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August-September 2009
For the New
Moon in Leo:
August 20 to September 4, 2009
...and the Full Moon in Pisces:
September 4 to 18, 2009
Aug.20 � NEW MOON in Leo (28:31 of Leo)
This is a time of creative integration! After several
months of struggling with disjointed efforts, resources, information and
support, things are finally starting to come together. Opportunities are
starting to move from possibility to probability or even actuality.
Opportunity, motivation, challenge and inspiration are
all converging in that part of the universe you call your Self. The Self is the
engine that drives your sense of identity, purpose, individuality, expression,
creativity and joie de vivre. It is represented by
your Sun sign ("What's my Sun sign?"),
as well as the 5th house in your birth chart and any planets you have in the
sign of Leo. When the Sun is travelling through Leo (as it does every year
around this time) and also during the New Moon cycle in Leo (which begins
today), your Self is typically strengthened, fortified, illuminated and
encouraged to shine.
All year, the planets have been spaced out (in more
ways than one!) so that they formed very few close aspect figures. Now suddenly
we are engulfed in more aspect patterns than we know what to do with! As with
all things astrology, this probably reflects the state of your life too. The
planets are all positioned so that they are no more than 10 degrees apart in orb
(from Jupiter at 21� to Pluto at 0�), so almost everybody is aspecting almost
everybody else in the solar system right now!
Mercury is conjunct Saturn and participates in
a number of aspect figures in the skies right now. It makes for a rather serious
mindset but also keeps your mind focused on practical results, which can be a
blessing during such a busy time of creative inspiration. At worst, this could
bring out some depression if you are especially prone to this, so it may be
important to keep a firm grip on a more optimistic lifeline in your life to pull
you back to a more balanced perspective.
Mercury is approaching another retrograde cycle
and will make 3 passes to Saturn. As a result, this aspect will be with us more
or less until mid-October and will dominate the next New Moon (Sep.18). The
Mercury-Saturn duo takes part in 3 different aspect patterns: a Yod, an
Irritation Rectangle and a forming Grand Cross.
 The Yod is an aspect pattern that provides creative irritation that can
indicate a sense of destiny (at the apex of the Yod), as well as acting as a
projection energy (from the apex to the base). In this case, destiny points to
the Jupiter-Chiron-Neptune conjunction in Aquarius which has dominated
the skies all year. (Read more about
this
conjunction. Read more about
this Yod aspect figure.) This group of planets encourages us to seek a higher,
broader or more inspired vision of what we want our lives to be. It also
challenges us to ensure that our "weakest link" is not left behind, but is
incorporated into this vision through self-acceptance and allowing ourselves to
be both human and a reflection of our more divine nature.
Your mission is to take this inspired vision and
project it into conscious, practical application as well as close contact with
others. This might be done unconsciously if you find yourself gravitating toward
people who (you believe) can support you in reaching your goals, for example. If
their reaction is not quite what you'd hoped, check if this has perhaps become a
demanding expectation on your part instead of a mutually agreed exchange of
support and assistance. On a more positive note, however, you can channel this
energy into working cooperatively with others to co-create a better life, a
better world.
With the New Moon in opposition to the
Jupiter-Chiron-Neptune group, this has enormous implications for where you
see yourself in relation to this bigger picture. At its best, you could be very
inspired by the part you can play to further the greater cause. At its worst,
you might also see yourself as the central focus of this picture and have
difficulty separating your ego's "needs of the one" from the greater "needs of
the many." If this struggle becomes too overwhelming, you might need to find
specific ways to get the applause, praise and validation you need. This
shouldn't be a fight to simply squash your need to be the centre of attention.
Rather, it is an opportunity to see a greater potential for yourself that will
require you to share the spotlight (but not necessarily relinquish it
altogether).
 The
Irritation Rectangle is a subtler aspect figure. It consists of four (or
more) planets joined by quincunx (150�) and semi-sextile (30�) aspects, with the
corners of the box held in place by two oppositions (180�). Its name is taken
from an excellent in-depth book on aspect configurations:
Aspect Pattern Astrology by Bruno,
Louise and Michael Alexander Huber. This figure can give great mental strength
and resilience, but there is a risk of becoming stagnant if there is no
flexibility in opinion, perception, imagination or self-expression. At its best,
this figure can generate an atmosphere of seeking new information and ways to
apply it, which feeds and expands your vision of what lies ahead. Since this
figure usually indicates insecurity or uncertainty, it could also be used as an
excuse to pressure others into agreeing with you or doing things your way,
instead of allowing that uncertainty to feed your curiosity and quest for new
insights.
There is also a Grand Cross forming in the
skies (described in detail below). Its
influence during this lunar cycle will be to push you into taking action that
focuses on concrete results in the short-run, as well as the long-term
implications. That means doing what is necessary to ensure your pragmatic needs
are met in the here-and-now, but also with an eye to the vast changes that will
unfold over the next several years.
In general, all these aspect figures bring together a
lot of disjointed thoughts, ideas, possibilities, feelings, motives, choices,
beliefs, desires, urges, actions and dreams. When different ingredients are
mixed together, they can be clumpy and uneven at first, as well as hard to stir.
Don't be discouraged if you run into problems, obstacles or sporadic movement in
your progress. Keep gently stirring the pot, patiently dissolve the lumps when
you come across them, and keep a beautiful picture of what you're "cooking up"
within sight. A personal astrology reading
can help you dissolve the lumps and keep moving.
Aug.20-29 Grand Cross aspect pattern
This Grand Cross began as a T-square aspect pattern on
Aug.08, with Mars T-squaring the
Mercury-Saturn conjunction on one side and Uranus on the other. Mars has now
moved into orb to oppose Pluto, which means Pluto now forms the 4th corner of
the box figure that we call a Grand Cross.
Mercury is really the star of this show because
it holds this aspect pattern together. It also pulls Saturn into the pattern,
giving us a preview of the powerful Saturn-Uranus-Pluto T-square coming in 2010.
Saturn still lags behind in Virgo, not quite close enough to truly square Pluto
(but it's close � give it another month or two). As Mercury moves through the
zone of opposing Uranus and squaring Pluto and Mars, it is still conjunct
Saturn. As a result, Saturn participates in the Grand Cross by "translation of
light" through its conjunction with Mercury.
Mercury is up for the task, being well placed in its
own sign of Virgo. This powerful Mercury conjunct Saturn strengthens analytical,
logical, structured and organized thought. If you're trying to manifest a plan,
this energy will support the precision, practicality and methodology that you
need to make it work. If you want to create something artistic, it will help you
keep focused on the results you're trying to create and not get sidetracked. If
you tend to be intuitive or non-rational, this energy is likely to feel a bit
uncomfortable but it can help keep you grounded with one foot on the ground.
The catch (there's always a catch...) is that
Mercury/Saturn, Mars, Pluto and Uranus are all pulling in different directions
with the force of a team of Clydesdale horses.
It will take sturdy discipline, rooted focus, strength of self and heartfelt
resolve to keep from being pulled out of your centre. However, you can't simply
be stubborn, strict or arbitrary in the decisions you make and expect that this
will do the trick. In fact, doing that is more likely to make a bad decision
worse and take you farther away from what you're trying to achieve.
Ultimately, you will need to walk the walk, talk the
talk and take the journey one mindful step at a time. There is quite a bit of
intensity in the air, which could move into obsession or addiction if it's not
balanced out with patience and realism. It's also important to be able to
distinguish the inner intuitive voice that has your best interests at heart from
the voice of temptation that keeps you stuck in deceptively safe, familiar
behaviour.
On Aug.25-26, this energy could spike as 3 of the 4
points form an exact T-square, all at 0 degrees of Cardinal signs: Mars
in Cancer, Mercury in Libra and Pluto in Capricorn. This could be a time of
decisive action that breaks free of old patterns, or of obsessive thinking that
is overly determined to have its own way. This T-square actually continues until
about Sept.06, just in time for Mercury to turn retrograde on Sep.07. This
suggests you should keep your decisions flexible and your options open, since
Mercury retrograde usually brings new information and possibilities that lead to
adjustments.
In general, this Grand Cross is a predecessor of the
very powerful T-square that is coming in 2010 of Saturn, Uranus and Pluto in
Cardinal signs (Libra, Aries and Capricorn, respectively). What you do with the
Grand Cross energy now will help to lay the foundation for the huge push for
change that is coming next year. Choose your direction wisely with the long-term
implications in mind.
Aug.21 � Mercury opposite Uranus (25:39 of Virgo/Pisces)
This is a wakeup call! You are asked to open your mind
so that you can see something about your life, yourself or your situation that
has eluded you until now. It might be a shocking revelation that changes your
whole perspective...or it might also be a delightful surprise that adds a new
dimension you hadn't thought of. However it manifests, you are in a position to
see your situation more clearly and objectively � although this can also make it
seem like this energy is outside of you and happening TO you. However, if you
look closely inside yourself, you may see thoughts, perceptions and impressions
that correspond to the external events and participate in the interchange.
Emails, Internet chats, and interaction with technology may be part of this
transit as well. Communication may be a bit erratic or unpredictable, so be
careful not to speak thoughtlessly or carelessly. However, you may find that
words and perceptions come to you intuitively and spontaneously.
Aug.21 � North Lunar Node enters Capricorn (until Mar.03.2011)
(Aug.22 in AU)
The true lunar nodes now change signs, which they do
approximately every 19 months. (The true lunar nodes are measured more precisely
than the mean nodes whose positions are averaged. Both types of nodes move in
retrograde motion or backwards through the zodiac.) The North node now moves
into Capricorn from Aquarius, while the South node (always exactly opposite the
North node) moves into Cancer from Leo. The most obvious result of this is that
the eclipses will now occur in Cancer and Capricorn, whereas they have been
primarily in Leo and Aquarius since Dec. 2007.
The North node shows where we're heading. It's where
we need to develop skills, abilities and personal growth. The South node is
where we're coming from and what we're moving away from. It's sometimes thought
of as a place of undoing if we get stuck there.
The North node in Capricorn challenges us to cultivate
a sense of authority, responsibility and maturity. In Capricorn we develop
skills and experience, thereby increasing self-confidence and adequacy. The
South node in Cancer suggests it's time to let go of our need to look to someone
else for permission to do what we feel is best, and instead to become our own
parent.
The South node is now at 29� of Cancer, where it stays
until around Sep.09. What is interesting about this is that during this time it
conjoins the degree of the Total Solar Eclipse in Cancer that took place on
July 21 (exactly conjunct it on Sep.05).
This could bring that eclipse's energy into focus, particularly what we need to
let go of in order to become more independent, self-sufficient and autonomous.
Be on the lookout for feelings and experiences that bring out a more dependent,
vulnerable or needy part of you that needs extra support. It doesn't mean you
can't or shouldn't turn to others for encouragement, nurturing or caring, but
perhaps it will be helpful to be the first person you turn to when you're
feeling insecure, lonely or vulnerable. In other words, try being your own
parent a little more than usual.
Aug.22 � Venus trine Uranus (25:36 of Cancer/Pisces)
(Aug.23 in UK, AU)
Spontaneity and liberation burst into your
relationships, finances, resources and pleasures. You might feel compelled to
try something completely different that shakes up the "same-old-same-old"
routines you're used to. The upside is that you have the opportunity to break
free of some old habits and breathe some fresh air into your life. But the
downside could come in the form of impulse spending beyond your budget, or
recklessness in your interactions and relationships. Strive to break free of
what holds you back from being your true self, without destroying the structure
of order in your life.
Aug.22 � Sun enters Virgo (until Sep.22) (Aug.23 in
UK, AU)
Happy Solar Return to all Virgos! While the Sun is in
Virgo, we are all honorary Virgos. You are encouraged to clean out the toxins in
your body and mind. Organise and tidy up your life, in whatever ways it is "a
mess." And take stock of the ways you give service and make a contribution to
the world around you. Take some time to pay attention to the details and
precision of what you do, and appreciate how much you can do with very little.
During this transit, organisation, useful procedures and practical application
come together to form the key that opens the door to effectiveness, efficiency
and improvement. This is a good time to adopt a service-oriented attitude,
whether that involves being helpful to someone else or dedicated to your own
healing and betterment. You could volunteer your time. Or, perform some "random
acts of kindness." Or, just do something nice for someone. Projects and problem
solving may work a bit better if you take an analytical, methodical approach to
them (rather than intuitive or guessing). This is a good time to assimilate and
"digest" the results of any preparation you've been doing toward a project, goal
or production. Weed out what doesn't work and what doesn't support your efforts,
and then reorganise and simplify whatever is left. Just don't get so carried
away that you throw away something that's important to you or your goals.
Aug.23 � Sun trine Pluto (00:45 of Virgo/Capricorn)
(Aug.24 in AU)
Your sense of purpose is strong now, as you are able
to tap into a deeper level of energy and determination. Your personality is
likely to be more forceful now, which can be great if you need to make a strong
impression but perhaps not so much in situations requiring delicacy or subtlety.
Your ability to see below the surface of things is especially clear, and it may
be possible to unearth secrets or get at the core of unconscious patterns (yours
or others'). This is a time when your personal presence may come across as
somewhat "larger than life," so you need to remember that a little goes a long
way during this transit. This could be a time when you suddenly find the
strength to stand up and assert your personal power in a situation that has felt
overwhelming or discouraging. On the other hand, if you are still struggling to
learn how to own your power, without using nuclear bombs to make your point, you
may still feel a bit overwhelmed or daunted by this transit. In that case, take
smaller steps and don't try to push the river.
Aug.25 � Mars enters Cancer (until Oct.16) (Aug.26 in
AU)
The fiery energy of Mars is poured through the
sensitive, emotional waters of Cancer. This is not the easiest placement for
Mars, since its sharp edge becomes somewhat softened and diluted. However, this
is also a time when it is possible to use your assertive and proactive energy
for the protection of yourself or others. This is like the mother bear that can
become extremely fierce when protecting her young, and in the same way you have
an abundance of energy to defend your "children" � literally or figuratively, in
the sense of creative projects, loved ones, your Inner Child, or your home
"nest." This is also a time when deep emotional issues may erupt to the surface,
like buried anger, repressed frustration or unconscious fear. The focus of your
feelings may be a little unstable and moody, but it also gives you an
opportunity to nurture, vent and express those feelings. Observe how you respond
to any deep feelings that emerge, either in yourself or in others. Does your
Inner Parent try to repress or scold that Inner Child, or are you able to
respond lovingly, caringly and sensitively? This is a learning experience that
can teach you how to nurture yourself ...and others.
Aug.25 � Mercury enters Libra (until Sep.17)
Mercury glides into Libra, bringing awareness and new
ideas about your style of interaction and how you communicate with others. It
may be easier to speak (and listen) with gentleness, fairness and diplomacy
during this time. Thoughts, ideas, communication and negotiation could reach a
state of increased balance and harmony, and you may be especially sensitive to
other people and your environment. You could be more motivated to balance
criticism or anger with gentleness and diplomacy. On the other hand, interaction
could also become a carefully crafted game in which truth, honesty and facts are
replaced by manipulative strategy and "white lies" designed to avoid hurt
feelings. Indecision and "fence sitting" are possible under this transit, since
you are able than usual to see many different sides of a situation. It might
help to bounce your ideas and thoughts off someone who can be a good sounding
board and give you feedback. It may be easier now to reach a win-win solution to
conflicts, which is fair to all concerned � but be careful you don't make
incorrect or self-serving assumptions about what the other side wants.
Mercury will go retrograde while in Libra, on Sep.07,
then dip back into Virgo again until Oct.09 when it re-enters Libra again.
Aug.25 � Mercury square Mars (00:17 of Libra/Cancer)
(Aug.26 in UK, AU)
Fiery speech, argument and hot debate characterise
this transit. This could come in the form of conflict, or it might be
stimulating and challenging � or both! One thing to watch out for is that you
may have a short fuse for a temper, and the same may be true for others around
you. It can be a time when you blurt out things you later regret, or you might
finally find the courage to do something that's long overdue. The problem is
that one can easily look like the other, and what feels like courage in the
moment might look more like reckless haste in retrospect. Harsh words can't
always be taken back, so keep a grip on your objectivity and better judgment
while you're verbally fighting the dragons. Use this energy to stoke your
motivational fires, and use your ideas to generate positive action. It can help
to pace your mental energy like racing a horse, which can harness abundant
energy to fuel your decisions, courage and resolve.
This is the first of three passes: Aug.25, Sep.03,
Nov.01
Aug.26 � Venus opposite North Lunar Node (29:42 of Cancer/Capricorn)
This is a good time to let go of the "things" you
don't need anymore. It's a time to release your creativity and transform them
into new resources and assets. This could mean cleaning out your closets and
selling the discards in a yard sale, for example. You might decide to change
your hair style or something else about your appearance. Perhaps you discover
that you're making a different impression on people than you intended, and this
leads to a revision of your social skills. Or you could get feedback from
someone close to you that challenges you to change your self-image. Something
(or someone) that has been prominent in your life � in relationships, pleasure,
partnerships, finances, possessions, beauty or appearance � is ready to be let
go. You might need to say good-bye to someone you've been close to because the
relationship isn't working anymore � or you might find you're able to let go of
feelings that have been blocked and give yourself to a connection with someone.
You might simply assimilate it into the background where it is no longer "front
and centre," or you might need to cut ties altogether. Or, you could be ready to
express something that has been brewing for a while, like creative
self-expression or giving someone feedback. "Don't throw the baby out with the
bathwater" (as our grandmothers used to say), but be on the lookout for
something that is ready to subside from your priority list.
Aug.26 � Mercury square Pluto (00:43 of
Libra/Capricorn) (Aug.27 in AU)
You are faced now with a challenge to empower your
communication and perceptions, although this may not come easily. It could
involve having to face some rather difficult truths that might be a bit
disturbing or hard to accept. However in doing so, you gain a deeper
understanding and acceptance of yourself, your situation and your role within
it. Obsessive or persistent thoughts that are morbid or paranoid are possible,
which could be helped by finding something more positive to focus on or a
creative outlet. Communication (from others or yourself or both) could be
intense, intimidating or even downright damaging, since it may be tempting to
get caught up in power struggles and domination. But communication can also be
used now to heal, by cutting through hypocrisy and insincerity in order to reach
a deeper authenticity and truth � like lancing a boil so that healing can take
place.
Due to Mercury going retrograde on Sep.07, this is the
first of three passes: Aug.26, Sep.17 and Oct.10.
Aug.26 � Venus enters Leo (until Sep.20) (Aug.27 in AU)
This can be a very creative time, as Venus' love of
beauty combines with Leo's creative flair for the dramatic. Find ways to feel
good by making your surroundings and yourself beautiful and reflective of your
inner spirit! High fashion and vogue style are "in," and crudeness and
ordinariness are out...unless you want to turn them into a fashion statement.
;-) However, it's probably wise not to become so identified with the outer
appearance of yourself or others that you lose sight of the person, situation or
context that it's all happening in. The aim is to pamper yourself with pleasures
that enhance your quality of life, without inflating your ego with synthetic
self-esteem and glamour without substance. Relationships, interaction, finances,
values and resources all need to include ways to express your identity, valour
and "heart." Some light-hearted fun and play can be a good place to start.
Aug.26 � Mars opposite Pluto (00:43 of Cancer/Capricorn)
(Aug.27 in AU)
Mars and Pluto doing battle in the skies can create a
very intense showdown! This is a time when tempers can flare, power struggles
can emerge, and aggressive action could seem like the only way to handle a
conflict. If you feel yourself becoming entangled in a mounting tension with
someone, you might do well to back off a bit to let the adrenaline subside on
both sides. On the other hand, it is a time when we are often challenged to
assert ourselves and strengthen our spirit, which can often be brought on by
confrontation. This is the kind of atmosphere where our interactions with others
can bring out deeply hidden and intense feelings inside us, which long to be
expressed but are usually suppressed instead. This is an opportunity to observe
what gets triggered inside of us and what kind of interaction triggers those
feelings. It can be valuable to use the experience as a way to vent old
frustration, work through unresolved anger, and ultimately heal our deeper
wounds by letting go of whatever holds us back. Sexual energy can run very high
under this transit, so handle it wisely.
Aug.30-Sep.11 � Arrowhead aspect pattern
This aspect figure can bring difficulty in expressing
your dreams, aspirations and potential because your thoughts, ideas and
awareness are in conflict with your anger, assertiveness and actions. Argument,
disagreement and conflicts of interest could interrupt the flow of harmony and
healing that you are striving to achieve. Conflicts or the need for
problem-solving could arise from seemingly minor or insignificant points, and it
may be more the principle or implications of what you're disagreeing about that
are the deeper problem.
This aspect figure involves the Mercury-Mars square
as it travels through the early degrees of Libra and Cancer. These planets form
a sesquiquadrate (135� or "a square and a half" so to speak) to the
Jupiter-Chiron-Neptune conjunction in Aquarius. Normally the Arrowhead
doesn't last very long but in this case it moves through all 3 planets in
Aquarius, which lengthens its shelf life.
In addition, Mercury is slowing down and goes
retrograde on Sep.07 and stretches out the life of this aspect pattern that
way too. Since Mercury turns retrograde at the end of this pattern's lifespan,
it wouldn't be surprising for conflicts or problem-solving to lead to a more
serious need for renegotiation or a need to rethink the whole premise of the
problem throughout September.
At its best, this aspect figure can lead you to
fine-tune your plans and point of view so that you see things more clearly. This
energy could also be used constructively through writing and other forms of
communication that require you to take a broad, philosophical or spiritual look
at life. Take the disagreements and turn them into a stimulating debate that
expands everyone's understanding of the principles and concepts involved.
Sep.03 � Mercury square Mars (05:37 of
Libra/Cancer) (Sep.04 in AU)
Fiery speech, argument and hot debate characterise
this transit. This could come in the form of conflict, or it might be
stimulating and challenging -- or both! One thing to watch out for is that you
may have a short fuse for a temper, and the same may be true for others around
you. It can be a time when you blurt out things you later regret, or you might
finally find the courage to do something that's long overdue. The problem is
that one can easily look like the other, and what feels like courage in the
moment might look more like reckless haste in retrospect. Harsh words can't
always be taken back, so keep a grip on your objectivity and better judgment
while you're verbally fighting the dragons. Use this energy to stoke your
motivational fires, and use your ideas to generate positive action. It can help
to pace your mental energy like racing a horse, which can harness abundant
energy to fuel your decisions, courage and resolve.
This is the second of three passes of this transit:
Aug.25, Sep.03 and Nov.01. However, Mercury is not yet retrograde, which would
normally be the case for the second pass of this transit. Instead, Mercury is
slowing down to turn retrograde (Sep.07), so it is Mars that forms the aspect to
Mercury, rather than the usually-faster Mercury applying to Mars. Mars moves on
as Mercury retraces its steps in retrograde motion throughout September. Mercury
takes an unusually long time to catch up to square Mars again on Nov.01. Because
of this, it's possible that disagreements, conflicts and problem-solving that
arise during this time may not be entirely resolved until early November.
Therefore, it may be wise to keep your reactions balanced, diplomatic, discreet
and as patient as possible (which may not be an easy task under this energy),
since you might be mulling over the issues for a while. You don't want to
rethink your perspective only to have to eat your words 2 months down the road.
Try not to burn any bridges or leave scorched earth behind you or make any
impulsive decisions now that you can't undo or change down the road. If you
really feel you need to make a break of things now and can't wait until
November, it may be wise to err on the side of gentleness, sensitivity and
flexibility.
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Sabian Symbol for the
Full Moon in Pisces
Pisces 13
A sword in a museum.
In Tarot cards, the suite of Swords usually represents the
element of Air. Like the currently stationary Mercury, swords are the ideas,
thoughts and words that can slice through the outer layers of an experience
and cut to the heart of the matter.
And yet, the sword is a weapon of war and conflict,
which is the territory of Mars. So this Sabian Symbol
("What's a Sabian Symbol?")
echoes the Mercury-Mars square that is active at the Full Moon. Thoughts,
ideas and words can be used either to wound or to clear away obstructions
that stand in the way of the truth.
A museum is a place where we put things of value and
meaning on display, often from significant events in the past. This is a
place of honour, preservation or commemoration. It suggests that how we use
that sword will be remembered, and we may even become known by what we
achieve with it�good or bad.
A sword in a museum also implies past battles. This
could be a time when the memory of certain past conflicts hover in your
awareness. The "sword" might be your own or that of an adversary, meaning
you might be a bit haunted by your own victories�or your defeats.
This symbol also suggests that if you're looking for
inspiration or insight about how to solve a current problem, you might find
a hint about the answer in your past experience. Perhaps you've already been
down this road before in some form, and you can draw from your
accomplishments or your mistakes from the past.
Find out more about the Sabian Symbols in these
recommended books:
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Sep.04 � FULL MOON in PISCES (12:15 of Pisces)
This Full Moon is both stressful and dynamic! We have
the remnants of the recent Grand Cross still
lingering, although by now it's more like two T-squares (more on that later).
Most of the aspects happening right now are oppositions (180°), squares (90°)
and sesqui-quadrates (135°), all of which hinge on conflict, stress and tension,
as well as the motivation and energy that are generated from friction. On top of
this, Mercury is virtually stationary, getting ready to turn retrograde in 3
days, and therefore starting to turn everyday matters on their heads (more on
that too).
What's a tender, gentle Pisces Moon to do?
Well for starters, the Pisces Full Moon is
polarized with the Virgo Sun. From this we have a divide between what is
specific (Virgo) and what is ambiguous (Pisces); between the practical
application of self-made concrete solutions and the idealization of faith and
trust. With stationary Mercury ruling the Sun's sign of Virgo, those concrete
solutions aren't likely to go as smoothly or efficiently as Virgo would like.
That leaves us having to rely more on faith in the Universe's ability to provide
the support that we need, although with Mercury about to retrograde this is
likely to be a bit scattered and unpredictable. That's when our faith is tested.
Pisces is ultimately about our connection to
spiritual Source, whether you see that as luck or universal energy or God(s) or
the Cosmic Muffin. Everyone believes in
something. Even an atheist typically believes in physics and the dependability
of logic and reason. Sagittarius is similar to this but has more to do with
belief systems, religious traditions and the application of principles in our
lives. Pisces is about the spiritual wellspring from which those beliefs and
principles come.
It is what you imagine to be the Source of all
existence. I say "imagine" because no matter how certain you may be about what
that is, your way of perceiving it and understanding it may not be literally
accurate. Your perception of that Source is likely to be filtered through
knowledge and experiences that are understandable to you; yet that same Source
comes to someone else in a different culture, for example, through a different
filter of knowledge and experiences�but it's the same Source. As the
Tao Te Ching
says, "The Tao that can be told is not the eternal Tao."
So, what do you imagine about the Universe? How do you
experience your personal connection to All That Is?
These are important questions, especially this year.
The Jupiter-Neptune-Chiron conjunction is challenging all of us to reach
inside ourselves to discover a deeper level of connection to the Universe.
Jupiter and Neptune are the traditional and modern planetary rulers of Pisces,
so this Full Moon is acting as a powerful channel for this long-term spiritual
quest.
Is your faith being put to the test right now? There
are many theories about how to deal with this kind of situation. Some people put
their faith in a Higher Power and trust that their needs will be provided for.
Faith is a key ingredient in this recipe. The challenge is to settle into a
position of patience when you feel like you're drumming your fingers waiting for
the Universe to get around to you � otherwise known as "God grant me patience,
but hurry!"
Another approach is summed up as "you create your own
reality." In other words, whatever you focus on, that's what you'll get. It
provides a hopeful solution to a crisis of faith � if you don't like your
reality, you can change it by focusing on something else. The problem with this
is that sometimes it's hard to believe in something better when you're busy
trying to deal with the reality you don't want. Or, as it was once phrased:
"When you're up to your ass in alligators, it's difficult to remember that your
initial objective was to drain the swamp."
The test of this kind of faith becomes a question of:
how do you shift your focus and still deal with the reality in front of you?
Each person's answer to this will be a bit different. You can try meditation as
a way to unlock your mindset from its focus on the problematic reality, thus
making room for something new to come in. Sometimes just taking a walk or doing
something different for a while can achieve the same effect.
Getting away from your usual experience of something
has Mercury retrograde written all over it. Mercury goes retrograde from
Sep.07-29�and believe me, we're in the gravity of it now! Mercury starts off
this cycle in Libra, the sign of relationships, love and beautification. Finding
a loved one to "take you away from it all" could be a valuable resource right
now. Or, you might decide to redecorate the tree house or other tranquil places
of seclusion and respite. Or, in the case of having to make a particularly
difficult decision, you might discover that indecision is your best friend right
now and put off decisions entirely until October when Mercury is direct. (Just
be prepared to live with the problem in the meantime, if you can.)
 Making decisions and negotiating resolutions to problems is complicated right
now by the Mars-Pluto-Mercury T-square, which is a remnant from the Grand
Cross that dominated our skies during the last part of August. A lot of people
reported low physical and mental energy during that time, which can probably be
blamed on Mars. Thankfully this is gradually dissipating, although we're not out
of the woods yet, so keep getting plenty of sleep and rest and eat your veggies.
;-) If your physical energy is seriously low, consider checking with your doctor
for conditions like low iron.
Part of this lingering T-square is the Mercury-Mars
square (90�). It is now separating (exact just a day ago,
Sep.03) but with Mercury being
stationary during this transit, its conflict energy is likely to be skulking in
the background during the retrograde cycle. It's best to be diplomatic now in
any conflicts or disagreements, so that you don't have to deal with the
indigestion later from eating your words.
We also have the Mercury-Pluto square which
remains in orb as Mercury stations retrograde and gives us 3 passes (Aug.26,
Sep.17 and Oct.10). We effectively have a very intense Mercury-Pluto square for
about 3 weeks from late August to mid-September. This strongly underscores the
need to be diplomatic and to think before you speak. At its worst, Mercury
square Pluto can be vindictive, cruel, jealous and prone to seeing conspiracies
lurking in every shadow (whether they're really there or not). It could make it
easier to give a voice to deep-seated rage. It could also lock that rage deep
inside where it simmers as if in a pressure cooker, until it blows like a
volcano, so it's very important to have a safe place to vent your feelings,
anger and impulses. A private personal journal can be extremely helpful during
this kind of energy, since you can write whatever you need to without anyone
else seeing it.
On the other hand, Mercury-Pluto can also bring
penetrating insight, as well as the ability to identify, address and work
through difficult issues. You might not like what you see at first, but you will
find gems of wisdom hidden inside it. It could even be a time of significant
breakthrough in your personal transformation and growth, especially if you have
a good therapist, counsellor or spiritual advisor to work with.
 The
other remnant of the Grand Cross is the wide but growing Saturn-Uranus-Pluto
T-square. This won't reach its peak until 2010 but we are starting to feel
its energy now through the mounting tensions related to the global economic
crisis and the growing frustration and cynicism about how to fix it. There is a
social revolution building that seems, at least in part, to be focusing on the
polarization between "conservative" (Saturn) and "liberal" (Uranus) approaches
to our world's problems. Expect to see a lot more of this over the next several
years, as we wrestle with how to carry out necessary changes on many levels with
minimal destruction of the underlying fabric that supports what has already been
developed.
The Mercury-Mars square continues to form an
Arrowhead aspect pattern pointing at Jupiter and Chiron (and Neptune seeps
into the energy through the multiple conjunction), which is in orb
Aug.30-Sep.11. This pattern echoes the
challenge of focusing on the swamp when you're up to your ass in alligators. At
its worst, this figure could bring out the impulse to clobber someone over the
head with (what you believe is) "The Truth" during an argument and risk causing
lasting damage to your relationship with them. However, at its best it suggests
that by keeping your gaze fixed on the healing power of faith in the bigger
picture, it can guide you to "take the high road" in disagreements with others.
Whether this involves growing some patience (and short-circuiting your
temptation to snap at the person) or foregoing the conflict altogether by
choosing your battles, it may be wisest to let your higher principles guide you.
If you feel yourself tipping back and forth between
your hastier impulses and your broader perspective, don't be hard on yourself.
The planets are facing off in a "see-saw" pattern (meaning some are on
one side of the zodiac and the rest are on the other side). This can give you a
kind of swinging pendulum effect. The best way to deal with this is to go with
it, but use each extreme as an opportunity to expand your awareness by seeing
both the pros and cons of each side. Eventually you will be able to stretch your
"peripheral vision" to embrace both sides and bridge the gap.
If you need some extra encouragement right now, seek
out the support of a counsellor, mentor or spiritual advisor. A
personal astrology reading is great for
this because it can reconnect you with your strength and a vision for the
future. If you're seriously stuck in depression, despair or hopelessness, don't
be afraid to seek out professional help � there's no shame in needing extra
support during hard times.
Paradoxically, one of the best ways to pull yourself
out of the doldrums is to find someone else that you can give some support to.
Pisces is big on providing compassionate help to others, and the best part is
that you get to keep some of that energy that you provide to others. It may or
may not be a permanent solution for you, but it can at least break the habit of
pessimism which is definitely worth the effort!
Mercury now goes retrograde for the next 3+ weeks. For
up to a week before and after today, Mercury is moving very slowly or stopped
during the station. During this time, you may experience intensity, frustration,
confusion, miscommunications, or feel like you're getting bogging down in your
progress. Mercury retrograde is usually a time when it is best to rethink,
rehash, reflect, and tie up old loose ends, rather than begin new ventures. It
is typical for new insights and information to emerge later in the retrograde
cycle that you didn't anticipate, which can change the whole picture. Because of
this, it is usually advised to avoid making final or permanent decisions (e.g.,
signing contracts or putting new projects into action), during the retrograde
and even up to 2 weeks after Mercury goes direct. However, it is an excellent
time to do fact-finding, research and investigation to prepare for major
decisions, which are usually best put off until well after Mercury goes direct.
In the meantime, while Mercury is retrograde, expect the unexpected, and leave
lots of extra time when planning your schedule (to minimize any disruptions from
delays and complications). Stay flexible; for example, it's common to have to
reschedule appointments. Do some things that use your intuitive, creative,
non-rational mind for a while until Mercury goes direct again.
Mercury is retrograde in Libra, which can lead
you to reconsider choices you thought you had already made. Agreements with
others (especially those close to you) might need to be renegotiated or
adjusted. It may become important to discuss issues with your partner or spouse
that have been lurking in the background but now become foremost in your mind.
It might be difficult to know how to be diplomatic, sensitive or gentle in your
style of communication. For example, which is kinder -- to say something
difficult and risk hurting the person, or to avoid saying it and risk telling a
"lie of omission" and damaging their trust? You may be faced with these kinds of
choices that have no clear answer, yet you must decide which path to take. You
might find you can listen better under this transit, yet you could find it
difficult to verbalize or give feedback about what you hear. At its worst,
indecision could become paralyzing, as each choice seems to create more problems
than it solves. It might seem like you can only "pick your poison" and deal with
the consequences. It's probably wise to wait until well after Mercury has gone
direct before you make any important decisions, in this case. If that's not
possible, it may help to talk to someone you feel comfortable with who is good
at simplifying and organising things.
Sep.11 � Venus opposite Jupiter (18:46 of
Leo/Aquarius)
This is a time when your desire for pleasure is wide
open. Sexual desire could reach out using seduction. Desire for delightful
tastes could become overindulgence in foods that may not be in the best interest
of your health (e.g., sweets, alcohol, etc.). Spending can be impulsive and
easily grow beyond your budget. Money-making opportunities could spill over into
workaholic obsession. It might feel like nothing is "enough" and you feel
compelled to continually reach out for more and more -- a bottomless well of
desire. On the other hand, this energy can also bring out your natural beauty
and charm in social situations if you are shy or inhibited. If you've done your
research and your comparative shopping, this could be the time you make a big
purchase. Or you might find the feeling is right to make your move with a love
interest and expand your intimate connection with that person. Or perhaps you
feel generous and decide to donate your money or talents to a cause that reaches
for a higher purpose. Enjoy, but don't blow your budget.
For about a week before and after, you may experience
energy that is intense, compelling and transformative, as Pluto changes
direction to its normal forward motion. If you've been going through deep,
cathartic changes in your life over the last 6 months to a year, you may find
that this station brings a shift in how you are able to approach those changes.
This might be a time when you feel the weight of power struggles or loss in your
life, but it can also be a time when you find empowering strength in yourself
that you didn't know you had. Above all, it is a time when your deepest, most
authentic Self can start to emerge and be reborn anew..
Sep.14 � Venus opposite Chiron (22:17 of Leo/Aquarius)
You may be extra sensitive to other people's
suffering, struggles or dilemmas under this transit. Your own ongoing issues in
relationships or finances may undergo a kind of "healing crisis" in which you
endure increased problems and must use extra tolerance, compromise or
negotiation to keep things from collapsing into a worse state. At the same time,
you may be able to reach a new level of acceptance and peace -- not necessarily
by solving the problems, but by letting go of the struggles that are not as
important as you thought and by making the best of the ones that are left. Other
people or outside circumstances may give you a push in this direction, which
might feel at first like old wounds are being opened up. But this is an
opportunity to find new ways to bring healing and balance to old problems,
especially using tolerance, compromise and acceptance.
Sep.14-18 � Irritation Rectangle aspect pattern
This
is a subtle yet intense aspect pattern, named by Bruno and Louise Huber and
discussed in their book Aspect Pattern Astrology.
It is composed of the Saturn-Uranus opposition and Venus
opposed Neptune/Chiron, with all corners joined by semi-sextiles (30�) and
quincunxes (150�). The semi-sextile and quincunx aspects tend to generate
irritation, agitation and experiences of paradox, and therefore also a quest to
gain greater awareness and understanding. The criss-crossing oppositions hold
tension and conflict that often indicate the source of the irritation.
In this case, this includes the Saturn-Uranus
opposition, which can raise issues of responsibility versus freedom,
conservatism versus liberalism, obligation versus adventure, or logic versus
intuition. It also involves Venus opposite Neptune and Chiron, which points to
questions about dreams versus illusions in love, what you dream about versus
what you have, and whether your self-image is a reflection of true
self-acceptance or insecure imagination.
The Irritation Rectangle is likely to be most powerful
on Sep.16 when all participating planets are at 24�. In addition, the Moon
conjoins Venus and the Sun conjoins Saturn on the same day, injecting extra
energy into this complex pattern. Expect increased emotional sensitivity (for
example, empathy or psychic senses) combined with decisions or obligations that
require you to be responsible and productive.
Sep.15 � Saturn opposite Uranus (24:42 of
Virgo/Pisces)
Responsibility and common sense face off against
revolution and vision under this transit. These energies mix together like
fireworks inside a small room! The fact that they're in an opposition aspect
(180�) only amplifies their differences. However, you can get them to complement
each other provided you don't get locked into thinking that one must win out
over the other. It's tempting to get stuck in one extreme or the other, thinking
that it's a contest about which is the "better" planet/approach/candidate/path.
At their worst, they can create a war between the past and the future, between
rigid conformity and chaotic rebellion, or between needing others' approval to
feel good about yourself versus being so independent that you can't allow
yourself to connect with others.
At best, this is about negotiating a cooperative
balance between these extremes. Saturn contributes stability and caution, which
provides balance with the flexibility and foresight of Uranus. When these two
energies work together well, they can produce lasting change that opens up old
structures and allows room for future growth. Uranus inspires you to open
yourself to your best unique potential, while Saturn provides a solid foundation
on which to express it.
Saturn and Uranus come into opposition about every 46
years. So for many of my viewers, either you weren't alive when it happened last
(in 1965-67) or you might not remember it very well. The last opposition took
place in the tumultuous 60s, when the radical youth faced off against the aging
"establishment." It also combined with the infamous Uranus-Pluto conjunction
which also fuelled the dramatic changes that began in the 60s. Over the next few
years we are approaching the square aspect between Uranus and Pluto, which
indicates a major turning point in the processes that began with the
conjunction. The Saturn-Uranus opposition is the prelude and perhaps the
facilitator of that turning point.
The dramatic disruptions and changes we are seeing
now�economically, socially, politically and ecologically�are the early rumblings
of long-term change. This will unfold both collectively and individually over
the next 2 years. Trying to control or hold it back (Saturn) will only amplify
the reactionary result (Uranus). On the other hand, just giving up and letting
the chaos run wild (Uranus) will only send us crashing headlong into reality and
harsh consequences (Saturn). Both sides must have a say in what happens.
This is the third of 5 passes:
Nov.04.2008,
Feb.05.2009, Sep.15.2009, Apr.26.2010
and Jul.26.2010. It is likely to affect you most if you have any planets or
points in your natal chart between 19-29 degrees, particularly in the Mutable
signs (Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius, Pisces). This is a partial resolution point
in this long process. More important, it is the beginning of the powerful
T-square aspect pattern that will reach its closest in 2010. This T-square takes
us one more step into a 10-year turning point in the powerful process of
transformation that began in the 1960s. There will be more about this T-square
in the months to come. For now, you can learn more about how the Saturn-Uranus
opposition (and the coming T-square) is facilitating change in your life by
booking a personal astrology reading
with me.
Sep.15 � Venus opposite Neptune (24:19 of
Leo/Aquarius) (Sep.16 in AU)
Romance, idealism, fantasy and imagination are
blossoming into a bright aura right now, which is likely to influence your
relationships, interactions, finances and values -- for better or for worse!
Compassion, caring and selfless giving can be good ideals to aim for, as long as
you remember that ideals tend to lose some of their shiny glow when they're
translated into hard reality. If you forget this, the end result may be
disappointing or disillusioning. Disappointment may also indicate that there
have been hidden hopes or high expectations that no one can really live up to.
Aim to balance your innocence and longing with the judgement of your older,
wiser, mature self; and do a reality check with a trusted friend or adviser if
in doubt. That said, this can also be a very creative and inspiring time -- just
remember to keep one foot on the ground.
Sep.17 � Sun opposite Uranus (24:38 of Virgo/Pisces)
This transit brings an encounter with the Awakener!
This could come in the form of another person or outside situation that shakes
you out of your habitual routine and pushes you to try a new approach to your
situation. Life may be very unpredictable right now, requiring you to be
spontaneous, innovative or independent in the way you respond to it. This could
be stressful or exciting! It is actually showing you a new path in the darkness,
like a lightening flash in the night. If you feel startled or caught off guard,
or confused about what to do next, find your internal centre and try to be open
to what the situation is illuminating for you. You now have a chance to shed
some old habits and ways that you are stuck, if you can stay centered in the
middle of the whirlwind. You may experience revelations -- that "ah-ha!!"
feeling -- which could open up new possibilities and opportunities for you.
However, it might feel like you have little choice but to try these new things
(rather than freely choosing them). You could find yourself reacting to others
with a powerful impulse to throw off the shackles of anything that feels
restrictive, to reclaim your independence -- although this could also be
motivated by a fear of commitment or responsibility too. It is wise to check
your own inner motives, feelings and assumptions before automatically
dismissing, rejecting or rebelling against other people.
Sep.17 � Mercury retrograde square Pluto (00:40 of
Libra/Capricorn)
You are faced now with a challenge to empower your
communication and perceptions, although this may not come easily. It could
involve having to face some rather difficult truths that might be a bit
disturbing or hard to accept. However in doing so, you gain a deeper
understanding and acceptance of yourself, your situation and your role within
it. Obsessive or persistent thoughts that are morbid or paranoid are possible,
which could be helped by finding something more positive to focus on or a
creative outlet. Communication (from others or yourself or both) could be
intense, intimidating or even downright damaging, since it may be tempting to
get caught up in power struggles and domination. But communication can also be
used now to heal, by cutting through hypocrisy and insincerity in order to reach
a deeper authenticity and truth -- like lancing a boil so that healing can take
place.
This is the retrograde pass, which means the
situations that happened during the first pass (Aug.26) could repeat in some form. This might
happen literally, where there is unfinished business that must be dealt with. Or
the same themes might repeat in a different form, where the same dynamic emerges
in another situation. Obsessive thoughts may be especially persistent now, and
it will help to find a more positive focus or a creative outlet. Communication
is likely to be the primary vehicle for this, possibly in terms of argument or
intimidation. Your perception of the issues involved could also change
dramatically now, so that you are seeing hidden elements that you missed the
first time around. If this has brought a healing journey, this can be a time
when you must dig deep into the toxic issues to clean out old attitudes,
interactions or perceptions that need to be let go. It is important to keep
looking inward to what is being triggered in yourself, so that you don't wind up
getting stuck in "blame mode" or "paranoid mode." What you're seeing (in the
situation, the other person or yourself) might be difficult to accept, but by
keeping your eyes open you can see where it is possible to make changes.
Sep.17 � Sun conjunct Saturn (24:59 of Virgo)
(Sep.18 in AU)
For a few days before and after this date, you may
feel serious, studious, stuck, blocked, committed and/or hard working. It could
be a good time to manifest well prepared plans, or you might have to get real
and deal with difficult realities in new ways. You may have business with
authority figures, or you might be called upon to act in a leadership role. It
can also be a time to own your own authority -- that is, to BE the authority
figure, either to someone else or just to yourself. It might be a time of
decision, when you have to choose one path or option over another. This can feel
like an ending, as much as it is a new beginning, because selecting one
possibility means you must let go of the other possibilities (at least for now).
This is a necessary part of the process of manifestation and maturity. Doing
closure on the people and situations that are passing out of your life will help
to complete the process of growth and learning they have brought into your life,
and can help clear the space for something new to begin growing in their place.
Sep.17 � Mercury retrograde enters Virgo (until
Oct.09) (Sep.18 in UK, AU)
Mercury is retrograde in Virgo, which is likely to
affect how you work with analysis and organisation of ideas and information. On
one hand, you might get so bogged down in the details that analysis and
organisation become too fragmented (or too "anal") to be effective or
productive. On the other hand, you might find it easier to get at the detailed
level of things so that you can explore your situation in more depth. Those
details are probably best organised later into a cohesive whole, rather than
trying to take in the bigger picture now. You might find yourself having to be
of service in some way that is not usual for you. For example, you might feel
compelled to help someone when you'd rather not. Or you might see someone's
situation from a different perspective, leading you to want to do something to
help when you had decided not to in the past. You may need to rethink your
health strategy during this transit, especially if old health problems come back
to haunt. Or this can be a good time to really sit down and get real with
yourself about health issues you've been putting off dealing with. In this
sense, you are called on to be of service to yourself too.
Next Update: NEW MOON in VIRGO -
September 18, 2009 (Sep.19 in AU). Available by Sep.18.
� 2009 Wendy Guy. All rights reserved. This material
may not be copied without the author's written permission. Images of the
tree,
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