and shrewd mind, and one which calculates the pros and cons of a given course of action.  Deductive thought processes are important here, often at the expense of emotions and creativity. 

This is not to say that everyone will feel especially logical or rational this week, even those who are inclined that way in their natal charts.  But it may reflect how unavoidable the logical approach to reality is here, as if the emotional or intuitive sides may not enjoy the same currency as they usually do.  The Sun-Mercury conjunction may compel us to at least make reference to rationality or existing systems of order as a starting point, even if we may not fully agree with them. Since Mercury rules numbers and business efficiency, this nuts and bolts approach to problem solving may also be highlighted this week. 

When this Sun-Mercury conjunction comes under pressure in the horoscope, we can get bogged down in excessive details or become too fussy about following rules or maintaining our routines.  If you find yourself in this camp, it may be wise to take a break from the rational side of things, at least until you can gain some perspective.   Since Mercury is said to become combusted by its close proximity to the Sun, the danger is that our plans can become overly complicated and lead to confusion and stress — ‘too clever by half’ as the saying goes.  There may also be an inability to think objectively since it could be more difficult to detach one’s ego-driven interests (Sun) from the analysis (Mercury).

The Sun-Mercury conjunction occurs in the nakshatra of Satabisha (AQ 06 40 – AQ 20 00).  This nakshatra is symbolized by an empty circle which may be interpreted as separateness or containment, or perhaps the division between self and other.  Satabisha is often associated with truthful speech, even if it is sometimes harsh or lacking refinement and diplomatic niceties.  The Sun-Mercury conjunction here would tend to emphasize this preference for truth no matter what the cost.   Independence and self reliance may also take on a special significance this week as Satabisha relates to solving puzzles and mysteries and pursuing one’s desires in an economical way.  I’m not sure which side that favours in the Wisconsin dispute between the state government and its unionized workers, although the emphasis on the logic of the bottom line is unmistakable.

The empty circle also has a physical correspondence and is said to represent lakes, reservoirs, and that ultimate container of all life, the sky.  Perhaps there will be some noteworthy astronomical news this week as our relationship with the sky is brought into relief.  The symbolism of the empty circle has also been linked to life vs. death and the treatment and research surrounding chronic diseases.  The analytical power of the Sun-Mercury conjunction may be wielded constructively in this respect so there may be a greater likelihood of research breakthroughs involving medical research.

So even if we’re not particularly in the mood for heaving thinking and analysis, we may nonetheless find ourselves drawn to systems of order and evaluation as the Sun and Mercury come together.  Even musicians and poets usually have to express their emotions within a given framework of notes, meters and the like.  This may therefore be a good week to re-familiarize ourselves with some of the intricacies of the logical systems that surround us.  Hopefully, our greater appreciation of the mental and analytical facets of the mind can bring us closer to fulfilling our desires. But I think I’ll settle for just finally figuring out how to download the latest upgrade of my anti-virus software.

Have a great week,
Chris

Week of February 14th

Sun and Mars enter Aquarius: innovation and idealism

Innovation is front and centre this week as both the Sun and Mars enter sidereal Aquarius.   Since this is one of the Saturn-ruled signs, there could be a stronger sense of analytical detachment here as greater emphasis is placed upon creativity rather than on human relationships.   This is not to say that family and friends are destined for the back burner; it may be merely a case where our enthusiasm and imagination are temporarily captivated by new possibilities.  Typically, Aquarius likes concepts and ideas that are unselfish and can benefit everyone.  Perhaps all the excitement in Egypt this weekend was a taste of that Aquarian urge to remake the world according to an idealized image.  After all, the Sun was just one degree from entering Aquarius when the revolution succeeded in deposing the old Mubarak regime. 

The desire to "make it new" can be quite strong here since the Sun gets an infusion of extra energy from Mars.  The allure of novelty may be quite strong as a result, so much so that we may not give proper consideration to established patterns and traditions.  In fact, in the rush towards newness we can sometimes fixate on invention for its own sake, rather than its practical benefits.  In its more negative guise, Aquarius can become overly enamoured with innovation, even when it is bizarre or impractical.  So while this could be a time to try new approaches and solutions, it may be smart to subject things to a basic test of plausibility.  Just because something is new does not mean it is better.  As we get a good collective dose of Aquarian energy this week, it may be wise to balance the allure of the new with the reliability of the tried and true.  So before you run out and buy that new computer, remember the relative cost in terms of time and energy that transferring all your old files will take. 

What is particularly interesting about this dual ingress of the Sun and Mars into Aquarius is that both of these energetic planets will soon come under the aspect of Ketu, aka the South Lunar Node.   This may not really get going until later in the week, but the Ketu influence on all this Aquarian energy would seem to greatly emphasize the transformative dimension.  Ketu is often synonymous with change and its role here may give a boost to the weirder and more iconoclastic side of Aquarius.  Aquarius can be quite idealistic at the best of times, but it is sometimes led astray by believing its own hype, as if it really can save the world through that recently discovered alien energy source or Tesla’s perpetual motion machine.   The Ketu aspect upon these Aquarian planets will tend to encourage this idealistic streak, even if it feeds into some fairly hare-brained schemes. 

The positive side to this Ketu overlay is that they may be a much greater sensitivity to the needs of the human family (cue the cold fusion experiments) and a clearer, if unspoken, perception of future needs.  Ketu often operates in a non-linear and non-rational way, so it may be a time when conventional thinking does not find common currency.  Ketu makes the leap of faith that solves the problem almost without trying, or at least using an unexpected technique.  Ketu is also an esoteric and spiritual energy, so that sacred realm may also be incorporated into the Aquarian thirst for novelty and innovation.  In an effort to trim expenses, maybe Obama’s new health care bill will include a national yoga and meditation program. After all, a happy mind leads to a happy body, and that translates into fewer insurable claims and ultimately lower taxes.  Well, that is admittedly a slightly offbeat notion, but it nonetheless exhibits a distinctly Ketu-meets-Aquarius flavour.

On a personal note, I had a stark reminder of just how fiery both the Sun and Mars were last week.  These two fireballs conjoined around 22 degrees of Capricorn while closely aspecting my 6th lord of health, which happens to be Mercury.  The result was a raging fever and a bad case of the flu.  I couldn’t imagine a clearer example of how the nature of the planets than that: fiery planets cause fever!   Both are natural malefics and can therefore create health problems when they are associated with the 6th house and its lord.  I feel better now, but that was one for the books.  While the flu was not an inevitable result of those transit hits, one can see how it was a very apt embodiment of the energies of the planets involved. 

Have a great week,
Chris

Saturn turns retrograde: respect for traditions and the long term

Saturn takes center stage this week as the Great Malefic turns retrograde on Wednesday at 23 degrees of sidereal Virgo, where it will begin its 4-month backward journey in the sky.   The time around these retrograde stations are often accompanied by an intensification of the planet’s influence, as if it is idling at a higher RPM and building up energy in anticipation of its new direction.  In the case of Saturn, this may mean a greater emphasis on traditions and routines, and a recognition that there are limits to what we can achieve.    Since Saturn is considered the planet of Time, its retrograde station may coincide with situations of delay and postponement, as our desires may be confronted by the unforgiving circumstances of cold, hard reality.  

The retrograde cycle of Saturn may also correspond with situations of seclusion and renunciation.  This may mean that there is a turning away from the material dimension of the world toward a search for deeper meaning and enlightenment.  For spiritually oriented people, Saturn’s retrograde period from now until early June may bring new opportunities for clarity in their search. For those of us who may have a more secular, mundane orientation, the renunciatory dimension of Saturn can work at cross-purposes to our worldly desires.  At very least, this slow, backward moving Saturn may compel us to rethink our relationship with the material world and help us prioritize what we really need.

What is especially interesting about this Saturn retrograde is that it will occur at the same time that it aligns in a square aspect with Mercury.    When these two planets combine, there can be a mutual enhancement of influences as Saturn’s persistence and focus meshes well with Mercury’s communication and thinking.  The result can be an ability to tackle complex problems and work out every minute detail.   The difficulty here is that the square aspect often causes problems or distortions.   A desire to focus deeply on a problem can easily descend into an unhealthy obsession or a fixation on trivial details.   There is also a greater likelihood of misunderstanding and miscommunication here as Saturn has the power to do damage to our stated intentions.  

At the most basic level, there is a greater risk for the interruption of computer and transportation systems here as Saturn interferes with the normal functioning of Mercury’s significations.    So this is not a great week for buying a new computer, switching servers, or starting up with a new mobile phone carrier.  The Saturn influence here may mean that transportation or communication systems are too old and out of date and no longer able to function properly.

With Saturn extra-powerful this week, there could be a special emphasis on age and aging, as we are reminded of our indebtedness to older generations.  The Mercury aspect suggests there will be an attempt to share and discuss some of the legacy of our forebears and the traditions they have handed down to us.  I see that President Obama is due to give his State of the Union speech on Tuesday just one day before Saturn turns retrograde.  It’s possible that there may be a special manifestation of this Saturn influence in the speech or perhaps in the reaction to it.  We already know that he will be talking about more government spending on infrastructure.  Since Saturn rules structures and buildings of all kinds, a new commitment to spend more on infrastructure is very appropriate near a Saturn station.  Interestingly, Mercury rules transportation and communication, so the Mercury-Saturn aspect could represent new money for programs in those areas.  The fact that the planets are in a tense 90 degree aspect is somewhat concerning, however, as if Obama’s plans may not quite come off as intended either this week, or down the road.   Remember that new projects of any kind are inculcated with the planetary energy at the time of their "birth".  New programs announced at a time of this Saturn-Mercury square aspect may therefore have a bit of an uphill battle.

So there could be a lurking sense of disappointment or sadness this week as we may be tempted to think or ruminate (Mercury) about our past (Saturn) a bit too much.  One way to avoid succumbing to the more negative side of this aspect is to focus on planning and organizing one’s mundane life.   This could be anything from doing a thorough cleaning and culling of closets to reviewing the household budget.  By shifting the emphasis towards detailing (Mercury) one’s routine (Saturn), we may be able to avoid falling prey to Saturn’s gloomier side.  Of course, if you’re in the mood for a good bout of mid-winter rumination in all its self-absorbed glory, then this is definitely the week to do it!

Have a great week,
Chris

As we turn the page of the calendar and begin a new year, the stars this week offer a unique opportunity for us to reflect on the role of happiness in our lives.  On Tuesday, there is a solar eclipse in sidereal Sagittarius, the sign that is usually associated with optimism and generosity.  Eclipses occur when the Moon conjoins the Sun and Rahu (that’s the North Lunar Node) and often highlight periods of instability and change.  Just as the light from the Sun is interrupted by the Moon to produce a shadow that crosses the Earth, so an eclipse can mark a shift in prevailing attitudes and practices and introduce new ways of thinking.  Perhaps this Sagittarian eclipse may generate new ways of creating our own happiness, especially through maintaining a positive and energetic outlook within ourselves.   In the end, happiness comes from within.

Coincidentally, Jupiter (optimism, wisdom) conjoins Uranus (independence, individuality) on the very same day as the eclipse, January 4.   This positive combination of energies is further enhanced by a close aspect with Venus, the planet of joy and pleasure.   This trio of planets therefore represents a peaking of favourable energies that can support all kinds of new projects and initiatives.  It’s almost a cosmic joy fest in the sky this week, so there is no better time to contemplate the sources of personal happiness.  Once Jupiter begins to separate from Uranus later in the week, we may anticipate some hangovers, so remember to take a balanced approach between work and play, and responsibility and indulgence.

Aries  (Apr 13 – May 14)    There’s no time like the present!  It looks like a busy and industriousness start to 2011 for you as the planet Mercury will have you on the go for much of the week.   There is a special opportunity to incorporate some new kinds of ideas here from some thoughtful sources, so do try to take advantage of solutions when they are offered.   Mercury works best when it is interactive, so a little participation and feedback will go a long way.

Taurus  (May 15 – June 14)   Does it get any better than this? A very nice start to the new year here as everything seems to be coming up roses.  You may find a renewed joy in your relationships this week as Venus is very strong in your chart right now.  This is a great time to spend time with other people, whether it is with old friends and colleagues or making new ones.  Money and good fortune may also flow more easily here, so don’t hesitate — go for it!

Gemini (June 15 – July 14)  Less is more.  This minimalist creed is a useful reminder that sometimes we are better off holding back our urge to assert ourselves in a situation so that the other person has enough room to breathe. With the solar eclipse occurring in your 7th house this week, it may be a good time to take a slower, softer approach with others in order to better adjust to any new developments.  The best approach is to listen first, and then try to find some common ground.

Cancer  (July 15- Aug 14)  New research suggests that the happiest people are the ones who actively work with towards helping and serving others, whether the organizations be political, religious, or charitable.  There’s no mystery here of course, since relationships of all kinds provide the deepest feeling of belonging and contentment.  And the most amazing thing is that all this altruistic generosity towards others ends up benefiting you by making you happy in the process.  Now that’s what I call a good deal.

Leo (Aug 15 – Sep 15)  "I think, therefore I am."  Descartes’ bumper sticker for arm-chair philosophizing was never more apt than this week as the solar eclipse occurs in your 5th house of the intellect.  While eclipses sometimes have a nasty reputation, they are better seen as a kind of cosmic wake up call.  This time around the flashing lights may compel you to reconsider the role of the intellect in your life.  If you have been a head person, it may be time to yield some territory to the heart. 

Virgo (Sep 16 – Oct 15)  After food and water, shelter and a sense of security are the most fundamental human needs.  With the solar eclipse falling in your 4th house this week, this may be the universe’s way of getting you to examine your current living situation.  A home should provide that unique blend of relaxation and stimulation through the people and things that comprise it.  As the new year begins, you find a renewed energy to enhance your surroundings and make it both more comfortable and more creative.

Libra (Oct 16 – Nov 14)  Rationalists and skeptics say that luck doesn’t exist; life is all just random coincidence.  Well, this week may provide some evidence to the contrary as you begin 2011 with a proverbial rabbit’s foot in your pockeet.  With Venus extra powerful here, there is really some happy and fortuitous karma surrounding Libra in all matters.   That solar eclipse occurs in your 3rd house of communication, so this could be a good time to present your ideas with confidence.  People will be hanging on your every word.

Scorpio (Nov 15 – Dec 14)  I’ve heard that a lot of people are reluctant Scorpios.  It’s not a sign that gets a lot of good press.  But the truth is that your intensity, passion, and sheer willpower are very desirable traits that a lot of people secretly envy.  This week some of that envy may manifest publicly as you add ‘oodles of charm’ to your astrological resume.  As Venus enters Scorpio this week, you are more likely to take greater pleasure in the company of others, especially those that are involved with typically feminine pursuits.

Sagittarius (Dec 15 – Jan 13)  Talk about starting the new year right!  As the solar eclipse occurs in Sagittarius, you are more likely to be filled a sense of self-renewal and revitalization.  This may well go beyond the usual health club memberships and resolutions that quietly disappear into the depths of February.  There is real sense of asserting your uniqueness here, as if you are preparing some exciting new chapter for your biography, already in progress.   With all this energy for change in the air here, your best bet may be to step outside your comfort zone.

Capricorn (Jan 14 – Feb 12)  What is the meaning of life?  Even if this question first conjures up the Monty Python movie, there is still an opportunity this week to reflect on the role of enlightenment and the ultimate meaning of your existence.  Solar eclipses in the 12th house tend to have that effect. What is interesting is that eclipses often shake things up and force us to look at ourselves in new ways.  Old reliable answers to this question may be found wanting here, as new information puts it in a new light.

Aquarius (Feb 13 – Mar 12)  What do you want out of life?  The nature of our desires sometimes defies easy explanation, although we are sometimes clearer in our wish list.   But just where do desires come from and why are we so attached to them?   As the Sun is eclipsed in your 11th house of desires and gains, you may have occasion to rethink your preferences this week.  If you are more materially inclined, for example, you may find that view coming into question by force of circumstance.

Pisces (Mar 13 – Apr 12)  Critics say one of the casualties of our modern world is authenticity.  The ubiquitousness of chain store malls and technological gizmos has made a unique individuality a little harder to achieve.  That shouldn’t be a problem for you this week as you begin 2011 with gusto and a plea for independence and freedom.   As the Sun is eclipsed in your 10th house here, much of this energy to assert the self will go towards re-evaluating your work and your career goals.  

Saturn, however, lies at the opposite end of the spectrum.  Saturn is all about structure and responsibility and symbolizes order and control in the universe.  In a perfect world, we would be free to do whatever we felt like whenever we felt like it.  Well, Saturn reminds us that in the real world, there are always limits to our freedom.  Farmers, servants and manual labourers are all represented by Saturn because their freedom is limited by the circumstances of society’s structures.  If Mars equals speed, Saturn is typified by slowness and deliberation. 

This week’s Mars-Saturn aspect will give us the opportunity to see how these two opposites are both necessary parts of the equation of life.  The often raucous energy of Mars will be channeled through the strictures of Saturn.  The emphasis may be on dedicated efforts here as we might find in the notion of ‘an honest day’s work’.  They say hard work is good for you, and the bonus here may be that we get to work off all those extravagant holiday meals.  While energy and stamina may be readily available, the potential risk in any Mars-Saturn aspect is for stress and agitation without a constructive outlet.  Since Saturn is all about conventional forms of control, the best strategy may be to fall back on the tried-and-true.  Use traditions to harness your creative impulses.

Aries  (Apr 13 – May 14)   Slow and steady wins the race.  This message may be heretical for an Aries to accept, but with a heavy Saturn influence this week, you may find yourself appreciating the role of incremental progress.  Whenever responsibilities become burdensome, too often we feel frustrated and would rather throw then over in favour of a new start.  But Saturn reminds us that the better strategy may be to accept our roles and press ahead knowing that efforts will be rewarded in good time. 

Taurus  (May 15 – June 14)  If only things could be like this all the time!  With Venus is shining its beautiful light this week you are likely going to be able to see the goodness in all people and things as the year winds down.  Women are likely to figure more prominently here as you take pleasure in the feminine energy in its various guises.  Take this opportunity to reflect upon what your life would be like without some notion of beauty and then feast your senses on its many manifestations in the here and now.  

Gemini (June 15 – July 14)  Forward, march! As Mercury wraps up its retrograde cycle this week, you may find some added impetus for getting the ball rolling — in a forward direction, that is.  If you’ve been sorting through unfinished projects or a backlog at work, now may be a good time to chart a course towards something unfamiliar and perhaps more exciting in 2011.   There is still no substitute for due diligence and solid planning, so take the time to have your ducks in a row before setting sail.

Cancer  (July 15- Aug 14)  Humans love rewards.  As long as we know that there will be some benefit from our travails, we are willing to put up with quite a bit.  As the Moon transits Saturn and then Venus this week, you may be reminded of the neatness of this system.  All the hassles of hard work and demands on your time early in the week may give way to a more pleasant and comfortable state of contentment by the time Friday rolls around.  A nice way to finish up 2010. 

Leo (Aug 15 – Sep 15)   As 2010 comes to a close, there’s a sparkle in your eye and maybe even a swagger in your step.  As you receive an infusion of Jupiter’s optimism here, you may be seeing the world more for its opportunities than its obligations.  It may even seem like there’s no time to lose as you are eager to break free from routine and look for people and places that bring out the best in you. While there’s no need to go overboard, this may be positive situation to consider new paths.

Virgo (Sep 16 – Oct 15)  Is it safe to come out now?  As Mercury ends its retrograde cycle this week, this may be a good time to put away all that old stuff and consider your options for pressing ahead in 2011.  With Mars and Saturn doing their thing this week, the trick will be to find the right kind of energy for the tasks at hand.  Mars will want to do everything quickly and all at once, while Saturn will want to draw up a long list of pros and cons and then do one thing at a time.  Try to find the best of both approaches: action that follows a plan.

Libra (Oct 16 – Nov 14)  Is beauty all it’s cracked up to be?  I think it probably is, because a world without it is inconceivable: an ugly rose?  This week you are likely to be reminded of the role of beauty and love in your life as Venus shines its light extra brightly.  Amidst all the holiday socializing, you may find yourself reminded of the importance of friendship as your connections with others have a special poignancy.  The self takes its cue from the other.

Scorpio (Nov 15 – Dec 14)  According to the Stoic philosophers, the path to happiness lay in imagining an absence of something or someone in your life.  They reasoned that the best way to feel happy was to consider what your life would be like without it.  It’s good advice here as you may find yourself reflecting on the past year over the coming days.   The most profound joys often come from things that we take most for granted.  The older it is, the more precious it is.

Sagittarius (Dec 15 – Jan 13)  Ring out the old, and ring in the new.  As 2010 comes to a close, you may feel the change in the calendar more than usual as the planet Uranus is coming on extra strong for the Archer.   This can mean that you feel the urge to purge or just find some new ways to entertain yourself.   There’s no need to change just for change’s sake, but it is an energy that must manifest in some way.   Turning over a new leaf has never felt so good — and so necessary.

Capricorn (Jan 14 – Feb 12)   The goat may get some long overdue respect this week as the Moon transits your 9th and 10th houses.  Your reliable demeanor and penchant for caution stands you in good stead here as you may become a kind of guru-figure, if only on a micro scale.  Don’t be surprised if people come to you seeking out advice on the thornier questions of life, or just want to know where you got those shoes for half-price.  Authority has its perks. 

Aquarius (Feb 13 – Mar 12)   Einstein once remarked that mathematical equations were beautiful.   As the Moon and Venus transit your 9th house this week, you may be able to relate to this notion as knowledge takes on a wondrous and perhaps beautiful quality.   Some of this knowledge may take the form of ethical principles that guide you to make the right decisions.  Other knowledge may come from a cherished source, either in its ancient and traditional forms or perhaps through a particularly appealing person. 

Pisces (Mar 13 – Apr 12)   Freedom is one of the most powerful ideas in human history.  Few ideas have inspired as much as the notion that all individuals require freedom to choose their own life path.  As 2010 comes to a close, this week may see you reflecting upon how much freedom you need in your life.  With the planet Uranus still conjoining Jupiter, you are likely to choose the path that gives you the most independence.   But be mindful that more freedom means fewer bonds with others.  As in everything, there are trade-offs to consider.

It is this interruption of the light that underlies the astrological belief that eclipses are harbingers of change in human affairs.  Eclipses often mark periods of instability when the status quo is upset, and when new ways of thinking are undertaken.  The Earth itself manifests this sudden jolt of disruptive energy as earthquakes, volcanoes, and other natural phenomena are more common around eclipse periods.  Eclipses are therefore a kind of celestial wild card that compels us to reconsider our preconceptions in a new way.

On a more practical level, this lunar eclipse in Gemini may offer opportunities for the denial of self and ego.  As the Sun (ego) conjoins shadowy Rahu (North Lunar Node), our usual way of expressing our self interest is more open to review and change.   Since this is the season for selfless giving and generosity, we may find this influence somewhat easier to bear than it would be at other, less altruistic times of the year.  The Moon’s conjunction with Ketu can open our emotional lives to new and unfamiliar feelings and experiences.  Since the eclipse occurs in Gemini, our rational thinking process may interpreted more in terms of our emotional needs rather than simple binary yes/no or either/or type thinking.  Since communication will also be affected by this Gemini eclipse, we might also expect that holiday get togethers could feature some fairly interesting and intense dinner conversations. 

Have a great week,
Chris

Aries  (Apr 13 – May 14)    One of the lessons of the theory of evolution is that human beings survived and thrived not through strength or even brains necessarily but through their ability to adapt to changing circumstances.  As the lunar eclipse activates your third house this week, you may experience your own personal Darwinian moment as you may be called upon to be flexible and act quickly.   A determined attitude is definitely a plus here, as is a recognition that the whole is greater than the sum of its parts.  When you act, act for the good of all.

Taurus  (May 15 – June 14)    When I was a kid, one of best things about Christmas was the prospect of receiving money and gifts from doting aunts, uncles and grandparents.   As a child, one has few obligations but many pleasant opportunities for gains.  Ah, such were the joys!  As the eclipse touches your second house this week, you may recapture something of that childhood experience as the gifts you receive may surprise you in their generosity.   Even if your cup runneth over here, remember that giving actually makes you happier.

Gemini (June 15 – July 14)   How much coffee do you need to wake up in the morning?  For most people, mornings without a cup of java is a recipe for life moving in slow motion.  With the lunar eclipse occurring in Gemini this week, you may be on the receiving end of a kind of cosmic-sized espresso.  This may be more than a simple boost of energy, but rather a wake up call to action.  Let this eclipse power surge fuel your ambitions and help you turn impulses into actions, and actions into results.  

Cancer  (July 15- Aug 14)  What’s the real meaning of Christmas, Charlie Brown?  As the lunar eclipse hits your 12th house of enlightenment and spirituality, you may find this reference to that childhood cartoon character more poignant than usual.   It is not just that you will renew your interest in the spiritual origins of the holiday, but the eclipse may introduce a new wrinkle into your thinking.  This may be a time when you discover a greater willingness to translate the ancient lessons into contemporary practice.

Leo (Aug 15 – Sep 15)  What’s behind door #2?  Curiosity is one of the driving forces in all of human history — and that includes 1970s US game shows — and you could well be more captivated than usual with a desire to discover the answer to all those nagging questions.  The strength of Rahu this week suggests that the desire for novelty may trump most considerations for routine, tradition and even propriety.  A good rule of thumb might be to follow your instincts until your intellect taps you on the shoulder.

Virgo (Sep 16 – Oct 15)  A generation ago, people used to stay in one career and even one job for their entire working lives.  Nowadays people are not only changing jobs with greater frequency, but they may wind up having several completely different careers.   As the lunar eclipse energizes your 10th house this week, work issues are likely to figure more prominently as you ponder your own career trajectory.  This is a great time to harness all your Virgoan analytical skills and raise your game.

Libra (Oct 16 – Nov 14)   The pace of technological and social change has never been faster and threatens to undermine the rightful place of older generations in our society.  As the lunar eclipse highlights your 9th house, you may feel a bond with tradition and your antecedents more deeply this week.  This could be a time to reconsider the importance of tried and true knowledge in your life and renew your attachment to it.  Whether its attending The Messiah or buying your favourite uncle a drink, respect takes many forms.

Scorpio (Nov 15 – Dec 14)  New studies suggest there might be something to ESP after all.  Of course, most people already acknowledge some place for the role of intuition and extra sensory perception, as we have all experienced uncanny coincidences or perhaps dreams that have revealed some future event.  As the lunar eclipse occurs in your 8th house of obscure or hidden phenomena, you may have your intuitive side operating at full capacity this week.   That’s not to say that you’ll suddenly be reading people’s minds, but it is an opportunity to learn in new ways.

Sagittarius (Dec 15 – Jan 13)   Do people change?  Cynics would say they don’t because the essence of the person is fixed, but optimists insist that it is human nature to improve oneself.  As the lunar eclipse lights up your 7th house this week, you may find yourself thinking about relationships in a new way.  Perhaps this takes the form of reconsidering the way you interact with other people in general.  It may also entail partners and friends making that change for the better in an act of re-invention.

Capricorn (Jan 14 – Feb 12)  Genius is the ability to hold two contradictory ideas in mind at the same time.   As the lunar eclipse occurs in your 6th house, you may access a special ability to make sense of some contradictory or ambiguous information this week.  This may involve resolving or mediating conflict between people in your life, or it could mean that your problem solving abilities will be put to the test.  Eclipses are often times of novelty, so your best strategy may be to toss the instructions and think outside the box.

Aquarius (Feb 13 – Mar 12)  The holidays are a time to re-connect with family and friends and often to revisit our own childhood memories of the season.  As the eclipse activates your 5th house this week, children and childhood may figure more prominently as you gain new understanding of that early stage of life.  While our own childhood experiences remain fixed in the past, our interpretation of them can undergo substantial development.  This is a great time to be inspired by all notions of childhood — past, present and future.

Pisces (Mar 13 – Apr 12)  No matter how intelligent or wealthy we are, our ultimate source of happiness is rooted in our emotional make-up.  A resilient and flexible emotional profile is an important part of a fulfilled life.  As the eclipse lays claim to your 4th house this week, your emotional maturity will be highlighted.  This is therefore a time when you may be called upon to reflect on all the sources of happiness and comfort in your life.  While events and people may lie beyond our control, it is our reactions to them that are entirely within ourselves.

With Mercury now moving retrograde this week, there may be a special focus on our thinking process as rationality is called into question.   As the planet of thinking and communicating, Mercury often provides a window onto the way we make judgments about the world around us.  To be sure, Mercury’s retrograde cycle has a bit of a bad reputation as there may be a greater likelihood for unexpected events and situations to confound our best laid plans.  The standard remedy here is to review past actions, double check the facts and only then move forward. 

But the planets this week make this situation more complicated: Mercury is conjunct Mars, Pluto and Rahu (the North Lunar Node).  The conjunction with Mars may be most telling here as it suggests that the mind will speed up as we may be compelled to solve problems quickly.   There could be a risk of becoming overstimulated mentally (e.g. having a restless "monkey mind") or focusing too much on the competitive instinct and personal ambition.

So the tension here is that while we may feel the need to think our our feet and resolve questions quickly, the retrograde influence may be better served by caution and logic.   This may require a balancing act that integrates quick intuition with a recognition for the need for a more systematic approach to problem solving during the Mercury retrograde cycle.   But the urgency of  Mars would appear to prevail here and hence we may have no choice but to concur with Holbrook Jackson who once said, "intuition is reason in a hurry."

Aries  (Apr 13 – May 14)   Do you believe in luck?  If you’re reading this column, there’s a good chance that’s a rhetorical question!  This week has all the makings of a lucky week, albeit with a twist: your luck is more likely to come from contact with someone else.   Encounters with other people may be prove to be particularly beneficial and heartening this week as their luck may well rub off on you.  Their world-view may give you some important hints that could give you a new perspective.

Taurus  (May 15 – June 14)  Encouragement comes in many forms, from a friendly and understanding conversation over a cup of tea to a blunt, tough love message from someone who knows you but wants to cut to the chase. This week may see a little more of that blunt, motivating energy in your life as you confront the naked facts.   Even if it feels a little uncomfortable at first (personally I prefer the tea approach), try to make the most of the elemental energy that is around you.   Reawaken your instinctual self.

Gemini (June 15 – July 14)  Expect the unexpected this week.  Your ruling planet Mercury is going through quite a throng of dance partners here and to top it off, it’s moving backwards.  This can still be a productive time, although you may have to avoid stressful situations and doing too much.  Admittedly, this is tough to do during the holiday season.  Retrograde periods offer their own unique advantages, not the least of which is getting in touch with your intuitive side.   Facts are sometimes not the truth, especially when it comes to people.

Cancer  (July 15- Aug 14)  "The bigger they are, the nicer they are."  This week you may be able to test this assertion first hand as prominent people may figure in your life in some way.  With the Moon transiting Pisces in the early part of the week, there’s a good chance fortune will smile on you, or least offer a reassuring grin.  Of course, it may not come out of the blue.  Some amount of sincere effort may be required first before the wise and wonderful cast their lot with you. 

Leo (Aug 15 – Sep 15)  Some say that Leos think they’re better than the rest of the us. Not true, I would say, since Leos are misunderstood.  After all, somebody has to be the leader!  This week has the potential for you to show off your talents and skills just to let the world know once again why you think the way you do.  Your intelligence and wisdom may be more appreciated here as you offer valued input to those seeking insights.  Use your experience to enlighten those younger than you.

Virgo (Sep 16 – Oct 15)  Sometimes doing nothing is the hardest thing in the world.  Just ask all those naturally energetic and restless people who have tried meditation.  This week may see a rise in activity level and with it, a rise in tension and stress.  ‘Tis the season, after all.  While I could suggest taking it easy, going for long relaxing walks and yes, even some purposeful sitting, I have a feeling that life will not leave you alone this week.  The planets beckon, and you may have no choice but to play.  I would still advise: walk before you run.

Libra (Oct 16 – Nov 14)  There’s no time like the present!  Like that Zen injunction to ‘be here now’, you may find a burning desire to live in the moment as there is a fire beneath your feet.  Sitting still isn’t really an option here, as you find a renewed ambition to do things your way.  Libras are usually quite good about avoiding social miscues, so you may have to draw on your diplomatic skills in case your instincts get the better of you.  In this case, act second and ask permission first.

Scorpio (Nov 15 – Dec 14)  The universe is really pulling for you this week Scorpio.  With a little effort to get your message out there, you may find a more receptive audience than you expected.  Don’t just stand there basking in the applause — mingle!  There could be enhanced socializing opportunities here so you could make the acquaintance of an interesting new person.  Since this is the season of generosity, extending a helping hand to those in need may bring a special sense of reward. 

Sagittarius (Dec 15 – Jan 13)   Your renowned Sagittarian optimism may win some new converts this week, especially in the early going.  Not that you’re setting up a religion or anything like that, but your ideas and approaches could gain a new respect from the people around you.   All of a sudden, your input matters and people want to hear more.  This could take the form of simple verbal acknowledgment or it might mean some more tangible benefits.  Somebody may even buy you lunch.

Capricorn (Jan 14 – Feb 12)   Read the fine print!  As Mercury turns retrograde in your 12th house this week, you could be so busy and distracted that you risk missing some important details.  You may be tempted to rely on intuition and snap judgments, but this is not a great planetary setup for quick thinking.  Take the extra time to sit down and examine all the angles before committing yourself to a particular course of action.  Developments from abroad may bring some new possibilities to light. 

Aquarius (Feb 13 – Mar 12)  With Mercury turning retrograde in your 11th house, you may need to practice some extra discipline with the credit cards this week.  It’s not that you’re a spendthrift by nature; it’s just that the planets this week suggest that you might end up spending more than you want to.  Amidst the act of generosity in gift giving, you may want to double check your lists and make sure that everything is copasetic.  A little extra time in preparation before you go shopping may save you down the road.

Pisces (Mar 13 – Apr 12)  It’s all about confidence.  They say that as long as you believe in yourself, then others will, too, and you can get what you want out of life.  Of course, you still have to make real contributions, but you are likely to enjoy the benefits of a confident disposition this week.  That’s not to say that everything will go your way, but you will get noticed in such a way that affords you proper respect.  Results could be another matter, however, as goals could be lost in the details. 

The notion of action and its objectives may be front and center this week as Mars conjoins Rahu (aka the North Lunar Node) in Sagittarius in a rare four-planet alignment alongside Mercury and Pluto.  Mars is the planet of action par excellence as it reflects human will and the drive to express oneself in the world.  Executive power and leadership ability flows largely from Mars, as many political and military leaders have strongly placed Mars in their horoscopes.  The conjunction of Mars with Rahu this week emphasizes the motivations behind our actions.  Rahu is a planet that enjoys testing boundaries as it often rejects tradition and the status quo in favor of novelty.  

So the combination of the assertiveness of Mars with the novelty-seeking quality of Rahu could translate into an urge to express oneself with less regard to consequences.  In some situations, this sense of urgency may occur out of a genuine desire to make good on your intentions.  If taken too far, however, this can result in an excessively critical approach that does more harm than good.  As the English physicist Isaac Newton once famously stated: for every action there is an equal and opposite reaction.  We all want to make our own unique contribution, but we are better off in the long run if it takes into account the interests and sensitivities of those around us.  

Aries  (Apr 13 – May 14)  "Necessity is the mother of invention."  You may find yourself confronted with new and unusual circumstances this week that test your belief system and compel you to think on your feet.   Sometimes our most deeply held assumptions about the world need to be revisited from time to time just to remind us how important they are in our lives.  New situations may require new solutions, or least an upgrade to Life Philosophy 2.0. 

Taurus  (May 15 – June 14)   The pace of life may be picking up here, and it’s likely not just due to the usual holiday get-togethers.  With Venus in aspect to several planets this week, you may find yourself the center of attention or least pretty close by.  Communication will become more important as you seek to lay the groundwork for future activities.   The objective here will be to undercover missing information that you may not have thought of before.  The best strategy will be through working cooperatively with those who share a common interest.

Gemini (June 15 – July 14)  Nietzsche once remarked that art existed so that we would not perish from the truth.  Well, things needn’t be quite that serious, but with Venus strong in your horoscope this week, you may be in a better position to enjoy both art and companionship in its many forms.  It could be in a new-found appreciation of the inherent beauty of the world, or it could be in the beauty of friendship and the ‘living art’ you find in the people in your life.

Cancer  (July 15- Aug 14)  As the old saying goes, "you gotta serve somebody".  No matter how independent and self-actualized we may be, there is usually no getting around the fact that there are forces outside us that we have to answer to, and homages we have to pay.  While these can take many forms from spiritual deities to secular authority figures, some of the most powerful reminders of our need to serve come from those around us in our own communities.  As Mars and Mercury transit your 6th house this week, you may have an ideal opportunity to perform a service when it counts most.

Leo (Aug 15 – Sep 15)   Your inner lion is roaring with enthusiasm this week.  As half the solar system congregates in your 5th house here, you may have an extra reservoir of creative energy to put some ideas out into the world.   Even if you’re brimming with natural charisma, this is a good time to rely on your wits and intelligence as you will find better results after the use of some brainpower.  Bonus points for originality and cleverness, as the tried-and-true may not enjoy the same curb appeal.

Virgo (Sep 16 – Oct 15)   A basket of abundance may greet you this week, at least on a metaphorical level.  How much is enough?  There is no fixed answer to that question since our needs change with our situation as well as on our outlook.  With Venus taking a front seat in your horoscope this week, you may find yourself reassured and pleasantly surprised by your sense of comfort and wealth in all forms that it may take.  The greatest source of wealth may be found in the people who share our lives.

Libra (Oct 16 – Nov 14)  Cooperation is all well and good, but sometimes you have to do things yourself.  As your 3rd house fills up with a veritable duck soup of planets, there is no better time to take action according to your own plan and do what needs to be done.  Obviously, we’re not talking about aggressively foisting one’s views on a reluctant audience.  That wouldn’t serve any purpose.  But there is definitely a lot of room here for a considered course of action that is yours and yours alone. 

Scorpio (Nov 15 – Dec 14)  They say talk is cheap but when it’s done right, talk can also be a source of money and security. The gathering of planets in your 2nd house this week suggests that the notion of money and communication will somehow figure prominently.  Perhaps you talk your way of trouble using your very best Scorpionic instincts.  Or someone tells you about a potentially beneficial new program at work.  Whatever it may be, it could come from an unexpected source or be delivered in a curious or arresting way

Sagittarius (Dec 15 – Jan 13)  Congratulations, Sagittarius.  There seems to be an exceptionally large planetary convention taking place in your sign this week.  With half the solar system transiting your sign here, you may find yourself in the middle of a lot of different kinds of activity either by accident or by design.   Your aptitude for delivering impartial and supportive advice on all ethical matters will be high demand here.  You are also more likely to reap some rewards from past efforts, even the painfully earnest ones.  Now that’s some good karma.

Capricorn (Jan 14 – Feb 12)  Is knowledge its own reward?   Learning and gaining knowledge can open new avenues of understanding that are enormously rewarding on a personal level.  But the emphasis this week may well be that knowledge assumes a more tangible form.  That’s not to say that it will all come down to money, but the strong presence of Venus this week may bring new or possibly unusual rewards in exchange for your experience and wisdom. 

Aquarius (Feb 13 – Mar 12)  For hundreds of years, people that flying was impossible because airplanes were heavier than the air.  The moral of the story here is that every idea goes through a phase when it is ridiculed and rejected.  This week may be the time when you see something like this play out as you research and experiment with some unexpected or offbeat solutions to pressing problems.  What seems to be unusual or strange at first glance may lead you in the right direction.

Pisces (Mar 13 – Apr 12)  The subtitle this week might well be: I work, therefore I am. Workplace issues are likely to figure more prominently here, and if the planets are any indication, things could be quite hectic.  That is not to say that there will be pressure exactly, but you may find it tough to hide away and take it easy far from the madding crowd.   If bosses are getting you down by their inexplicable behavior, you can seek solace through your common interest with fellow workers. 

With the completion of the conjunction of Jupiter and Uranus over the weekend, there could be a little less willingness to embark on new projects and take risks this week.  The aspect from the Sun to Jupiter-Uranus early in the week may represent a culmination or peaking of this adventurous and optimistic energy.  This sense of achievement may be more noticeable for people with prominent Sagittarius, Pisces,  Gemini, and to a lesser extent, Virgo.  Virgos have to contend with the approaching Sun-Saturn conjunction next week so this mean expending more energy on fulfilling duties and responsibilities.

The love planets, Venus and Mars, continue their transit of Libra this week.  Mars is slowly catching up to Venus as Venus is slowing down ahead of its retrograde station in early October.  What’s interesting here is that both Venus and Mars come under the aspect of Ketu.  Ketu (the South Lunar Node) is a planet that represents change and reorganization, so relationship issues may be more prominent this week, especially for Aries and Libra.  Watch for unusual and unexpected developments involving the opposite sex.  Scorpios may have much of this activity take place at a distance or out of public view.  Taurus may experience this energy in a more rehabilitative or restoring sort of way.  Ketu has carries an undertone of spirituality and renunciation, so there could be a greater willingness to examine love and sex in terms of its higher manifestations and goals.

The Moon begins in Aquarius this week with Neptune so this could provide a boost for Aquarian individuals, particularly in terms of researching old or obscure systems of knowledge.  Leos may find themselves busier than normal talking, texting, emailing and travelling as quicksilver Mercury projects its influence. 

As the Moon transits Pisces on Thursday and Friday, that will re-energize Pisces and Virgo, and enhance the profile of Sagittarius and Gemini.  Thursday’s Full Moon will underline this sense of confidence and attention-seeking.   Capricorn may find more get-up-and-go as your determination for action take precedence over all other concerns.  Cancer may find life more pleasurable at this time and find solace in youth. 

The weekend will find the Moon in Aries, so this will bring relationships into sharper relief.   If you’re Aries or Libra, this could be a great weekend to mix and mingle with the opposite sex.   Leo and Sagittarius may be more bookish on the weekend, however, and might prefer the company of words to people.