AURUM ASTROLOGY: Finding the Gold in Life

And now for Something Completely Different,

2012-01-21T01:56:00.000-08:00

Yesterday the Sun moved from serious Capricorn into freedom loving Aquarius and will be joined there early on Monday by a New Moon. When the Moon and Sun meet up in the ‘Conjunctio’ (joining of masculine and feminine energies) a seed energy is created that will manifest in the coming month.

At a New Moon we plant this seed of our intention and see how it grows as the Moon moves through its waxing and waning cycle. Each cycle peaks at the Full Moon, and then gradually dissipates, to begin anew in the next sign… representing the next stage of development.

And so it goes, around the circle, through the seasons; the ebb and flow of the rhythm of life.

This seedtime is in Aquarius, which is all about freedom and about belonging. Where can we bring new energy to create more freedom and fairness for both ourselves and others?

In the last post I wrote that the Full Moon on the Capricorn/Cancer axis was challenging us to find a balance between our need to nurture ourselves vs our responsibility to others.

The New Moon in Aquarius brings up our relationship to the group, while also triggering our need to define our individuality.

Our relationships have undergone much testing in the past year, as Saturn, planet of boundaries and responsibilities, moved through Libra (relationships), opposed by rebellious and independent Uranus.

Saturn is now sitting in a critical degree at the end of Libra, in a tense square to this Moon, while Jupiter opposite creates a push-me, pull-you energy. Any unresolved issues from the Saturn transit will be now up for final resolution. Who am I responsible to?... What is my intention in relation to you...to the group? … to others?

Do I fit in or do I stand alone? Do I follow the crowd or find my own unique voice?

Both Uranus, the planet of radical innovation and rebellion, and the New Moon in Aquarius, (ruled by Uranus), insist on a new way of co-operating with others that steps away from co dependency and/or adversarial stances. We need a new vision for interrelationships and for our world.

And that world of course, begins with each individual.

Aquarius honours the uniqueness of the individual while working with the power of the collective, so part of this influence is going to focus us on how to learn to balance our own needs with the needs of the group.

"The individual has always had to struggle to keep from being overwhelmed by the tribe. If you try it, you will be lonely often, and sometimes frightened. But no price is too high to pay for the privilege of owning yourself." (Friedrich Nietzsche)

Eric Francis wrote recently in terms of ‘how we resolve this need for balance between self and other’ … between “radical self-sufficiency and healthy inter-dependency.”

"To be needy or clingy allows people we care about no room to breathe; yet if too independent we push others out of our life."

And on a larger scale, we all need to work together to find new ways of visioning our world, and new ways of relating to each other as we deal with the chaos of things breaking down.

Uranus in Aries can bring innovative thinking and fresh perspectives adding flashes of brilliance and insight. (Have you seen the story about how they are using recycled plastic bottles to light up slum dwellings at low cost in India? http://youtu.be/o-Fpsw_yYPg

So.... be prepared for the unexpected, and set your intention around finding new ways and new solutions that serve not only your own individual vision but also a vision that serves the greater good.

p.s. The New Moon is in my 3^rd house of thinking and communicating. I welcome the infusion of fresh mental energy and flashes of brilliance that are on their way : ) In the meantime please make allowances …

PROTEST

2012-01-18T13:18:00.000-08:00

Going Dark in Protest of SOPA and PIPA

Dear Friend and Reader:

Aurumastrology has gone offline from noon (ish) to midnight EST today, Weds. Jan. 18. We are joining our fellow websites who are protesting proposed federal legislation that would turn the American Internet into something considered normal in China.

Two bills currently pending in the U.S. Congress -- the Stop Online Piracy Act (SOPA) and its companion bill, the Protect IP Act (PIPA) -- propose new powers for the government and also for private companies to essentially create blacklists of sites that allegedly are engaging in some form of online infringement.

Government and media corporations could then force service providers to block access to those sites. This opens the door for the government and corporations to easily and conveniently censor the Internet, without due process.

Please go to http://americancensorship.org for more info and to add your voice to the protest.

Full Moon in Cancer on Monday

2012-01-07T00:29:00.000-08:00

Today's sky was full of many positive aspects, giving us a break from a rather relentless planetary environment.

And the Sun is finally far enough away from Pluto to allow a sigh of relief. Is it just me or has the last week or so been bloody INTENSE!!?

So much for the Solstice/Christmas break... we are now back full swing into the powerful planetary dynamics that are shaking up our world both inside and out.

On Monday the Moon is Full in its own Sign of Cancer, stirring up our emotions and highlighting our dreams. A Full Moon heightens feelings as it sits radiant and glowing in opposition to the Sun.

The Sun is in Capricorn, archetypal Father of the zodiac, and the Cancer Moon is the Mother. They signify a tricky balancing of our need to take responsibility for ourselves with a need to nurture and be nurtured.

These sorts of issues often arise in relationships, as Full Moons activate polarities between people. Mercury's current stressful links to Mars, Uranus and Pluto could make communication a bit edgy right now ... be careful of sudden outbursts, power plays and combative stances.

Try to stay cool and go slow. Use a caring Cancerian touch to sooth those hard edges, and Capricorn strength to maintain your dignity and maturity.

Communication (and balance) is key.

There's a tendency toward pettiness and nit picking right now. Diplomacy and negotiation go a long way toward finding middle ground. A Sagittarian influence in our speaking and thinking will help us see the bigger picture, and bring us to even higher ground.

The tides are high inside of us and we need to navigate carefully.

In Astrology, the Sun rules logic and the conscious ego self, while the Moon relates to intuition and soul consciousness. We all live in and move through both day and night. Each has its gift; each has its pitfalls.

As we travel through the day we have an opportunity to manifest something outwardly that is an expression of our inner being. In the nighttime journey, the inner world takes precedence as the soul moves into the deeper realms.

In our materialistic, outward focused culture, we often ignore or forget the pull of the inner voice of the soul. Our outward persona or ego often takes precedence over our inner self.

This Moon can help us focus on our intuitive nature and get in touch with our deeper feelings. The trick is to do it consciously rather than be triggered unconsciously... which is when emotions can become overwhelming and destructive.

At Full Moons, drumming, dancing or singing/chanting have been in use all over the world since time began to tap into the powerful Full Moon energy. Sacred ritual can carry us into trance states not normally accessible to our logical mind ... healing our hearts and refreshing our psyches.

Let the rhythm of the Moon carry you away.

Or, if you prefer quiet contemplation, let the light of the Full Moon guide you inward on an intuitive journey.

May the long time Sun/Moon shine upon you

all love surround you

and the pure light within you

guide your way home....

'GoldMoon Landscape' copyright Aurumastrology

It's a New Dawn, it's a New Day, It's New Year!!

2011-12-31T14:54:00.000-08:00

Here it is folks! 2012!

The long awaited, long maligned year that the Mayan Calendar ends. Though I don't personally believe most of the hype around this event, I do think it signifies a turning point for the human race and the planet we live on.

The waxing (growing) Moon today crosses Uranus in the warrior sign of Aries today... squaring the Sun in Capricorn and activating the Uranus Pluto square. An interesting signature to begin the year with.

The coming exact square between Uranus and Pluto in June 2012 is a powerful marker for the great change and upheaval that is building everywhere.

At this fulcrum point, we may take one more pause, one last in-breath, before we breath-out into 2012.

The gap we just had between Christmas and New Years was like an extended Solstice pause ... giving us a moment to integrate 2011 and prepare for 2012.

Starting with looking back for a moment: 2011:

What a year!

Catastrophic oil spills, mind-blowing earthquakes, tsunamis and nuclear meltdown, catastrophic oil spills, severe economic instability and collapse (Europe, Uk, USA...to name the big ones), the Arab Spring, the Occupy movement, various political scandals, (well those are always there!)...etc etc

... just some of the outward manifestations of the powerful tensions and changes heralded by these archetypal planetary forces.

The outer planets (Saturn, Jupiter, Uranus, Pluto) move very slowly and thus signify generational changes and collective forces. Significant eras of history can be linked to their passing through various signs and lining up in particular configurations, such as the Cardinal grand Cross we just went through.

And that's just what goes on on the outside.

Where the 'outer' planets sit at any time in relation to your own birth chart will show how they affect you personally.

I know of many people with their own planets close to the Aries point of the Grand Cross...0' of any sign really, and especially Aries, Cancer, Libra and Capricorn) ... that got heavily triggered by these transits. Many have been having quite a ride of it; going through massive shakedowns, breakdowns, and breakthroughs throughout this past year; experiencing on a personal level some of what the planet was going through on a global level.

If you are one of those... you have my admiration for getting through it thus far (if you did...). If you didn't this might help explain why.

For all of us, the gift of these times (and the curse if you will) is a wake-up call of epic proportions.

There are also many signs of hope in tthe midst of everything falling apart, with Pisces and Chiron bringing healing and blessings to our deepest core; stirring our spiritual longing, and this year a rare eclipse when Venus will cross in front of the Sun... showering love and kindness on our beleaguered souls.

Last year's Solstice eclipse at the Galactic Core (and repeated at several eclipses through 2011) began the inner call... a call to arms if you will... though a fight on another level; a fight for the rulership of the heart.

There is of course the current fight for a more just world, a world based on equality and fairness,on human dignity and respect and care for this planet and its resources (and a noble fight that is).

And... there is another battle being fought on an deeper level: for meaning in a meaningless world; a fight against ignorance and emptyness... an inner call to know who we are and why we are here.

For without that deep sense of knowing, how are we to stand up for what is right and true. How are we to know what that is?

If we are to survive these changes we will need to be solid inside in a way we have never been before. And not in some dogmatic, rigidly coded inherited behavior or belief system that judges others and divides us from each other (all that is part of what is being broken down), but more of an inner knowing that comes from the same source in all of us. A source that is based in love.

Once I stabilize in my own center, I can then see what needs to be done, changed, adapted to etc., starting with my personal environment.

Meanwhile, as I said at the beginning. Uranus (the Awakener) has moved forward again in Aries, speeding up time itself (or so it seems) and crashing headlong into the extremely tense relationship with Pluto (the Destroyer) bringing more radical revolution and transformation to a planet near you.

Hold onto your hats!! (and your money!)...(if you have any left!)

For now, as the days begin to grow longer (what a wonderful thought) we mark this passage from one year to the next with a celebration of the New Year.

In the midst of the revelries, we have a chance to bring forward into 2012 those intentions made at the Capricorn New Moon on Christmas eve ( the actual end to the Solstice pause).

Not silly edicts and promises one never fulfills; I am talking about a different type of intention, more far reaching and meaningful than losing weight or exercising more (beneficial though they may be... if you actually carry them out ; )

This is about our highest intention ... one that is in alignment with our soul purpose.

You can make one now, while we are still in the energy of a waxing Moon... which sits strong in Aries, the sign of initiative and new beginnings. Uranus close by adds an infusion of vision and innovation as it impells us forward at mock speed.

"Whatever you can do, or dream you can do, begin it.
Boldness has genius, power, and magic in it!”

Then, strap your self in, it's going to be one hell of a ride!!

"There is a river flowing now very fast.

It is so great and swift that there are those who will be afraid. They will try to hold on to the shore. They will feel they are being torn apart and will suffer greatly.

Know the river has its destination.

The elders say we must let go of the shore, push off into the middle of the river, keep our eyes open, and our heads above the water. See who is in there with you and celebrate.

At this time in history, we are to take nothing personally. Least of all, ourselves. For the moment that we do, our spiritual growth and journey comes to a halt. The time of the lone wolf is over.

Gather yourselves!

Banish the word struggle from your attitude and your vocabulary. All that we do now must be done in a sacred manner and in celebration.

We are the ones we've been waiting for."

Oraibi, ArizonaHopi Nation

The In-Between

2011-12-26T13:26:00.000-08:00

The Moon enters the sign of freedom and innovation today where it will line up with Venus, planet of love. Moon and Venus in Aquarius need a lot of space and will rebel against any restrictions or limitations.

That rather cool detachment might help diffuse the great internal pressure created by the Sun joining Pluto in Capricorn, which on its own could erupt in power struggles and control issues. The Square of Pluto to Uranus gets stronger every day... and with the Sun currently activating that tension and so many rebelling against the powers that be ... the next few days things could be particularly explosive and intense.

Lets hope the Aquarian message of peace and love can override any supercharged egos and bring a bit of distance to heated exchanges. Mercury in Sag (truth, justice, fairness) square Mars (aggression, warrior energy) adds to the edgy and argumentative vibe right now. Any kind of unfairness or untruth will be even more in focus over the next few days than it already has been.

Saturn opposite newly direct Jupiter in Taurus also adds the the tension as it quells our enthusiasm and puts a lid on our spending and indulging...(a good thing me thinks) as we tally the bill for recent spending.

Jupiter's trine to the Sun and Pluto gives a more positive and creative expression to that powerful Sun Pluto combination (an excellent day to get yer creative juices flowing). Saturn trined Chiron and Neptune (sitting together on either side of the Pisces/Aquarius cusp) helps ground our visions and solidifies the deep healing these two planets are bringing to our psyches.

Overall this building tension is looking for an outlet. How and where that will manifest ... on a personal level... is up to us. We have a chance to direct this energy in our own lives as we move toward a very powerful New Year ...

Norfolk Sunset

In this transitional week I suggest a continuation of the Solstice pause ... to take a moment to reflect, gather, orient yourself in preparation for the coming acceleration.

It can be a challenge to put the breaks on that Sun Pluto Uranus intensity; imagine a bow being stretched back ... holding the tension.... before it is released in forward motion. The North Node in Sagittarius shows us our true direction as it impels us to focus on our highest truth.

There is great potential in this moment. Use it wisely.

"Summon creativity and resourcefulness from the depths of your being.

Seek a quiet place of contemplation, in particular a place linked to your own personal history. In this still, quiet place, meditate on letting go of the distractions of the present so you can perceive the larger patterns that shape your life.

Take time to examine whether you are successfully preserving what is good, true and beautiful from your own higher wisdom... and transporting it intact to the future. Accomplishing this will do far more to heal your heart and further your goals than fame or fortune ever could.

Make contact with your deep past so you will know how to carry its healthiest and most creative skills successfully forward." (www.tarot.com)

Happy Solstice Happy Hannuka Happy Christmas Happy New Year

2011-12-24T15:14:00.000-08:00

Today the Moon is New in Capricorn. This is the time to set your intentions in place for the New Year as this Moon cycle will carry us over the threshold.

And the Sun and Moon are in an auspicious trine to Jupiter (the planet of good luck and adventure), which turns direct tomorrow for Christmas day.

It seems quite appropriate for this expansive jolly generous planet (shades of Father Christmas/Santa Claus?) to start anew on this day of celebration and giving. Jupiter is also about aspiration and our expanded selves. . . and not just the expanded waistline (hehe) though we best watch out for that, as it is going to be harder than usual to not overindulge with Jupiter in Taurus (wine and food and sensual delights).

There are some irksome aspects as well that could stir up a bit of trouble... what's a Christmas without a bit of angst !? ... yet overall the climate is excellent for convivial delights and family sharing.

Next week I will do an overview of the year we just had (whew!!) and a bit of a peek into things to come.

In the meantime I wish you a Very Merry Christmas

Winter Solstice Thurs Dec 22

2011-12-19T02:15:00.000-08:00

Well.... its a week later and the tension of the eclipse has some of us still in a puddle on the floor. Whew!! That was bit intense wasn't it? And incredibly beautiful.

I was up very late yet managed to wake up at 6:30 am to witness the first bite being taken from the top portion of the Moon. Stunning.

The whole experience got me to stand still... in awe...seeing that glowing orb hanging out there in space gave me such a sense of being on a planet.... looking out at something concrete...reachable. Not so far away.

Not unlike my own inner self... often hidden from view... yet powerful in its ability to influence me in subtle ways. The ways of the Moon mirror the inner world of emotions and feelings. Someone likened an eclipse to holding a mirror close to another mirror...seeing the endless mirror images reflected back into infinity... layers upon layers taking us deeper and deeper within.

There's a winding down now as we approach the end of the current cycle, as well as the end of the year. If you have been on an emotional rollercoaster ride recently, you can breathe deeply now, as the Moon gradually wanes and the tension of the eclipse dissipates.

We now head toward the Winter Solstice on Thursday December 22nd, when the Sun enters Capricorn, with the Moon following close behind a day later.

The Winter Solstice marks the longest night of the year. This actually lasts for four days ... with daytime beginning to lengthen again on the 25th... as we celebrate Christmas.

The Solstice is a pause in time... an in-breathing ... at this turning point before the days begin to lengthen again. It is a time to feel and think and integrate all that has happened in this tumultuous year... and to begin to prepare for the year ahead.

The pause in time ends in celebration... when we take a break from all our hustle and bustle to celebrate the coming light, and each other; (and one who came to show the light). It is a time of generousity and sharing; of giving and receiving; of family and friends.

I know it can all get very artificial... and pressured... yet the meaning beneath it all remains as sacred as we want it to be.

On this Solstice, as the Sun enters Capricorn, the Sagittarius Moon will be calling out to us to seek the highest truth, to find meaning and purpose and to walk in the light.

Then, shortly afterward, a New Moon joins the Sun in Capricorn to mark the last moon cycle in 2011. This sign is about drive and aspiration. Capricorn wants/needs to earn respect. It is duty bound and works harder than any other sign. The symbol is the mountain goat that clambers to reach the highest peak.

Capricorn is ruled by Saturn the great taskmaster, who also rules time itself. Saturn also rules the material world..., which we acknowledge at this time by exchanging gifts (a custom that originates in 'Saturnalia' of ancient Rome).

The Capricorn New moon is the seedtime for the coming year. In the midst of Christmas preparations and celebration, take a moment to put down the eggnog to pause to sharpen your focus. Clarify your intentions wisely... as they will take you forward into the New Year.

What do you plan to manifest? What are your hopes and dreams? I know this kind of thing usually comes with New Years , yet the New Moon is really when the energy starts.

Happy Solstice everyone.

Eclipse Magic!

2011-12-10T14:00:00.000-08:00

Then, at the East side of the house...A Sagittarian Dawn!! Wow!

(by then it was too light to get good pics on my little point and shoot camera... so I went back to bed : )

Full Moon Eclipse in Gemini

2011-12-09T10:29:00.000-08:00

This Saturday, December 10th, at 2:36 pm GMT, there will be a Full Moon Eclipse at 19 degrees Gemini, with the Sun opposite in Sagittarius, visible to some degree in most parts of the world (except South America).

Since last year's Winter Solstice, we've had a series of eclipses on this Gemini/Sagittarius axis. There is wisdom and knowledge being offered. Both signs are teachers. Both have a lot to say. Sometimes they try to outshout each other. Communication is key. So is listening.

A full Moon is about polarity; illuminating oppositions in our life... within our relationships and within ourselves; highlighting the yin/yang in both our outer world and in our psyche.

This inherent tension creates a tightrope, a push pull, a balancing of opposites. The axis upon which we must walk this time round is about multiplicity (Gemini) and singularity (Sag).

Do we get caught in the details or in the big picture? (both can trap us) Sometimes it's also about me (Sag) vs them (Gem). Gemini pulls us in a million directions, Sagittarius wants us to focus on a singular purpose. Sometimes it's hard to see the forest for the trees.

An eclipse is a powerful energy... a release or a trigger as we break with the past. In Gemini this really means releasing old patterns of thought, old paradigms based on limited or lazy thinking, superficiality, etc. Sagittarius leads us beyond our smallness into an expanded awareness. Old habits and complaints need to make way for new consciousness, new vistas, new optimism.

There is a palpable tension now as the pressure of the opposition builds.

Then, on Saturday, as the Moon gradually disappears behind the Earth's shadow, the chattering Gemini mind will suddenly become quite, and a deeper message (like a sacred call to prayer) can be heard (or felt).

Sagittarius is the soul searcher of the zodiac, the eternal seeker. Half centaur - half man, Sagittarius bends his bow and takes aim at the heavens, in search of meaning, in search of a higher truth. Who am I? Why am I here? Heightened intuition allows us to pay attention to the answers.

The proximity of this series of eclipses to both the Galactic Core and the North Node has amplified that Sagittarius imperative, awakening again and again our need for true purpose and meaning in our lives (it's amazing how quickly one falls asleep again!).

I was just watching a movie within a movie in which two people are sitting on a beach watching the waves come and go. The man turns and says to the woman "I feel like we are wandering blindly with no destination."

So... there we have it... yet again.

No more wandering aimlessly.
Know the purpose; know the source.
Align with source.

Interesting that these eclipses have been occurring the year before 2012 ... when the Mayan calendar ends. It's always a good time to know what the hell we are doing here... maybe even more so at this critical juncture. I am not saying it's the end of the world or anything, yet I think most would agree we are at a major turning point in the evolution of the human race. Interesting times indeed.

A few more bits, re the eclipse:A square of Mars to both the Sun and Moon will bring a bit of friction and potential aggression into this Full Moon. Avoid arrogance (Sag) and verbal gymnastics (Gem) which when combined with Mars pushy energy could get you into trouble. Keep your head down and your heart open.

And your eyes wide open as the Mercury Retrograde continues its trickster game of mix-ups and mayhem...at least until until the 13th when it starts to go direct again. Mercury's square to Saturn slows us down and turns our thoughts inward. Patience is a virtue!!

Also, just to make things a bit more interesting, on Friday night, Uranus, planet of awakenings, insights and sudden change, begins to head forward again in Aries after five months backward motion. So as Mercury's sluggish behaviour ends, things will accelerate quickly, especially in whichever area in your chart is ruled by Aries.

As Uranus heads forward it runs smack into increasing tension with Pluto... so the background of revolution and growing unease in the world will continue. The ongoing breakdown of world systems is not going to make life easy for anyone as we continue into a time of tremendous change and upheaval. Chiron and Neptune in Pisces continue to remind us to seek the answers within.

Eclipses send out energy for months after the event...ripples in time that manifest in a myriad of ways within the area of their occurrence. Messages heard or felt ... or missed.

All we have to be is willing to listen, to feel, to seek that which, ironically, is already within us.

The universe will respond in kind. Of that I am sure.

New Moon Eclipse in Sagittarius

2011-11-24T00:20:00.000-08:00

Mercury, planet of communication, is pausing today to begin its backward motion and it is already wreaking havoc. I just experienced every writer's nightmare as I have just lost the file containing my whole post about the Partial Solar eclipse today in Sagittarius.

I truly don't think I have the energy to write it all again...perhaps tomorrow morning I will add to this.

Just know that an eclipse is a New Moon where the Sun and Moon line up exactly. New Moons and even more so Eclipses...represent new beginnings. The last week or so has been a winding down from intense Scorpio into light and breezy Sag. As we let go of the old, this Eclipse heralds new dynamic forward motion.

The intention of a New Moon is heightened with an eclipse so this is a powerful time to set intentions. Make your wish and let it be so.

Sagittarius, the seeker of the zodiac, is ruled by the largest planet, Jupiter, and carries Jupiter's generousity and humour.

Sag seeks to expand and extend itself through travel, physical activity, foreign cultures, philosophy, higher learning, and play. Jupiter in Taurus grounds our ideals and heightens our senses. (A perfect aspect for this weekend's Thankgiving celebration in the US.)

May the generousity and expansiveness of Sagittarius lead you on your path toward... your true self.

Sagittarius is the seeker of truth. Nothing less will do.

Moving Right Along

2011-11-19T00:02:00.000-08:00

Angel of the North

I know I can sometimes get all wordy and philosophical on here but today I thought I'd give you a break from all that and stick to a basic overview.

We are in the Waning Moon cycle (last quarter) heading toward a New Moon (and Solar Eclipse) in Sagittarius on Nov 24th. From now to then some situations will be winding down or shifting to make way for new energies. Even a partial solar eclipse (as this one is) marks the end of a cycle and the start of another. So prepare for change.

And in the midst of change, a Grand Trine in earth signs continues to provide us a bit of stability in these oh so unstable times. Within that, Pluto's building square to Uranus continues to stir things up (like bringing Occupy events in many cities to a boiling point).

It appears there is a concerted effort to evict protesters. Many have not given up and I wish them well. They may seem a fringe group yet I feel they are speaking for all of us as they protest the corruption and greed of corporate power. Up with the people.

Several planets in fire signs, along with the Sun in late Scorpio trine Uranus and square Mars... increase the tempo right now, and we need to keep in step. One two one two.

Trines are more fluid than tense squares... so actually more like one two three, one two three. Still, Uranus energy is always a bit edgy and upsetting (or unsettling) wherever it touches. This may mean nothing worse than a bit of impatience or short temper; just be aware there are some sparks in the air. Don't stand too close to gasoline.

And if you are driving home for Thanksgiving weekend, take your time, go slow, let it flow.

The Sun also ties into the last bit of opposition between Neptune and Mars. This dodgy energy creates a susceptibility to delusion and denial. Recent news stories about the latest cover-ups in sexual abuse cases (Penn State) fits that profile. News bulletin: looking the other way does not mean it isn't happening.

Scorpio Sun can be ruthless when squared like this to Neptune and Mars, though it will likely be all cloak and dagger as Neptune blurs the lines and the rules.

The Moon joining aggressive Mars in exacting Virgo will add some oomph as well as a bit of clear focus, though the Moon's opposition to Neptune just before entering Virgo brings some of that foggy weather with it.

So a double warning to watch out for dishonest motives and shady deals... and drunk drivers (including yourself). Don't drink and drive (a very bad idea any time and especially with Mars opposite Neptune).

And though of course you would never do that, Jupiter opposite Saturn creates a push pull between a need for discipline and the urge to indulge.

Jupiter in Taurus brings us many blessings and gratitude for the abundance in our lives...and it also encourages us to help ourselves to that extra portion and that extra drink.

Meanwhile, the Sun in Scorpio continues to beckon to us from the depths, while Mercury and Venus in Sag just want some fun.

Sagittarius is the seeker of the zodiac and with the added factor of the upcoming eclipse on Nov 25th (at 3 degrees Sag) there is a urge for adventure and expansion. This could be physical or metaphysical. We can expand more than our waste-line now with these outgoing energies as Jupiter brings a sense of generosity and gratitude for the abundance in our lives.

One last thing... Mercury is going retrograde next week so it might be a good idea to organize your stuff now before the potential scramble occurs.

Let the all time Sun shine upon you

and around you

and the pure light within you

guide your way home.

p.s. Just realized that American Thanksgiving is not this weekend but the next one. Duh!! Up here in Canada it was in October.

11.11.11

2011-11-11T09:00:00.000-08:00

The eleventh day of the eleventh month of the eleventh year.

Whatever it means ... we all need Peace. Inside. Outside. Anyside.
Sunnyside up.

Here's to Peace.

Full Moon in Taurus: Rich Harvest

2011-11-10T00:04:00.000-08:00

This Full Moon is full of Abundance. Abundant abundance. The seeds were planted at the last New Moon when Jupiter in Taurus was directly opposite the Sun in Scorpio. At that time I recommended we dig deep… go for the gold. If we did the inner work, if we dug deep... that investment could now start to pay dividends.

This Full Moon in Taurus represents the culmination of that New Moon intention. There is a sense of something to be harvested at this time. There is also a strong sense of a fork in the road; a choice to be made.

We have a Grand Trine in earth signs between Mars Jupiter and Pluto (well Mars is on the cusp…but about to move into Virgo) stabilizing and grounding us.

Neptune, the planet of soul, today started to move forward again (after having been retrograde) … toward it’s home in spiritual Pisces….

The Sun is in deeply transformative Scorpio.

Mercury (communication) and Venus (love and relatedness) are hugging each other in far-reaching, ever-seeking Sagittarius.

They are also very close to the North Node, … igniting our inner quest for meaning as only Sag can. North node is about direction and purpose. Sagittarius is about our highest good.

We also have an eclipse coming up shortly in Sagittarius. It’s almost a full year since that amazing eclipse exactly on the Winter Solstice last year smack dab right on the Galactic Core in Sagittarius. This spot is the center of our universe (literally).

The message of the Galactic Core is…

'Know your purpose. Know your source.' That message has been resonating outward (and inward) ever since.

I keep hearing this voice inside me saying “Align with source, align with source. Everything is ok. Align with source. Everything you are looking for is inside of you. Align with source.”

Just a short while ago I was reading the Sabian Symbols for this Full Moon. These Symbols, channeled by Marc Edmunds in 1925, consist of 360 word images corresponding to the 360 degrees of the zodiac.

The symbol for the Sun at 19 degrees Scorpio is about "the capacity to transmit transcendental knowledge,"

The Lunar degree symbol is about "potentiality for tangible self-manifestation in all beings," "overflowing originality," and "spontaneous, rich creative urge." (from Aquarian Papers: sidebar )

http://www.aquariuspapers.com/astrology/2011/11/the-november-2011-full-moon-of-scorpio-taurus-pt-1-channeling-higher-wisdom-spontaneously-through-detachment-from-ego.html

What is it that we need to know above all else? What is the highest form of knowledge? Could it be self knowledge? The knowledge that we are complete? That we are love? That everything we need is already inside of us? That we are connected to the source and to each other?

I heard a saying once: "There is a knowledge you can't get in college.'

This Full Moon sky is telling us, reminding us to seek that higher knowledge; to know the source; align with source. THAT IS THE RICH HARVEST. And once we know who we are and can deeply access that knowledge, we can then transform our world through creative joyful soulful self expression.

'As within, so without.'

Sounds good to me.

If you knew yourself for even one moment,

if you could just glimpse your most beautiful face,

maybe you wouldn't slumber so deeply in that house of clay.

Why not move into your house of joy

and shine into every crevice!

For you are the secret Treasure-bearer,

and always have been.

Didn't you know?

-- Rumi

This too Shall Pass

2011-11-04T23:47:00.000-07:00

There’s a lot of positive dynamic energy floating about the planetary configurations right now… which is a relief after the last couple weeks of Scorpio implosions.

In the US show X-Factor, a group called Intensity just got sent home… and the recent Scorpio intensity can do the same as it takes somewhat of a back seat (the Sun is still there) to expansive playful Sagittarius (Mercury, Venus).

Sun opposite Jupiter also helps to lift our spirits, and a Grand trine between Mars, Pluto and Jupiter gives positive expression to these powerful forces.

Isn’t it nice to hear good news for a change?

Something can move forward now that has felt blocked, though we do still need to watch for Neptune’s capacity for blurring reality. This planet of illusion and delusion affects both Mercury (communication) and Venus (love and money) (" A drunkard's dream if I ever did see one..." lalala ) .

Neptune square Venus is highly prone to projection and fantasy as it seeks the ideal. Remember, squares create tension and stress. She or he may be that perfect soul mate you have been waiting for… or not. Take your time, go slow and read the fine print. And be careful with those Neptunian indulgences/substances… relaxing though a drink or two may be, this is a time to keep your eyes wide open.

And as I mentioned last blog post, Neptune weakens Mars directness through deceit and denial, so there more chance now for dishonesty and misunderstandings. Luckily, Saturn’s Trine to Neptune and sextile to Mars will help ground this otherwise dodgy energy.

In the short term, the Moon just passed over Chiron and Neptune and is still in Pisces. It’s a dreamy gentle atmosphere now… good for creativity and inspiration. If you had a bit of a rough ending to the week, and/or felt a shadow of vulnerability pass over you the last few days, it’s lessening now.

The combined energy of Chiron and Neptune can bring a shift of profound healing to our inner selves, though it is not always very comfortable. Be kind to yourself and others. And remember…this too shall pass.

“And the seasons they go round and round

and the painted ponies go up and down…

We’re captive on a carousel of time.

We cant go back we can only look

behind from where we came

And go round and round and round

in the circle game.”

Joni Mitchell

Scorpio casts a long shadow...

2011-10-29T00:03:00.000-07:00

A heads up as Mercury coming into square with Mars means there may be some terse words exchanged over the next few days.

Of course not everyone will respond in this manner… though I must admit I already felt myself becoming irritated today in ways I usually don’t. Usually when I feel this way I discover Mars is involved...and sure enough... it is! It’s those little irritations that can expand into grudges and resentments. Best nip ‘em in the bud. Let many things pass.

Not so easy as Mercury in Scorpio is sharp and wary, and highly distrustful of other’s motives. Plus Mars in Leo can be quite full of himself…. and when opposite Neptune this sense of entitlement can become deceptive and/or passive aggressive.When Mars' fire feels weakened by Neptune's watery mists... he panics and gets all wily.

At the same time, Jupiter opposite Sun can big up peoples sense of themselves… not a bad thing entirely if it gives you more confidence… yet you can see how all these factors together could create some difficulty. Ego clashes and arguments can be avoided with a little effort.

Of course not everyone will experience this…if your planets are in early degrees of Scorpio or Taurus, or late degrees of Leo or Aquarius, you will be more likely to step into these roles.

In general I would say be clear in what you want and or say. Speak gently. Be kind. Go the distance to extend yourself to others (Mars opposite Neptune is highly compassionate)… yet don’t overdo it. Martyrdom is not required or recommended.

A wise teacher I know once said… ‘You don’t have to love everyone … but you can be kind.’

Oppositions mean energies can polarize and work against each other… or they can meet in the middle to find common ground. In thinking about this, it occurred to me that these oppositions not only manifest as two external forces (or people) coming toward each other; they also often signify opposite aspects within our own psyche.

I have been ruminating on how we all have a shadow side… the more hidden or denied features of our psyche…which are very opposite to the persona we display in public. Sometimes we can be very different people depending on the circumstance. And we are not always aware of some ways these aspects manifest.

For example, a friend of mine just went through a serious health scare, which has left him shaken and vulnerable. I saw a completely different side of his personality this past week; one I always suspected was lurking under his rather gruff and crude everyday manner.

The sweet almost childlike vulnerability I witnessed was in such sharp contrast to the inscrutable mask he usually wears that I must admit am a bit disappointed it is already disappearing again as he regains his sense of control. Not saying he should always expose this sensitive side of himself. Yet he was more approachable, more human, when his soft side was a little less protected.

Cark Jung calls these hidden parts the Shadow. At this Scorpio time of year … as the sun sits lower in the sky…. it seems we all cast a longer shadow. Yet it is in working with these disparate aspects of our own psyche that we become psychologically healthy. And if we don’t acknowledge those parts, they often get projected onto others who then become the ghosts and ghoulies in our lives.

Oppositions in our charts often show us where that happens. And even though not all birth charts contain oppositions, there are usually some very distinctly opposite traits contained within one’s chart. We will usually identify with one quality more than another… especially if we have a belief system or set of values that puts some traits above others.

Perhaps one part is just too sensitive or vulnerable to show openly without fear of being hurt, (like my friend) so we develop defense mechanisms to protect our most fragile selves. Or perhaps it is our inner power that we hide in favour of a more placid cover. The variations are many.

The main point is that if we can see and understand that there are buried treasures in those shadows, we would be richer for them.

Mercury in Scorpio can help us see deeper under the surface and can bring us insights into those hidden valleys we rarely venture into. The path of integration takes time and much personal awareness… but the reward is wholeness. It is a journey worth taking.

Scorpio New Moon coming up on Wednesday

2011-10-22T00:03:00.000-07:00

The current astrological energy is slowly shifting into Scorpio... the dreaded sign! As I said in my last post... that reputation is due to Scorpio's association with the powerful forces of death, sex and regeneration. There is no doubt about it... Scorpio is definitely intense.

The symbols for Scorpio are the Eagle and the Scorpion... as well as the Pheonix who dives into the ashes and rises again. The Scorpio sting will make itself known if you hurt or cross them... (they don't forget)... and their penetrating, eagle eye makes you feel like they know your innermost secrets (they are excellent psychologists) as they see and feel far below the surface.

Scorpio's ruling planet is Pluto... god of the underworld. In Hindu philosophy the representative of this energy is Shiva the destroyer. Kali is another powerful Scorpio like figure who is seen holding human bones and wearing a necklace made of skulls.

Life goes in cycles and death and regeneration are a natural part of it. Everything is born; everything dies. Pruning must happen for the circle of life to continue. Scorpio's connection to sex and death links it powerfully to both ends of the cycle.

As we head toward the dark months of winter, outward forces become more internal as we leave behind the bright outward Libran display and move into the darker Scorpio realm. Even though electricity has us fooled into believing otherwise, we are nonetheless moving into a sacred, inward facing time.

This coming Wednesday, the New Moon and Sun sit together at 2 degrees Scorpio. While they merge for a day or so, we won't see the Moon behind the Sun, but it is still there moving tides and sending lunar vibrations to us down here on earth.

This is the time of the conjunction... the alchemical merging of Masculine and Feminine archetypes (Brother Sun / Sister Moon). It is a seed time... and whatever we focus on can/will manifest in the coming month. Scorpio will bring depth and intensity to what ever we wish for... and challenge us to make it real.

The Moon and Sun are also directly opposite Jupiter in Taurus. Jupiter expands whatever it touches. Jupiter in Taurus wants more and more and more... comfort... food... beautiful things... money...sensual satisfaction. Sun and Moon in Scorpio want emotional depth, power... control... sexual satisfaction... and creative expression...

Combine these and you get... nuclear fission!!! Something rich, sensual, sexual, intense, dynamic...

A trine to Neptune and Chiron hanging out on the edge of dreamy ethereal Pisces will bring in a spiritual element, which can be deeply healing to our exposed and vulnerable selves.

And Mars in fiery Leo squared Venus and Mercury in Scorpio promises to add some frisson to the fission! Maybe all this fiery/watery Scorpio alchemical voodoo can work a little magic on some of the relationship issues brought up by months of heavy Saturn in Libra. (It's not over till it's over.)

And whether you share this chemistry with another, or use it to explore your own hidden depths... the overall message of Scorpio is 'go deep'.

Find the gold.

Sex and Death and all things taboo: Venus in Scorpio

2011-10-15T00:03:00.000-07:00

Venus and Mercury are now in hot and sultry Scorpio. ( soon the Sun will follow) Meanwhile, Jupiter and Mars standing opposite or squared the above will exaggerate their ability to get what they want. The focus of that aspect is Mars in Leo, which like Venus in Scorpio, has no problem asking for what he/she believes she deserves.

Hear that Scorpio? … Despite the Saturn Sun conjunction in Libra (relationships) slowing things down…there is still a chance to get laid.

Sorry to sound crude but we all know Scorpio’s reputation.

I recently was on an Astrology forum at ElsaElsa (sidebar) where people were discussing Scorpio’s fine and not so fine qualities. Someone asked why Scopio has such a bad rep (many people are scared of them)

Well duh!… the sign is associated with Death and with Sex… two of the most taboo subjects in our culture. Ok, we all joke about sex and are bombarded with it from every angle in the media… yet when it really comes down to it…(no pun intended) people rarely talk openly about sex. It’s locker room stuff or girly parties where all the dirty details emerge…(see we call it dirty)... yet in general we are still rather Victorian in our attitudes around sexuality .

And then there is Dr. Death! Well who wants to sit and discuss that? When someone dies it is often very awkward… people just don’t know what to say. We hide our old and dying … keep them safely away in homes for the aged. Coffins are closed or if open the body is prettied up and preserved to look … ‘not dead’.

Meanwhile Scorpio gets the stigma that is really is a reflection of a still rather suppressed culture .

Ok, I admit, the Sting of the Scorpio is well known … so perhaps hurt feelings also make people stand back. But I suspect it is due more to the deep dark nature of the Scorpio world that makes some people a bit squirmy. Too deep- too intense- too exposed. (very different from the Light and lovely Libra vibe that precedes it)

Speaking of death….I am reading a book right now about someone who died and came back to describe the experience (Saved by the Light by Dannion Brinkly). There’s also a YouTube video you may have seen… of a young woman who did the same.

This most profound and striking message seems to be that all that really exists in the end is a healing radiant light and unconditional love so powerful and rich and deep these people are changed forever. And perhaps we don't have to leave our bodies to know that (I'll leave that discussion for another time).

My main point here is that the realm of Scorpio is not something to be feared. Respected yes. Feared...well at least not so much to make us avoid it completely. Perhaps these dark depths are not for the faint of heart, but these experiences can change and transform us and bring us to a deeper awareness of life.

Scorpio's link to both life and death (pain and pleasure) all wrapped up together… will always have some mystery, some intensity, some taboo quality that we don’t completely understand.

But just for now… let Venus in Scorpio lead you into the depths of feeling. It is possible that she, like death ... can give you a glimpse … of the Incredible Lightness of Being.

Showdown coming with Full Moon in Aries

2011-10-08T01:02:00.000-07:00

Here comes another Full Moon and it looks like it’s going to be a doozy! By Tues Oct 11, at 10.am EDT, the Moon will be sitting in feisty fiery Aries exactly opposite both the Sun and Saturn in Libra. And they are all squared Pluto. Talk about being between a rock and a hard place!

A waxing Moon creates a build up of energy, which peaks as it becomes Full. This current energy is a culmination of what started with the New Moon two weeks ago. If you scroll down to previous posts … I wrote about the balancing act signified by the Autumn Equinox… and the ensuing pressure to maintain that balance that got rolling with the New Moon in Libra.

The Full Moon with Uranus in Aries could be the tipping point. Just as when Mars moved into position in Cancer this summer and immediately riots and chaos hit the UK, the Full Moon in Mars ruled Aries (the warrior) creates a precarious dynamic. Mars squared Jupiter will add fuel to the fire, and Uranus could be the match to gasoline. I truly hope not. We do not need any more violence.

Thing is, Saturn residing in Libra is pretty immovable in its demands for equality, fairness, clear boundaries and solid commitments. Saturn is connected with time and karmic cycles. In Libra it is about standing up for what is right… and also about taking responsibility for each other. Relationship or partnerships that have finished their usefulness may be coming to an end. There is a sense of either closure or a solidifying of what needs to stay.

In my last two posts (scroll down) I wrote of the big issues relating to Saturn in Libra, as well as the dynamic energy being unleashed by the ongoing T-square and sometimes Grand Cross.

Lets just say things are tense and there’s not a lot of room to negotiate.

Or is there?

In the last few days before the Moon becomes full, it has traveled through Aquarius (hitting both Neptune and Chiron) and now has a few days in watery Pisces... before arriving in fiery impatient Aries. This gives us a bit of distraction and a chance to step back a bit before the big stand-off occurs.

This temporary Neptunian softness may inspire people to indulge in some good ol’ escapism in an effort to get a break from the relentless pressure that’s is all around us these days. Or, rather than indulge and escape, the Piscean influence could take us on an inward journey, with Chiron increasing our compassion and sensitivity.

There is a pervasive vulnerability to Chiron in Pisces, that combined with Saturn’s restricting influence in Libra, can create a sense of deep loneliness… a feeling of being held back from connecting to others.

This weekend’s Chiron/Neptune/Moon conjunction may stir up a deep longing for that very connection we feel is lacking. The trick is whether you expect to fill that need through another, or first seek to discover it in yourself.

This is the dichotomy of the Libra/Aries polarity. First within, then without.

Then, when the Moon enters Aries and hits Uranus (lightning bolts, electric charges, sudden breakthroughs) suddenly there's an amplified and highly impatient need or demand rising to the surface. Pluto’s influence can stir up hidden desires, obsessions, and passions amidst an intense struggle for control. Power struggles can and will ensue... and yet transformation is also possible.

Pluto is symbolized by the phoenix rising from the ashes. Just as you think something is over and done with… there it is again.

These pressure points will all be triggered as evolution becomes revolution... and there is a call for some kind of reckoning (either personal or political (or both)

The personal is political.

If you haven’t already heard about Occupy Wall St check it out… (see link below) Thousands are gathering in New York City (and now also in other cities across North America) to protest government abuses and the corporate greed behind the current financial meltdown.

http://www.denverpost.com/nationworld/ci_19067768

Eric Francis says of the uprisings:

“they tend to happen when Uranus and Pluto come into alignment. When the planet of revolution (Uranus) and the one about evolution (Pluto) get together, there is always an international revolt. The alignments spread out over 10 to 12 years, and we are still toward the beginning of this one. Now we are back around to a Uranus-Pluto aspect, which directly recalls the energy of the Sixties. That's because the Sixties happened under a Uranus-Pluto conjunction, and now 45 years later, we have arrived at the first square. This is a major turning point in world history, as we are seeing. The effects go back about three years and will carry us through the end of the decade, and if we use it well, perhaps much longer.

…. there's the awareness that we need to change ourselves and change the world in the same gesture.

With the personal awakening process of Uranus in Aries about to meet up with the changes in society represented by Pluto in Capricorn, there is potential for wide-scale cultural change that starts from the inside out.”

Eric Francis Planet Waves

So… first… center within.
Enjoy a mellow, divinely inspired weekend.

Then, open your eyes and see what is coming toward you.

Is it the headlights of an oncoming train? or the light of awakening … ?

The Power of Love

2011-10-05T17:33:00.000-07:00

Saturn in Libra = Lessons in love and responsibility

More pics at http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=228255940565461&set=a.228255920565463.54839.100001431703156&type=3&theater

Cardinal what?

2011-09-30T23:51:00.000-07:00

As there are a lot of planets sitting in Cardinal signs at the moment... a lot of them in Libra, plus we keep hearing about the Cardinal Grand Cross that was been hanging around for ages... I thought I should help clarify the term Cardinal a little bit.

The Astrology wheel is divided up into 12 sections...and in this circle you can see a cross made up of four points.

On the left is called the Ascendant or Rising Sign and is based on the time of day you were born. This is the Cusp of the 1st house and is about you coming into the world. It is your entry point.

The next point of the cross is on the bottom of the chart and is called the Nadir or IC. It is the cusp of the 4th house and represents your Root. Your home. Mother. Inner self.

The next point of the cross is on the right and is the cusp of the 7th house of relationships. Its about who you attract, partnerships etc.

Then the top point of the cross is the MC or Midheaven. It is the cusp of the 10th house... which is about career and our public self.

These four Cardinal angles, as they are called, are considered key points in a chart...and the signs that rule them are
Aries (1st) Cancer (4th) Libra (7th) and Capricorn(10th)

Cardinal
Definition: important, key
Synonyms: basic, central, chief, essential, first, foremost, fundamental, greatest, highest, indispensible, leading, main, overriding, overruling, paramount, pivotal, preeminent, primary, prime, principal, ruling, vital

These important points in the astrology wheel are where, right now in our sky, some very powerful planets are hanging out... and all in very tense angles to each other (square).

The tension itself between planets like Pluto (death and transformation,crisis), Saturn (structures, systems, fate) Uranus (shock, change, rebellion, upheaval) .... is difficult enough. These alone are very potent highly combustable combinations.

Add the fact that they are on the Cardinal angles tells us that there is a very important process going on. Such major planets sitting on the Cardinal points signifies a key turning point for both ourselves and for our planet
(4th house = where we live)

I was listening to an ElsaElsa blog online (see side bar for link) and she described these points as asking the following questions:

1st: Who am I?

4th: Where am I?

7th: Who am I with?

10th: What should I do?

Whether you are shaken or strengthened by these powerful alignments... you can rest assured that there is something BIG going on. Cardinal... as in vital.

It is a time of deep transformation and change.... around who we think we are (1st, Aries) , where we live (4th, Cancer), how we relate to each other (7th, Libra) , and what we are going to do about it(10th, Capricorn).

These key questions are now coming at us with great force... stirring up shock, resistance, fear, uncertainty etc.

At this moment the focus is on Libra... with five planets hanging out in the 7th house of relating and partnering. Libra's signature planet is Venus... the planet of Love. It's symbol is the scales of justice and fair-play. (See the last post for more on Libra).

For now the question is: can we get along?
And maybe the second one is : what's love got to do with it?

Good question...(I think)

Paradox and Healing New Moon in Libra

2011-09-26T23:47:00.000-07:00

On this New Moon in Libra, the Sun and Moon cozy up together under the scales of love and social justice, while Venus and Saturn are also conjunct a bit further along in the same sign –

In fact, right now, when you add Mercury, five planets are concentrated in this area of the zodiac that rules harmony, balance and relating.

How harmonious it will be remains to be seen... as the Sun and Moon get closely caught up in the intense Uranus/Pluto square that is getting stronger every day.

The potent and potentially traumatic energy of the Uranus Pluto square has recently triggered revolutionary and violent upheavals all over the world, reminiscent of the last time these two planets were last so strongly impacting each other in the 60's .

With the Sun/Moon conjunction also close to Mercury... communication will be crucial to how things balance out. Watch out for hair trigger reactions. It may feel like something has to give.

Because the pressure focuses on relationships and partnerships... some will find themselves at a powerful turning point. As I said in the last post... it's a kind of no-u-turn zone. What gets said and done now may not be easily undone.

Tensions are both internal and external. Pluto dredges up gunk from the deep recesses of our subconscious….with the intention to transform and/or get rid of old stuff that is in need of clearing. Uranus in Aries is impatient and temperamental; bringing things to a head rather suddenly..... (hence the potential for sudden blow ups etc)

An inconjunct (150 degrees) between Chiron and the New Moon ... adds to the discontent , but also brings potential healing. That is the paradox of this Super New Moon...so much is at stake... so much is possible.

Libra's benign influence brings the possibility that, though pressurized, there is much potential for agreements and compromises. Libra is always ready to be fair and just... and a trine from Jupiter to Pluto increases the chance of positive outcomes.

Just know that for a few days there will be added intensity to interactions and decisions, and by next week some may be walking away from situations that are no longer tenable.

That's what Saturn is Libra is all about. It makes us take responsibility for ourselves and for others. It asks us to examine our relationships and balance our perspectives, so we can see another's point of view. So much of what we react to in people is really a projection of some aspect of our own psyche.

At the same time, sometimes it is healthier to walk away, and this combination of planets can bring endings to what is no longer working. That is the letting go part.

Saturn and Venus together now in Libra call for serious boundaries and clear commitments. It's time to bring your love home... make it real... or walk away free and clear.

And it doesn't all have to be so heavy... Libra is by nature pretty breezy and carefree. Harmony is her middle name. All she wants is for everyone to get along. She wants us to see and appreciate the beauty of life.

Remember the film 'American Beauty'? The daughter's friend films a plastic bag caught in the wind and as it flutters and dips and dances .... and we are mesmerized by its simple yet profound beauty.

That kind of appreciation is Libra's domain.

So ... here we are again at the beginning of a new monthly cycle. It's time again to focus our intention and ask clearly for what we need (or want) ... (though, like the song says ...)

"You don't always get what you want but you get what you need..... " (Saturn/Venus in Libra)

And Sun/Moon in Libra sing ....

"What the world needs now is love sweet love... that's the only thing... that there's much too little of."

Autum Equinox

2011-09-22T12:46:00.000-07:00

The Autumnal Equinox is this Friday September 23^rd… marking the half-way point between the Summer and Winter solstices. We are at the end of summer and autumn is about to begin. How did it all go by so fast?

At the Equinox, day and night are (generally) equal… it shifts a bit either way, depending on how far you are from the equator (equi - equal nox - night).

It is a time of letting go... and finding balance.

Recently we moved from the expansive playful energy of Leo into the more serious and focused sign of Virgo. Virgo’s ruler, Mercury, went from Retrograde to direct. I don't know about you but it took me a while to shake off the dreamy influence of Neptune, which was opposite Mercury for a while, adding to the retrograde feel.

By now though, most of us are starting to focus forward… with a lot of help from the stellium (large group) of planets in Virgo, renewing critical function and attention to detail for the return to jobs, school, college etc.

Mars (action) has moved out of emotional Cancer into fiery,passionate Leo, and very soon many other planets will be together in Libra, putting the emphasis on relationships and partnerships.

Meanwhile, tomorrow’s Equinox marks the Sun’s movement into the Cardinal sign of Libra. The Cardinal signs begin each season… with the Aries point marking the beginning of the zodiac, as well as of Spring… (and so on). Libra, marking the beginning of Autumn (or Fall). is ruled by Venus… the planet of love and beauty.

At this current time of year, everything begins to slow down and prepare for winter's long sleep. The sap in trees starts to thicken, squirrels are collecting their winter stash, birds are either heading south or preparing for the coming cold.

Yet nature is not quite ready to crawl into hibernation.

Under Libra’s radiant presence, before the leaves die and fall from the trees they explode in one last vibrant display of colour and beauty. This is natures last out-breath before the in-breath of winter (well at least in the northern hemisphere where I live) Here, the air is getting crisp and the bright colours of changing leaves dance and twirl as they head to earth.

At these key turning points of the year, we are reminded of the circular nature of life…

…To everything there is a season…

The symbol for Libra is a set of scales… a perfect symbol for this mid-point in the seasonal cycle. At this moment of transition, it is the time to take stock and realign your intentions before the end of the year. There is an instinct now to STOP, just for a moment:

Stop… Think… Observe… Proceed.

Breathe in. Breath out.

The Sun will soon be in close contact with some pretty heavy hitting aspects … next week’s New Moon in Libra will again set off the pressure and tension of the Cardinal T-square… which has been linked to so many profound upheavals and changes going on around us… (more on that in next post)

I don’t know about you but time seems to be accelerating faster and faster everyday (Uranus) and the process of change deepens and intensifies (Pluto).

In this super charged atmosphere it feels good for a moment to stop and take a breath.

In the upcoming emphasis on Libra… and relating to others....I believe we are being asked to find out what love really is.

The new age is about Universal Love (Age of Aquarius). Saturn is asking us to sort ourselves out and know the difference... between self and other. Know the difference between Big L LOVE and little l love. We can’t fully love or commit to others if we don’t love ourself. And we can’t love ourselves if we don’t know who we are.

We are having to become highly adaptable and fluid in these changing times, as everything goes through a major cleansing cycle in the great dishwasher of life/fate/love. It’s time to learn to move with more grace and consciousnesses than ever before.

And that will take trust… even when we don’t know what is around the next bend. Choices may be involved... and letting go of expectations.

(intentions are not the same as expectations)

So on this Equinox moment… take a deep breath, and align yourself with your deepest being. If you feel you are at a turning point, a fork in the road… trust in your ability to follow your heart.

The Road Not Taken  by Robert Frost

 Two roads diverged in a yellow wood, 

And sorry I could not travel both 

And be one traveler, long I stood 

And looked down one as far as I could 

To where it bent in the undergrowth; 

Then took the other, as just as fair, 

And having perhaps the better claim, 

Because it was grassy and wanted wear; 

Though as for that the passing there 

Had worn them really about the same, 

And both that morning equally lay

 In leaves no step had trodden black. 

Oh, I kept the first for another day! 

Yet knowing how way leads on to way, 

I doubted if I should ever come back.

 I shall be telling this with a sigh

 Somewhere ages and ages hence: 

Two roads diverged in a wood,

and I-  I took the one less traveled by,

 And that has made all the difference.

Weekend of Love

2011-09-16T23:41:00.000-07:00

Or not.

I know some Astrologers get really hung up on making accurate predictions. Yet if you are living in the moment how can you say what will happen tomorrow? It’s enough to be here today is it not?

An Astrological forecast is a description of the weather. It is not a script nor is it an indictment; I am not going to tell you the future. It just helps to know the terrain before you go out into the fray…

Do I need to take my umbrella? A weapon? A map? … which costume shall I wear upon the stage?

The weekend weather report:
Venus has moved into its own sign of Libra. The planet of love has come home…only to immediately step into the chaos of the ongoing T-square between Pluto, Uranus, and Saturn. All bets are off when it comes to love right now.

It could be intense, compulsive, addictive, (Pluto), it could disappoint and discourage you (Saturn) or it may surprise or upset you or leave you as fast as it arrives (Uranus),

Then again…it could transform you (Pluto) invigorate you (Uranus) or stabilize you (Saturn).

The sensual Taurus Moon pulls on our physical needs, while Neptune continues to weave misty dreams of deception or redemption. Chiron’s presence makes us edgy.

Meanwhile, Jupiter Pluto and Mercury compel us to see and speak the truth, despite Neptune’s obfuscation. Take care not to exaggerate. Be honest. Be true. Be real.

Like some Shakespearian play, many scenarios can and will be woven from these diverse elements.

In the end, the veils will part, the truth will out.

As the curtain lifts… we find ourselves on a planet called Earth...

Moving toward the Full Moon in Pisces (Monday)

2011-09-09T23:54:00.000-07:00

As we head toward the Full Moon on Monday the Grand Trine of planets in Earth signs continues to ground and stabilize us through the weekend.

Did you think I was gonna say Grand Cross? Whew! Not this time.

Saturn is moving out of range and there is nothing at the moment in the sign of Cancer. Well…except for Mars… but it has moved away from this tense aspect that has been dominating our skies for quite some time.

With Mars no longer opposite Pluto ... thank goodness … the riots have stopped…for now. The Uranus/Pluto square will create more rebellion, revolution and upheaval to be sure … but at least for now the combustion of an added god of war has been removed.

Now Mars is square Saturn. That’s a bit like driving with the brakes on. If you feel you are spinning your wheels…take your time, go slow … find a step-by-step approach.

Going slow isn’t that bad ... why not we relish the mellow, stable and positive flow of earth energy? We know it won’t last but hey … at least it’s the weekend and we can enjoy ourselves a bit. Plus there is a strong Neptune influence right now to soften the edges even more.

Yup no more hard edges … instead, with Neptune opposite Mercury, there could be a bit of a fog in our brains. We are dreamier and less clear than usual … so be careful ... let someone else drive if you have been enjoying any Neptunian indulgences. For although there are several planets in Mercury ruled Virgo, stimulating our mental processes, the strong opposition of Mercury by Chiron and Neptune is actively thwarting them.

I have lost my keys repeatedly in this dreamy atmosphere…missed a few appointments ... as it threatens to carry me away into the mist. I decided today to just go with it…letting it take me deeper. Not a bad feeling I might add.

Chiron could stir up vulnerable feelings and some of us will be a bit touchy over the next few days. It’s a short path from empathy to melancholy. Neptune can inspire our heart felt compassion and carry us into the depths of our soul… or to the depths of despair. Be gentle with yourself and others.

Monday's Full Moon in Pisces brings it all to a head and lights a path to compassionate action…as our need to be of service is powerfully activated. Look around you and see where there is good to be done. Pass it forward as they say…

The Full Moon brings to culmination what we put out on the previous New Moon. I told the story of my cosmic taxi driver a couple of posts back… and I am happy to say my request has manifested in a simple yet deep longing to feel the love and joy inside my own heart. He told me to mediate/more worry less… so I am. (so far so good).

Compassion for others doesn’t preclude the same for yourself. As within... so without (or something like that)

So enjoy the flow, enjoy the calm, and extend you hand or your heart (or both) to someone today.

Peace be with you.

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2011-09-05T18:32:00.000-07:00

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And we've got to get ourselves back to the garden....

2011-09-02T23:27:00.000-07:00

We’ve moved from playful Leo to thoughtful, practical Virgo. The new Moon in Virgo was a few days ago…we're now in a new monthly cycle.

I had a remarkable experience that day. I was feeling a bit depressed at having to end my lovely visit on the beautiful west coast of Canada where my son and his family lives. And I have been very worried about him, as he has been struggling with a serious illness now for a few years. He is getting better in general, but suffered a big set back recently that was/is hard to witness. So I was feeling a bit down.

Landing at the airport in my hometown, I remembered it was the New Moon, so I asked myself what did I truly wish for… what intention did I want to put out there? (besides seeing him well of course) I heard a quiet inner voice say ‘I just want to be happy’ … (knowing full well that my true happiness lies within me).

I got a taxi home and the driver was a very eloquent East Indian man and we started chatting about life and health and happiness etc (as you do) and I told him about my son and that I was worried about him etc. When we arrived at my destination, he turned around and said to me… “if you want to be happy, just be happy. Meditate more, worry less. Make it a choice. You can’t help anyone else if you are not yourself happy…” (spoken in a beautiful lilting Indian accent) Then he just smiled at me and drove off.

I love when life answers me in such an immediate way!! (who knew there were such cosmic taxi drivers!?) I thanked him (and the universe) for these words of wisdom and took to heart what he said to me.

Out there in the Astrological sky, Mercury has gone direct but still has ground to make up after its backward travel...so things are still a bit wonky. And Neptune opposite is helping to extend the fuzzy retrograde feel a bit longer. The Moon today is squaring those as well, and emotions are full of wistful longing.

Illusions and dreams thrive under Neptune influences, yet so does inspiration. It will be fluid like this for a few more days still, so let your mind relax and wander… perhaps something magical will emerge from your dreaming. Like inspiration. Or bliss. Or happiness.

The last few days there has also been a sense of deep well- being resonating out from a Grand Trine between Sun and Venus in Virgo, Jupiter in Taurus and Pluto in Capricorn. This earthy aspect helps to ground and stabilize things after a rather fraught period of Grand Cross upheaval and violence triggered by Mars in Cancer, and Eclipse shake-ups.

'Out with the old, in with the new' is the slogan to live by in these eventful times… though the old guard is certainly putting up quite a fight. It’s never easy to change and most of us will cling to what is familiar until we are forced to give it up or it is taken from us.

And that is definitely happening with many world systems on the edge of collapse and numerous countries in a state of melt down.

I know, I know... you’ve heard it all already.

"Tell me something I don’t know" ... you say.

Did you know that the ocean is 6 miles deep in some spots? I learned that in a film I saw tonight. And parts of it are totally unexplored? Sort of symbolic don’t you think? With Chiron in Pisces we are all invited to go deeper… into our own inner depths.

And really… what do we know? In the end… not much. I find Astrology more and more astounding in its ability to describe subtle (and sometimes not so subtle) aspects of a person or a situation or a time. Every time I do a chart it amazes me how much is there.

And yet I feel like I know so little. I know I want to be happy. And I also know that happiness lies within me, though I often forget it. All the explanations won’t change the fact that every breath is passing by unnoticed. Whatever is happening on the outside, life is happening on the inside. And I want to focus on that, be aware of that.

The rest… is a fascinating mystery.

Have a great weekend.

Enjoy the mystery.

http://youtu.be/3aOGnVKWbwc

"We are stardust, we are golden

And we've got to get ourselves back to the garden..."

Time for a Little reflection

2011-08-20T16:45:00.000-07:00

The Last Quarter Moon occurs this weekend on August 21st and represents the end of the current Moon cycle....with incentive to look back over the course of the month and evaluate where you have been and how far you have come internally. Mercury’s continuing backward journey through Leo adds to this introspective atmosphere.

There's been a lot going on with madness and mayhem occurring all around us. When Mars entered Cancer and stepped into the Cardinal Grand Square all hell broke loose. The stock market went nuts. Riots in England, mass rallies in Israel as well as the continuation of all the many wars, upheavals, revolutions etc going on at this time.

Someone I know has their Sun in Libra…exactly in the line of fire from Saturn, Pluto and Uranus…and their stress levels are over the roof. That person’s internal state is a reflection of the general shake up that is going on in the world. There are powerful forces at work.

How it affects the rest of us all depends on how strongly we identify with these transformative energies. Nothing is really good or bad...it is all about our point of view. I am away on holiday on a remote Island in western Canada with no TV and little Internet (hence this late blog entry) … and I feel a sense of relief to step away from all the intensity... grateful to be surrounded by clean air, trees and mountains and ocean. Deep breath. Whew!

Our attitude, our state of mind, our environment are often reflected in our personal chart and can show how the drama can all play out or how these events effect us. That is why there is no one astrological forecast. I may describe some of the weather out there...that’s the best one can do as an astrologer. Hopefully it warns you to batten down the hatches when a storm is blowing…but how you chart your course is up to you (haha... no pun intended...: ) A forecast is not an indictment, but can give us insight into what the hell is going on…so at least we are forewarned and forearmed.

So…back to the Astrological weather…. this current Moon phase is not so much about action, but rather about reflection and reaction to the events that have transpired over the course of the last three-week period. There’s an extra nudge in this direction because this is the place the Mercury retrograde period began.

The Sun at the end of Leo is in exact opposition to Neptune, just as Mercury was when it began its backward motion nearly three weeks back.   With dreamy Neptune in the picture there is always an emphasis on paradoxical situations and feelings, along with an especially strong dose of synchronicity. Things may feel a bit surreal…or magical or both.

Creativity, art, music and poetry can arise out of this mystical atmosphere; the emphasis being on non-linear non-logical reality. This can cause some blurring of lines and one must be clear about communication and self-expression. Yet moving away from our usual left brain logic can be deeply healing and freeing. Tap into your intuitive self; free your inner soul.

This weekend would be an excellent time to journal, and to reflect on this transition, both personal and societal…into an new era…whatever it may bring.   

As within…so without.

Full Moon in Aquarius Universal Love

2011-08-13T00:46:00.000-07:00

If you are feeling anything like I am feeling all I can say is ... what a ride!!

There's a Full Moon today in Aquarius.... opposite a bunch of planets including the Sun in Leo. The energy has been building all week and we have a glorious radiant Moon to fill us with light.

And that light is much needed, as all sorts of violent planetary pressures are coming to a head via

Mars (aggression, violence, war, desire)

opposite Pluto (power, control,death, transformation)

square Uranus (sudden shocks, rebellion, uprising, insight)

and Saturn (systems, authority, material world, karma)

Result = look around at the craziness!

Stock market/global economy crashing again, the London riots...spreading to many parts of England, etc etc etc

All this tension has been ongoing for some time now with the Grand Cross/ Grand Irrationality stuff... but now and then it builds to a peak..... and the last week or two has been one of those times...Holy Schmoly!!

As soon as Mars moved into connection with the Grand Cross all hell broke loose... ( it will begin to lessen over the next week or so... though of course the Grand Cross continues...but at least Mars will have moved on...whew!)

The last time Pluto was in Capricorn was during the French Revolution.... when it was also in harsh aspect to Mars Uranus and Saturn. The underclasses rebelling against those in power. There was so much violence ...so much blood. Do we need to do that again? (i.e. the violence) I don't think so.

Meanwhile, there's the usual madness and mayhem with Mercury retrograde.

Are we having fun yet?

The Grand Irrationality says ...let go of expectations...let upheaval happen...let the change happen. Find the centre in yourself...bring light into your heart and then into the world.

An Aquarius Full moon is all about Universal Love. It is about freedom. Leo Sun is about self value.

Let the Aquarius Moon shine the light of brother and sisterhood on us all...we all belong to one human family...and we are shining suns ... each of us.

Let your inner light shine. Shine on each other.

"Be the change you want to see in the world" (Mahatma Gandhi)

This Little Light of Mine...

2011-08-08T11:23:00.000-07:00

I think everyone knows by now that we are in a Mercury Retrograde period. I have already had several wacky communication related experiences: phones not working, messages not sending etc. etc. Ya gotta laugh at this planet’s ingenuity!

Mercury, as trickster, likes to turn things upside down…and it does so in its own crazy way.

Around three times a year, Mercury begins going backward in the sky. Or so it seems. It’s actually an illusion… as when the car beside you pulls ahead and you feel like you are going backward. The thing is, astrology was/is based on observation and intuition. There is a marked effect when a planet goes in an (apparently) opposite direction to the one it was moving in. Its energies and effects are reversed and /or turned inward.

If you saw the link I posted a few blogs back, showing the movement of the Sun through our galaxy... http://youtu.be/A434l6td7d4 .... you can see that nothing moves pn a straight as an arrow path. The Sun actually moves in a spiral (I had no idea). And then all the planets swirl around the Sun…, which is whirling around the Galactic Center. It is very cool. Everything is in movement. …nothing is static.

Robert Wilkinson, over at Aquarius Papers (sidebar) calls Mercury is the ‘cosmic coordinator’ and the ‘Guide of Souls’.

So when there is a Mercury retrograde anything planned or static can and will get shaken up. Mercurius is an old god and it may be prudent to pay him heed while he skips backward through Virgo and Leo.

Thing is, despite the usual craziness that Mercury Retrograde brings, its not really about that.

Turns out the planet of communication going backward is about more than the usual mix-ups and miscommunications etc. Ok those will happen to some of us. But what about all the stuff that purrs along nicely, thank you very much. Not everything goes wonky…it's just more likely at this time.

The main point is, Mercury Retrograde is a really time for going back over things, and for going inward. It is a time for inner reflection and correction. In Virgo last week, this would have brought up details around work and health issues, and service to others.

Virgo can be highly critical so maybe old irritations came to the surface. I noticed myself being more critical than usual…of self and others…and have had to tell that picky, picky inner chatter to shut up. Best used to pay old bills and go over unfinished paper work than figure out how every body else should be living their life!! Tend to your own business is good advice under a Virgo retrograde.

Now that Mercury is back in Leo, as it was all last month, issues could again come to the for around our feelings of self worth and our need to be center stage. Any passionate expression… our creativity for example, that has been put to the side and ignored, will push forward for recognition. What about that song that keeps coming into your head? And weren’t you determined to start journal writing this summer… ?

So Mercury in reverse says it’s time to slow down and smell the flowers. Allow some time for reflection into your busy life. During these remaining summer holidays ... let Mercury loosen things up enough to play a little.

And, because it is in Leo…let your light shine. Enjoy your passions… enjoy your friends. Leos are loyal to a fault. Perhaps Mercury’s regression here will bring old friends out of the woodwork or give you a chance to get that painting you did last summer. That’s what I am feeling. My urge to start painting again is getting stronger by the day.

So, despite the sometimes-inconvenient way Mercury can fiddle with our best laid plans…(delayed flights anyone?) if we let go of agendas and go with the flow… we have a chance for reconnection and renewal.

Enjoy the sunshine!

p.s. Just saw the news about violence in London. And there are also uprisings in Israel. Mars newly hitting the Cardinal Grand Cross can get ugly. Read last post.

Things are about to get a bit tricky....

2011-08-04T21:19:00.000-07:00

Hold on to your hats!! Mercury is now going backwards… scrambling our minds and our communication…. while Mars is now in Cancer square Uranus and Saturn and opposed Pluto (the Cardinal Grand Cross).

Uranus = sudden shocks, changes, surprises. Pluto = destruction, crisis, transformation. Saturn = resistance, oppression, authority, difficulty.

Should we be worried? Never. Worry is unproductive and just keeps us stuck in whatever we are worried about.

Should we be alert, cautious, and aware? Yes. This is a good time to cross the t’s and dots the i’s. Check anything you send or sign or say. Be prepared for delays.

And… use discretion when confronting anyone…. as there is a very volatile atmosphere in the air.

Mars is in Cancer, which is a highly emotional sign even without the planet of war hanging out there… so besides the very tense aspects to those very heavy hitting planets, it is very likely going to stir up a lot of emotional debris.

So what should we do?

There's a book called The Four Commitments and one of them is also really good advice:

"don't take anything personally".

And/or…if that fails...find a constructive outlet for potentially explosive energy (chop wood, do karate, build something, go hiking up a really big mountain)

Something else to consider: all this pressure can be likened to the process of a diamond forming…intense heat pressure etc creates something so incredibly beautiful and strong.

Let me know how it goes...............and if all else fails…duck!!

http://youtu.be/IT3gQbBabmQ "Everywhere you go you take the weather with you..."

p.s. more on Mercury retrograde in next installment.. It's about going back over things. A good time for reflection. Don't worry be happy.

New Moon in Leo Let it Shine (then duck)

2011-07-29T23:55:00.000-07:00

Today brings a New Moon in Leo. With Sun, Moon and Venus hangin’ together in the Sun ruled sign… plus Jupiter amplifying this exotic mix , there are lots of warm fuzzy and er …. sexy feelings about.

Our feelings of self worth and star quality will be lit up today … it’s time to shine. Just gotta make sure there is room on the stage for everyone. All you divas…the spotlight is on you. Leo Sun, Ascendant or Moon especially.... will feel kinda special today.

Leos always feel a strong sense of entitlement…and by gosh they deserve it. Doesn’t everything revolve around the Sun? So too should all things revolve around a Leo.

Now to be fair…most Leos are so warm and generous they deserve most of the attention they attract.

So what does this mean for the rest of us lowly people? Well with Venus so close in the mix, there’s a lot of love to go around. The Sun shines for all of us as the New Moon starts a new cycle beginning with Leo. Leo is about the ego and having a strong sense of self...it heralds in enjoyment, pleasure, creativity and fun. Drama is a specialty. Nothing is too theatrical for Leo.

The added influence of Uranus and Jupiter hightens creativity to fever pitch…get out those paintbrushes (or camers or writing pad or laptop…) ready to record the waves of inspiration coming our way.

Leos have a special affinity with Gold. The New Moon is a Sun/Moon conjunction… the famous conjunctio. This signature, symbolized by alchemy…describes the making of gold from lead… creating value from what is lowly.

The powerful archetypal moment brings a fusion of opposites… of male/ female, Yin and Yang…Sun and Moon…. to create something new and wonderful. Children come from such unions, and/or a myriad of symbolic offspring that arise from our creative process.

May you spin some gold today out of the threads of your life... (even if they be tattered threads)

And remember…. make your intentions clear… to manifest with this New Moon whatever you need, want , desire. Let your true passion for life be your guide.

Then, right after this lovely and luscious New Moon, we will start to feel the effects of Mars hitting…yup…you guessed it…the Cardinal Grand Cross (head for the hills!)...

As the planet of war and aggression (and desire) moves from Gemini to Cancer ….and right into the Grand Cross signature…there’s gonna be some pretty fierce and potentially violent (and highly emotional) energy hitting some of us square in the face.

A friend of mine is a clairvoyant healer and he often feels a heaviness building up before a major earthquake or natural disaster. Now I am not making any predictions here, but he told me today he feels something very intense building up.

I told him about Mars currently entering the field of the Grand Cross…and we both shook our heads wondering how it will manifest. Mars god of war opposing Pluto god of destruction challenging Saturn god of karma and matter and Uranus god of sudden shocks and upheals…could be very very difficult tense volatile few weeks coming up.

Oh and add Mercury going retrograde in a few days… for the whole month of August…and all I can say is…enjoy your weekend!!!

p.s. Elsa of Elsa elsa .com(sidebar) gave some good advice re this tension coming up...about how Saturn in Libra is saying that those relationships that are solid and true will stand us in good stead during trying times. Having clear boundaries will help as well. Add to that Neptune in Pisces... telling us that there is a powerful divine force guiding and protecting us from harm.

So don't worry. Be happy.

'Fallen Angel' by Sue Raven (copyrite)

Taurus Moon Weekend

2011-07-21T13:06:00.000-07:00

The Moon in Aries (fire) was conjunct Uranus last night (lightning bolt) and had me up till 4 am. I also suspect the supposedly decaf soya late’ I had at 9 pm was not decaf. Sigh.

I feel invigorated though… true sign of a Uranus influence. The Moon also hit the big T-square with Pluto and Saturn at others points… not easy yet something big can shift when we get moving with the energetic force rather than agin it. (please excuse me I am reading a book set in Scotland and it’s triggering an old Scottish self that emerges from time to time…hehe)

It feels a big shift has happened within me …like a huge dark boulder that I have had my shoulder up against for some time … has slowly started inching forward … if only by small increments. The resulting sense of relief may be due to the Grand Cross energy easing now as both the Sun and Venus move further on through Cancer (Sun about to enter Leo)

We can all breath a sigh of relief as this powerful configuration loses some of its intensity. Och aye!!

The T-square remains though (the other three points in the cross) … there will remain great pressure in the skies for some time to come. That said, that intensity is also lessened at the moment by Uranus going backward as of last week. This will take off some of the pressure, and we all get a bit of a breather from what has been an challenging month.

And, while it temporarily goes backward (in astrological terms), Uranus links again more closely with Jupiter… bringing optimism and deeper inner visions. This is a good time to listen to your intuition and manifest abundance.

Today’s Aries Moon just newly in contact with Uranus will also make some of us impatient and rebellious…. with unexpected, erratic mood swings and sudden outbursts. It was exact last night so it is already losing its punch. Did you have any flare ups yesterday? Or lose sleep as I did?

By this weekend the Moon in Taurus will slow us all down and cool our tempers; distracting us by deepening our need for pleasure and comfort. Indulging our senses will feel especially good right now as we bask in Midsummer’s glow.

I am off to a local music festival situated on a lovely island at the heart of the city…bit like a mini central park. There will be fantastic music and food and people …in a beautiful natural setting surrounded by trees and birds and flowers. Just the thing!

One last bit….The Sun enters Leo on the 21st. It's time to shine! That plus Mercury in the last part of Leo is bringing out our sense of personal pride and a deep need for attention. Mercury is at the same time opposing Neptune and Chiron in Pisces. This may make some of us a bit insecure about our right to ask for a bit of space and conflicts could ensue..

Neptune and Chiron activate both our vulnerability and our compassion, bringing healing to any potential ego bruising that may ensue. It all could mean a much-needed lesson in humility, or a chance to practice loving kindness.

What we say and think (Mercury) can have a big impact right now … so go gently with yourself and others.

Namaste

““Always forgive your enemies - nothing annoys them so much.” Oscar Wilde

3-D Universe

2011-07-19T11:01:00.000-07:00

Watch this for a different perspective: http://youtu.be/A434l6td7d4

Full Moon in Capricorn Friday July 15

2011-07-14T10:39:00.000-07:00

Capricorn and Cancer are the archetypal Father and Mother. At this Full Moon they sit opposite each other … with Capricorn given the spotlight. Though he may have greater influence under this Moon, its home sign (literally) of Cancer still has a lot of pull.

The Cancer mother represents the home, the root, our need to nurture and be nurtured. It brings us memories of the past and emphasizes our need to feel.

The Capricorn father leads us out into the material world with logic and reason…teaches us to take responsibility and asks us to fulfill our tasks and duties. He wants us to build solidity and structure….no shirking when he is around.

The polarity of this Full Moon thus represents the yin yang balancing our inner and outer life. The Capricorn emphasis means duties and responsibilities may override personal needs.

It has been an emotionally intense month with all kinds of ups and downs with the Sun, Moon and Venus in Cancer one by one setting off the Cardinal Grand Cross. The recent eclipses have brought some big drama and abrupt endings, so this may be a time of major regrouping after sudden change.

Full Moons magnify everything…and often manifest in relationship issues… self and other, and Mercury and Mars working well together right now will be encouraging us to speak up for ourselves.

Yet Saturn’s tense square to Venus (love) urges caution; take your time to articulate your needs. Compromises may become necessary as we are faced with what we need versus what we want.

And Capricorn is where sometimes we have to put feelings aside cause there is stuff that has to be done. Time to man up! If you are resisting getting on with it, look to the past for hints of what is now manifesting. Just remember under Capricorn the focus is on forward movement.

Saturn in Libra has been slowly steadily helping us build clear boundaries and make better, clearer choices based on our true needs. The Cancer Sun wants us to remember to feel our way through and not let cold logic take total control.

The tension between these two opposites will illuminate (literally) our need for balance between logic and feeling.

Jupiter trine Pluto and Venus trine Neptune bring the potential for healing, inspiration and deep transformation.

And then once the Moon slips into Aquarius over the weekend we can step back and detach from it all.

Breath out. Whew!

"Out beyond ideas of wrongdoing and rightdoing,  there is a field.

I’ll meet you there.

When the soul lies down in that grass,

 the world is too full to talk about.

Ideas, language, even the phrase each other 

doesn’t make any sense."

from Rumi: The Book of Love: Poems of Ecstasy and Longing

by Jalal al-Din Rumi

Venus Love Self

2011-07-10T08:24:00.001-07:00

With the Moon this weekend in Scorpio, the Sun and Venus in Cancer and Neptune is in Pisces, we have tons of water = tons of emotions.

Feelings are deep and intense and there is a powerful longing to express and expand them, yet also a sense of pressure and restriction. The recent eclipse in Cancer started an emotional process that Venus will re-activate, so any emotional or relationship issues that have come to the surface recently may get triggered and/or be asking for resolution this weekend.

Venus also sits opposite Pluto in the Grand Cross so don’t expect it to be easy. There is much pressure to transform and radically reinvent how we connect to both ourselves and others. Old habits have to go. This weekend these will be connected to our need to nurture and be nurture (Cancer).

Emotional patterns set up in childhood, where we may or may not have had those needs met, could create this under the surface tension. I suggest we all need to be extra conscious of any tendency to project past hurts onto others...we could be unconsciously allowing unmet needs to control or manipulate others, or leave us feeling victimized.

Of course it will all seem very valid and real….and it is… only the source is in us, not necessarily the other person(s). Asking for what we need may be one of these issues, which means feeling we have value and worth. Self love is the order of the day. This is powerful stuff with so much water and the emotional intensity could trigger some big issues.

The trick is to face and own our issues and do the inner work necessary to heal what is coming to the surface ….with compassion and care for self.

Mercury aligned with Saturn will bring some clarity and helps us ground and contain those emotions in a constructive way. So instead of just blurting out what is bothering us we can sit down and write in a journal or do a timeline of past patterns etc. This kind of focused process can help us get a grip on how we repeat old stuff.

Jupiter brings its expansiveness to Venus to open our hearts and show us the bigger picture.

With Neptune’s influence we become refined and attuned to spirit. Our deepest needs can be directed toward a greater love than any one individual could ever give us.

Yesterdays sharp right angle between the Moon and the Cardinal Grand Cross energy created an intense difficult day which I for one am still recovering from… so go easy with yourself and others now and let Jupiter trine Pluto bring the deep transformation we all need and crave.

These chaotic times are reminiscent of a birth. We are in the labour pains of a new era and sometimes it feels like this process will never end. Many things will pass, as a new level of human consciousness is brought into being. And what will remain is what has never changed … our true essence … which is not limited to or defined by this temporary passage thorough a temporary world.

Let Venus today reveal our deepest need. To feel and know love.

“And think not you can direct the course of love, if it finds you worthy, directs your course.

Love has no other desire but to fulfil itself.

But if you love and must needs have desires, let these be your desires:

To melt and be like a running brook that sings its melody to the night.

To know the pain of too much tenderness.

To be wounded by your own understanding of love;

And to bleed willingly and joyfully.

To wake at dawn with a winged heart and give thanks for another day of loving;

To rest at the noon hour and meditate love's ecstasy;

To return home at eventide with gratitude;

And then to sleep with a prayer for the beloved in your heart and a song of praise upon your lips."   Kahlil Gibran The Prophet

Loss and Liberation Solar Eclipse in Cancer

2011-07-01T03:39:00.000-07:00

Feeling it yet? The eclipse is already under way. This is a day for BIG feelings and emotions... so be extra aware and cautious and remember to keep both your mind and your heart open. Emotional healing and transformation is the order of the day.

Early today, both the Sun and the Moon stand at 9 Degrees Cancer, causing a partial eclipse of the Sun. They are opposite Pluto in Capricorn and squared both Saturn in Libra and Uranus in Aries. This configuration is called the Cardinal Grand Cross...because the planets make a cross in the sky (also known as a Grand Square because they all square each other)    It is powerful stuff. (see last several posts)

An eclipse of the Sun means the Moon is dominant, and both luminaries are in Cancer, where the Moon is the ruling planet. This gives the Moon, and the sign Cancer, a particular emphasise today.

The Moon rules the night sky bringing dreams and intuitions, stirring up the past, creating hyper sensitive emotions and activating our need to nurture and be nurtured. Cancer is the sign of the mother. It represents our need to feel.   And this Moon's dominance in the daytime during the eclipse means our feelings need to be made conscious.

Eclipses bring an abrupt end to a cycle and symbolize powerful junctures and shifts in awareness.

Today's Sun and Moon are also key triggers for the Grand Cross, increasing the atmosphere of powerful emotional transformation.   Not sayin' that it's the end of world or anything... though it may well be the end of our world as we know it (on an emotional level).

A New Moon starts a new cycle of energy; it's a time of creating intention for future manifestation. It is always true that what we put out comes back to us...and at a New Moon and particlularly an Eclipse...that is an especially potent truth. An Eclipse brings us endings. The old has to go to make room for something new. So... endings and new beginnings. Loss and liberation.

With the Moon (soul) eclipsing the Sun (ego) opposite Pluto retrograde (deep stuff coming to the surface) square Saturn (rigidity, resistance) and Uranus (rebellion) those feelings today might be a bit testy. Anyone with their Sun at the early degrees of Cancer, Libra, Capricorn or Aries may feel especially touchy and emotionally reactive. No experience under this aspect will be superficial. Old feelings that have long been dormant may rise to the surface. Feel them and let them go. And if someone you know is going through this....
....let many thing pass.

As this eclipse represents the need to let go of old emotions baggage and move into new territory, I find it very interesting that today I am going to sort and pack some of the belongings (my literal baggage) that I left behind last year when I had to leave England. It was a very emotional departure after twelve years here, and I was a bit anxious about old emotions and attachments getting stirred up again while here. I felt the last two eclipses most intensely...as these fears came to the surface. I have had to let a lot go.

And having to let go of actual physical stuff today on the Eclipse in Cancer (my own sign) is gonna be the final test. Out with the old in with the new. We Cancers are a bit famous for not letting go easily, and I spent many years here nesting and gathering things that carry personal meaning (as well as practical stuff like college books, teaching materials, art supplies, lovely clothes...sigh. ..).

The Moon rules the past and memories...so really quite a perfect day to go over atachments, things, memories ... and...release them. And Cancer also rules the home. I have never felt so at home anywhere as I have felt in England...so leaving has not been easy. Yet, perhaps due to shake up of the last two eclipses...I feel clear and free and ready to move forward. I can now carry my inner home with me wherever I go.

Meanwhile: It's time to move on and all this baggage has to go.

So if there is something or someone who you need to release..this is an excellent day to do so. There may be some resistance and hesitation (Saturn) as old feelings surface and trigger our fears as we face the death of the past (Pluto).

Yet new possibilities and visions (Uranus) and healing (trine to Chiron and Neptune) can come from this somewhat challenging time as, like the Phoenix that rises from the ashes, we rise again. It might not be easy for some today, yet there is huge potential in today's eclipse for emotional renewal and rebirth.

Make a wish. Let it be so.

Everything is floating.

Every thing is free.

There is nothing I can call my own ...

cause everything is me.

So dont try to hold on to anyone or anything you know...

Just feel the love within you

And let it flow....

(Harry Frith Smith)

Advance Notice: Partial Solar Eclipse Friday

2011-06-28T10:31:00.000-07:00

Tensions will build as we approach the upcoming (partial) Solar Eclipse at 9 degrees Cancer... The eclipse will be setting off ...yes...here it is..again...the Cardinal Grand Cross. Actually it is already happening...the Sun is now opposite Pluto and square both Saturn and Uranus. Friday's eclipse will then bring everything to a head and trigger a major shift in consciousness (for those willing or wanting to go deeper into it) Read the last few posts for insight into this powerful aspect that is currently shaking up our worlds...(both internal and external..)

There's also an excellent article at planet Waves about the Sun's current position opposite retrograde Pluto in Capricorn,; how retrograde Pluto pulls us inward and brings deep issues up to the surface. She says it so well.... I figure why not just send you there...go to Eric Francis (Planets Waves) on the sidebar or click here: http://planetwaves.net/pagetwo/

More here in a few days...

Venus in Gemini Lots of love

2011-06-25T03:07:00.000-07:00

This blog is a labour of love...no money comes from it and I am not trying to compete with other Astrologers. As a matter of fact, I often reference other's work and am happy to direct you to some excellent Astrology sites (see sidebar). A student at heart, I see this blog as a reference and a resource and a teaching tool. Many people I know want to know a bit more about astrology so this is a place to start. I resist doing daily updates and instead try to focus on the big picture. I love getting comments, so if you have a response or like something... do let me hear it.

Meanwhile, it is a very big picture right now with the ongoing T -Square between some heavy hitting planets turning into a Grand Cross while the Sun is in early degrees Cancer. (read the last post for more on that). The coming eclipse on July 1st will bring even more intensity to an alreay pressured atmosphere...good time to keep your head down, you thoughts clear and your heart still.

That is the challenge with Venus at 19 degrees Gemini today... near the South Node and opposite North Node in Sagittarius. Both the winter and summer eclipses have been very close to these nodes...and have sent out some powerful messages. When a travelling planet (transit) hits a recent hot spot... it triggers the original pattern; this Venus will activate that energy field.

Two posts ago (you can scroll down) I wrote about how the eclipse of the Moon and North Node at the Gallactic core in Sagittarius calls to us to know our purpose...know who we are. Venus now sitting opposite, at the South Node, wants to distract us with surface pleasures. With the Cardinal Grand Cross bearing down on us, and so mch tension around us and within us, some lightening up may be a good thing. This Venus is up for the job.

Venus... (how we love and relate) in Gemini is very social and wants lots of contacts; lots of variety and lots of stimulation. Loquacious and flirty, always seeking something or someone new, this chatty Venus is a social butterfly... flitting about from person to person, party to party. Having this in my own chart I can assure you it can be most exhausting. But fun.

And right now, the Sun is sextile the Moon...which is coming from Aries to hang out with expansive Jupiter in Taurus for a day or two. We feel generous and playful as we indulge (Jupiter in Taurus) in earlthy delights. A weekend of pleasure to take away the pain. Music, and mud in Galstonbury Music festival in England could do the trick.

I watched U2 playing there on telly last night as they sang in the rain...'I still havent found what I'm looking for...' In the after show interview, Bono spoke about his pull to Glastonbry as a pilgrimage to a sacred site. He was visibly moved by the experience of playing there...spoke of special energy everyone seems to feel there...about the ley lines it sits on...the Tor...the myth of Aurthur and Avalon etc etc. And a big huge party going on in the background as thousands enjoy the great music and amazing vibes without necessarily knowing why they feel so high (well besides the obvious) A perfect metaphor for this discussion.

I wonder if Bono was feeling the inlfluence from the Sun's sextile to Neptune and Chiron in Pisces ...calling us deeper in the midst of our reveries. Stirring our longing, calling for healing.

http://youtu.be/wdCJRybAtso (click for U2 song))

Add that to the Venus activation of the North Node in Sagittarius...warning us to be cautious of superficiality and remain clear on who we are (on a deeper level) and why we are here. Yes, enjoy the msic enjoy the fun...yet keep your eyes on the road...don't let yourself get overly distracted...

So...the planet of Love opposite the North Node galactic core thingy... asksing us to kow what we really need. And we all need love; no doubt about it. Love makes us relax, it expands our awareness, it creates a sense of harmony and well being. It connects us to others. It nurtures and soothes. Yet, true love is of itself...it doesnt depend on anything outside itself to exhist. We all need it we all seek it and ironically...though we often don't realize it...it is right here within us.

So be careful of spreading yourself too thin. Stay centered if you can. Let Gemini entertain you; enjoy a little play, a bit of flirtation, a bit of music a bit of beauty ... these can be a soothing balm in the midst of the storm.

And, on the inside....Know Who You Are. Love who you are. Find the love within.

If you knew yourself for even one moment,
if you could just glimpse your most beautiful face,
maybe you wouldn't slumber so deeply in that house of clay.
Why not move into your house of joy
and shine into every crevice!
For you are the secret Treasure-bearer,
and always have been.
Didn't you know?

-- Rumi

Summer Solstice Love and Transformation

2011-06-21T08:38:00.000-07:00

Today is the Sumer Solstice, the supposed longest day of the year…(the Sun actually 'stands still' for almost three days). According to Jonathan Cainer (sidebar) it does the same at the Winter Solstice, beginning Dec 21. It starts to move on by Dec 25th…when we celebrate Christmas.

Today, as the Sun moves into the Astrological sign of Cancer, summer officially begins. In the Northern hemisphere, the crops that were planted in the spring begin to ripen in the increasing heat; schools take a break, people take vacations, families get together; it’s a time of general expansion.

I like that there is this pause at the beginning of the two opposite seasons…pause for thought and reflection; time to gather ourselves and get our bearings.

The celestial bearings have the Sun sitting at 1 degree Cancer on what’s called the Aries point…it marks the beginning of each season in the cardinal signs and which yet again sets off the Cardinal Grand Cross. Last year we had an eclipse in July in Cancer which did the same…and we will have another partial Solar eclipse July 1st.

When the Sun or Moon hit pre-existing planetary configurations in the sky…key cycles and rhythms are activated. And this one is a biggie.

The Grand Cross has been with us for a couple of years now and it a marker for the tremendous upheaval and change we are experiencing here on planet Earth.

When major planets square off, confusion, upheaval and tension prevails as our secure little worlds toss and tumble in the great wheel of life.

This tension has moved in and out of focus over the last few years. Uranus was exactly opposite Saturn in 2008 when the monetary system first collapsed, and they have been in and out of opposition since then. There is a Pluto square in the mix, and Uranus (the awakener) moving into exact square with Pluto by 2012…with subsequent uprisings, vocano’s, earthquakes, tsunamis etc…)

The four square dynamic of the Grand Cross is a rare and powerful planetary configuration which heralds change on a ‘Grand Scale’

From a previous blog post in April 2010:   “I can state the obvious…that there’s a lot of pressure out there. And if you believe the outer reflects the inner…(and vice versa) then there is a lot of internal pressure as well. I know of a lot of people having breakdowns or break ups. This can be positive, as what needs to go will go, and a breakdown can become a break through."

Remember the Doors song.... “Break on Through to the Other Side.....?” http://youtu.be/4kRwvdOZC9I

This planetary energy is similar to the 60’s when the same planets were in a similar configuration as well as during the French Revolution, where Pluto Uranus And Saturn were again in hard aspect to each other. Things were then, and definitely are now… in a period of major shake down.

So…this Solstice on the Cardinal Point of Cancer may feel a bit testy and there may even be some outward manifestations of the Grand Cross energy. Mars is just moving from Taurus (laid back easy going) into the Mercury ruled energy of Gemini. Mars (aggression, action, warrior energy) can be sharp and cruel here…so watch what comes out of your mouth. Mercury is part of the Grand Cross as well so this doubles the tension around communication.

Moon square Venus can make us highly sensitive to the edginess that is about. “All we need is love…" lalalalala.                                   Kindness may take effort but helps us all get along.

Mercury also hitting the Grand Cross pressure may manifest as thoughts that want to break free (Uranus) from restricting situations or duties (Saturn) and a crisis (Pluto) may ensue. Sun and Mercury in Cancer are all about empathy, caring and emotion…let the waters of deep feeling sooth those frazzled nerves...of self and other.

The Moon in Pisces emphasises compassion and empathy, and brings us dreams and visions. Pisces ruler Neptune being squared by Mars can trigger defensive instincts and/or a need to fight for the underdog. Neptune squares can weaken or diminish the power of Mars, so maybe not the best time to pick a fight…even if Mars in Gemini or the Grand Cross tension urge you to do so.

Finally, the trine from Neptune and Chiron to Mercury bring more sensitivity and compassion and deep healing to soothe the turmoil of our difficult times. Robert Wilkenson says the Solstice is the most powerful time of year for manifesting 'personal will.' (Sun)

Whether it be wilfulness (ego) or willingness (heart) is up to us. A prayer from The Book of Runes:

                             “I Will to Will Thy Will”

'Thy' being... our higher selves... a higher power... a greater good… the heart of the universe.
Love.

Let it be so.

Click here http://youtu.be/r4p8qxGbpOk

Eclipse No 2.

2011-06-14T08:38:00.000-07:00

Did you ever lie on your back on your lawn as a kid (or as an adult) just watching the stars? I used to love the feeling of endless dark glittering space stretching out above me… feeling as if I might fall up into it. Even now … a shooting star zipping across the night sky evokes a gasp of wonder.

It can be hard to imagine that those stars and planets above and around us can have a personal impact on the rhythms of our lives. Not many actually believe that they do. Yet we only have to see how the tides are influenced by the Moon’s pull to know that these are forces to be reckoned with.

Right now we in the midst of an unusual series of three eclipses (they most often come in two’s). Ancient peoples used to be terrified of these events and attributed all sorts of superstitions and omens to explain them. Imagine their shock and surprise to see the Sun or Moon slowly disappearing, only to see them re-emerge and return to their normal appearance. What wonder, what fear shook them?

These same eclipses continue to give us pause as we attempt to consider forces far beyond our understanding. Yes we know the Earth is coming between the Sun and Moon… casting a shadow on the Moon’s surface…yet it still evokes mystery...it can still beguile.

The details: Two weeks ago, on Wednesday June 1^st, we had a partial solar eclipse at 11degrees Gemini. Tomorrow (Wed June 15^th) we will get a complete Lunar Eclipse in Sagittarius on (opposite Gemini)…then on July1st, another partial solar…this time at early degrees of Cancer.

Several years ago I experienced the total solar eclipse that happened in 1999 in England, and it really was an amazing experience. As the Sun went behind the Moon…every thing went very quiet and there was an eerie kind of coolness that enveloped everything. The shadows of leaves and objects were all doubled and strange and shimmery and there was a special tingle in the air. I was not so absorbed in astrology at that time…I couldn’t even tell you what sign it was in. But the experience was very special and I won’t easily forget it. I feel strangely bound to the person who watched it with me; we seem connected through a sacred event.

There was also a complete lunar eclipse later that year, and it also had a distinct impact…though of a different nature. The Moon was slowly being covered by a dark shape…then it was just a red outline, the center totally in shadow. I was really struck by the reality of this big chunk of round matter hanging above us… seeming spookily close, yet so far away. Good to have these moments of awe and reflection, whatever meanings you attribute to them.

This week’s eclipse will be viewable around sunset in Europe, mid- afternoon in South America…and at dawn in Australia, and Japan (these are just some of the places). Unfortunately it won’t be seen in North Americaas it occurs there in the afternoon.

Remember, this is also a Full Moon, so whatever intention you put out at the New Moon eclipse June 1st will be starting to come to fruition. Eclipses trigger a shift in consciousness and bring in new energy. Mercury’s closeness to the Sun is emphasizing communication… or some kind of message.

Another key factor about this eclipse in Sagittarius is that it is conjunct both the North Node and the Galactic Core. The Galactic Core is the center of our galaxy and is symbolically associated with a great message… a message echoed by the North Node in Sagittarius.

It beams out ‘Know your purpose. Know who you are…”

There is a lot more I could go on about…Saturn trine Venus (bring your love down to earth), Neptune trine Mercury and sextile Jupiter(deeply spiritual levels of thought, intuitive visionary dreams, something expansive/ auspicious) plus the ongoing squares of Pluto, Saturn and Uranus(very tense to say the least). There is also a Chiron/Neptune link... bringing deep healing tp those in need.

I could tell you this is a powerful eclipse and a momentous time...because it is. Yet the message at the core remains:

Who am I ? Why am I here?

Perhaps if we can each answer that question… in our own internal way, in our deepest knowing, then we might be able to figure out how to get along with each other… and maybe even take better care our own selves, as well as this amazing planet we live on (before it’s too late).

Just maybe. Let it be so.

Moving right along Mercury in Gemini

2011-06-03T10:58:00.000-07:00

The length of this post (oops) is evidence that Mercury has just entered Gemini...which is where it is most itself. And Jupiter moves out of Aries into Taurus this weekemd. Whenever a planet crosses the cusp of one sign into another there is a kind of acceleration...as well as a shift of focus, as the new energy begins to be felt. Jupiter in Taurus brings us abundance and plenty, but slows the pace down a notch from fiery Aries.

We also just had a partial solar eclipse on Wednesday at 11 degrees Gemini. I have been travelling and was unable to write on Sunday as planned, but I will give you a quick overview. Eclipses keep reverberating for months afterward so these effects will be pertinent for some time.

There was a lot of tension building up to the eclipse. The Moon first hit Mars, Venus then Mercury in Taurus...(all personal planets) and also hit the Cardinal T-square between Pluto Saturn and Uranus which has been the topic for over a year (yikes)...so the energy was pretty charged. A trine from the Moon/Sun to Saturn heped ground the New Moon eclipse energy...as much as it could with slightly schitzoid Gemini being activated.

Gemini is ruled by Mercury and is all about communication, thought patterns and a need for lots and lots of variety. The symbol for Gemini is the twins....and always represents a pluralality of ways of seeing things. In fact, Geminis thrive on variety. My own Venus in Gemini has been getting a good workout as I visit famiy and freinds on my journey. That, my Mercury conjunct Sun, and the eclipse right on my own South Node and exactly opposite my Moon.... meant I was highly affected by the eclipse...!! Add Mars And Venus in Taurus exactly opposite my Ascendant and I can tell you I was zinging along. Help!!

Now there's an example of how much it helps to understand what the f*** is happening. My nervous system went into overdrive and I was really struggling. A quick look atwhat was happening helped me step back take a deep breath and know it was/is temporary. I also did a lot of Gigong grounding excercises and took all kinds of herbal nervines!!(which really helped) plus a lot of mediation. Whew!
With Mercury conjunct Sun and Venus in Gemini, I am a fairly mercurial person at the best of times...which means I talk a lot, think a lot, move a lot; change is pretty much the one constant in my life.
Do you know where your Mercury is in your own chart? It will describe how you think and communicate to others as well as any propensity for writing or teaching. Look at both the sign and the house for info on these things manifest. Right now, with Mercury newly in Gemini, there will be a speeding up of information exchanges and a lot of interesting conversations taking place.

The focus is on thought patterns and commincation styles...and lots of socail interaction.

One other key factor is that this eclipse was conjunct the Moon's South Node. I've just been listening to a pod cast by Eric Francis of Planet Waves (sidebar) who spoke eloquently about the focus on South Node issues. The Nodes of the Moon are about where we have been and where we are going. The South Node represents our past and where we are conditioned.The North Node is where we must develop to progress toward our life purpose.

Now an eclipse is always a shift in itself...it signifies something leaving our lives making room for something new. The New Moon is also about new beginnings...(solar eclipses always happen on a new moon...as that is when the Sun and the Moon are in the same spot)

With an eclipse in Gemini on the South Node then, there may be old patterns of thinking that are holding us back. We all inherit family systems and ways of behaving that can be so unconscious we don't even know they are operating. Look at your chart and see where 11 Degrees Gemini falls and what house it is in. This might tell you where you need to let go of old pardygms of thought and bring in a new approach. The eclipse will highlight this area in your life and push you to let go of outmoded ways of being.

In the past, when I was stuck in a negative belief about something, a good friend of mine used to say 'you are arguing for your limitations'. You know...when we are challenged to see something in a new way, yet cling to our habitual thought patterns that limit us in so many ways.

In his podcast Eric points out that not everything we inherit is inherently bad. Many traditions are passed on from generation to generation that root us to our history and to our culture. Yet it is when those traditions or ways of seeing the world begin to stop us from moving forward that they need to be cleared oout and revamped a bit.

One other thing...as the solar(masculine,ego) energy was eclipsed by the Moon (feminie, intutive)...there is also a focus on feeling versus thinking. So perhaps part of the pattern that needs to shift is our reliance on rationality and thought over feeling and intuition. Do you follow your heart of rely always on your rational mind? Todays Moon in Cancer will bring out our emotions...so thats a start.

Right now the world is undergoing massive change and upheaval as the old world order teeters on the edge of collapse (Saturn Uranus Pluto square). Whether we feel threatened, or excited by these developments, we will all need to find new ways to vision our world, which means letting go of the old familiar ones (male dominant, positivistic, left brained, self centered, arrogant, rapacious, might makes right etc).

With Uranus (invention) in Aries(new energy), Neptune in Pisces (deep spirituality) and Mercury currently in Gemini (quickening)...there are powerful forces available to herald the new era... a new age not based on division, materialism and greed, but on a deeper sense of our connection to each other and to the Universe.

The next eclipse in two weeks (lunar ) is in Sagittarius at the Gallactic Core...which is all about the meaning of life and our true purpose. Maybe as this eclipse helps us shed our false beliefs and out of date perceptions, the next one will open the door to our true selves.

One can only hope.

How was your day?

2011-05-27T21:02:00.000-07:00

Today at http://www.elsaelsa.com/, Satori asked if people had a day that was up to their expectations…astrology wise. Writing my response got me thinking about my experience with transits.

Ever since I started writing about Astrology, I have felt much more affected by the planets. That’s obviously because I am more aware of and focused on what they are doing (“what you focus on grows”). Perhaps in the past, I just had good and bad days without especially noticing ... or attributing it to anything astrological. In fact, I would have scoffed at such an idea.

But now when a particular mood or tendency seems to stand out…like being more angry or reactive for instance, I will check to see if Mars (or another appropriate match) is aspecting some personal point in my chart. I swear, it always is… on those days. (I chose Mars because my Mars is in Pisces, which is generally a weak and passive Mars. I do not easily express my anger so it shows up as unusual when I do). This process of observing and checking in with current planetary aspects has led me to my own experience of what transits mean.

(A transit is when a planet in the sky is crossing over some particular aspect or planet in your birth chart).

Today I had a difficult day, energetically and physically I felt quite off… and was thinking maybe there is something in the sky hitting me in some way. In fact, the last couple of weeks have not been easy. I am currently travelling and sleeping in different beds, seeing a lot of people etc... which is fun yet a bit wearing at the best of times. I assume this has a lot to with my stress levels and general fatigue.

Then I looked at today’s line up and realized that Mercury Venus and Mars are all close together in Taurus… almost exactly opposite my Ascendant (rising sign). Plus today the Sun in Gemini is opposite my Moon in Sagittarius. Oppositions often manifest in relationships…and I have been dealing with tensions around overexposure to other people’s energy (I live alone and have been a bit of a hermit lately)

The upcoming eclipse is also in Gemini…at 11 degrees…and exactly opposite my Moon. Perhaps my irritation (and exhaustion) will come to a head in some way? Or maybe the Iceland Volcano will screw up my flight to England and I will be forced to surrender and let go. I am certainly experiencing a build-up of internal tensions (Mars opposite Ascendant). Hopefully Venus in there can smooth things out a little. I will let you know!!

Meanwhile…for your info…there is a partial Solar eclipse on Wednesday, June 1 (then a total Lunar eclipse June 15th, then another partial Solar one July 1)

In the build up to an eclipse we can feel an acceleration and tension in the area of our chart the eclipse falls in. It is at 11 degress Gemini...look at see where it falls in your chart.(Go to http://www.astro.com/ to create a free chart).

Added to that…the current Moon has been hitting the cardinal T-square… creating more intensity.

The Sun’s aspect to Saturn (trine) helps stabilize things, so despite the tension building up to the eclipse, the overall weekend will be smoother because of it.

More on the eclipse on Sunday. Till then…(from Astrologer Liz Greene…)

“The planets impell, they do not compell….”

Peace.

The Garden of Earthly Delights

2011-05-20T22:32:00.000-07:00

Eric Frances of Planet Waves says we are at a "wrenching, dangerous, and potentially potent time of history."

As powerful planets such as Saturn, Uranus and Pluto continue to mark their territories in an massive astrological standoff... the resulting chaos and tension reflected in world events seem to escalate every day.

The question is... are we merely passive recipients of a seemingly uncaring and impersonal universe, or do we have a choice in what is happenning in our lives?

Despite how it may appear...Astrology is not about a predetermined future...it's about knowing what are our strengths and what are our challenges. Though it may seem like some people have it easier than others, it's all about what we do with what we've got.

"Often "luck" is a product of our attentiveness, preparedness, and willingness. We can turn difficulty into triumph, uncertainty into character strengths, and ignorance into wisdom. Who is to say that something that seems to be "bad luck" isn't the perfect opportunity to change our lives to the good forever?"
Robert Wilkenson, Aqaurius Papers

Wilkenson goes on to talk about karma with a big "K" and a little "k". He says there are major Karmic lessons written into our charts...then there are the day to day patterns that we get caught in that have more immediate consquences. Both work together to seemingly seal our "fate". Or do they?

Do these orbs of matter moving in our shared universe really have an influence on us here on planet earth? Do we truly have any idea what any of it really means?

Whatever the answer to the above....I do believe the archetypal energies associated with the planets are mirrors of facets of the human psyche that can show us much about ourselves.

Their movement through our charts (and our skies) can be read as indicators of both our personal karma, and our collective destiny. As above so below.
A good question these days is... what is the karma of this planet as it teeters on the brink of darkness and light? What will become of us and our planet? Is this some ancient karma manifesting or do we have any choice in how the story ends?

Willkenson expresses his own persepctive on karma:

"Many take the attitude that because it's karma, we have little or no control over what manifests or not. This of course is an illusion. While we cannot do much about causes set into motion in the past, whether by ours or another's actions or inactions, or merely by circumstances, we can always transmute the energies in the NOW."

Speaking of now...the group of planets curently travelling close together (Mercury, Venus, Mars and Jupiter) are now lining up in Taurus. We have gone from the firey impatience and creativity of Aries to the powerfull earthbound force of the bull. Earth signs are about manifestation....bringing our ideas and ideals down to earth...literally.

As we slow down and smell the coffee this week...our sensual appetites may momentarily distract us from the surrounding chaos of the world. Mars and Venus currently merging with Mercury in Taurus inbue our imaginations with sensual earthiness, and our desires and thoughts cwill tend to manifest in a distinctly hands on way.

Mars passion combining with Venusian love in venus ruled Taurus can rock your world. If you are inclined to enjoy the earthy delights and relish the pleasures and sensations of the human body...taste, touch, smell and sight....and the earths bounty.... remember that true passion comes from the heart. Our passion only exists because we exist.

And in the background...the world keeps on spinning and we keep on learning (or not )...

Remember the karmic rule... "what goes around comes around" (love the one you're with)

Full Moon coming up in Scorpio

2011-05-14T11:07:00.000-07:00

There is something worth seeing in the skies right now. At the beginning of May, the Moon, Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter and Uranus were all close together in the sign of Aries. It’s rather rare to see so many planets that close together in the sky. When conjunct like this, their energies combine and increase each other’s potency, and we get a special emphasis of the sign they are in.

Right now several are sitting at the end of Aries and moving into trine with Pluto in Capricorn. This trine stabilizes what has been a very rocky and tumultuous month with so many planets in fiery Aries. Pluto gives depth and endurance to our thoughts and efforts…it’s a good time to think big and get real.

Being so close to the Sun, they were not visible during the day, but if you get up just before the sunrise you can see Mercury Venus and Jupiter on the horizon just before the Sun rises. See it here:

http://youtu.be/wzM9fBIQh_o
(thanks Lynne at Big Sky Astrolgy for this link).

A sextile to Neptune and Chiron in Pisces brings out our vulnerability as well as our compassion.
A day to actually do something about the suffering you see (in yourself or others)

Love the one your with.

This cluster will slowly move one by one into Taurus, and as they regroup there we will get an increased focus on the sign of the Bull. We are moving from a powerful and fiery Aries kick in the butt to an chance to earth and ground our ideas, plans and dreams.

Taureans are slow to move, slow to anger, slow to do just about everything; but when they get going…watch out. That slow simmer can break out a full boil once the momentum has reached critical point. Wave a red flag and you will see just how fast a Taurian can get angry. Mars now in Taurus is that bull charging at you in full speed.

A Taurus may be slow to approach, but when their love gets going there’s no stopping him or her. They make great lovers; tactile tenderness combined with intense sensuality and passion. It just takes them time to work up to it.

The Full Mooncoming up on Tuesday in Taurus opposite sign Scorpio, will be just the trigger they/we need to get those passions boiling. With both Sun and Moon in a tense T-square to Chiron and Neptune in Pisces…just be careful to protect your heart.

Taurus is also about what we value…what we collect…what makes us feel secure. That may be money, that may be love   (both are connected to Venus…ruler of Taurus...Venus rules both Libra and Taurus…some feel a new planet will be assigned here in the future) . For now…think of Taurus as the earthy, sensual aspect and Libra as the airy ideal aspect of love and relating)

For today, be aware that the Moon is conjunct Saturn in Libra, opposite Mercury in Aries, which means there is something to say to someone significant that is being held back. This may be blurted out or remain forever unsaid. Moon in Libra wants, needs stability and balance…and Aries impetuousness must be strong indeed to overcome this Moon’s need of harmony combined with Saturn’s restraining influence.

So ...more lessons on love and relating are coming our way.

"Then said Almitra, "Speak to us of Love."

And he raised his head and looked upon the people, and there fell a stillness upon them. And with a great voice he said:

When love beckons to you follow him,
Though his ways are hard and steep.
And when his wings enfold you yield to him,
Though the sword hidden among his pinions may wound you. And when he speaks to you believe in him,
Though his voice may shatter your dreams as the north wind lays waste the garden.

For even as love crowns you so shall he crucify you.
Even as he is for your growth so is he for your pruning.
Even as he ascends to your height and caresses your tenderest branches that quiver in the sun,
So shall he descend to your roots and shake them in their clinging to the earth. Like sheaves of corn he gathers you unto himself.

He threshes you to make you naked.
He sifts you to free you from your husks.
He grinds you to whiteness.
He kneads you until you are pliant;

And then he assigns you to his sacred fire, that you may become sacred bread for God's sacred feast.
All these things shall love do unto you that you may know the secrets of your heart, and in that knowledge become a fragment of Life's heart.

But if in your fear you would seek only love's peace and love's pleasure,
Then it is better for you that you cover your nakedness and pass out of love's threshing-floor,
Into the seasonless world where you shall laugh, but not all of your laughter, and weep,
but not all of your tears.

Love gives naught but itself and takes naught but from itself.

Love possesses not nor would it be possessed; For love is sufficient unto love. When you love you should not say, "God is in my heart," but rather, I am in the heart of God."

And think not you can direct the course of love, if it finds you worthy, directs your course.
Love has no other desire but to fulfil itself.

But if you love and must needs have desires, let these be your desires:

To melt and be like a running brook that sings its melody to the night.
To know the pain of too much tenderness.
To be wounded by your own understanding of love;
And to bleed willingly and joyfully.
To wake at dawn with a winged heart and give thanks for another day of loving;
To rest at the noon hour and meditate love's ecstasy;
To return home at eventide with gratitude;
And then to sleep with a prayer for the beloved in your heart
and a song of praise upon your lips. "

                                                       from The Prophet by Kahlil Gibran

The Great Mother

2011-05-08T12:19:00.000-07:00

The Great Mother, ruled by Taurus...resides over Mother's Day....which is celebrated today in North America. Fecundity and nurturing are her domain....May is her month...flowers are blooming and seeds are sprouting. The New Moon in Taurus last Tuesday, and the Sun's movement in the sign of the Bull...is about the earth and grounding and getting in touch with our senses.

Welcome the Merry Month of May!

All this earthy energy, still propelled by the group of planets in Aries, is giving us so much impetus to be the active creators of our own lives. The rich sensual energy of Taurus combined with the fiery creativity of Aries thrusts us forward …like the wind scattering seeds… to land in the fertile soil of our life.

“Uranus in Aries,… puts the world on notice that self-awakening is the theme of our decade. Then, there is Chiron in Pisces, which is deeper, reminding us that soul awakening is the theme of our decade. Gradually, the two levels will merge….Chiron and Neptune, both decidedly spiritual influences, are in a long conjunction, lasting many years -- and now the conjunction has moved into Pisces. This is an invitation.

Yes, the material world and the expression of the personality are interesting. Yet Pisces grants a sense of depth and meaning, the potential to create a vision, and the reminder that only you can know who you truly are.” Eric Francis (Planet Waves)

So: Uranus in Aries: waking us up to who we are. Aries is about the self. It can remain on the surface and get caught up in desires and wants and demands. But the tension of the Pluto square combined with the lightning bolt of Uranus… can (and will) shake and shock us (and inspire us) into going deeper into our authentic selves.

As Eric said...both Chiron and Neptune in Pisces are drawing the focus inward…into the watery realms of the soul. The unknowable... calling to be known.

Then, Saturn in Libra ….enforcing boundaries, balance and reason.... in contrast to so much Aries Passion.

And an abundance of Taurian grounding.... to bring us down to earth ...to make it real.

So on this day of celebrating the Great Mother, the creator of life...may we all renew our commitment to ourselves, to this earth and to each other.

Blessed be.

Aztec Birth Goddess:Wall Mural by Sue Raven (collaboration with Jennifer Boire Birth Poem)

'Lovers in a Dangerous Time'

2011-04-30T00:51:00.000-07:00

http://youtu.be/8dGNDUdtNh8

The chart for current skies brings to mind a charioteer holding the reins of a group of rearing wild horses.

Saturn in Libra, opposite so many planets together in Aries has a tense job trying to steer these unruly energies. The pressure will ease soon as the planets begin to separate from each other. Till then, it’s a balancing act all way round.

Last week love got real dangerous (or exciting) as Venus squared Pluto. There are still remnants left of this energy being lit up by today’s Moon. Beware the marauder; beware the shadowy figure in the corner (of your mind)…beware compulsion to force your way; beware the urge to pillage or procure…

Compulsion can feel like liberation at first. Until it becomes obsession. Until it owns you.

Today’s Moon conjuncts Venus and squares Pluto. Emotional outbursts are not only possible they are highly likely for some folk. With the Moon in Aries your patience may be tried…if you do feel blocked, I wouldn’t suggest messing with Pluto. This is emotional intensity at its best. Patience required...though not likely.

We all feel this tension, so that advice is there for the taking. If you have personal planets in the area of the ongoing Cardinal T-square…(in Aries, Libra and Capricorn)…(roughly from 4 degress to 10 degrees(ish)…)

then I might suggest that, if you haven’t already figured out how to duck... as the crockery goes flying…

this would be a good time to learn.

Squares to Pluto create such deep tension and pressure there is an urge to escape (or explode) by any route possible. Yet of you can hold your ground and weather the storm, there are benefits to be had. Pluto can bring deep transformation, and inner healing.... if you can survive such a transit you can survive anything (what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger).

That is the shaman’s path.

The Sun at 10 degrees Taurus today is trine Pluto in Capricorn…this stabilizes things a great deal and brings a positive outlet for some of the emotional tension. Time to go dig in the garden and plants those seeds in the rich earth. Grounding our ego through physical activity can save us from those obsessions and compulsions. The higher self can steer us through the obstacle course.

There is a new Moon coming up on Tuesday in Taurus. If we plant our seeds of intention in solid Taurian ground, with the added impetus of the abundant Aries energy, those seed ideas…. can become possibilities… can become realities.

Here’s the truest thing I heard today about life:

“The blessing is given, and the blessing is received”

Prem Rawat

http://www.wordsofpeace.org

Splitting Open by Sue Raven

(Mother) Earth Day Happy Easter

2011-04-23T00:16:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, Friday April 22 was Earth Day. I just read an article about the state of the Gulf of Mexico one year after the BP oil spill fiasco. Don’t believe what they tell you…it’s not all ok. And the Japan nuclear disaster is becoming more serious every day.

Dear oh dear what have we done to this beautiful planet?

With the Sun now in Taurus, it is the perfect time to honour and celebrate Mother Earth. And on this Easter weekend we also celebrate rebirth and renewal. Oester (oestrogen) was/is a Goddess of Fertility. All those eggs and rabbits are symbols of fecundity and new life. And with that renewal there is hope.

Yes, before there can be new life, a new way of existing together on this planet earth, the old has to die…… we are in the midst of that process…and it’s not easy.

Yet despite all the craziness and fear and tension we can buy into on any given day…and with all the planetary pressures that seem to keep on building… there is this other thing going on…

Life is happening.

New possibilities abound. There is still beauty in our world ….and today the smell of spring is in the air.

I wish you all a very Happy Easter, Happy/Spring and let’s make this Earth Day into an Earth Year…every year.

“This existence that you have, this life that you have, despite all the problems, is beautiful, wonderful… Look at the desert. When it rains, mysteriously, even the desert holds in it the promise of beautiful life, of delicate flowers.” Prem Rawat

Full Moon In Libra cont'd: Love the one your with...

2011-04-17T11:50:00.000-07:00

The Moon (our emotions, our dreams, our inner self) has now made it through the obstacle course of Aries oppositions... (hopefully unscathed) and now, shining out round and radiant in Libra, speaks to us of love and compassion.

In a time where polarized thinking, tension and strife abound, and the world as we know it is undergoing great upheaval and change, there is a call to reach within and find out what we are really made of.

The challenge is: can we rise above petty squabbles and oppositions to find the meeting place where only love remains?

Out beyond ideas of wrongdoing and right doing

 there is a field.

I will meet you there. 

 When the soul lies down in that grass,

 the world is too full to talk about. 

Ideas,language,

even the phrase each other

 doesn’t make any sense.

Rumi

Full Moon coming up in Libra

2011-04-16T00:53:00.000-07:00

Man how are we at yet another Full Moon?

Since I started writing this blog I have become more focused on the lunar cycles and am amazed the how quickly we move through each phase. . The quickening of Uranus in Aries is making my head spin. Time truly does seem to be speeding up.

The Full Moon in Libra occurs on Sunday eve North America…Midday in UK. Libra is all about finding the balance between self and others. Yes, again. More lessons in love and acceptance. 'Love the one your with'.

Aries is all about me me me. Love for self is healthy... unless we regress into childish egocentric demands for attention. How do we find the balance? Our effort will be reflected in the mirror of this Libra Full Moon.

Moving from Thursday to Sunday, the Moon travels from Virgo to Libra…starting with an opposition to Neptune and Chiron in Pisces…infusing our dreams with mystic visions and stirring a deep longing for something that seems unattainable yet which in truth lies at the deepest core of our being. The longing continues as the Moon opposes Venus in Pisces....and our dreams are filled with music and beauty and tender touch and loving caresses…

Suddenly we are routed from our reverie as Madame Moon starts to run opposite the long line up of planets in Aries ...one by one. … it’s like going through a medieval obstacle course.

Jolting us into consciousness, the alarm bells of Uranus at the Aries point urge us to hurry up and awaken to who we are, which is tricky to remember while cautiously ducking the swinging heavy weights of conflict, tension and violence (Mars square Pluto)…that can tear you to shreds ….or crush you if you get caught between them. Add the intense emotional drama of Moon square Pluto and its a full scale emotional battle..

We are then forced by Saturn to stand still or tiptoe blindfolded past retrograde Mercury, who is wandering about in a bit if a mental fog looking for that letter you said you sent last week,

We whip off the blindfold in time for a duel between Jupiter and Saturn (parry - thrust ….back and forth… the standoff continues...as delays, rules and restrictions and obligations get in the way of joyful expansion…)

At last we arrive at the Full Moon. (…whew!)

Finally by Sunday evening (here in Canada) the Moon stands illuminated in all its glory as it reflects the Suns rays at 27 degrees Libra. The sign of the scales is under tremendous pressure to maintain a precarious balance...just for a day or so...

Full moons are a culmination of what was sown at the New Moon. Our seed thoughts planted with the last New Moon in Aries were especially potent and may have already sprouted into full blown manifestations. What did you wish for? Has it begun to come true? (Be careful what you wish for)

All this dynamic fiery energy provides the impetus to move forward, yet while it is opposed by Saturn and confused by Mercury Retrograde, we are still having to be creative to find ways around the obstacles put in our path.

Don’t worry. The sheer force of the stellium in Aries will out-wit Saturn’s resistance and as the Full Moon passes… it’s Warp-Speed ahead Scotty.

Meanwhile, we may all be joining coyote for a good ol' howl at the Moon.... (to be continued)

Take a walk on the wild side

2011-04-10T13:21:00.000-07:00

So… how’s the dance going? Stepping on anyone toes lately? (see last post)

This weekend’s Moon in Cancer sets off the Grand Cross again…aeyaeyeai!! Upside down and all around, there is tension and confrontation and emotional pressure. Watch your step. Watch your words…(Mercury Jupiter Sun conjunct in Aries). Emotional intensity is the catch word for this weekend. Compulsivity. Impulsivity.Drama.

Before I expand on that theme, I wanted to tell you all about something that happened round the time that Uranus moved in Aries…(that would be when everything suddenly sped up into warp speed…about a month ago)

I was walking near the river close to where I live on the outskirts of the city. Chatting away to my friend, I Iooked over to my left, and there on the railway tracks running beside us were two coyotes sauntering along.

I have been living in England for quite a few years and am still getting used to the wildness of Canada. I pointed at the coyotes in amazement to my friend, and we spoke in whispers as walked along parallel to them for several minutes. I was deeply touched by the experience and knew there is often meaning in such encounters.

Coyote is considered a trickster. If it walks into your life or your path, you can be sure things will be turned upside down and everything will start to go a bit crazy or backward. A bit like Mercury retrograde.

And like Uranus, the planet that brings sudden surprises, Coyotes tricks are meant to shake us up and wake us up. Coyotes are trickster teachers.

“Coyote teaches us by his folly and misadventure. Coyote is the mirror that shows us our shadow and makes us laugh at the same time….We almost always benefit from Coyote’s teaching but often there is a price paid for the knowledge.

Most people miss the message with Coyote. They either think he is being silly or disrespectful. He is neither, he is just trying to get you take an honest look at your own actions.

Robert Oaks http://www.pathtoharmony.com/coyotemedicine.htm

Hmmm. Does sounds a lot like either Mercury Retrograde or Uranus to me. Uranus is considered to be the higher octave of Mercury. Mercury rules the mind and our thoughts and communication. Mercurial types are mentally agile and good communicators. Uranus brings the vibration up a notch to the level of intuitive flashes or visions and sudden awakenings.

Mercury rules the telephone…Uranus the internet.

With Uranus in Ares things have definitely sped up considerably.

And it easy to see how Mercury retrograde looks a lot like coyote medicine. This past week I have had emails disappear, all my inbox erased, several serious miscommunications…double billed incorrectly by my credit card etc etc. I was working on a graphic design all sorts of things went completely wonky on my computer....meaning I had to redo it it again and again. At one point my computer almost crashed ...photoshop kept switching itself off. Help! (it knew I had had too much)

I have been going way too fast, with all this Uranus energy triggering my own Uranus SunMercury conjunction...it feels like my life has moved into warp speed overnight. And that is not always a good thing. My body has been revving way to fast for my own good.

So Coyote came to disrupt my movement enough to get my attention. There is always a message with Mercury and/or Uranus…as there is with Coyote, and for me, it was/is to stop and check what I am doing, how I am doing it, why I am doing it, and also when I expect to do it (Mercury Ret. messes with timing, makes us go back over things till we get it right). Sometimes I get going way too fast and lose my centre.

Stop Think Observe Proceed

Thanks coyote. Sort of.

Meanwhile, in the rest of the sky, Mercury Sun Jupiter are creating exaggerated statements of grandiose thinking….tense stand offs can result from Jupiter’s opposition to Saturn in Libra.

As mentioned in other posts, Saturn in Libra is teaching us about having clear boundaries in relationships with others, and asking us to redefine how we relate in general. How to dance the dance.

And with Mars so close to Uranus in Aries, furious outbursts of righteous indignation and outrage (Jupiter, Mercury, Sun) can get us into trouble, while the added square to Pluto triggers or increases intense anger, rebellion and violence.

The Moon in Cancer opposite Pluto is the key trigger this weekend as it can stir up strong, compulsive emotions (that may be even a tad bit over dramatic). Playing the victim won’t get you anywhere, and standing up for yourself doesn’t have to involve putting others down. Trying to control yours or others emotions won’t be easy under this transit.

Watch out or coyote will turn your righteousness on its head and rub your nose in your own s**t.

Let Neptune,Venus or Chiron in Pisces give you a little humility and compassion for others. Breathe. Step. Breathe. Step. Twirl.

If coyote is your dance partner, it’s definitely going to be a wild and crazy ride.

Just remember this : Coyote is a survivor.

“Coyotes always adapt to changing circumstances. Remember it was Coyote that figured out how to steal fire from the Gods when man was freezing.” Robert Oaks

New Moon in Aries this Sunday Step in Time

2011-04-01T11:58:00.000-07:00

This Sunday's New Moon in Aries is THE New Moon of the year…as it sits at the beginning of the zodiac. We have yet another chance to revision how we dance the cosmic dance of life. Make a wish. Let it be so.

There is quite a dance happening in the skies these days. Planets are squaring off yet again as the T-square in Cardinal signs bring tension and pressure to our beleaguered world.

The New Moon joins an already crowded Aries, and the atmospheric buildup increases.

As we whirl and hop and spin to the increased tempo of Sun, Mercury, Mars, Jupiter and Uranus in Aries, we may step on each other’s toes and crash and bump into people as the opposition of so many planets to Saturn in Libra creates tension and opposition. Jupiter’s proximity is exaggerating our movements and increasing the tempo.

The Moon in Aries is all about ‘me’ , while Saturn in Libra forces us to become aware of the others around us. We’re a mad swirling mass of humanity trying to find a pattern (Saturn) or meaning (Jupiter) to it all.

Me thinks we need some dancing lessons (Saturn in Libra)…unfortunately, those instructions didn’t arrive in the post… because Mercury Retrograde has screwed up all the mail. Yet, by making us go back over things, Mercury retrograde can bring us new insights and understandings …taking a few steps back can help slow us down so we can feel the rhythm more clearly. Back step- back step -one two three four.

It doesn’t last for long…we start to hurry again as the music is being turned up and the dance is getting frantic. We need to pay attention but it’s a bit hard to concentrate (Merc Ret) with all the noise of symbols crashing in the background (Mars Aries), violins whining….a bassoon is blasting away.

It’s a cacophony of sound …the sharps are extra-sharp and the flats extra-flat, as we try to follow the tendencies of the key and harmonic changes.

The music is at moments deafening, jarring…as the drums of Pluto in Capricorn square off against the trumpet blast of Uranus in Aries.

The staccato rhythm of so many planets in Aries is stirring up confrontation and many march (and fight) to confront the misuses and abuses of power all over the globe (Saturn Uranus Pluto all squared each other)

While Jupiter opposite Saturn is bringing everything to a head…the combined energy of so many planets in Aries and especially Uranus ...can bring us new insight and understanding… expanding our vision through flashes of insight so we can see our place in the dance.

And though it's not so easy to pause now to get our bearings…. if we listen closely... the sweet, gentle flute solo of Venus in Pisces can lift our spirits and evoke our more subtle senses. Todays Moon in Pisces will help us go there.

Let it become a slow waltz as you twirl and swirl to the music of the spheres. Our heart's longing (Venus, Chiron in Pisces) is calling us to slow our pace and listen to the music playing deep inside us.

Chiron adds a haunting, melancholic undertone as tears of compassion wet our faces... for others...for ourself (we cannot love another if we cannot love ourself) Compassion and suffering are a part of the dance, as is joy.

Perhaps we need time for a moment alone to 'dance like there's no one watching...'

Joy - pain - joy - twirl - step - twirl ….the dance goes on.

Spring Equinox

2011-03-20T22:25:00.000-07:00

Sun in Aries conjunct Uranus

Spring into Action

Happy Spring

A Virgo Full Moon Full of Surprises

2011-03-18T23:42:00.000-07:00

This Full Moon in perfectionist Virgo signifies a culmination and a release. It is the last Full Moon of the astrological year…as the Sun moves from Pisces (water) into Aries (fire) marking the beginning of spring.

A push pull between details, practicality and criticality (Virgo) and the dreamy, sometimes defensive, other-worldliness of Pisces, may distract us until we run smack into the fiery intention of Aries.

Uranus in Aries is already kicking some serious butt…don’t underestimate its power to agitate and awaken through upheaval and sudden change.

In these last days of transition, things are at a peak. With the Sun already so close to Uranus at the beginning of Aries (Aries Point), this Full Moon may pack a bit of a punch. Uranus likes to shock and surprise us.

Sudden erratic decisions and emotional outbursts may occur with the Moon opposite Uranus, with Virgo’s perfectionism becoming a reason to bolt. Finding middle ground is necessary with any kind of opposition, and especially important with a powerful Full Moon energy driving us to extremes.

This so-called supermoon appears bigger because it hangs out closer to the earth than usual. Full Moons tend to amplify emotions, especially, in this case, for Pisces, Virgos, Sagittarius or Geminis…or anyone with major planets or Ascendant in these signs.

According to Eric Francis (Planet Waves: sidebar) a close square to the Moons Nodes (points where it crosses the elliptic of the earth) in Gemini and Sagittarius, creates a similar impact to an eclipse. This amplifies the Full Moon energy and brings us another Grand Cross of sorts. The Sagittarius point connects to the Galactic core….which represents our true purpose…our spiritual home.

“The square between the Sun, the Moon and the Galactic Core suggests strongly that we have to seek inwardly for our spiritual connection. It also represents events that might provoke us to do that, and I would say if you have not noticed that fact yet, this is an awesome time to pay attention.”

“Do these categories mean anything? They mean a lot less than the statement that, as the astrology of the spring and indeed the next few years develops, we will have increasing access to all the dimensions of who we are -- if we want to access those inner experiences.”

Friday, March 18, 2011 Planet Waves Eric Francis

Pisces draws us to find the perfection that lies within...to discover a joining of todays opposite forces. These are powerful times, and as the known world undergoes great transformation, destruction, and upheaval, there are also portals opening toward an inner reality.

“Between the poles of the conscious and the unconscious, there has the mind made a swing:

Thereon hang all beings and all worlds, and that swing never ceases its sway.

Millions of beings are there: the sun and the moon in their courses are there:

Millions of ages pass, and the swing goes on.

All swing! the sky and the earth and the air and the water; and the universe itself taking form:

And the sight of this has made Kabir a servant.”

II. 59. janh, cet acet khambh do

Poems of Kabir(1915) Translated by Rabindranath Tagore

Requiem

2011-03-14T13:22:00.000-07:00

I decided not to post this weekend in a silent memorial to the suffering in Japan.

This quote has special poignancy right now:

"There is a river flowing now very fast.

It is so great and swift that there are those who will be afraid.

They will try to hold on to the shore.

They will feel they are being torn apart and will suffer greatly.

Know the river has its destination.

The elders say we must let go of the shore, push off into the middle of the river, keep our eyes open, and our heads above the water.

See who is in there with you and celebrate.

At this time in history, we are to take nothing personally. Least of all, ourselves.

For the moment that we do, our spiritual growth and journey comes to a halt. The time of the lone wolf is over.

Gather yourselves!

Banish the word struggle from your attitude and your vocabulary.

All that we do now must be done in a sacred manner and in celebration.

We are the ones we've been waiting for."

Oraibi, ArizonaHopi Nation

New Moon Pisces Go with the Flow

2011-03-03T23:07:00.000-08:00

There’s some pretty weird and wonderful energy floating around right now. Today’s New Moon begins another new cycle of energy, this time in dreamy, watery world of Pisces.

A New Moon is a Sun/Moon conjunction…the famous ‘Conjunctio’. We won’t actually see the Moon for another few days…it’s hiding behind the Sun right now (it’s also called the 'Dark of the Moon'). The combining of the two luminaries gives us a powerful blast of energy which carries us through the coming month.

Put out your wish or intention now to manifest your dreams (and not your nightmares).

There is also a stellium (whole bunch) of planets, including Mars, and Mercury (and of course the Sun), exaggerating and amplifying the Piscean influence.

Pisces dissolves what appears solid and pulls us down into our deepest longing (and strangest fantasies). Virgos, Geminis and Sagittarians may feel this strongly, though any planets in these signs (in your chart) can be set off by this stellium. Chiron’s presence in the group, brings a deep vulnerability to the surface.

Mars’ fiery action is very muted here and Mercury’s’ need to communicate will feel veiled…or blocked. Elsa (elsaelsa.com: side bar) warns of the “foggy, ethereal angst” arising from the combination of these rather disparate energies.

The trick is to find some form of Piscean expression to our need to act or communicate. Pisces brings us into the realms of the creative unconscious… so all forms of creativity will be enhanced by this New Moon. Let your inner artist/musician/poet out. Give your urge to escape positive expression (I will be out drumming to the rhythm of the Moon).

And, remember, all this watery fluid stuff is hanging out over the backdrop of the increasing tension and uncertainty of the Uranus Pluto square, with Jupiter Squaring Pluto pushing things to extremes.

Pisces opens the way for compassion and empathy. Reach out to others or let someone reach out to you. Boundaries won’t be as clear under this influence, so make sure you give from your strength and not just your need to be needed… (Pisces can be a bit of a rescuer and saviour of lost causes)

All in all, the tendency for everyone to feel highly sensitized in this ‘intangible intensification’ of experience may make some of us feel we are tiptoeing a thin line between madness and bliss. My advice: let go of expectations, trust your instincts and ... learn to swim.