A nonstop marathon of planetary activity turns this week, and the
next several weeks, into a powerful astro-drama that’s sure to
challenge all of us, even those astral athletes who thrive on prolonged
periods of intensity. Every member of the astrological pantheon has a
part to play, and as their roles run the range of probable
manifestations from negative to positive (and just about everything in
between), one thing is guaranteed: You won’t be bored. The best way to
navigate this planetary pace is to find a comfortable stride,
preferably one that allows you to take breaks when necessary. Keep in
mind, just because daily life is intense, it doesn’t have to be
extreme.
Several factors contribute to the quickening. First, the ongoing
Jupiter/Neptune/Chiron conjunction in Aquarius continues to inspire
altruistic goals. But I’ve been looking closely at how this energy
seems to be manifesting, and I’ve decided that Chiron’s presence is
skewing this conjunction toward the deeper wounds of what keeps us from
concretizing those ideals. But those wounds are hard to see because the
causal level of greed and fear is so deep and because too many of us
still believe that greed is good. This is why I think the effect of the
Jupiter/Neptune/Chiron conjunction feels more like “hope-iness” than
like actual hope. (I didn’t come up with the idea of “hope-iness”
although I wish I had. My cousin’s friend recently suggested that
Stephen Colbert should make it a new word of the day.) We want change
— yes, we do — and when we see or hear President Obama
speak, we think we are changing. But actually, some things are staying
the same or getting worse. Certain detainees will never be tried. And
now, along with resuscitating the banks with our tax dollars, we have
legislation that gives the banks permission to charge as much interest
as they want and gives us permission to carry handguns in state parks.
This is not hope; this is hope-iness.
Second, Mercury, now Direct and gathering forward momentum, squares
the Jupiter/Neptune/Chiron conjunction. This interaction could provide
the necessary friction to ask real questions about how to make real
change. So don’t be afraid to ask what it will take to truly transform
and insist that our president do the same. It would be a huge
disappointment to so many if Obama became the next symbol of the status
quo. Fortunately, a Mercury/Uranus sextile is also operating, which
means innovation is possible, if not probable. Aim this energy at
problem solving, and you could surprise yourself with positive,
inventive solutions capable of tangible transformation.
Good intentions are a good start, but unless those intentions turn
into action, all the words in the world won’t make a difference. Which
is why it’s important once again to remember that each of us is a
powerful agent of change, and that true and lasting change happens one
person, one mind, and one heart at a time.
If you know your Ascendant and/or your Moon Sign, read that,
too.
ARIES The ideal inner marriage is the union of insight and
action, a partnership that can be achieved by allowing intuition to
inform action. Recommit to walking your talk and you’ll be pleased with
the results.
TAURUS The best way to transform a defeat into a victory is
to learn from your mistakes. Apply logic to your process and
objectivity, and you’ll start to see where and how you can improve your
methods.
GEMINI A strong external stance is important, especially if
it is informed from the inside out. Devote yourself to creating and
maintaining inner fortitude, and you’ll transform your external
situation.
CANCER Be a friend to those in need, but don’t violate your
integrity by ignoring boundaries or creating co-dependence you might
later regret. Yes, generosity is a must, but sometimes saying “no” is
also beneficial.
LEO On one hand you’re emotionally supercharged, while on the
other you’re working with great clarity. Synthesize these two currents,
and you’ll transform your emotional intensity into creative
passion.
VIRGO It’s all a matter of perspective, and while you may
think I’m being superficial about the gravity of your circumstances,
I’m not. Realistically assess where you’ve been, and you’ll find the
strength and clarity to move forward.
LIBRA Despite the external activity, you feel a need to
“hermitize.” Indulge that impulse for quiet time, and you’ll not only
soothe your soul, but you will also reinvigorate and renew certain
important relationships.
SCORPIO Conversations with significant others, personal or
professional, are spiritually gratifying, especially as you and those
you care about speak from the heart. No matter what’s said, stay open
to authenticity.
SAGITTARIUS The focus is on work and money — a great
partnership — and how you can transform your financial situation
by working well with others. Even if you work alone, figure out how you
can network with people of like mind.
CAPRICORN Make peace not war, and all your efforts will be
well met. An aggressive posture will only antagonize others. A gentler
stand will encourage spontaneity and generosity.
AQUARIUS Contemplate what would bring you the greatest joy,
and then concentrate your efforts on creating that vision. I’m not
suggesting you will magically acquire all you desire; I’m simply
advising you to be clear about what really matters.
PISCES Be clear and direct about what you want and need, and
you’ll be amazed at how quickly the energy shifts. Even situations you
thought would never change can be catalyzed by a clear and real
assessment combined with the courage to make the necessary changes.
