Low-Down Archives May 2006

The New Moon in Taurus represents a new beginning that will grow gradually to become something far greater. In this case, that "something greater" involves reaching for a deeper spiritual understanding and acceptance of the imperfect nature of the human spirit, as well as its shining potential and power. The seeds for this spiritual growth are planted and sprouting now during this lunar cycle.

There is always challenge associated with any progress, of course. The current challenge focuses on a long-term struggle to find a balance between limits and potential. On one hand we must work within the bounds of reality (the physical world, circumstances, cause and effect). On the other hand, our human nature constantly strives to break free of the limits of reality, to reclaim and embrace that sacred spark that burns within us. How to reconcile these two paradoxical truths about human nature? This is the spiritual lesson of the Saturn-Chiron opposition that has followed us through the skies off and on since the mid-80s.

The New Moon taps into that energy by forming a T-square to the Saturn-Chiron opposition. This acts like a lightning rod, showing us how it is necessary to tackle a huge dilemma like that by breaking it down into smaller steps and manageable sized issues. So we start simple: what are the fundamental issues, problems and obstacles? What is the potential and capability that we have in this situation? What will bring us pleasure and fulfilment? What will trigger us to dig in our heels and refuse to budge until conditions are just right?

And since we are working all this out within our existence in physical reality, at least some of the answer must also play out in physical and practical ways. Therefore, we might find ourselves in a struggle that focuses on finances or possessions or resources or values (all Taurus territory), yet it will likely have greater implications than just our immediate circumstances.

A very strong ally right now is Mars in Cancer. Although somewhat weakened in its Fall in Cancer, Mars closely sextiles the New Moon. This gives us energy, motivation, drive and ambition to draw on�BUT only if we use this in a way that is sensitive, cautious, caring and protective. If we resort to automatic reactions that come from insecurity or lack of trust, we're more likely to disrupt the stability and groundedness that the New Moon can give us.

Venus, the planetary ruler of Taurus and therefore the Dispositor of the New Moon, is a mixed bag at the moment, being both stressed and strong. Currently Exalted in Pisces, Venus brings a warm beauty and a generous heart to this lunar cycle. However, she forms a stressful Mini-Square configuration with the Sun, Moon and Chiron, and squares Pluto. This means we will need to draw on a lot of compromise, strategy and diplomacy in order to walk a fine line between what is realistically possible and our fear that we may lack the ability to carry it out.

The final word is the splendid Grand Trine Kite in Water signs (more about this below). This Kite is rooted in the Taurus New Moon, which is just starting to form now and remains in effect until mid-May and eventually echoes back again in June and July. Through the Sun-Moon opposite Jupiter, we can develop a deeper understanding of how the darker shadows in our human nature may actually accentuate the light in our spirit. This can produce a special wisdom that can arise only from having shone a light into those shadows and faced our fears, obsessions and passions. This New Moon provides a way to ground this process in concrete development, which can grow toward realising that wisdom when next November comes along (when the Sun catches up to Jupiter).

Apr.29 � Sun sextile Mars (08:56 Taurus/Cancer)

You have power, energy, motivation and enthusiasm to fuel your ambitions now! The catch is you will need to reach for it; it won't simply "come to you." Reach into your past experience and reach forward toward your vision of what you want. This will help to guide your actions and focus your assertive energy in the direction you want to go. This is a good time to make progress toward a goal. Or, you might want to take steps to leave behind inhibitions that have held you back. This transit can also make you more apt to take risks and find the courage to do things you might not otherwise do. Your tolerance for obstacles may be shortened, and making it easy to assume the only way through them is by using direct force. This may or may not be wise, depending on how extreme you want to take it, so use your good judgment and don't throw away your diplomacy.

Apr.29 � Mercury sextile Neptune (19:40 Aries/Aquarius)

Your mind is very open to imagination, dreams and compassion under this transit, with a little applied effort and focus. This can be a very creative time, when ideas flow like a magical river. It can also be easy to get caught up in yearning and fantasizing about your hidden wishes, although it is possible to channel this into creative expression. (e.g., writing poetry, dancing, wistful music, singing in the shower, whatever!) The possible disadvantage is that you might want so much to reach a state of inspired intuition, magical outlook and effortless communication, that you are willing to be deceived rather than fall short of what you are hoping for. Listening sympathetically to others' problems may come easily now, and you are more likely to get a compassionate response from others about your own problems. However, it may also be difficult to draw clear and firm boundaries with others, since you are more susceptible to the emotional gravity of others. It is ultimately a time for optimism, hope, creativity and intuition, although it's wise to keep at least one foot on the ground.

Apr.29 � Sun square Chiron (09:38 Taurus/Aquarius)

Your self-confidence and patience may be a bit strained right now, stretched by the urge to break free of chronic constraints. Motivation and self-esteem may seem to sag and suffer from old problems that you thought were resolved. This is probably because you are seeing "the flaws in the system" that are preventing you from getting the results you want. It will help to take a fresh approach to your situation. You may need to let go of what you think the results "should be" or how they should come to you. Be open to getting what you want in a different form than you were expecting. You may have to work extra hard for results now, especially if it means having to find a different route to success. If it seems like a door of opportunity has closed, look for an unexpected advantage or hidden alternative. This could allow you to tap into other opportunities that wouldn't have been possible otherwise.

Apr.30 � Venus square Pluto (26:30 Pisces/Sagittarius)

Relationships and interactions are likely to be deep, intense and transformative under this transit. The same goes for your sense of beauty, and your material and financial dealings, which may require you to delve far deeper than usual to discover the truth under the surface of things. You may encounter the dark shadow of your desires�the obscure, secret or unconscious hunger that hides underneath the "politically correct" face you show to the world (and to yourself. This is a challenge to be resolved in some way. It might bring out conflict rooted in envy or jealousy, if someone has something (or someone) that you feel you are entitled to. Or, it might prompt you to reach very deep into your soul to find your inner beauty and value. You may be challenged to develop empathy or empowerment about something that initially seemed undesirable, unforgivable or scary. This transit can show you the problem areas that need to be transformed and healed. And seeing these more clearly can be a catharsis that sets that transformative healing in motion.

Apr.30-May13 � Grand Trine in Water signs (Mars-Jupiter-Uranus) ("What's a Grand Trine?" "What's a Grand Trine Kite?")

This aspect configuration brings us the blessings of the element of Water�feelings, healing, nurturing, intuition, creativity and belonging. In particular, it brings the potential for emotional healing and assimilation of our learning from struggles in recent months. Mars, Jupiter and Uranus are all in trine, reaching their closest rendezvous on May 6 and 7. (You can read about the effects of each individual aspect below.) The overall effect brings together drive, inspiration and spontaneity within the element (Water) of intuition, creativity and feelings.

It's easy to take Grand Trine energy for granted though. The energies tend to flow together so easily and effortlessly that they could remain in the background without ever being productively used. The Kite part of this configuration (the opposition between one of the three trine planets and a fourth planet) can spur the need to utilize this energy. The opposition acts like a spinal column or lightning rod that focuses the flow of energy.

As we work with and resolve the stress and challenge of the opposition, we are able to access the trine energy. In addition, the trine energy can be a resource to help us work through the conflict of the opposition. The opposition in this case begins with the New Moon on Apr.27, where the Sun-Moon conjunction forms an opposition with Jupiter. The Sun moves through the configuration (sextile Mars, opposite Jupiter and sextile Uranus, all of which are detailed below) until May.04.

Here's an exciting twist: On May.07, the Moon joins with the other planets to form an almost-Grand Sextile! That configuration has six planets all in sextile to each other around the circle of the Zodiac. It's very rare to have all six positions occupied. In this case, it has 5 out of 6 positions filled. The vacant place is in Capricorn. If you have any planets or points in Capricorn, at around 12-18 degrees, then your chart's planet will act as the bridge that completes the circuit of energy, forming a complete Grand Sextile.

For example, if you were born around January 3-9, then your natal Sun completes the Grand Sextile. The planet that completes the circuit will be the area of life most affected by the Grand Sextile. And if any other natal planets are also conjoined by the Grand Sextile planets, those natal planets will also be affected.

The effect generally brings a vast range of potential, in this case related to the assertive use of spontaneity that takes you to new heights of inspiration and confidence. These energies could also become manipulative and calculating, especially if the stress and challenge of the oppositions have not been worked through enough to develop strength and self-honesty.

The Grand Trine in Water makes a comeback in June (Mercury-Jupiter-Uranus), at the start of July (Sun-Jupiter-Uranus) and the end of July (Venus-Jupiter-Uranus). Watch for returning opportunities and revisiting potentials at those times, which have roots in the current time.

May.03 � Mercury trine Pluto (26:27 Aries/Sagittarius)

It is possible to dive deep below the surface now, in your perception of situations, other people and yourself. If you have been working on trying to understand the deeper motivations and dynamics of what is happening in your life, there could be a breakthrough now. The light may finally go on in the darker corners that have eluded you, and your penetrating insight. You could find a way to articulate these perceptions and speak your mind in a way that is unusually powerful or intense (so be careful you don't inadvertently blow your audience out of the water). This transit can bring an opportunity to shed and leave behind old worn out perceptions or ineffective forms of communication. Try writing down your thoughts and ideas to capture the energy of this transit. This is the only exact pass for this transit, since Pluto was out of range when Mercury came through this area two months ago.

May.03 � Venus enters Aries (until May.29)

Your style of handling relationships, finances, resources and values now take on an attitude of assertiveness, directness and the pursuit of freedom and independence. Impulse buying may be a stronger temptation than usual, so be sure you can afford whatever it is! Your way of interacting may be somewhat more direct, open or flirtatious during this transit. You may have opportunities to acquire money quickly and casually...and spend it too! You may also be more open to trying new things in the areas of finances, relationships, interactions and your values. Trying out new ideas can take you into uncharted territory...which may or may not be welcome depending on how comfortable you are with change. But this still may be just what you need to get you out of a rut in the affected areas. This can also be a good time to celebrate and appreciate yourself just as you are, as a unique individual.

May.04 � Sun sextile Uranus (13:54 Taurus/Pisces)

You are more open than usual to spontaneity, surprises and "flying by the seat of your pants!" Your sense of humour and fun are more finely tuned during this transit, as is your ability to break out of old outworn habits. It's a great time to try new things and experiment with something that's out of character for you. In fact, it may be surprising how easy it is to break out of your usual routine...so much so that it's good to be careful not to be too reckless under this transit. Just have fun pushing the envelope! You may also find you want things to be spontaneous and new and out-of-the-ordinary so much that it's hard not to feel restless and dissatisfied with ordinary life right now. But remember that trying to plan spontaneity defeats the purpose of the exercise. And if you are hungering for something new but can't seem to find something satisfying, try digging a little deeper to see what is driving that hunger from inside you. You could find surprising answers.

May.04 � Sun opposite Jupiter (14:00 Taurus/Scorpio)

Your confidence and ambitions may become amplified, possibly to the point of becoming a problem under this transit. It may be difficult to judge how much is too much versus just enough, and it could just be easier want more and more..."just in case." You may feel the urge to travel or do something that could expand your horizons (literally or figuratively). However, satisfaction may seem just out of reach under this transit, so there is a risk of pushing too hard and lacking perspective or good judgment. You could find that tolerance, compassion and understanding are hard to find, either in you toward others or in others toward you (or both). You are seeing things through a mental magnifying lens, which may be distorting your perceptions or reactions. On the other hand, this can be a good time to take an honest look at how closely you are living by your integrity and values. Feedback might come from others who could be seeing something more clearly than you can see it in yourself. Or, you might find that a minor irritation about someone or something outside of yourself suddenly becomes a major problem. This is probably because you're seeing it more clearly (although not necessarily more accurately). The lesson of this transit is that everything gets amplified together�the positive and the negative, and at a certain point the difference between them may become meaningless. Reaching a balanced understanding of all that lies within that expanded view is the key to gaining wisdom from the experience.

May.04 � Jupiter trine Uranus (13:55 Scorpio/Pisces)

Insight, ideas and inspiration characterise this transit. It is an excellent time to break free of old outmoded beliefs and judgments, which can make room for new perspectives, opinions and wisdom. Innovative ideas come together within an expanded context that gives them new meaning. You can breathe fresh air into your spiritual beliefs and opinions by taking an open-minded approach and trying on new ideas. Unexpected, unusual or "lucky" opportunities may arise that allow you to get out of old ruts and advance toward future possibilities. If you have been feeling stuck in your quest to gain truth, understanding, spirituality or meaning, this transit could bring a release that allows you to get past your resistance. However, even "good" aspects have their drawbacks and this is no exception. It can be tempting to sit back and allow the opportunities to come to you, but not follow through on them�being all ideas and no sustained action. Your behaviour could be somewhat erratic and unpredictable, as your direction may shift and change with every new possibility that presents itself. This transit's greater agenda is to open the door for you to stretch beyond your known horizons and touch the edge of the Universal Mind.

This is the second of three passes (Nov.27, May.04 and Aug.29). You may be seeing this energy from a different perspective now, seeing new potentials and possibilities that you missed the first time through. Don't let it just pass you by this time, with the Kite energy happening. You have the chance to use this powerful energy to create productive and concrete results!

May.05 � Mercury enters Taurus (until May.19)

Thoughts, communication and analysis work best when they are careful and methodical, during this transit. Your mental attitude and awareness may be somewhat serious and conservative�or down-to-earth, relaxed, and grounded in simple pleasures. Your perceptions may be a little slower to form, and you may have to search a little longer to find the right words. But there is also an increased ability to savour and appreciate your experiences more, and it can be a time when you can relax and recharge your mental batteries. You might find that your body instincts and sensory experience give you more information than your conscious thoughts. This is a good time to plan out how to manifest the ideas that sprang from your imagination in the past several weeks. Take your best ideas, perceptions and words and sow them like seeds. Then watch them grow over time.

May.07 � Mars trine Jupiter (13:38 Cancer/Scorpio)

Energy, assertiveness, aggression and sexuality are amplified during this time. Physical, mental and emotional energy can run high. Your motivation can take on an air of confidence and purpose. If you normally shrink back from asserting yourself, this can be a time when it's a bit easier to find the courage to take a stand. It can also make you more sensitive to this amplified energy in others around you. If you are distressed by Mars energy in general (afraid of anger, intimidated by aggression, cautious about sexuality, etc.), this transit might bring a bit more of it than you can comfortably handle. However, it can also give you an opportunity to experience and make friends with this energy. If you typically enjoy high energy, this can be a time when you can make progress with plans and projects, and have flirtatious fun along the way.

May.07 � Mars trine Uranus (14:01 Cancer/Pisces)

This is a very high energy time, although not necessarily predictable or reliable. Your energy may come in spurts or in response to situations that don't normally affect you much. This energy could include assertive energy, sexuality, motivation, desire and drive. This is the kind of energy that can be spontaneous, sudden or unexpected. It might make your physical or emotional energy a bit erratic or "wired." However, it can also give a burst of courage and drive that can propel you out of a rut or inspire you to break free of limitations. Freedom and liberation are key values that can ignite this energy.

May.07 � Venus trine Saturn (05:19 Aries/Leo)

Stability in relationships and finances characterises this transit. You have increased ability to be disciplined about spending and to invest the hard work to maximise your earnings. Your ability to grasp the solid, realistic facts will help you choose wisely in your investments of both money and interaction with others. Commitment and structure are easier to achieve and embrace than change or taking risks. Self-worth can benefit now because you are less inclined to give in to mood swings. However, if you are prone to depression, you might want to be careful you don't become so grounded and stable that you lose touch with your sense of hope and potential. It is a good time to make concrete progress in matters involving beauty, love, harmony and balance. Keep your pleasures simple and humble for maximum benefit.

May.07 � Mercury square Saturn (05:19 Taurus/Leo)

Your thoughts, ideas and communication need to become structured, rational and discreet, although this may not be easy to achieve. You may have to work extra hard to get your point across now, since others might be resistant to your ideas or may not be familiar with the basic concepts. It is a time to be clear, objective and down-to-earth in your communication and thinking, but equally important to do this without going overboard and becoming rigid, autocratic or over-cautious. If you find yourself stuck in a "glass half empty" frame of mind, you might be sagging under the weight of melancholy ...Or, it might mean you are coming to terms with some hard realities and decisions and feeling the gravity of the implications. But also check to be sure you're not taking yourself and your situation too seriously. By applying your best efforts, this can be a very productive time, especially with anything involving communication, writing, organising or logic.

May.10 � Mercury square Chiron (09:45 Taurus/Aquarius)

Your mental focus and perceptions may feel a bit strained right now. You could find yourself locked in a struggle of indecision that stems from a "glass half empty" versus "glass half full" dilemma. It may be difficult to stay objective and evenly balanced in your perspective, but by working with this you could also find a new mental focus that gives you increased clarity. It might be tempting to sink into cynicism as a way to deal with what seems like a no-win situation. On the other hand, this transit could bring your mental perspective to a kind of "healing crisis" that forces you to get a better grip on the ideas, communication and frame of mind that have been problematic for you. Instead of reaching for extremes (hoping this will clarify the path in front of you), it will help more if you can take a few steps back to allow all the conflicting and out-of-sync elements to coexist together�creative paradox. If you have been in denial about something, this could be a turning point that allows you to grapple with the complex reality of your situation.

May.10 � Sun square Neptune (19:47 Taurus/Aquarius)

Your ideals, hopes and wishful thinking may loom a little too large during this time, making you prone to disappointment and disillusionment. You might want a fantasy or dream to come true so much that you disconnect from the reality that seems to be in the way�only to find that the obstacle was serving a positive purpose after all. Your imagination may be very active now, but not easy to control or balance with reality. However, it can be a very creative time if you're able to harness that imagination for productive use. Unconscious urges and longings may be especially close to the surface, so you have an opportunity to learn more about the hidden forces that drive you (and perhaps distort your view of the world around you). Spiritually, you might discover that your yearning for enlightenment is not the straightforward path you had hoped for, but it can be just as valuable (although disappointing) to discover what is *not* your best path. Emotionally you may feel a bit overwhelmed, discouraged or confused. On the plus side, you have an opportunity to observe a deeper part of you, which is usually camouflaged against the distracting background of day-to-day life. There is tremendous creative, spiritual and healing potential to be found by listening to and working with the inner voices from those depths.

May.11 � Mercury opposite Jupiter (13:04 Taurus/Scorpio)

Your thoughts and words can become amplified under this transit, which could bring a sense of adventure, a surge of ideas, and/or imbalance due to exaggeration. You may find it's hard to stop talking (or writing), your head is filled with so many possibilities. However, your judgment about the validity of your ideas may be a bit off, or you might feel the urge to overstate your position to keep from being misunderstood. Blame and judgment could creep into your perceptions of others or the other way around. This might spring from a need to find a greater meaning or truth in the facts, having difficulty bridging the gap between the raw information and the big picture. The trick is to keep a balance between simplicity and elaborate complexity. The challenge is to find ways to express, think about and understand the vast range of possibilities and meaning within the perceptions of everyday life. Not all of it will survive the translation, but enormous spiritual creativity can be generated in the trying.

May.11 � Venus sextile Chiron (09:46 Aries/Aquarius)

Although this transit lasts for only a few days, it is possible to make some progress in your healing and rebalancing efforts, although it will take some effort to make it happen. This may show itself in relationships, social interaction, finances, values, health or your spiritual connection to the Universe. You have an increased ability to negotiate with others and with your circumstances to achieve a fair compromise that results in equal sacrifice and benefit for all concerned. However, there is a risk of wanting to avoid conflict and discord so much that you negotiate beyond what you are truly comfortable with�peace at any price. By accepting and embracing the effort or struggle that is required, you can get out of your own way and achieve a more healing balance in those struggles. You now have increased ability to facilitate changes in situations that are within your control. It can also be easier to accept and adapt to that which lies beyond your control. Your effect on others can be potentially healing right now, especially by helping them find a new balance and point of acceptance in the conflicts and struggles of their lives.

May.12 � Mercury sextile Uranus (14:10 Taurus/Pisces)

There is potential for brilliance and excitement under this transit. You may be more spontaneous, upbeat and eccentric than usual. If you are used to a fairly predictable lifestyle, it is a time when you may be inspired to experiment with something out of character. If you are used to being whacky, zany and impulsive, this transit can provide opportunities to express this. You may have an increased ability to "think outside the box" if you stretch your mind a little, and there is the possibility of having an "ah-ha!" experience, when answers and realisations fall into place. There is also the possibility of being mentally restless, so that it's hard to slow down your thoughts or apply yourself seriously to your responsibilities. Your attention span may be a bit short for a couple of days. This energy can be used to consider new ideas that seemed outlandish or impossible before, and see new potential in them.

May.13, 2:50 AM EDT � FULL MOON in SCORPIO (22:23 Scorpio) ("What's a Full Moon?")

The Full Moon in Scorpio brings passionate, intense, emotional and creative energy! There is a kind of transformative alchemy in Scorpio�changes that happen when we allow events and experiences to shape and modify us. Change means something new is being born out of the old, so Scorpio is associated with death and rebirth�but this is usually just metaphorical. Scorpio is also about delving deep below the surface of things, detecting the undercurrents and intuitively sensing the hidden or secret qualities of people and situations. This includes psychology�the underlying dynamics in the mind and feelings.

For the last couple of weeks, we have enjoyed the Grand Trine Kite that has been in effect since Apr.30. This has brought powerful emotional, intuitive and creative energy (being in Water signs). In order to tap into this, we have had to find practical and concrete ways to put it to use. This might involve a creative project, or sowing seeds for emotional healing, or developing a new relationship to our physical sensuality, or perhaps exploring new ways to connect to the Collective (friends, associates, groups, society, Humanity).

The Grand Trine Kite energy is dissipating now, but before it fades, the Scorpio Full Moon gives it a final burst of rebirth and transformative energy. This creates a transitional shift that refocuses this energy. Whereas the Kite may have brought struggles to find acceptance for obstacles, limitations or imperfections, it also brought an opportunity to develop our ability to accept whatever is beyond our control and to integrate this into our understanding of life. Now a shift takes us into a spiritual challenge, in which we may need to take that new perspective to a broader level�to integrate this learning into our philosophical and spiritual view of the Universe and our place within it.

There is enormous healing potential in this Full Moon, especially if we are prepared to accept a compromise�we may have to do things or use our energy in "bass ackward" ways. ;-) But if we are willing to work with what we have (and not get stuck in discouragement or deprivation), then it may be possible to get past our obstacles in surprising and unexpected ways.

There are so many changes going on each month that it's impossible to talk about all of them here! Check out your Sun-sign horoscope to learn more about how this New Moon will affect you. Better yet, you can find out more about how you, personally, will be affected by these transits by getting a personal astrology reading with your astrologer, Wendy Guy.

May.14 � Mercury sextile Mars (17:40 Taurus/Cancer)

There is a potential now to find the courage to speak your mind and say what needs to be said, if you focus consciously on doing so. In fact, your ideas and words may come so quickly and easily that it's hard to stop them from tumbling out of your mouth before you've had a chance to evaluate the best way to say them. Communication is probably easiest and most effective when it's direct, concise and quick, although it might also be a bit blunt or pointed. If you need to confront someone about a difficult situation, this transit can provide courage and clear words to help you do that�although perhaps a bit too forceful when a more delicate, sensitive touch is called for. It is a time when you might find the nerve to take risks, or to defend yourself if the need arises (especially verbally). This is a good transit for creative problem solving and trying on decisions to see if they fit.

May.15 � Mercury square Neptune (19:48 Taurus/Aquarius)

Your mental focus may be a bit clouded, confused or lethargic right now, as your conscious mind struggles to grasp the formless, limitless expanse of the Universe and the unconscious. You may experience some disillusionment or disappointment, in your observations or communication with others. However, what is flowing under the surface of events right now is the need to dissolve away the crust of old expectations that blocks your view from seeing a greater Truth. If you're feeling off-balance, try to listen more than you talk, so that you can be receptive to your inner sensitivity. Left-brain analysis might be difficult to work with right now unless you balance it with a lot of right-brain intuition. You may have to let go of a rigid mindset, or give up what you think you understand about a situation in your life, in order to open yourself to a new perspective that is difficult to define but is ultimately in the best interest of your spiritual growth.

May.15 � Chiron stationary Retrograde (09:46 Aquarius, until Oct.12)

The Retrograde station can be felt for up to a week before and after this date, especially through intensity and concentrated energy. Since Chiron is often about health, you may find health issues coming to the foreground now. General issues about wounding, healing and hurt�physically, emotionally and/or spiritually�may come to a turning point now, making it necessary to take some time for healing, reconstruction, and reconciliation of the energies that are out of balance in your life. The station begins this process, which gradually unfolds over the next 5 months. Focus your energies on acknowledging the areas that need healing work in your life�literally or figuratively. Don't forget that, although there are areas that need healing, there are also areas that you have made progress on in the past. It's important to balance acknowledgement of the work to be done with recognition of what you have already achieved in the past.

May.18 � Sun conjunct Mercury (17:44 Taurus)

During this transit, your sense of self and purpose can become merged with what you think, perceive and say. On one hand, this can make for an easy flow of ideas and communication from inside your brain to the external world. It can also increase your perceptions and observations of the world, as you file it all away in your internal database. On the other hand, you may find yourself a bit tongue-tied, as it could be hard to separate your sense of self from your perceptions and ideas enough to find the words to adequately express them. In that case, just observe and go with the flow; the words will come later. It can also be a time when it's not easy to be objective, especially about yourself and how you bring yourself to the world around you. It's like your Being automatically expresses and sets into motion the things you think, perceive and want to say. This can help you to feel like your sense of self is shining effortlessly, but if your thoughts and perceptions are in conflict with other parts of you (e.g., emotions, needs, objectivity) then it might become a time when you act a little too quickly with blinders on. Strive for balance and self-honesty before you act.

May.19 � Mercury enters Gemini (until Jun.03)

Mercury is the planetary ruler of Gemini, so the mind wants to fly fast and free. Communication and perceptions may come and go like a fresh breeze through an open window. This can create a wide variety of ideas but not necessarily productive application of those ideas. You might find it a little easier to articulate words, sharpen your mental focus, and collect and analyze your thoughts and information. This can give wings to your ideas and self-expression, but remember that you'll have to back up any promises and "fast talk" with action and substance. Let this be a time to explore possibilities and enjoy social interaction, rather than jump to final conclusions. Collect the raw data and exchange ideas, but be aware that understanding the broader meaning will likely come later.

May.20 � Venus sextile Neptune (19:49 Aries/Aquarius)

Artistry, romance, creativity and faith have the potential to flow freely now. Your creative Muse is whispering in your ear, although it will still take your own elbow grease to turn it into something real. Socially and romantically, things could run smoothly and even a bit magically, so be sure you are clear in yourself about what you really want. This can be a time of blessings and abundance (in all areas of life) ...but there is also the risk of overspending and being overly optimistic in your assumptions about money and relationships. Your natural beauty and warmth can be brought out by this transit, but don't just waste it on creating a fa�ade of outer glamour and charm. Let the essence of your inner beauty and pure spirit shine through your appearance and mannerisms!

May.21 � Sun enters Gemini (until Jun.21)

Happy Solar Return to everyone born in the sign of Gemini! This is the time of year for the cosmic Twins to party, but it is also a time for all of us to explore our dual nature and our sentient awareness that emerges from it. Communication and exchange of information and ideas are specialties of Gemini, and this period brings these areas into focus for everyone. If you're looking for ideas to explore your Gemini nature, try writing your thoughts down, or listen to the buzz of activity around you, or express your observations in both verbal and non-verbal ways. Pay special attention to conversations with others, and be alert to the new information that can be learned there. Connect with your Inner Imp and let yourself be playful, clever, cheerful and fun! Learn a new word every day. Find out the names of things you never even noticed before. Read a book or newspaper or newsletter...or write one! Ride the bus to an area of town you've never been to and see what you find. And remember that it is largely through our interactions with other people and with the immediate world around us that we develop consciousness, perception and mental focus. Therefore, use this as an opportunity to increase your awareness of your immediate surroundings. Exchange information and ideas with others. Use your ability to communicate in every way you can think of. And let yourself be curious, clever and playful!

May.22 � Neptune stationary Retrograde (19:49 Aquarius, until Oct.29)

For up to a week before and after this date, you may feel a thick concentration of Neptune energy. This could include vivid dreams and imagination, foggy confusion or fluid intuition. You might experience unusual sensitivity to the people and situations around you during this time. The station could be a turning point in situations that have unfolded over the last few months, especially those that require you to surrender to something greater than yourself. This can be a time when you come to an internal acceptance (or resignation) of what needs to be done. As a result, you might experience some sadness, depression, fatigue or low energy...or you might experience a sense of unburdening relief. The next 5-6 months will be a time to probe the currents beneath the surface � to learn about that greater force and the (unconscious) part of yourself that feels a longing to merge with it.

May.22 � Mercury sextile Saturn (06:18 Gemini/Leo)

It can be easier to take a logical, practical approach to problem-solving and decisions now. It's a good time to make plans and work out the logistics of how you're going to get from "here" to "there" in pursuing your ambitions. Or, you may find it's time to bring closure to finished goals, by distilling and systemizing what you've learned in the past several months. This will probably require a bit of effort on your part to make it happen, but the opportunity is there if you choose to take it. This transit can bring mental stability and the ability to apply your mental focus in a practical and grounded way. It may be easier to see things realistically and objectively. Creative energy can become productive and rewarding, if you use it methodically or logically.

May.23 � Venus square Mars (23:28 Aries/Cancer)

Your receptive, diplomatic side is arguing with your assertive, decisive side. The result is either a battle of wills between your Yin and Yang, or a new creative energy that harnesses both. This could manifest in the form of relationship problems, financial struggles, arguments about control, or you are propelled to take action with plans that have been percolating for a while. If you're usually more comfortable with your Yin side (receptive, diplomatic), you might feel a bit backed into a corner or forced to negotiate under pressure. If you're more at home in your Yang side (assertive, action-oriented), you may feel compelled to blunt or sheathe the sword you would prefer to smite your enemy with. Either way, this is about balancing the two sides and finding a new cooperation that works for both.

May.24 � Mercury trine Chiron (09:43 Gemini/Aquarius)

Your mental focus and communication now get an injection of healing energy. Cynicism and depression may soften now, as you become more receptive to a more optimistic viewpoint. If you have been caught up in escapism or "stinkin' thinkin'" (thinking you're more in control of your impulses than you really are), you may now find some relief and healing. Mental argument and critical "self-talk" can now find some reconciliation and acceptance that brings some peace of mind. You have increased ability to find the right words and understanding to help others with their problems. Compassion and empathy may be more accessible because you can identify your own experiences with what you see in others. You might also find someone who can give you good advice or support about your own problems�possibly a teacher or mentor�or you could become this to someone else.

May.25 � Venus trine Pluto (25:59 Aries/Sagittarius)

Close one-on-one connections with people (close friends, lovers, partners of all kinds) will tend to gravitate to a deeper, more intense level now. Instead of automatically doing the diplomatic, "nice" thing, you may find it is more fulfilling to share more of your authentic feelings. It may be possible now to connect with people on a deeper level, while still ensuring that your interests are equally balanced with theirs. The trick is to do this without trying to control or overpower the other person, and it may be easier to avoid those traps now. You could make some deeply intimate connections with people under this transit. Financial dealings with other people may also go smoothly, although it might be wise to get clear confirmation that you're both on the same page about the fine print.

May.26 � Mercury square Uranus (14:30 Gemini/Pisces)

Flashes of insight can show you new clarity but you might not like the answers you get, since they could disturb your logical perception of what's what. You might get some news or learn come information that shakes you up in some way. This isn't necessarily bad, since this may be necessary to open your mind to something you've been resisting. There's a Higher Truth here that wants to be told (by you or to you), but the way it's phrased can make a big difference in the reaction. There is a risk of "shooting off your mouth before your brains are loaded," as the saying goes, and impulsive or reckless communication and ideas could create more problems than they solve. It will probably help to listen inside yourself first to discover what you really need to say, and then figure out how to say it in a way that doesn't cause unnecessary damage. Strive to shine a light of truth without blinding anyone with it.

Next Update: New Moon in Gemini - May.27.2006