This week, a maze of mirrors creates confusion, making it difficult to discern fact from fiction and fantasy from reality. Expect to be baffled, bewildered, and more than a little discombobulated by blurry boundaries. Also anticipate feeling trapped by projections, yours or others. Almost all of us are likely to make assumptions about what others are feeling and why based on our own unconscious and uncomfortable emotions. Be wary of pointing fingers and ascribing blame simply because it feels better to accuse someone else rather than deal with your own funk. Also try to temper your reaction if or when someone accuses you falsely. Lots of accusations are going to be flying around. And while some may be true, most of those indictments are meant to deflect attention from the real deal. But that’s not all. Bullies are also emboldened this week, and as they feel the power surges, the desire to torment or intimidate an opponent is pretty much irresistible. So also anticipate mean-spirited interactions. As always, the best way through is thoughtful consideration for your fellow travelers. For some, the intensity will simply be overwhelming, making it all the more important for those capable of persevering to offer a helping hand.
Several configurations create this week’s labyrinth. (1) A Mars/Neptune opposition feeds the need to project. Mars wants to individuate. Neptune wants to merge. When their energies clash, Neptune’s diffuse but persistent sympathy turns Mars mushy, making boundaries an issue. (2) Yet some boundaries remain impervious to the merge thanks to a Mars/Pluto trine, as well as a Mars/Sun sextile, both of which carry a decidedly martial signature. (3) But the bully factor derives from a Sun/Pluto opposition, a powerful interaction that craves domination. And that’s not all. (4) Venus is conjunct the Sun, as well as in an opposition to Pluto, which puts a creative but highly emotional mark on the entire bundle. It’s complex, and as the week unfolds, it won’t be easy delineating the specifics or handling the tangle of intensity.
The most important factor in this week’s web of planetary interaction is Pluto’s retrograde back into Sagittarius. Don’t be surprised if you are suddenly catapulted back in time, confronting circumstances you thought were resolved. Pluto’s thirteen-year transit of Sagittarius sought Higher Love and Higher Knowledge and in the process revealed the shadows keeping us from attaining such lofty goals. Pluto always exhumes what inhibits transformation before it supports positive change, which is why we often get stuck in the muck in the midst of Pluto transitions. During its final transit through Sagittarius, that “stuckedness” translates into ignorance and fanaticism. So during this final Pluto phase in Sagittarius, be prepared to come up against places that have previously evaded shift.
As you move through this week’s intensity, remember, kindness is always the best remedy. Just don’t confuse compassion with codependence or compliance. Sometimes the most compassionate act is to tell the truth, even if the truth is painful.
If you know your Ascendant and/or your Moon Sign, read that, too.
Aries March 21-April l9
Pluto is inviting you to explore issues of faith. Part of that Plutonian requires delving into doubt without succumbing to cynicism. Don’t worry — while this phase may be uncomfortable, it will be worth the effort.
Taurus April 20-May 20
Pluto places the emphasis on value — your values versus the values of others. While this sounds adversarial, it’s not only about confrontation, and part of the goal is discovering how to respect the needs of others without losing yourself.
Gemini May 21-June 21
Pluto challenges your need to “go it alone” rather than surrender to the agenda of another. I’m not suggesting partnership is the only way; I’m simply advising you to examine your motivation to withdraw.
Cancer June 22-July 22
Pluto invites you to think about issues of service and sacrifice, especially when it comes to your needs — either denying them or putting them before all others. While this process is uncomfortable, it could yield a change of heart.
Leo July 23-August 22
Pluto reignites your creativity, especially the piece about having the courage to be your authentic self. Seize this moment but also be willing to face what inhibits as well as what enhances self-expression.
Virgo August 23-September 22
Pluto triggers a longing to belong, as it simultaneously provides insight into how to create a deep sense of internal security. So rather than rely on external validation, allow your intuition to guide the way.
Libra September 23-October 22
Pluto stimulates a desire for intimacy, but this urge is not just sexual. It’s about refining your ability to share thoughts and feelings with loved ones without fear or shame.
Scorpio October 23-November 21
Pluto puts the emphasis back on finances, but this process isn’t only about m-o-n-e-y. It’s also about themes of self-esteem. Examine where you feel confident and why, and you’ll expand your self-awareness.
Sagittarius November 22-December 21
Pluto sparks the last lap of a long identity crisis, and while you may feel overwhelmed by the idea of another round, take heart. You’ve been through the worst, and now it’s time to distill what you’ve learned.
Capricorn December 22-January 19
Pluto probes your unconscious and your dreams reflect the intensity. Keep a journal, spend some time trying to decode the symbols, and you’ll gather valuable insight.
Aquarius January 20-February 18
Pluto highlights the power potential of certain alliances. But don’t let that seduce you into giving away your authority. Rely on your egalitarian perspective and meet each individual as an equal.
Pisces February 19-March 20
Pluto emphasizes your career situation, and puts the emphasis on your ambition. Spend time contemplating how you would define “success” and what you are willing to do to achieve your goals.
