
November 2008
For the New
Moon Cycle in Scorpio : October 28/29 to November 27/28, 2008
Oct.28 �
NEW MOON in
SCORPIO (05:54 of Scorpio)
Scorpio! The sign of darkness,
passion, sexual energy, intensity, revenge and the scorpion's
sting. Its energy is wrapped in mystery, secrecy and shadow. And
death. Ah yes, Scorpio and death. There is perhaps no Zodiac
sign that is more feared�or more captivating.
How did Scorpio become associated with
death? Traditionally in the northern hemisphere (where western
astrology originated), October and November were a time when the
herds were culled. The weak, old and surplus animals were
slaughtered, allowing the limited stores of feed to keep alive
those animals that were strong enough to survive the cold
winter. Meat from the culled animals also gave the village
provisions to live on until the land came alive again in the
spring. The result was that during Scorpio, there was an awful
lot of death happening.
This was about survival�life and
death�but Scorpio goes much deeper than just physical existence.
It is about sacrificing that which is not essential, in order to
strengthen the whole. Our survival instincts guide us in coming
to grips with what is unnecessary, incompatible or simply past
its "best before" date. With this inevitably come deep, primal
feelings and experiences that can shake us to the core and
change our lives.
It is said that the veil between the
worlds of life and death are very thin while the Sun is in
Scorpio, probably in part because of the traditional prevalence
of death at this time of year. The dead and the living can
interact and communicate more easily than at virtually any other
time. This is where the
concept of Halloween began, with its ghosts and spirits and
"things that go bump in the night." Rooted in the Celtic holiday
Samhain (pronounced SOW-wen), this is a time of death that
supports the continuation of life, and is often considered to be
the Celtic New Year.
Mysteries
Around this time of year, the Greek
goddess Persephone (or Roman Proserpine) descends into the
Underworld � the place of the dead � to spend a few months with
her husband Hades (Pluto, and the modern planetoid associated
with Scorpio). While she is there, her mother Demeter (Ceres),
agricultural goddess, mourns her loss and walks the earth.
Winter descends as she refuses to allow anything to grow until
her daughter returns in the spring. This archetypal story is the
basis for the Eleusinian
Mysteries, which involved highly secret rituals of
initiation.
Scorpio is the gateway to the occult
mysteries. Death is truly one of life's Great Mysteries. One
minute the person is there, the next minute they are gone,
leaving only an empty body behind. Where do they go? Humanity
has invested enormous amounts of energy throughout its history
in seeking answers to this question. It is a testament to life's
prolific diversity and creativity that so many different answers
have been found, each with its own unique perspective on life.
And no matter which of those answers make sense to you
personally, they inevitably must grapple with the enigma of
life, death, rebirth and transformation.
These areas are not to be entered into
lightly, and are best done with the careful guidance of someone
who has the training, knowledge, empathy and life experience to
know the territory. Deep psychology lives in these realms. Just
as the Eleusinian Mysteries are about elevating the human spirit
to a state of higher vision, psychology at its best is a
combination of spiritual, emotional, intellectual and
experiential transformation that shines a light into the
darkness of the unknown. Whether we do it accompanied by a
therapist, counselor, spiritual advisor,
astrologer, soul mate or
our own inner wisdom, we all venture into that Underworld at
various times in our lives�usually under the influence of Pluto
transits!
Ultimately, Scorpio is about
transformation. It is the mysterious process by which the
caterpillar morphs into a butterfly, the sperm and egg gestate
into a new living being, and pain evolves into acceptance and
renewal. Transformation is the in-between phase where magic
takes place. You can't rush it, you can't force it and you can't
stay the same once you're in its grip. Change is inevitable�it's
a question of when and how.
Scorpio is the energy that initiates
us into that process, nurtures its progress and acts as midwife
to the rebirth. The darkness of Scorpio is seen by some as the
absence of light and good, but we could also look at it as the
darkness of the womb in which the magic of gestation takes place
until it is ready to emerge into the light. This lunar cycle can
be a time that initiates you into contact with your deeper
nature, or it could begin the breaking of the egg that brings
you back out into the world again.
Astrological Factors
The New Moon in Scorpio is
especially strong this time around. The traditional planetary
ruler, Mars, is in Scorpio, giving it a very intense
energy! This lunar cycle can encourage you and those around you
to delve deeply into your feelings and instincts. This might
come out a bit abruptly in the form of blunt speech or putting
too sharp an edge on the point you're trying to make. Mars and
Scorpio are about courage, empowerment and emotional strength �
precious inner resources that could also damage if used too
vigorously or without empathy.

Mars is forming one point in a Cradle aspect
configuration (repeated below from the last update). Saturn
and Uranus form the cross-piece of the Cradle, as they lurch
down the home stretch toward their first exact pass on Nov.04,
the US Election Day. (More about Saturn-Uranus below.) With this
being the cycle that includes the US Election Day, it is likely
to act as a lightning rod for all that intense Scorpio energy,
as well as the Saturn-Uranus combination!
The other two points of the Cradle can provide outlets for this
tense yet innovative energy. Mars contributes courage,
empowerment and the encouragement to immerse yourself in the
deep creativity, passion and piercing insight of Scorpio. At its
best, it can give you the motivation to take action (like
GET OUT AND VOTE!!).
At its worst, it could make you more sensitive to paranoid
imaginings and worst case scenarios, which might make aggression
and hostility into the outlet. Stay grounded by staying focused
on what's important in the immediate moment. Take time out from
intensity if it gets to be too much. Take a break. Take a walk.
Mars is sextile to Jupiter and Saturn, which will
hopefully provide the wisdom and responsibility needed to keep
that Scorpio passion within manageable limits.
Mars is also in a very tight square
to Chiron which stationed direct just 3 days ago and is
still a very strong energy. This suggests a potential for
healing�although this may not be exactly painless or pleasant.
Tender emotional buttons could get pushed, leading you to
over-react to what others say and do. This as an opportunity to
see things in a different, perhaps more detached light. This new
perspective could help you gain some emotional distance, giving
you a fresh understanding of what gets stirred up inside you and
what you really want. By tuning into your body, instincts and
feelings, you have the chance to grapple with the deeper levels
of these things, thereby bringing some healing energy into the
situation.
Venus forms a T-square aspect
figure to the Saturn-Uranus opposition (Oct.28-Nov.07; more on
this below). Your attempts to raise your equilibrium, worth,
values or interactions with other people up to a higher standard
or principle could be challenged by difficult and/or
unpredictable circumstances. It will help not to reach too far
beyond what you can grasp, but don't sell yourself (or the other
person) short either.
Lastly, Pluto is about to move into
Capricorn again on Nov.26 where it will stay until 2023.
This is the backdrop of deeper transformation that hovers behind
the more short-term changing landscape being shaped by the
Saturn-Uranus opposition. Change IS coming. The rumbling we have
felt recently is, I believe, the beginning of longer-term
change. Conditions are likely to shift back and forth over the
next 2 years, as the Saturn-Uranus opposition plays out and
deeper layers of change emerge. To rebuild something, you must
loosen the screws, take it apart and put it back together again.
This is a time of prioritizing what is worth keeping and what
needs to be replaced or restructured.
This current lunar cycle will see
which fork in the road we take, both collectively or
individually, which will affect what we find along our path. The
experience of the journey and how we travel down that road is as
important as which path we take. Turning back is not an option.
In front of you lies a choice. To choose wisely will require
awareness and acceptance of your most authentic Self, your
deepest passion, your strongest self-honesty, your highest
principles, your greatest vision, your truest commitment, your
most heartfelt courage and your willingness to shine a light
into the darkness to find out what's
really there. That
light is fuelled by hope, honesty, courage and faith.

Oct.22-Nov.19 � Cradle aspect
configuration and T-Square aspect configuration
(Repeated from last update.) It starts
with Saturn in Virgo opposite Uranus in Pisces, which pits the
traditional and realistic against the unconventional and
visionary. The idea is to see each clearly with their particular
gifts and shortcomings, while allowing each to balance out and
complement the other.
Then we have Jupiter in Capricorn,
which is in trine aspect to Saturn and sextile to Uranus.
Jupiter is like a friendly mediator, being able to see the
positive qualities of both sides of the opposition. Taking a
practical approach with principles and truth can help to keep
the extremes from becoming rigid adversaries. It can also help
to acknowledge the benefits and advantages of taking a
disciplined, grounded and mature approach to struggles between
opposites.

Then we have 3
different planets moving across the Scorpio midpoint between
Saturn and Jupiter, bringing more friendly mediating energy.
Mars goes over that point first (Oct.22-Nov.06), with a message
that Jupiter's pragmatic principles are all fine and nice, but
there is also room for passion, enthusiasm and listening to your
instincts. Then the Sun moves into that zone (Nov.04-17),
encouraging you to draw on confidence in your personal power to
ride out any stress or confusion you might feel. Then Mercury
(Nov.13-19) brings depth of perception to detect the hidden
messages between the words people speak.
The Cradle configuration can show a
creative and optimistic way of dealing with stress and conflict.
Jupiter contributes hope, optimism and perspective. Mars instils
courage, energy and the ability to endure intensity. The Sun
radiates self-esteem, confidence and a sense of self that can
outlast whatever problems are in your path. And Mercury brings
awareness, ideas and the ability to give a voice to your deeper
feelings and intuition.
However, there's also a fine line
between creative coping and inability to face what's really
going on. The Cradle can also show potential for denial or
difficulty dealing with problems, by using the "positive"
energies of the trine/sextile planets (Jupiter, Mars, Sun,
Mercury) to avoid the stress of the Saturn-Uranus. For example,
it might be easier to believe you are 100% right, rather than
both you and the other person having something of value to say.
As a result, you might impulsively lash out to intimidate, blame
or even attack anyone who says otherwise. Another example: you
might feel you need to question everything you believed to be
true. It could be tempting to assume that the inconsistencies or
faults lie only within you, rather than considering that
contradictions lie in all people, including the ones you respect
or admire. This could be an opportunity to learn how to accept
that maybe life isn't as stable or predictable as you thought it
was�which isn't necessarily a bad thing. 
Oct.28-Nov.07 � T-square aspect
configuration (Venus square Saturn-Uranus opposition)
Venus (the planet of money) is in
conflict with both Uranus (chaos, change) and Saturn (stability,
conservatism). With all the global financial chaos that's been
happening over the last few months, it's a no-brainer that this
could bring more of the same�or at least bring these issues into
sharp focus. Venus is in expansive Sagittarius, so it's possible
that the economy (global, national or personal) could be trying
to grow, yet be caught in the turmoil of different forces
pulling it in different directions. It might also indicate
problems with inflation that are a by-product of recent attempts
to stabilize global finances.
This T-square reaches an exact peak on
Nov.02 (all three planets at 18 degrees), in the final days
before the US election. This transit could push some emotional
buttons related to the economic situation, as people make their
voting decision or figure out how to deal with finances. On a
more personal level, relationships could also be going through
some ups and downs during this time, or get stuck in perpetual
chaos or rigidity. Your equilibrium could get a little wonky as
you spin back and forth to adjust to the changes � kind of like
log rolling!
The important thing is that this is a
time of decision, a time of choices. The outcome cannot be
foreseen�it is being created and co-created, as we weigh our
options both individually and collectively. With Uranus, as with
lightning, we can never be certain exactly where it will strike
or what route it will take to get there. You must choose between
staying the course (Saturn) or changing direction (Uranus).
Depending on your situation, it could make more sense to go with
one over the other or to somehow find a combination of both.
However, one thing is clear: change is
coming. Even if you decide to stick with what you have (Saturn),
something about it will have to change (Uranus). That might mean
you need to tear down the old structure and rebuild something
better. Or, it could mean you need to knock out a wall to build
an extension onto the existing structure. Or, it might involve
running headlong into the wall of reality, forcing you to accept
a situation you were hoping to avoid.
It will probably help to remain open,
focused and optimistic, and not erratic, over-indulgent or
stubborn. Keep risk-taking within logical, common sense bounds,
and breathe some flexibility into your safety zone. 
Oct.30 � Mercury trine Neptune (21:28
of Libra/Aquarius)
Your mind is very open to imagination,
dreams and compassion under this transit. 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!) 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. 
This is the last of 3 passes:
Sep.19,
Sep.28 and Oct.30.
Oct.30 � Mars sextile Saturn (18:33 of
Scorpio/Virgo) (Oct.31 in UK, AU)
There is an opportunity to harness the
energy of willpower using practical discipline. Your physical
and mental energy are likely to be stable and enduring, or else
they can become this way more easily than usual by applying a
sustained focus of effort. This is a great transit if you need
to be productive or to make progress in a goal that you are
working toward. The thing to watch out for is a tendency to be
over-cautious to the point where you get stuck in the planning
stage and don't get much done. Or, you might try to rush into
the production phase before your plans are fully formed. This
transit works best when these areas are brought into balance. 
Mercury finally leaves the shadow�the
part of the zodiac where it went retrograde from Sep.24 to
Oct.15. This means the confusion, delays and miscommunications
of the last 2 months have mostly dissipated and things should be
more or less back to normal (whatever that is). The difference
is that you now have the benefit of seeing things from a
different perspective, which gives you more choices than you had
before. If you've been waiting until Mercury finished with the
retrograde cycle before you made a final decision about
something, this can be a good time to decide what direction you
want to go. Just don't forget your common sense.
Special Note: Mercury seems to
be suffering from Mercury Retrograde this time! I'm seeing
typical Mercury retrograde symptoms far later in the cycle than
usual. I'm not sure why this is happening, but you might find
that the usual delays, confusion, having to do things twice,
rescheduled appointments, etc., might go on longer than when
Mercury actually leaves the Shadow. Perhaps this has to do with
Mercury's Direct Station (Oct.15) being extremely close to the
New Moon in Libra (Sep.29). Or maybe it has to do with the fact
that Mercury was conjunct Mars when it stationed to go
retrograde (Sep.24), although Mars usually speeds things up, not
delaying their manifestation. In any case, our beloved trickster
might linger a little longer this time around. Make him feel
welcome ...and then show him the door. ;-)
Oct.31 � Mars trine Uranus (19:02 of
Scorpio/Pisces) (Nov.01 in AU)
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 very much. You may find an upsurge of daring
and confidence that seem to come out of nowhere. Or your sexual
desire might suddenly come alive. This transit can inspire
motivation that is spontaneous, sudden or unexpected. It might
make your physical or emotional energy fluctuate or feel a bit
"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, liberation and asserting your
individuality are key areas that can ignite this energy. You
might also find yourself involved in group activities, possibly
in a leadership role or in a way that your ideas have a greater
effect than usual on others. 
Oct.31 � Venus sextile Chiron (16:04
of Sagittarius/Aquarius) (Nov.01 in UK,
AU)
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. 
Nov.02 � North America returns to
Standard Time
2:00 AM � If you're in North America
and your area observes Daylight Savings Time, you will turn your
clocks back one hour today. 
Neptune now turns direct, after being
retrograde since
May.26. For up to a week before and after this
date, you might feel a bit dreamy, disconnected, depressed,
sluggish or scatter-brained. The Neptune energy takes you into a
non-rational, intuitive place and can stir up feelings and
issues from the unconscious. Vivid dreams could give you insight
into situations you have been wrestling with, and your intuitive
sensitivity might seem to come out of nowhere. Or you might
experience the opposite�your dreams elude you and you feel cut
off from your usual intuitive sense. What is happening is that
your "right-brain" (intuitive, creative, non-rational,
faith-oriented) is passing the torch to your "left-brain"
(rational, logical, linear, practical), and you can get caught
in the whirlpool of transition. Try not to control the process,
but allow it to carry you and point you in a different
direction. The learning you have gathered over the last five
months or so�related to spirituality, longing, inspiration,
creativity, imagination, fantasy, divination and intuition�can
now start to be applied more directly in your life over the next
few months. It may be possible to channel your experience into a
creative form�possibly artistic, but definitely creating
something new out of what has been, which can ultimately be
healing and uplifting. 
Nov.03 � Venus square Saturn (18:51 of
Sagittarius/Virgo)
Finances, relationships, social
contacts and/or pleasures may seem blocked or require extra
effort right now. Manifesting your desires may require added
hard work, but this struggle could also bring you closer to your
goals. It may feel like there is a huge rock blocking your path
that keeps you from fulfilling your heart's desire. It may be
necessary to face some difficult aspect of your situation before
it is possible to know how to proceed. This is ultimately a
problem to be solved by confronting that which is unrealistic,
unworkable, or just not in your best interest. This can also be
a time when you arrive at a crossroads and must make some firm
choices, or when circumstances might force you to change your
direction. This transit can make your choice clear, although it
might not be the one you hoped for. 
Nov.03 � Venus square Uranus (18:59 of
Sagittarius/Pisces)
Under this transit, you may be tempted
by impulse spending, or you might be somewhat erratic in your
use of resources. This can result in unpredictable or unstable
finances, so double check your bank accounts and credit cards
before you draw on them. It is also a time when the way you
relate to others (or they to you) could be somewhat
inconsistent, fickle or impulsive. If your relationships or
financial situation have been struggling with difficulties for a
while, this transit could bring a lingering problem to the
surface and require attention. On one hand, this could be a
welcome breath of fresh air that cuts through the complexity of
your problems and puts the cards on the table (despite the
stress and conflict that likely triggered it). Or, you might
feel resistance to making these changes and instead experience
this as a time of unwelcome instability, upset and adjustment.
However, this may be a good way to break free of excessive
restraint, control or structure, which allows new possibilities
to emerge that couldn't do so otherwise. 
Nov.04 � Mercury sextile Pluto (29:18
of Libra/Sagittarius)
Penetrating insights and passionate
communication are possible under this transit ...although, so is
speaking more forcefully than you intend to about things that
require a bit of delicacy or discretion. It is also a time when
your mental concentration can come together so easily that you
become obsessed. You may prefer in-depth discussion to
small-talk, and it might feel awkward if you aren't able to
explore the depths in your interaction or communication with
others. However, you likely have an increased ability to pick up
on undercurrents of what's happening around you. This is also a
time when you can start to shed and leave behind old worn out
perceptions and ways of communicating. You also have an
increased ability to take thoughts, ideas and information and
transform them into something healing ...or wounding. Choose
your words carefully and mindfully. Writing down your thoughts
and ideas to capture the energy of this transit can help you
gather the deeper qualities. 
Nov.04 � Mars square Neptune (21:28 of
Scorpio/Aquarius)
For up to a week before and after
today, you have a chance to discover and work with your blind
spots and the hidden motives that trip you up. It may feel like
you are spinning your wheels or "shadow-boxing" and not even
sure why. You may be fighting a hidden agenda or unconscious
motives (yours or someone else's). You might also be trying to
apply a concrete solution to an ambiguous situation, and then
wondering why it isn't working very well. Responding to
conflicts in a passive-aggressive or manipulative way can be
tempting under this transit, since you may not know how to take
direct and effective action. Resentment might become a defiant
way to express toothless anger. Part of the problem may be that
you are fighting against your own idealism, and resisting the
acceptance that the other person or situation can't be the way
you want them to be. Feelings of disappointment or helplessness
may trigger much deeper feelings from your unconscious, making
it difficult for you to know how to respond effectively in the
here-and-now. It will probably help to work on owning your
feelings, needs, longings and (hidden) agendas. Being honest
with yourself about what's really going on inside you will go a
long way toward increasing your empowerment. 
Nov.04 � Saturn opposite Uranus (18:58
of Virgo/Pisces) (Nov.05 in AU)
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 degrees) 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 its 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.
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At its best, this is about negotiating
a cooperative balance between them. 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 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 "establishment." It also
coincided 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 a prelude to that turning point�the beginning
stages of it.
The 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. Trying to
control or hold it back (Saturn) will only amplify the
reactionary result (Uranus). Giving up 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 first 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 planets
or points in your natal chart between 15-23 degrees, especially
in Mutable signs (Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius, Pisces). To learn
more about how this transit is affecting you personally, you can
book an astrology reading with me.
Find out more...
Saturn-Uranus and the US Election
With this first pass taking place on
the very day of the US election, it has huge implications for
the outcome and effects of this election, not only on the US but
also in its ripple effects throughout the world.
Saturn and Uranus have already been
reflected quite vividly in the dynamics of the issues and
candidates in that election�the futuristic vision of change in
the Obama-Biden team (Uranus), and the wish to preserve and
sustain the values and foundations of the past in the
McCain-Palin team (Saturn). However,
Barack Obama has
presented his vision of change in a very grounded, disciplined,
practical way, which is a very Saturnian way for Uranus to
express itself. And even John
McCain has run a campaign focused on the idea of him
being a "maverick," which is a very Uranian way for Saturn to
express itself.
When all the ballots are counted, it
is possible that there will still be strong reactions by the
losing side who are not content to yield gracefully. The US
could wind up even more polarized between Saturn and Uranus,
especially since it is already a very divided nation along these
lines. Just because the election is held and a winner chosen
doesn't mean it will instantly resolve the split. The best
approach will be to find and strengthen common ground, to listen
to all concerns with an open mind, and to find ways to bridge
the gap between diverse groups. 
Nov.04 � Mercury enters Scorpio (until
Nov.23) (Nov.05 in AU)
Cunning communication and insight are
at their peak, as Mercury skulks through Scorpio. It�s a time
for unearthing secrets and delving deeply into the psychological
Shadow (Carl Jung�s term for the unconscious parts of ourselves
that we don't want to or know how to face). There is opportunity
for healing and grounding now, but you may have to resist the
temptation to manipulate others to control that process. Your
awareness of the undercurrents around you could be
increased...or you might stir up those undercurrents in others
without intending to, by blurting things out in a blunt or harsh
way. This transit presents an opportunity to learn new ways to
wield words with the skill of a surgeon - to heal and remove
what is toxic, not to wound or retaliate. Use it wisely. If you
are not crystal clear with yourself about your motives and
feelings when communicating with others, your unconscious or
hidden agendas could seep through and cause hurt when that was
not your intention. 
Nov.05 � Venus sextile Neptune (21:28
of Sagittarius/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! 
Nov.07 � Sun square Chiron (16:09 of
Scorpio/Aquarius) (Nov.08 in UK, AU)
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. 
Nov.10 � Sun sextile Jupiter (18:21 of
Scorpio/Capricorn)
This is a time when your understanding
of the Big Picture and your place within it has the potential to
click into place. As a result, your confidence and self-esteem
can be quite high right now. Your ability to see opportunities
and possibilities more clearly can produce an experience of
being "lucky." Your insight into life and the world around you
may be especially bright, optimistic and inspired. This is a
"feel-good" transit, when your sense of self can seem to expand
and become free. You may feel especially connected to spiritual
energy during this time. Just be careful that all this
self-assurance and "knowing" doesn't backfire, by overestimating
the extent of your knowledge or underestimating the reaction of
your audience. It is possible to become a bit self-indulgent
under this transit, so be careful not to overdo it. Beyond a
reasonable caution, this is a transit to enjoy! 
Nov.10 � Sun Trine Uranus (18:51 of
Scorpio/Pisces) (Nov.11 in AU)
You are more open than usual to
spontaneity, surprises and "flying by the seat of your pants!"
Your sense of humour and fun are let loose during this transit,
as is your ability to break out of old outworn habits. You may
get a flash of insight, a burst of courage or a surge of
inspiration under this transit. The spirit of who you are can
become released now, possibly leading to you behaving a bit "out
of character." 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. If your self-confidence,
self-expression or self-esteem have been stifled or dampened
lately, these could come flying out rather erratically,
carelessly or chaotically. Strive to have fun pushing the
envelope without ripping it. ;-) 
Nov.11 � Sun sextile Saturn (19:34 of
Scorpio/Virgo) (Nov.12 in AU)
You have an opportunity now to make
some progress in obtaining results in your projects, career,
ambitions and creative expression. It is possible to tap into a
disciplined mindset, which can be used to take some steps toward
goals that you're trying to manifest. You are surrounded by
potential to achieve this, although it will not simply be handed
to you -- you will still have to work for it. Your mind and
purpose are likely to be clear and strong now, enabling you to
be decisive and productive. Leadership, management and
organizing abilities are potentially high right now. Asserting
your authority in a situation that calls for it can be done
successfully, as long as you don't let yourself become rigid or
bossy. It can be a good time to learn or practice new skills, or
to apply yourself to any kind of serious study. It is also a
time when you could formulate some solid plans for future
projects or make some progress with current undertakings. Make
the most of it! 
Nov.12 � Venus conjunct Pluto (29:32
of Sagittarius)
Intensity in love and close
relationships can occur under this transit, as well as a
compelling need to get more control over your finances and
assets. This could manifest as power dynamics emerging in your
interactions with others, in which you engage in a negotiation
for a better balance of power that is more in your favour. Or,
you might become somewhat obsessed with the pursuit of pleasure
and beauty, possibly trying to compensate for a low sense of
self-worth. Or, there can be a valuable opportunity to develop a
deeper connection with those close to you. You might find it
necessary to negotiate with others for financial support. You
may have to dig deeper than usual to extract needed resources
from hidden places (or to deposit them there, out of reach from
others who want a piece of your hoard). Keep your integrity high
and dry by being honest with yourself about the ethics of your
actions. 
Nov.12 � Venus enters Capricorn (until
Dec.07) (Nov.13 in AU)
Friendly, abundant Venus travels
through serious, structured Capricorn, bringing out her
grounded, material side. It may be time to make new plans and
commitments for material or relationship goals. It can be a time
to get serious and make some solid decisions about what works
and what doesn't. It may help to organise and systemise the way
you approach relationships, finances, resources and pleasure. An
example of systemising pleasure is to schedule regular time to
pamper yourself, or to make a point of doing the hard work that
will pay off in pleasure later (like eating healthier food or
working out more). Although this might seem a bit unromantic or
uninspiring, you'll find that laying the groundwork for what you
want to attract into your life will provide support for the
rewards to come. 
Nov.13 � Jupiter sextile Uranus (18:50
in Capricorn/Pisces)
Brilliant ideas, breakthrough insights
and unconventional opportunities! This is a very creative
transit�not just artistically, but especially in terms of
combining ideas and possibilities in innovative ways. At its
best, you could feel like unseen hands are lifting you free of
hopelessness and cynicism, opening up new potential and vision.
On the other hand, you might also feel that you're being asked
to live up to a lot more than you feel capable of fulfilling;
and it might feel that this vision lies just a bit farther than
your reach. Allow it to unfold in its own time, and watch for
opportunities to take steps toward that vision. You don't have
to give up your old depression, cynicism or pessimism all at
once, but let yourself become open to a different way of seeing
things a little at a time. Let this change come to you; you
don't have to force it.
This is the last of 3 passes of this
transit:
Mar.28,
May.21 and Nov.13. This year you may have found
opportunities that inspired your imagination or could open up
new possibilities for you. Yet, these possibilities have
required effort and imagination to figure out how best to
combine the ingredients to propel you in a new direction�or to
reap the benefits of the direction you have taken for the last
several years. At this final pass, you are hopefully working
more directly with these potentials and seeing your path fairly
clearly ahead. If not, it might help to do some brainstorming
with a friend, advisor or co-worker (or
astrologer!), to see how
you can still harvest these energies to use in your future. 

Sabian Symbol for the Full Moon in Taurus
Taurus 22
White dove flying over troubled waters.
What a fitting Sabian Symbol
("What's a Sabian Symbol?")
for this Full Moon! This symbol shows the promise in all those trine and
sextile aspects, plus the struggle of the T-square and the Full Moon
opposition. To a world struggling with global economic woes (clearly
troubled waters), this symbol offers a ray of hope�or a warning that there
is more to come.
Dane Rudhyar (An Astrological Mandala )
notes the parallel of this image with the story of Noah and the Ark. (Although
most commonly known as an Old Testament bible story, the story is found in
many different cultures and religious traditions.)
In that story, the dove is sent out
after Noah has endured most of his long ordeal. The dove is
an indicator of whether that ordeal is at an end or not. In the
story, if the dove returns with a branch or some other item that is found on
land, it means the end of the journey is at hand.
In the biblical story, Noah sends the dove out 3
times before the end of the journey is indicated. However, the symbol itself doesn't tell us what the dove's
answer is. What the symbol does show is that we are watching and hoping for
relief. I'd say currently, that's about right.
Are you waiting for a sign of relief in your
personal life? Have you been going through a time of hardship that has you
crossing your fingers and praying for signs of a turning point for the
better? This could be a life-altering crisis or an annoying situation that
has gone on for a bit too long.
This Full Moon and the 2 weeks following (until the
next New Moon on Nov.27) are likely to bring you a sign one way or the
other. Either you are at or near the end of your journey, or you have a bit
more distance to cover before you arrive at your destination.
Find out more about the Sabian Symbols in these
recommended books:
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Nov.13 � FULL MOON in TAURUS (21:51 of Taurus)
For a sign that likes things calm,
peaceful, relaxing and stable, this is one wild Taurus Full
Moon! There are more aspect configurations than I've seen in the
lunation charts in many months. But let's start with Taurus as a
sign first.
Taurus is your Inner Archetypal
Gardener. It makes things grow. It tills the earth,
nourishes it with fertilizer, gives it water to make it moist
and pliant, creates a comfy space and plants the seed in this
fertile ground, and then adds the magic ingredient: patience.
Taurus is where we take care of ourselves to nurture our own
growth, which includes stability, support and enough energy to
keep us going and growing. That energy might be in the form of
food, money, shelter, possessions, pleasure or even self-worth.
It is when we fear we don't or won't
have enough of what we need that we see the counter-productive
side of Taurus. We can become possessive, stubborn, rigid, and
fixated on external
things that we
confuse with being a measurement of our self-worth. On the other
hand, the best of Taurus knows that the real profit is not the
thing
you have that makes you feel good�it's the feeling good!
That
you can take with you, whether the
thing remains with
you or not.
Venus, the planetary ruler of
Taurus, has been a busy girl. Just the day before this Full Moon
she conjoined Pluto in Sagittarius and then slipped into
Capricorn a mere 9.5 hours later. At the moment of the Full Moon
in Taurus, Venus still lingers in the first degree of Capricorn
(where Pluto will be in just 14
days) and is still closely conjunct Pluto, but now they
are in different signs. This is called a dissociate conjunction
and it introduces an extra level of complexity to an already
challenging aspect.
Venus and Pluto bring personal
finances together with large-scale economy. In this time of
financial nose-diving and golden parachutes, this Full Moon
could well see a new phase of financial upheavals and structural
changes�starting, for example, with an accounting of what's
being done with the dough that's been earmarked to mend the
corporate and social safety nets in the US. However, with Pluto
hovering on the brink of Capricorn, and soon to follow Venus
there, any changes now are likely to be just a taste of changes
yet to come.
A conjunction normally unites
different planetary energies through their shared sign. However,
this dissociate conjunction straddles the Sagittarius-Capricorn
cusp. Adjacent signs don't exactly hiss and spit at each other,
but they're not necessarily the best of friends either. Their
energies have similarities but move in distinctly different
directions. Sagittarius is a Fire sign, full of passion, vision,
adventure and a love of the quest. Capricorn is an Earth sign,
preferring stability, systemization, organization and
predictability. However, both signs want to
know what's really
going on�Sagittarius seeks a higher Truth and Capricorn wants to
know the facts. They both look at the world from a societal or
Collective point of view, as well as the individual's role
within it.
The Venus-Pluto dissociate conjunction
at the Full Moon suggests a need to find solutions that are both
imaginative
and practical,
far-sighted
and cautious,
fuelled by faith
and supported by
common sense. Venus acts as the scout, leading the way into
Capricorn just before Pluto. It suggests that practicality must
come first. The more immediate or personal issues and problems
may need to be resolved before it is possible to tackle the
bigger picture. For example, it may be wise to deal with any
financial difficulties in the short run, while knowing that a
more comprehensive solution can be developed over time. Get
yourself stable and strong now so that you have the strength for
the longer journey, even though it might require accepting some
hard work and limitations for the time being.

Then there's the
T-square aspect configuration between
the Sun-Moon opposition (the Full Moon) and Neptune. This aspect
figure dominates the Full Moon chart because it is so precise�a
mere 15 minutes of arc! (Although with Neptune's blurred edges,
what's a quarter-degree among friends?) I once heard Neptune
associated with large-scale economy (wish I could remember by
whom�Robert Zoller? Robert Schmidt?). The idea was that the
entire concept of money is just that�a concept. We don't even
base currencies on the gold standard anymore. It's all about the
idea of how much something is
worth, which can
be very changeable and relative. Since Neptune is all about
illusion�big
illusion�it was suggested that this conceptual, nebulous economy
is to some extent ruled by Neptune.
With that in mind, it's not a far walk
to see that Neptune in precise T-square to the Taurus Full Moon
likely indicates issues about the need to stabilize, define,
organize and nail down the current slippery global economy. On a
more personal level, you might be facing a difficult decision
about how to manage your finances in the face of uncertainty or
dissolution. Or you might be caught in the undertow of idealism,
yet struggling to understand how to manifest that on a daily or
mundane level. For example, how do you answer the call to be of
service to the world or your community, while still taking care
of your personal or family needs? You might have to stretch your
creative imagination to wrap around both ends of the scale.

The Cradle aspect configuration continues to hover in the skies
(Oct.22 to Nov.19), involving Jupiter, Saturn and Uranus. The
Sun became exact to form the extra "leg" of the cradle on
Nov.09-10. The Sun is brought back into focus on Nov.13 when the
Full Moon fills in 5 out of 6 points of a Grand Sextile. This is
a fairly rare aspect figure, although the 5-pointed figure is a
bit more common. The almost-Grand Sextile shows enormous
potential and the ready flow of energy, although it could also
open up doors that you might prefer stayed closed.
Inch by inch, row by row Gonna make this garden grow
Gonna mulch it deep and low Gonna make it fertile ground
Grain for grain, sun and rain Find my way in nature's chain
Tune my body and my brain To the music of the land
Plant your rows straight and long Season with a prayer and song
Mother Earth will make you strong If you give her loving care
- from
The Garden Song
by David Mallett as sung by Arlo Guthrie
If you have
any natal planets near the empty point (17-22 degrees of
Cancer), you will feel the Grand Sextile energy through things
to do with that planet. For example, if it's your natal Sun, it
could focus that potential on your health, self-confidence or
creativity. If it's your Moon, events and experiences might
emotionally move you more strongly than usual, or you might have
a "close encounter" with your family (whatever that phrase
brings to mind for you).

The Cradle is also very strong on Nov.16, when it becomes
Mercury's turn to rock the Cradle. This brings penetrating
insight and the ability to say what needs to be said, although
hopefully softened somewhat by wisdom, understanding,
practicality and humour. On top of this, the Moon now occupies
the leg of the Grand Sextile that was empty at the Full Moon
(17-22 of Cancer). Again, if you have a natal planet in the
now-empty leg of the Grand Sextile, this area of your life will
be very active! That's not just because it occupies the
now-empty leg, but also because the Full Moon conjoins it on
Nov.13!
Suffice to say that this Full Moon,
and its unfolding process over the next 2 weeks, will be packed
with potential and opportunities, although these might have some
surprises or an unexpected outcome. That potential will likely
require hard work, as well as patience and faith, before you can
harvest the results. Invest your time, energy and passion
wisely. Consult with a trusted friend, advisor, expert and/or
your astrologer to gain insight, knowledge, planning and a solid
reality check. And remember the old saying: be careful what you
ask for; you might get it! Be careful the seeds you plant; the
harvest is near.

Nov.13 � Sun square Neptune (21:30 of Scorpio/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. 
Nov.14 � Mercury square Chiron (16:16 of Scorpio/Aquarius)
(Nov.15 in AU)
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. 
Nov.16 �
Mercury trine Uranus (18:48 of Scorpio/Pisces)
Unusual ideas, flashes of insight and
seeing unexpected possibilities are all part of this transit.
You may find it easier to be open-minded right now, especially
about insights that have eluded you. Your ability to see beyond
your usual horizon of perception can bring visionary brainwaves,
as well as a fun sense of humour. You might be inspired to
experiment with something new or do something out of character.
You might have an impulse to break free of old habits or
constraints. This can be a very liberating transit that opens
your mind to new possibilities and ideas. However, be careful
that you don't become so liberated and spontaneous that you
become erratic, hyper or reckless. Words may come tumbling out
of your mouth before you've had a chance to consider their
wisdom, or you might find yourself talking non-stop and
interrupting, creating a bit of awkwardness in those around you.
On the other hand, you might also find the clarity and vision
that gives you the words to speak your truth with new
conviction. It's a great time to do some writing or other form
of self-expression, especially if it's spontaneous or involving
technology. 
Nov.16 � Mars enters Sagittarius (until Dec.27)
This energy flies! You might feel
inspired to defend a righteous cause, or to lead others in
taking a stand about something. Or you might strive to move
heaven and earth to reach toward a dream. You might be motivated
to learn something new, or to share your knowledge with others.
Inspiration, confidence and optimism can run high during this
transit, which may be experienced as a release of optimism,
freedom and spontaneous elation. However, it could also be a bit
too much of a good thing, launching you or others into
arrogance, confrontation or intolerance, especially if
challenged by strong opinions. Expanded courage could make it
easier to take risks or try new adventures, which will probably
work best if you're balanced with realism or common sense. This
is a time to act from your highest intention of morality,
philosophy, spirituality, compassion and understanding. 
Nov.16 � Mercury sextile Jupiter (19:26 of
Scorpio/Capricorn) (Nov.17 in AU)
You may have an abundance of ideas and
words to express them under this transit. There is the potential
(if you reach for it) to put ideas, facts and thoughts together
into a cohesive whole. You may find you can understand the
overall patterns in a situation, or you are able to see the Big
Picture, better than usual. New insights and a change of
perspective may abound, as your stream of consciousness flows
abundantly with optimism and visionary possibilities. You may
find yourself more talkative than usual, as you try to share and
convey the new ideas, inspiration and knowledge coming into your
mind. Write down your best ideas for later development, since
you may be having too much fun now playing with ideas to want to
stop and make them manifest just yet. There is a chance that you
may be so elated and confident that you might come across as a
bit overbearing or even as a "know-it-all," so be sure to listen
too. 
Nov.16 � Mercury sextile Saturn (20:00 of Scorpio/Virgo)
(Nov.17 in UK, AU)
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. 
Nov.17 � Mercury square Neptune (21:32 of Scorpio/Aquarius)
(Nov.18 in AU)
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. 
Nov.21 � Jupiter trine Saturn (10:19 of Capricorn/Virgo)
The expansiveness of Jupiter works
cooperatively with the concise structure of Saturn in this
transit. Its peak effects can be felt for up to about a week to
10 days before and after the exact date (above). This transit
can bring adventure and caution into a healthy balance. You have
the confidence and imagination to envision bright possibilities
in your life, while also having the grounded realism to make the
plans and do the hard work to make it happen. If you have been
making plans to create, build or reach for a goal in your life,
this is a time when you may be able to make substantial
progress. You have access to vision that can see beyond
obstacles, insight to deal with problems, enthusiasm to sustain
your efforts, and faith in the process as it unfolds. It is also
easier to be responsible, stable and predictable without
limiting your options or potential. There's a slight possibility
that this could backfire somewhat, by giving you the strength to
push through your vision or opinion with such force that others
find it overwhelming. Or, you might feel so reassured and
confident with the way your life is unfolding that you take it
for granted and don't apply any real effort to help it along
...and then wonder why it didn't bring as much as you thought.
Make a point of putting this energy to productive use!
This is the last of 5 passes of this
transit! The exact pass dates are:
16-Mar-2007,
6-May-2007,
21-Jan-2008,
8-Sep-2008 and
21-Nov-2008. It is rather unusual to have 5 passes of any
Jupiter-Saturn transit, and it only happens when they are on
opposite sides of the solar system (e.g. the trine and
opposition aspects). The last time we had 5 passes of a
Jupiter-Saturn aspect was at the last opposition in 1989-91.
This current long-term trine aspect means we've had two years to
work with this productive and powerful combination of energies.
Also, whatever long-term plans you have nurtured during this
time, you have had opportunities to develop something even
better than you originally thought was possible.
If you're scratching your head and
looking around for what that might be, consider these themes. In
what ways have you:
- Taken a leadership role at work, in
your community, among your coworkers, in your family, etc.?
- Softened your understanding of what it
takes to assume a role of authority, perhaps seeing that it
requires wisdom and compassion, as much as "laying down the
law"?
- Moved toward a position of seeing how
you can turn your dreams, visions, hopes and wishes into
reality?
- Begun to see perfection in the
practical, and the realistic side of idealism?
- Sensed that there is a narrow yet
solid path emerging between "the rock and the hard place" in
some dilemma in your life?

Nov.21 � Sun enters Sagittarius (until Dec.21)
(Nov.22 in AU)
Happy Solar Return to all
Sagittarians! While the Sun is in Sagittarius, we all get to
explore our horizons, seek our highest truth, discover our
spirituality and gain fresh wisdom. Sagittarius energy
encourages us to reach beyond our grasp, to exceed our
limitations, and to rise above our primal impulses. Whether we
are encountering other cultures, countries and languages, or
expanding our horizons through new knowledge or spiritual
awareness, this is a time to be uplifted and inspired. We are
challenged to explore meaning in our lives and to connect with
whatever we regard as sacred and sublime. In Sagittarius we also
gather new knowledge and understanding, making sense of the
patterns and themes within the raw information around us. It is
not enough to simply have facts and data. Sagittarius presents
us with the opportunity to reach for the highest truth we know,
and then to exercise that truth in moral and ethical ways. The
trap we must be careful to avoid is that it's easy to assume
that our truth is truth for everyone else too, which is not
necessarily the case. Our well-meaning wish for others to
experience the inspiration and passion that we feel can seem to
turn us into self-righteousness know-it-alls. It's tempting to
believe that we are privy to knowledge that others are denied.
There can be a fine line between sharing passionate knowledge
versus shoving opinions down someone's throat. Everyone has
their unique perspective on life, and therefore their own sense
of meaning and truth that works for them. And yet, debating and
challenging each other's knowledge, beliefs and values are also
an important part of the Sagittarius passion for exploration. As
the Sun journeys through Sagittarius, expand your awareness of
how these issues play out in your life. 
Nov.23 � Mercury enters Sagittarius (until Dec.12)
Communication, ideas, thoughts and
perceptual "spark" become expanded in Sagittarius. Your mental
focus tends toward a philosophical and spiritual outlook that
seeks the highest truth in the broadest context. However, it's
not always easy for the conscious mind to assimilate and digest
such a vast territory of knowledge, or to find the higher
meaning in mountains of raw information. You might feel a bit
overwhelmed by trying to take in such a panoramic view of your
world, but the gifts from doing so are abundant and inspiring!
To get the most out of this transit, try learning something new
that expands your horizon. Or pick a situation in your life and
imagine that you're looking at it from a mountaintop -- what do
you see from way up there that you can't see when you're closer
to the ground? Just remember that whatever visions and insights
you get from doing this, these are SOME of the truths to be
found, but not necessarily the only truth. Leave room in your
new understanding to remember that every mountaintop shows a
slightly different view and that this doesn't make one mountain
right and the others wrong. 
Nov.25 � Sun conjunct Mercury (03:48 of Sagittarius)
(Nov.26 in AU)
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. 
Nov.26 � Pluto
enters Capricorn (until Mar.23.2023)
(Nov.27 in UK, AU)
Deep transformation of authority,
conventions, standards, expectations, societal structures and
institutions, and the status quo in
general�that's the summarized interpretation of this 25-year
transit. Our experience of it is likely to be far more complex!
The last time Pluto was in Capricorn
(1762-1778), the US colonies had enormous power struggles with
Britain, culminating in the American Revolutionary War and the
US declaring sovereign independence. The time before that
(1515-1532), Martin Luther defied the authority of the Roman
Catholic Church and initiated the Protestant Reformation. Pluto
challenges Capricorn's authority and hierarchy through the
empowerment of those who have felt oppressed by it and who are
willing to stand up and fight for their independence (literally
or figuratively).
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The recent election of Barack Obama to
the US Presidency is a similar signal that the
status quo
is being challenged in our time. Whether or not you supported
Obama, his election�indeed, the entire campaign of all
candidates�constitutes a jaw-dropping change from past elections
and governments in the US. Even if you are not in the US, this
shift in American politics will have ripple effects in many ways
around the world.
Obama's campaign was centered on the
idea of fundamentally unique and transformative change. Although
I doubt he consulted any astrologers in planning his campaign,
his message intuitively tapped into the rising and changing
tides of Pluto in Capricorn, as well as other change-oriented
transits (notably, the current Saturn-Uranus opposition and the pending Uranus-Pluto
square). This upcoming presidential term is bound to be one wild
horse to ride! The rest of the world will also be responding to
these energies over the coming few years. The US election is
just the crest of the incoming wave.
On a personal level, take a
look at the established conventions in your own life that feel
like you've outgrown them. What authority, circumstances or
rules do you see around you that have been holding you back from
fulfilling your potential? In what area(s) of your life do you
need to empower yourself and give yourself permission to claim
authority over your choices and your life?
What has kept you from doing this
before now? It's not a rhetorical question: give it some serious
thought. Did you need to develop your strength, skills or
abilities first? Do you have issues about authority that must be
conquered before you're ready to acknowledge and embrace your
own capacity for it? With authority comes responsibility and
having to accept the consequences of your decisions and actions.
When you abdicate to the authority of
others, are you giving away your power? In an ideal world,
authority, like respect, must be earned, not assumed. However,
we often accept the authority of a person or system that we
don't really respect because it's the easiest or smartest way to
deal with someone in a position of power. While this may be wise
in many situations, sometimes we give away too much of our
power�more than we have to. Allowing others make our decisions
for us that we are not happy with can in the long run turn into
resentment, depression, loss of self-esteem, and/or something
that I call "kick the dog" syndrome (you can't yell at your
boss, so you go yell at someone else who can't or won't fight
back�perhaps even the same thing your boss just did to you).
These are some of the themes to watch
for in your exploration of the influence of Pluto in Capricorn
in your life. There are many other ways it could manifest and
other issues that will, no doubt, need to be challenged as this
transit unfolds, but this is a good place to start. Remember:
you've got the next 25 years to explore it, work with it, push
against it, question it, fight for it, fight with it and learn
to embrace it.
It will help to treat this as a
long-term process, and don't push yourself to take action before
you feel ready. If circumstances give you a push anyway, or if
you need some support to become ready, find some supportive
people and resources to help, encourage and guide you. If you
are getting major Pluto transits to your natal chart now or in
the near future, a
personal
reading is highly recommended to give you a clearer
understanding of how you are being affected and how to turn
struggle into triumph. 
Uranus now turns direct, after being
retrograde since Jun.26. This often brings a turning point in
situations involving spontaneity, freedom, breaking free of old
patterns, rebellion and expressing your personal uniqueness. For
up to a week before and after this date, it could feel a bit
chaotic or erratic�or perhaps just spontaneous and exciting.
However, Uranus' ultimate agenda is to clear the way for your
true spirit to manifest in your life. You may experience
unexpected changes, flashes of insight, or disruption of
established situations that aren't working well (which might
include computers, Internet, mass media, groups, friends or
future plans). This can be the awakening of a new perspective,
to be brought into a clearer focus through open-mindedness and
being willing to try new things. 
Next Update: NEW MOON in SAGITTARIUS - November 27/28,
2008. Available by Nov.27.
� 2008
Wendy Guy. All rights reserved. This material may not be copied without
the author's written permission. |