Aquarium Age - Transformational Astrology

It’s a week of contrasts: The sky is relatively quiet, but daily life continues to be busy. Feelings run deep but emotional resolution stays just out of reach. New endeavors encourage excitement, but old efforts require additional attention. And even though these comparisons suggest polarized positions, nothing in the astrological picture suggests mean-spirited conflict. (For those who thrive on a fight, opportunities for battle are coming around again in a few weeks. But just for the record, there’s already enough conflict in the world to last an eternity.) Use the relative calm of the week as another chance to take stock and sort through any number of issues still in need of clarity.

The New Moon today, November 11, in Scorpio, does add a dash of excitement to the week. Scorpio likes to probe the deep, and while that need to plumb the depths of any situation can often result in going just a little too far, Scorpio is never satisfied living on the surface of life. Its investigations may cause trouble, but figuring out how to escape a difficult situation is part of the attraction. Today’s New Moon occurs with a conjunction to Mercury, as well as a sextile to Jupiter. Mercury’s presence amplifies intellectual curiosity and contributes thoughtful action to things started as part of this new cycle; the sextile to Jupiter expands Scorpio’s bandwidth to include the practical application of feelings, hunches, and intuition. All New Moons signal new beginnings, and this one bodes well for seeds planted under its influence.

Two other astral points to note: (1) Mars enters Libra on November 12, and its journey through Libra, the Sign of relating, is likely to stir more than a few incidents with partners, personal and/or professional, as well as all other intimate alliances, including lovers, friends, and family members. It would be good to remember during this Martian journey through Libra that there are always many sides to the story, and while that doesn’t mean all sides are equal, it is always wise to listen before you rush to judgment.

(2) The Saturn/Neptune square increases its intensity. As I wrote in a previous column, this square is about the dissolution of structure, particularly spiritual structures that no longer can hold their own. Neptune signifies all things related to alternate states of mind and alternate states of reality. That includes illusion, delusion, all psychological states from the lowest forms of drug and alcohol addicted states to the highest form of meditative mystical bliss. It also symbolizes the sea and all the life forms that live in the deep. Saturn signifies reality. It gets down to the bone, the nitty-gritty. Saturn’s actually keepin’ it real. As Saturn transits Sagittarius, the Sign of spiritual search, we are examining what we believe and why. The square with Neptune requires the ability to discern the difference between fact and fiction, as well as between reality and fantasy.

Saturn and Neptune square each other three times over the next 9 months. The first square is November 26, 2015. The second is June 17, 2016. The third is September 6, 2016. Of course, many a thoughtful person might ask if there are any more structures left to dissolve. So many traditional ways of doing things seem to have evaporated. But I’m sure a few still unnoticed facades will fall away under Saturn’s intense gaze.

As the week unfolds, try not to push yourself or others too hard. Use the relative quiet of the week to rest. And as always, try to be as kind as possible to your fellow travelers. Everyone benefits from compassion.

We’re entering the season of reflection, when the days grow shorter and darker, attention turns inward instead of outward, and preparations for hibernation begin (at least here in the northern hemisphere). 2015 was a year of massive shifts, personal as well as collective, physical as well as psychic, social as well as spiritual, and because of that constant barrage of change, looking back is likely to be a deeply emotional, almost Herculean, labor. Making sense of a world that has gone awry, finding meaning in a world that seems to have lost its center, these are the tasks at hand. That’s why it would be best to start now, rather than wait until the solstitial festival of lights, when emotional tides run high and clarity is clouded by the shoulda, woulda, and couldas of the year gone by. As you work your way toward year’s end, make an extra effort to be considerate of your fellow travelers, especially children, who always seem to suffer the most and often get the least relief.

Astral interactions this week are minimal. Don’t misunderstand. It’s not that the planets are still. The Moon’s motion alone is enough to keep us all riding the tides of feelings. But there are no jarring, obstructive influences, and that absence of conflict translates into a relatively quiet week. And just as last week’s grounded energy had the potential to make some folks uncomfortable, this week’s absence of conflict could be awkward for those who are happiest when they are engaged in battle. Notice where you’re tempted to pick a fight just for the sake of stimulation, or when someone else eggs you on simply because he or she is uncomfortable with the relative calm.

Recently I watched a documentary on Kent State, The Day the ‘60s Died. (For those too young to remember the shootings at Kent State, Google it.) There are many important pieces of information folded into this potent documentary, but the ones that struck me most deeply were the responses of people interviewed after the four students were shot. Many of them said the National Guard should have shot more of the students. Watching the documentary, I felt as if it were happening today, just in a different setting than we’re used to seeing: These were white students being shot at a protest rally, not black students.

What’s more, Kent State occurred in the aftermath of the Uranus/Pluto conjunctions during the mid-to-late 1960s, which was a time of civil unrest related to the many issues of social justice, specifically the civil rights movement and the war in Vietnam. As the themes of injustice rose to the surface of cultural interactions in the aftermath of those conjunctions, the strife and polarization among races and generations was palpable. I’d forgotten just how noticeable the enmity was. Pat Buchanan says in The Day the ‘60s Died that the left won the cultural war, but the right won the political victory. I couldn’t help but wonder if that political victory is what we’ve witnessed over the last several decades in the Republican agenda. And what we are now witnessing through the Republican candidates currently vying for their party’s nomination and the base that seems to love them. Most of them seem to have embraced a staunch Nixonian certitude in their denial of the facts.

Watching that documentary made me think that if they are the product of those times, we need to pay close attention. We are currently in the reactive phase of the Uranus/Pluto squares of 2012-2015, and we will be in this phase for the next several years. (More about this extended reactive phase in the columns to come.) During this time, as social issues continue to rise to the surface of our societal skin, what we need to heal will grow increasingly glaring, and many of our fellow travelers will grow increasingly uneasy about the turmoil of change and its consequences. Those of us who are confident that compassion is the ultimate solution to strife, who still believe that love is the answer, need to find different ways of engaging the opponents of positive, evolutionary transformation. It won’t be easy, but it is absolutely necessary.

This week provides another opportunity to breathe deeply and get grounded. As part of that support, it’s possible to feel rooted in the day-to-day goings on of life, and in that immersion, to handle the details of daily living without feeling overwhelmed by the thousand “things” demanding attention. For some, this sensible sensibility might be boring, especially after so many months — make that years — of high-intensity astral cycles that transformed personal and collective lives into high-stake dramas. For others, the absence of a daily disturbance is certain to be a welcome relief. But probably everyone needs to remember that emotional bodies are highly addictive, and when the tumult gets dialed down, the need for crisis often increases. And in the absence of true turmoil, emotional bodies will create something — anything — to keep those adrenalin levels high. Pay attention to where you or someone close to you might be uncomfortable with the break in the intensity. And when possible opt for a low-key solution to whatever the immediate situation might be.

The source of stability continues to be the Jupiter/Pluto trine. Mars and Venus have separated out of this positive configuration; they were key players for the last two weeks. But Jupiter remains in close enough contact with Pluto to still infuse minds and hearts with a positive, ambitious, enterprising energy. This trine supports a wide range of endeavors in the pursuit of success.

There are several sources of irritation, but none strong enough to override the power of Jupiter/Pluto. The first irritant was the Full Moon, yesterday, and all of the emotional brouhaha that usually accompanies the high rise of emotional tides. Try to be patient with those around you, friends as well as strangers, whose emotional bodies could cling to this lunar interaction, using it as an excuse to amp up reactive stances even when they aren’t warranted.

It’s the second interaction, a Saturn/Neptune square, which could be a problem, even though it’s wide and subtle and won’t be completely present until the third week of November. Saturn signifies boundaries. It’s the concrete, actual voice of reality. Neptune symbolizes vastness. It’s the abstract, vague and often amorphous voice of the imagination. Squares indicate the type of friction that makes enough sparks to ignite a full-scale battle. But because this square occurs in Water Signs, the Signs of feeling and intuition, and because this square involves a strong Neptune, in Pisces, its Home Sign, we’re more likely to experience this influence as disintegration, dissolution, and dissipation, rather than confrontation. Do your best to stay clear about your priorities and the where, why, what, and how of personal discipline. As the effect of this Saturn/Neptune square increases, staying focused might grow increasingly difficult.

All that being said, this week is still a great week to settle down and settle in. There’s only two months left until the end of the 2015, and one way to spend the remaining time would be to engage in a non-retrograde review of a most intense year of shift. So much has changed, but so much is still shifting that it’s hard to find solid ground, inside or out. Use this week’s grounded energy to gain perspective. And if perspective isn’t possible, just get a good rest.

Take as many deep breaths as necessary to feel aligned and grounded within yourself and you’ll be ready for this week’s shift in frequency. The routines of daily life settle into a reasonably manageable pace for the next couple of weeks. While I’m not suggesting that upset and upheaval are behind us, this week there’s a little break in the astral weather, which will give some of us a chance to rest, regroup, and reconnoiter. Consider it the equivalent of your psychic GPS recalculating. And even though some systems can’t always distinguish between the right and left side of the road, you can, which is why it’s important to get centered, pay attention to where you’re going, and keep your internal directional system in tip-top shape. Don’t misunderstand…the coming weeks are still busy. The same Mars/Jupiter/Pluto bundle that fueled mighty ambitions last week continues to stoke the fires of accomplishment this week. But this week there’s an absence of dramatic interference from sudden and startling reversals of fortune, which means nervous systems finally have a chance to relax and replenish their reserves.

Venus participates in the ambitious configuration of the week, as she joins the Mars/Jupiter conjunction, in Virgo, and as part of that conjunction, Venus also trines Pluto, in Capricorn. This is a deeply industrious aggregation of planets in deeply industrious Signs. Venus, in addition to being the goddess of love and beauty, also represents money. Mars symbolizes muscle. Jupiter signifies expansion. All three are in Virgo, which is an Earth Sign that thrives on the awareness of the many details of daily life, particularly the interconnectedness of varied ecological systems holding planet Earth together. Mars/Jupiter alliances feed the need to succeed. Venus softens the harder edges of that blind ambition, and her guidance is needed because Pluto often employs ruthless methods to accomplish its goals and get what it wants. Pluto is in Capricorn, the Sign of structure, a placement that ensures thoughtful strategies for success. There’s no need to push under the influence of this combination. It has its own momentum and the best way to handle it is figuring out how to gracefully ride, and perhaps guide, its current.

A Mercury/Pluto square is also a part of this week’s picture. Mercury represents all mental processes. Pluto represents the process of transformation. And when these two are engaged at a fractious angle, minds often struggle with the process of transforming old ways of thinking about old situations. This square isn’t quite the lightning bolt of realization that Mercury/Uranus can deliver. But it is nonetheless potent. Use it to break through old mental habits keeping you mired in a perspective that has outlived its usefulness and no longer serves.

The Sun enters Scorpio on October 23, shifting us into the element of Water, which symbolizes emotions and their many layers of nuance and depth. Allow this shift to move you into your emotional body. See what occupies your attention. Work on transforming negative patterns, as you simultaneously build emotional strength and stamina. And, as always, try to be kind to your fellow travelers. It’s been a rough ride for many, and most of us could use a kind gesture and a helping hand.

This week, the best news is first: Mercury Direct is driving the regular routines of daily life, and as it moves forward, those habits, duties, and obligations move like quicksilver. Expect to feel driven by this forward motion pace — sometimes, even pushed — to handle all that needs to be handled. Don’t be surprised if timetables and timelines feel exaggerated and distorted or if your ability to manage time takes on a surreal quality — one minute the seconds whiz by, but the next hour is slow as molasses.

The difficult news of the week — at least difficult for those trying to maintain an even keel in the midst of the dynamic Mercury Direct momentum — is the presence of two other equally intense configurations. The first is the Sun/Uranus opposition that was in effect last week and continues through Monday, October 19; and the other is a Mars/Jupiter conjunction that trines Pluto, which was also in effect last week, and ends on October 29. And even though these interactions were present last week and we felt their effect, this week there’s nothing to impede their motive force. If anything, the pace of Mercury Direct amplifies the force field of both.

A Sun/Uranus opposition symbolizes an intense desire to break free from whatever enslaves, and it makes no difference if that servitude is real or imagined. The Sun represents spirit or life force. Uranus represents breakthrough. And oppositions represent the tension created by opposing forces. In this particular interaction, that tension plays out between the Sun, in Libra, the Sign of relationship, and Uranus, in Aries, the Sign of individuation. During this opposition, lopsided relationships built on inequality tend to pull apart, if only because the imbalance is too obvious to ignore. If you find yourself straining to stay friends, lovers, or co-workers but you don’t want the hassle of “breaking up,” just bide your time — this too shall pass. But notice what it costs you to maintain the dysfunction. Sometimes, when we tell our truth, the other person has the opportunity to respond with equal honesty, and that can shift the dysfunction of the relationship and put it on a healthier track. Whatever you do, try not to make decisions or declarations for their own sake. Think before you speak.

The Mars/Jupiter conjunction, in Virgo, is an ambitious, hardworking combination of astral forces. Mars signifies muscle. Jupiter signifies expansion. Virgo is a practical, roll-up-your-sleeves Sign, and when Mars and Jupiter share the same space in this busy Earth Sign, we tend to feel the need to get a lot done. But that’s not all. This conjunction forms a trine to Pluto, in Capricorn, another industrious Earth Sign. Pluto represents power, and its presence turns the Mars/Jupiter conjunction even more determined to succeed, which means we will do whatever it takes to make that astral influence produce tangible results. By Saturday, October 17, Venus, the goddess of love, beauty, and money joins this Mars/Jupiter conjunction and its trine to Pluto, amping up the need to make these endeavors financially beneficial. Put this entire positive cohort to work helping you actualize your goals.

Just try to stay grounded in your aspirations. Neptune continues to oppose Venus until October 22, and because Neptune signifies projection, illusion, delusion, and imagination, its opposition to Venus could lead to some pie-in-the-sky dreams.

Wherever you decide to plant your feet, the coming week is going to be another wild ride. Do your best to stay steady inside and out. Aim your intentions at the highest good for yourself and all sentient beings, and when possible, try to help others to do the same.

Mercury goes direct on Friday, October 9, just before noon EDT, and as Mercury, the symbol for communication and travel, moves forward, the snafus and delays of recent weeks start to diminish and the routines of daily life begin to resume “normal” patterns. Just don’t jump the gun — it usually takes Mercury three days to gain momentum and get back on track. The important news about Mercury Direct is that it collides with several extremely intense interactions, none of which are interested in waiting for anyone or anything. You will need all your patience and then some to deal with the give and take of the next several days, so do whatever it is you do to keep yourself aligned with a positive attitude.

Besides the best news — Mercury Direct — the strongest undercurrent of the week is a Sun/Pluto square. We’ve been under this influence for the last week, and now as this interaction is separating, we’re likely to feel its strongest effect, which is an almost insatiable need for power and control. Of course, this energy can be put to positive use, but it also inclines many toward a need to dominate any opposition. Because the Sun is in Libra, this fractious force is likely to play out in relationships of every denomination. Notice where you are insisting on a certain agenda or where someone else is demanding you follow his or hers.

But this Sun/Pluto square isn’t the only combination that might be hard to handle. A Mars/Jupiter conjunction, in Virgo, trines Pluto, in Capricorn, and while this interaction sounds positive and benign — and it is — when Mars and Jupiter combine, they stimulate great ambition, coupled with the capacity to work 24/7 to accomplish any and all goals. But it also needs to be handled with skill, if only because the determination generated by this interaction can easily justify stepping on the toes of others to get the job done — whatever that job might be. This Mars/Jupiter/Pluto configuration supports organizing your efforts and applying those strategies to plans already in motion, as well as to new projects. And in the wake of Mercury Retrograde, it will facilitate quick recovery from many delays and detours.

But it would be wise to anticipate some of those ambitious efforts getting derailed, given a Sun/Uranus opposition, in effect until October 18. This intense interaction signals rebellion as well as an urge to defy authorities, deadlines, and any other demands on time, effort, and the freedom to do whatever you want whenever you want to do it. Rebels, with or without a cause, thrive on Sun/Uranus contacts, so expect tensions to escalate in all those areas of the world where people are fighting for independence.

This Sun/Uranus opposition also intensifies eccentric behavior, so don’t be surprised if the activities of the week are seasoned with visitations from oddball characters, all of whom seem to be wandering into your life from their dreams. Also anticipate a strong desire to break free from any patterns you imagine are holding you back from fully expressing yourself — or actually are inhibiting your self-expression. As you make your declaration for personal freedom, try to remember that many of your fellow travelers are also experiencing the same need for independence. Try to respect their efforts as well. As I often remind, we are all in this together and the more we honor our shared experience, the easier it is to be kind and compassionate to each other.

A change of air blows through daily life this week, and as those winds rustle the status quo, regular routines might be disrupted, disorganized, or discombobulated. So don’t be dismayed if you’re feeling disoriented. Some transitions are smoother than others, and this one is a little tricky if only because the fiery interactions of recent months are being replaced by earthier ones, giving us all a chance to get more grounded.

But making the transition could turn the next couple of days a bit uncomfortable. We’re in the grip of a Mars/Saturn square that began pretty much at the same time as Mercury Retrograde began on September 17. Mercury Retrograde is bad enough without a fractious Mars/Saturn square to manage, so I simply decided to leave it out of the forecast. I don’t usually edit the bad news out, but the solar and lunar eclipses coupled with the retrograde were enough to turn anyone testy, and a Mars/Saturn square would seal the deal. But now because we’re in the separating phase of this contentious coupling, its need to chafe against something or someone — anyone, as long as there’s friction — is likely to dominate its final few days. If you’ve made it this far without a meltdown or blowup, try to keep your cool just a moment longer. There no need adding to the already hyper-excited atmosphere of opinion and self-importance, which are two of the signatures of this square.

The good news is we are also under the influence of a Jupiter/Pluto trine which also began pretty much with Mercury Retrograde — but again, I don’t think it was as pronounced as the other interactions occurring at that time. (That may be a rationalization, and I apologize to those who may experience this as revisionist astrology.) This positive, productive interaction won’t be exact until mid-October, and will persist for the entire month. Jupiter signifies an expansive, inclusive approach to life, and when it is in Virgo, an Earth Sign, Jupiter tends toward practical, tangible concerns related to health, productivity, service, and the environment, among other things. Pluto, currently in Capricorn, has been taking all of us to task, particularly when it comes to corporations, by demonstrating their immense entitlement, prerogative, and sense of privilege. The positive field of this Jupiter/Pluto trine can produce constructive intentions that translate into beneficial action. Remember, each of us is the leader of our personal revolution/evolution, and every time anyone is involved in positive efforts for change, the balance of power shifts, even if only incrementally.

For some reason, and I am not quite sure why, whenever I get to Saturn’s transit through Sagittarius, I’m at the end of the column and running out of steam. But here are some ideas to consider about Saturn’s transit through the Sign of the seeker:

Sagittarius is the section of the zodiac where we search for truth, contemplate belief systems, celebrate classical traditions, and point our arrows to Higher Aims. Pluto’s journey through Sagittarius from 1995-2008 brought fundamentalism and all its myopic literalism, born of chronic misunderstanding and fear, to the surface of daily life. In the United States it was primarily Christian fundamentalism. Now it is fundamentalism of every variety. Since Pluto’s transit of Sagittarius, we’ve been attempting, at least from a collective perspective, to understand how to include a wide variety of belief systems, some of which posit violence and hatred as a way of life. There is no “one-way and one-way only” that will save us from ourselves. My hope is that as Saturn turns its discerning eye toward the issues of literalism, we will gain greater insights and clarity. Saturn won’t be able to clean up the religious mess, but it will provide support for thoughtful processes that could allow a deeper appreciation of how we can shift the emphasis away from what separates us and concentrate instead on what unites. Saturn is a stern taskmaster but also our greatest teacher. Sagittarius symbolizes our desire to synthesize instinct and intellect, as well as the aspiration to integrate the material with the spiritual. The combination of these astral forces could bring greater understanding about our next evolutionary steps.

A tremendous impulse to throw caution to the wind blows through the days as well as the nights of an already bumpy week, disrupting regular routines by making sudden shifts and abrupt detours the first choice for just about anyone caught in a boring set of circumstances. Expect the unexpected, and anticipate that many of these startling twists of fate will be positive. Yes, Mercury is retrograde, but that doesn’t matter. Yes again, Pluto goes direct on Friday, which could fire up some of these quick decisions. And yes, there is a lunar eclipse on Sunday that focuses on practical matters. But none of these planetary interactions compares to the power of a Venus/Uranus trine that is in effect all week long. The good news — and there is always good news — is that this fiery trine is packed with creative potential that can be applied to almost every situation.

Venus/Uranus contacts are notorious for quick, impulsive infatuations that are incredibly intense as they are occurring but never seem to last past the initial contact. Hence my constant reminder under Venus/Uranus: Marry in haste, repent at leisure. But the other side of Venus/Uranus interactions is that they are packed with the power to stand any situation on its head, which provides another, more creative look at the potential and possibilities. So while I am not discouraging dalliances and trysts, a better use of this energy would be applying it to stagnant situations in need of an overhaul or at least a reboot.

Because Venus is in Leo and Uranus is in Aries, both Fire Signs, this trine has the power to blow through what might otherwise be considered rock solid boundaries with a unique dramatic flare that won’t give a whit about Mercury Retrograde or Pluto Direct — it just wants what it wants when it wants it. I won’t even bother advising patience. This dynamic force continues until next Monday and Tuesday, when Uranus is joined by the Moon, whose presence ramps up emotional responses, which will only increase those dynamic plot twists by making them irresistible.

Pluto goes direct on September 25, and as it “turns around,” it forms an almost perfect square to that retrograde Mercury. Mercury signifies mental energy. Pluto symbolizes change at the core. And the result could be that several areas of life you thought were settled for good turn out not to be settled at all. Give yourself permission to flop around in uncertainty, at least for a day or two — or longer if you can. The fog will clear when Mercury goes direct on October 9, at 10:57 AM EDT.

Today, we celebrate the autumnal equinox. The Sun moved into Libra at 4:20 AM EDT signaling the start of a new season, traditionally the harvest season here in the Northern Hemisphere, when we start to gather the fruits of our labors.

But wait, there’s more: On Sunday, there is a lunar eclipse, with the Sun, in Libra, and the Moon, in Aries. During a lunar eclipse, conscious concerns take precedence over unconscious drives, and the fundamental theme of this particular eclipse is the conflict, often real and just as often imagined, between the needs of the individual and the needs of a significant other. Do your best not to polarize with partners, personal and professional.

I know I promised to talk about Saturn’s transit through Sagittarius this week, but my best-laid plans have been waylaid by my excitement about the Venus/Uranus trine. The good news is that there is next week, when Saturn will still be at the start of its transit through Sagittarius. Until then, be passionate about being kind to your fellow travelers — it’s a great way to make the most of the Venus/Uranus heat.

It’s a busy week of planetary transitions, and as terrestrial life often reflects celestial activity, the routines of daily life take on the hustle and bustle of the sky. Dreams and visions, sleeping or waking, reflect myriad desires, some practical, some reasonable. Expect some of what happens, internal or external, to stretch the boundaries of imagination — it’s as if information from other dimensions infiltrates normal awareness. Don’t be surprised if you’re questioning third dimensional reality and leaning toward the idea that a greater sense of things might be found multidimensionally. So fasten your seatbelt of personal consciousness to a strong intention to make the best possible choices, and then allow yourself to align with your highest aspirations. Yes…I know this sounds a little like Harry Potter patter. But read on and then decide if I’m lost in magical writing.

Today, Mercury (not the Earth) “stands still,” as it prepares for its final retrograde phase of 2015 that begins tomorrow, September 17. Mercury will stay retrograde until October 9. Most of us have memorized the Mercury Retrograde drill, but for those new to this ritual, here are the Cliff Notes:

Mercury symbolizes all things related to communication and travel, including mail of every denomination, from email to office mail to snail mail or express mail, and within its vast domain of language, you’ll also find text messages, Twitter tweets, memos, and contracts, to name but a few ways we communicate with each other — and in some instances, with our machines. Phones, from the smart to the barely sophisticated, are also part of Mercury’s domain, which means even if you’re backed up in a Cloud of one type or another, you might want to be backed up on the ground as well.

Mercury Retrograde is never a good time to initiate new projects. It is always a great time to reflect, review, and reconsider the details of plans already in motion. Ultimately, each of its retrograde phases is about finding the patience to take a deep breath, sit with what’s happening in your life, and if that makes you antsy and/or nervous, then Mercury Retrograde is also about refining your patience.

According to the ancient myth of Hermes — the Greek equivalent of Mercury — Hermes was impatient from the moment he left his mother’s womb. He is emblematic of the mind, which has the potential to move at a restless pace, flitting from one topic to another, curious or anxious about what’s next. So it’s interesting that when Mercury is retrograde, we are forced to stay put in what is.

But that’s not all. On Friday, September 18, early in the morning GMT, Saturn enters Sagittarius. (Yes, Scorpio, it’s time to take a deep breath; Saturn won’t be back in your Sign for another 26 years.) Saturn’s entry into Sagittarius picks up where it left off mid-June, so look back at your calendar or journal (a fine thing to do during Mercury Retrograde), see what you were doing back then, and see if you can find a correlation to those activities over the course of the next several weeks.

Just be aware, we’re also in the grip of two other major planetary transitions and one more interaction, all of which make it difficult to access clarity about Saturn themes until mid-October.

(1) The first additional shift takes place on September 25, when Pluto goes direct. Pluto’s “course corrections” aren’t often felt as keenly as Mercury’s or Uranus’. But because this “slow down” collides with Mercury Retrograde and Saturn in Sagittarius, Pluto Direct could resemble the latest iteration of “hurry up and wait.” Pluto likes to move, but only at its own pace. Saturn, too, is controlling about the when, where, and how of its influence. But Sagittarius, a Fire Sign, wants its heat to translate into action. Add in Mercury’s insistence on plowing through the details, and the result could be a traffic jam. (More about Saturn’s transit through Sagittarius next week.)

(2) A lunar eclipse on September 28 contributes to the astral confusion by making it a little more difficult to assess the validity of certain insights and intuitions, especially as those hunches relate to relationships. The Sun, in Libra, overrides the Moon, in Aries, which could result in putting the needs of significant others over your own. Normally, this is not necessarily negative, but given just how much is going on, taking care of one more thing could push some of us over the edge. Be gentle with your fellow travelers and with yourself. These are a lot of powerful influences to manage all at once.

(3) A Jupiter/Neptune opposition is the portal into the multidimensional quality of this week and the coming week. Jupiter signifies great good fortune and expansive ideas. Neptune signifies the vastness of the unconscious — it’s all states of altered consciousness except this one (but only if you agree that this is not an altered state, which I’m no longer willing to do). Jupiter was the original ruling planet of Pisces; it was replaced when Neptune was discovered; and on close study, both Jupiter and Neptune have similar qualities, particularly their relationship to the infinite vastness of the human mind. Oppositions usually represent tension and strife, but defining that stress will be difficult given the combined wide range of their domains. What that wide range can provide is access to a multidimensional perspective. And that would be a good thing, given the great number of perspectives vying for dominance this week and during the coming weeks.

Remember, patience is the key to these liminal weeks, as is a compassionate perspective that can stay focused on the notion that each of us is doing the best she or he can — even if it looks to you like it isn’t good enough.

Venus went direct on Sunday, September 6, in a wide trine to Uranus, and sudden reversals of fortune, especially the relationship kind, seemed to occur everywhere at once. For some, these dynamic twists of fate were, and still are, disruptive and disturbing — it’s the “I really didn’t see it coming” moment, when shock just takes over and you wake up in a completely different universe, wondering how you got there and what was in that last cup of tea. For others, these changes restored clarity by enabling a new perspective with the power to restore sanity. And for still more, Venus Direct revealed important information, information that could be felt but not seen. The reason for these sudden Venusian revelations is that Venus went direct within the range of the solar eclipse that occurs on Sunday, September 13. And because eclipses tend to wobble the world, Venus Direct shook a couple of previously solid foundations.

Some of these startling plot twists are related by degree (13 through 15 degrees of Leo) to events that occurred in September of 2014, and March as well as May of 2015. At those times, especially September and March, Jupiter occupied those middle degrees of Leo, as it formed a trine to Uranus. A Jupiter/Uranus trine almost always signals a fortunate turn of events, even if we don’t recognize the benefits right away. During the entire month of May, Jupiter occupied those middle degrees of Leo in a wide trine to Uranus, which continued the positive, even if startling effect, although it may not have been as obvious a manifestation. Now, as Venus reactivated that position by “turning around” at 14 degrees Leo — and continues to reactivate that position all week long — many of us may experience a change of heart, or at least the desire to recalibrate or redefine emotional entanglements. (An important note: These twists of fate do not relate to the occurrences of June and July when we saw the power of love open wide through the extraordinary configuration of Venus, Jupiter, and Uranus. That particular combination of astral influences took place at a later degree of Leo and Aries.)

This Sunday a solar eclipse occurs at 20 degrees of the Virgo/Pisces axis. During a solar eclipse, previously hidden information tends to come to light. The world tends to shake and shiver during solar eclipses, if only because the Moon overshadows the Sun, and as a result, deep unconscious forces override immediate material concerns. There’s nothing to worry about; there’s only the need to stay present. What’s more, we often feel an eclipse effect six weeks prior to the actual event or six weeks after, which means the surprises may have already been delivered or there is more to come.

On a different note: Mercury goes retrograde on September 17 and stays retrograde until October 9. So if you haven’t already backed up your computer or phone or anything else, do it now, please. Because it occurs between two eclipses — there’s a lunar eclipse on September 28 — this entire retrograde phase promises to be more than a little squirrely, especially because Mercury begins its retrograde in a wide opposition to Uranus, the gatekeeper of technology.

As the week continues to unfold, you might find yourself or those around you a little more sensitive than usual — even if you or they are already hypersensitive. Counter that increased vulnerability with increased compassion. Make a little extra effort to understand just how difficult daily life can sometimes be and then make a little extra effort to ease the difficulty by liberally applying kindness and care. Not only will you be helping others to cope. You’ll also be helping yourself.

It would be wise to make “There’s something for everyone” your mantra this week — and while you’re at it, the next several weeks as well. The planets are busy changing direction, which means many might find it necessary to recalibrate plans and schedules. But more importantly, beneath this busy astral buzz the wild and the wacky continue to coalesce into the weird. A good attitude about other peoples’ choices, especially their emotional eccentricities and idiosyncratic behavior, is essential. Do not pass Go until you’ve located your anti-judgment pills.

It’s another wacky week, here on planet Earth, and trying to make sense of almost anything is going to require a level head that’s able to discern the true from the false and the fact from the fiction. Even if you’re the most practical, most wise, and most insightful observer of human nature and current events, you’re still likely to be surprised by the unforeseen plot twists and sudden reversals of fortune that are possible — okay, probable — this week. The best way through the morass of stupefying phenomena is compassion, even for the people who are contributing to the chaos. Not all of us care about our common concerns, and neither do we all understand the deepest or highest truth in the same way. But what we do share is a desire for relief from the madness that’s infected our personal and collective situations. Granted, not everyone is suffering. Some people are even having fun. But the daily dose of ongoing outrageous and mostly negative behavior does inevitably dampen joy.

Donald Trump is the best example of our collective nervous breakdown. He is clearly channeling the sludge of anger and frustration that so many people are feeling and have been feeling for such a long time. The problem is that he is also emblematic of what happens when you think that celebrity is an achievement in-and-of itself, or that money is a measure of character, or that leadership is about exacerbating the problems that divide instead of finding ways to unify our shared human goals. Most of us know that name-calling and rudeness are immature. We also know that bullying won’t solve anything. And yet Trump has captured the imagination of so many, solely because he has assumed the unfiltered worst of us. (And I used to think it couldn’t get worse than Bush.) Lots of folks would like to just say anything, regardless of the consequences to others. But we don’t, and we don’t because we recognize that what we say to others has an effect, especially when we utter rash words said in the heat of the moment to assuage our ego or solidify our power.

If you step back from the shit-show, it’s possible to see a profound polarization: On one hand, positive, conscious efforts are growing exponentially to make the world a better place; something that can be witnessed — if you take the time to look — by an increasing number of compassionate efforts in all areas of concern. Maybe not enough to tip the scales toward a better world for everyone right now, but there are lots of our fellow travelers who are devoting time and effort to that goal. Yet on the other hand, the efforts of our unconscious fellow travelers to dismantle what’s good are proliferating. For example, the opposition to gun control, the support of corporate greed, and a commitment to rejecting science, as well as bigotry of all denominations are but a few manifestations of that collective ignorance. Trump is expressing one side of this schism loudly and proudly. But that doesn’t mean that he will ultimately triumph.

It’s a collective schism that grows more intense with each unfolding development. We’re not only learning that black lives matter, we’re also learning that all lives matter — human lives, animal lives, planet lives, even insect lives, which we are certainly learning from the struggle of the bees to stay alive.

Astrologically, how are we to understand this collective moment? My best guess is through the Uranus/Pluto squares, which have turned everything on its head, from war to peace to sex to gender to economics to survival. We are learning to think about everything from a different point of view.

For the last week we been in the thrall of a Sun/Uranus trine, a dynamic combination of planetary influences that stirs the hearts of revolutionaries everywhere, as it simultaneously fires the souls of eccentrics, also everywhere. It’s exact on August 13 and separates on August 20, which is why this week could be even wackier than last week — if that’s possible.

The good news — and there is always good news — is Jupiter’s entry into Virgo, on August 11. Jupiter is the planet of great good fortune, as well as the symbol for spiritual and philosophical inquiry. And what’s most interesting about Jupiter is that it can be the instrument of great excess or a heat-seeking missile for the truth — and everything in between. My favorite characteristic is its humorous quality (even when it’s gallows humor, which these days seems to be a necessity).

Virgo is a much-misunderstood Sign, and rather than dwelling on its addiction to details, it’s important to acknowledge the esoteric importance of those details. Virgo is where we recognize the interconnectedness of life. It’s no accident that the ecology movement caught hold with the Uranus/Pluto conjunctions of the mid-1960s. Of course, there were individuals prior to those conjunctions who recognized the web of life, but it was the Sixties that made us hyper-aware of the need for an ecological revolution to occur in order for Earth to survive. (And…really…it’s unbelievable that we are still struggling with this process because many are still denying the scientific information.)

Virgo’s counterpart and complement, Pisces, is the Sign where we recognize the undifferentiated oneness of being. But Virgo is just as mystical. It’s the Sign where we recognize the differentiated oneness of being — it signifies god in all its particulars. This is why Virgo is the Sign of stewardship. It represents the awareness that all living organisms are interrelated. And Jupiter’s transit through Virgo will find a vocal representative for every species — no living organism will go unnoticed. Jupiter’s transit through Virgo lasts until September 2016. Don’t be surprised if during that time we see the effects of climate change reach an undeniable peak.

This week, as all the issues of the world from misogyny to racism to violence to greed continue to float on the surface of the collective pond, take heart and do your best to keep your head. Remember, Uranus sends illuminating lightning bolts to stagnant areas in need of reform. From a multidimensional point of view, Donald Trump is an agent of change. That doesn’t make him a benign or positive force; it simply means he is stirring the caldron, which helps us to identify what needs to shift. Notice where you have a personal agent of change mixing it up in your personal life, and then use that awareness to transform your relationship to that friction. Try to find compassion for the fractious force — not a namby-pamby saccharine compassion that resembles condescension, but a true compassion that says, “I am that, too.”

I certainly don’t mean to sound cavalier about the great many trials and travails so many of my fellow travelers are currently experiencing and have been experiencing for quite some time. But I’m beginning to feel as if I have “Post Traumatic Astro Disorder.” So much so that even positive planetary configurations trigger my duck-and-cover response. (And I don’t think the planets are causal, with the exception of Mercury Retrograde and Uranus anything.) But this week is yet another week of unusual plot twists and turnabouts — or better yet, toss-abouts — so many that even the unimaginative are likely to feel like roustabouts. Daily life increasingly resembles a circus — but not necessarily the good kind (if there is such a thing).

This surreal quality of life has been going on for a while, and the shift isn’t ending anytime soon. I can blame it on the aftermath of the seven Uranus/Pluto squares, or I can blame it on Uranus alone, but either way, my nervous system — and most likely yours — could certainly use a break. I know I am not alone in my PTAD because over the last several weeks many friends and clients have been wondering how long the madness will persist. My reply is always “for a while.” And that’s my answer this week, if only because integrating — digesting and metabolizing — so much change takes a very long time.

But that’s no excuse to be or stay a victim of circumstance. As I often try to emphasize, the power of the moment is the portal to power: Take responsibility for your situation, and that position alone will facilitate a shift in attitude as well as perspective — the first steps of transformation. And yes, many times finding that awareness and holding onto it is easier said than done. Mere mortals have to walk through actual reality doing the best they can to keep a clear and steady course.

A Sun/Uranus trine occupies the center ring of the circus. It begins on August 7, is exact on August 13, and ends on August 20. Sun/Uranus contacts symbolize rebels, with or without a cause — although given the state of the planet, I don’t think it’s possible to not have a cause. At its core, this is a fundamentally positive interaction that impels a dynamic need for personal freedom, whether that need is expressed politically or creatively. But it also signifies surprising turnarounds that seem to spontaneously occur in the blink of an eye, and because they happen so quickly, there tend to be rash reactions to whatever is shifting. You’ll need your best breathing exercises to work your way through the excitement, even if the plot twist is your idea — and beneficial. Next week, as the Moon conjuncts the Sun, in Leo, beginning a new lunar cycle, and Venus continues her retrograde back through Leo, those sudden changes of fortune are sure to have a powerful emotional component that could leave you breathless.

But back to this week, where I’m hard put to situate Saturn in a circus ring…but its presence is sure to be felt — perhaps it’s the Lion Tamer (a role I’ve always associated with cruelty) as it squares the Venus/Jupiter conjunction. Saturn’s exact square to Jupiter occurred on Monday, August 3. Its exact square to Venus is today, August 5. Saturn’s reputation as a stern taskmaster is well deserved — it's the planet that helps us discern right from wrong, and sometimes making those distinctions is a tough job. But Saturn is also the principle that allows us to mature from our experiences. At the moment, it’s in a trine to Mars, providing the potential for grounded feats of strength and stamina. As it squares Venus and Jupiter, it reminds us of our dramatic excesses, asking us to recognize where we need to grow. Cecil’s death is certainly emblematic of this potent Venus/Jupiter/Saturn square.

The Venus/Jupiter conjunction, in Leo, continues for another week, and while it does symbolize dramatic excess, it also symbolizes a super- abundance of creative fire. Jupiter enters Virgo next Tuesday, and its last days in Leo — it won’t be back for another twelve years — are sure to be filled with fire. Generosity of heart is Leo’s strong suit, so do your best to embody that magnanimous spirit. Remember, each of us has every Sign in our birth chart, which means we all have that Leonine capacity to roar with pride as well as joy. Do that this week — spend your fire on all the things that really matter to you, all the pursuits that make you happy.

The erratic pace of recent weeks continues, but as the days and nights of this week unfold, certain tensions settle down. Don’t misunderstand; we’re still in the midst of several significant transitions, and nervous systems reflect the flux. But moods are moving away from confrontation as a way of spending excess energy. The impetus for personal freedom also persists, but this week it actually becomes more refined, if only because the motivation behind that drive toward independence is more grounded than it has been in a long while. Some will attribute this psychic terra firma to several retrograde planets — and that could be. But I would pin the tail on Saturn and attribute the potential for a solid grip to its steady hand, a hand that soothes and settles Mars, even as Saturn prepares for its own transition. Just don’t expect completely placid waters. The planets are quite busy, and their activity is reflected in the hustle and bustle of daily life.

The ongoing Mars/Uranus square that began on July 17 is finally over on August 2. As that fractious interaction ends, a Mars/Saturn trine begins on Friday, July 31. This trine is exact on August 6 and ends on August 13. It’s the antidote to the Mars/Uranus mania of recent weeks. It combines the discipline of Saturn and the determination of Mars into a positive pattern that supports the strength and stamina to get almost any job done. Apply it liberally in all those areas of life where you need to stay focused and you’ll be pleased with your progress and results.

Saturn goes direct on August 2, ending a retrograde phase that began on March 14, which included a foray back into Scorpio that began on June 14. Saturn only lingers at the final degrees of Scorpio until September 17, when it reenters Sagittarius. As Saturn bids Scorpio adieu, a flood of lingering situations are likely to finally resolve. Saturn won’t be back in Scorpio until November 2041. Every time I ponder these final days of Saturn’s transit through Scorpio, I see a dog shaking water off its back. It’s messy, to be sure, but it may also be Sirius, the Dog Star (and the reason we call July-into-August, the dog days of the summer) cleansing itself in anticipation of what lies ahead.

As part of her current retrograde, Venus reenters Leo on July 31, and as she reenters the Sign of passion, she conjuncts Jupiter, creating a perfect union that is exact on August 4 and lasts until August 10. We experienced this Venus/Jupiter conjunction in June, when it was in a trine to Uranus, the father of invention. The signature of this entire bundle was “Love Wins.” This next conjunction is a little too wide to include Uranus, but its love mantra still applies. Anticipate leaning toward all sorts of passions over the course of the next several weeks, and don’t be afraid to take a chance on love.

Saturn squares the Venus/Jupiter conjunction. Its square to Venus is exact on August 5 and ends on August 15. Its square to Jupiter is exact on August 3 and ends on September 1. Saturn’s critical eye could make it all too easy to spot the flaws in the object of your affection, or in your own desire to dive into an infatuation, and if you’re not interested in romance, Saturn could dissuade you from taking creative risks. I’m not suggesting that Saturn should be ignored — it is the planet through which we distill wisdom from our experiences. But I would caution against using Saturn’s presence as a way of playing it safe.

One last note: Jupiter, the planet of great good fortune, enters Virgo on August 11, which means there are only a couple of days left to revel in the excesses of fiery passions. Enjoy these last days — Jupiter won’t be back in Leo for 12 years. But don’t worry...Jupiter will soon have us reveling in the earthly delights of Virgo.

As you move through another week of transitions, do your best to maintain a kind attitude toward yourself and your fellow travelers. Everyone benefits from a compassionate approach that motivates kind and thoughtful words and deeds.

It’s another week of intense interactions, as diverse perspectives struggle to hold onto unique and often polarized positions. From the political to the personal to the profound, and in some cases to the stupid, conversations focus on safety and security issues, especially what can be done to create greater stability. Unfortunately the search for solid ground — ideally higher ground — collides with the very real limitations of 3-D reality, causing some to despair whether the ground will ever feel steady again. Conditions in general are in a peculiar state of disintegration. But — and this is a really important exception — the current state of deterioration is a necessary preliminary part of a vital integration process. All of us, aware of it or not, are moving through the physical and psychological debris of the last several years, and it is going to take a huge cleanup to restore balance, inside and out. It’s akin to the beaches in Alaska and other places along the Pacific coastline where the wreckage of the Fukushima earthquake continues to litter the shores. While this cleanup may be exhausting, it is the task at hand, and the good news is that there are many, many positive efforts being made, efforts that are undeniably inspirational.

From an astrological perspective, today, July 15, is the culmination point of several interactions, and it is also the start of a new lunar cycle. So don’t be surprised if you feel as if you’re caught in a maze of endings and beginnings, and confused about what turn to take next. Fortunately, there is astral clarity:

(1) The ongoing Mars/Pluto opposition, which has been making many of us more than a little testy and/or controlling, ends today. The problem is when hard aspects separate (and a square is a very hard aspect), we feel the full force of their intensity. Be prepared for angry interactions and aggressive encounters, and don’t be surprised if you instigate at least one or two of those skirmishes.

(2) The Mercury/Mars conjunction, which is also opposite Pluto, is also exact today, which means that many of those battles manifest as words of war. Be careful what you say in the heat of the moment, and be sure to coat your ears with “compassion cream” just in case someone says something she or he immediately regrets and you wish had never been uttered.

(3) A Sun/Uranus square turns some of those angry utterances into declarations of independence from both the oppressed as well as the oppressor. This entire bundle generates a lot of frustration, and that discontent is likely to fuel harsh ultimatums. Breathe. Breathe. Breathe.

(4) Again, on July 15, a New Moon, in Cancer, occurs at 9:25 pm EDT, which means the hours leading up to that occurrence (basically all day long), as the Moon conjuncts Mars and Mercury and simultaneously opposes Pluto, are rife with breakups and breakdowns. Breakthroughs are also possible, but not without a struggle of some kind. Most of us will need to monitor our tongues to keep from saying many things best left unsaid.

As this week and the next several weeks unfold, lots of issues in need of resolution are going to ride the tides of daily life, and because there are so many themes in so many places, the potential for overwhelm is at an all-time high, especially if you think certain situations are hopeless. Recently, I attended the celebration of the Dalai Lama’s birthday at University of California at Irvine, and while it was joyous and inspiring to be honoring someone who has done so much for the planet, it was also sobering. There were three panels, one on climate change, which included various scientists; one on activism, which included several Nobel Laureates; and the third focused on young leaders committed to active compassion. The message was simple: Compassion is active, and each of us must do what we can to make the world a better place. This is not a new idea, but it is still powerful because it works. And although the pace of transformation may appear glacial in light of all that needs to happen, listening to the stories — especially the stories of students, ranging in age from 14-22 — shifted and accelerated the way I think about change, which was already in the transformation zone.

Yes, over the course of the last several years, we have witnessed a searing disintegration that has been most obvious on the global stage but also has affected many people personally. We can despair over the destabilization, or we can learn from this falling-apart. Let’s choose to learn, even if it is painful. Most importantly, let’s make the world a better place for everyone by using our time here wisely, consciously, and compassionately.

The need to feel absolutely free collides with an equally resolute need to be in control, and the clash of these diverse tendencies generates a volatile atmosphere. Don’t be surprised if the determination to declare independence fuels more than a few breakouts or breakthroughs. And while this pursuit of happiness is certain to feel satisfying, it’s likely to encounter resistance — a lot of resistance — as those left behind struggle to maintain order. From both a personal and a collective perspective, most of us are bound to experience even more upheaval (as if that’s possible), which makes a commitment to peaceful living even more important, even in the midst of turmoil.

The urge for liberation stems from Uranus (of course), that primary force for freedom from whatever enslaves, as it makes several contacts with other planets. Here’s a list:

(1) The Sun/Uranus square that began this past weekend is exact and separating on July 12. It lasts until July 20. This square feeds the freedom fighter wherever she or he feels the need for liberation.

(2) and (3) Uranus also squares Mars, as Mars closes in on its conjunction to the Sun. Because a Sun/Mars conjunction indicates a strong need to lead, as well as a formidable desire to succeed, when Uranus excites this already powerful combination, the need to move — physical, psychological, emotional, and spiritual — becomes impossible to resist.

(4) The Sun/Mars/Uranus square is exact and separating on July 25. This square symbolizes a clash of rhythms and energy sources. Mars represents physical energy — it's the muscles of the body and therefore emblematic of athletes, as well as ambitious warriors. Uranus represents electric energy — it’s impulses that surge through the body as well as the mind and the heart. When they form a fractious interaction, and that clash is amplified by the power of the Sun, their different energetic signatures tend to disrupt nervous systems.

(5) The Moon sends emotional currents through this entire bundle as it squares the Sun and Mars and conjuncts Uranus today and tomorrow, setting the tone for the rest of the week. Most of us are sure to be more than a little antsy and/or testy under this influence so don’t be surprised if you or someone close to you (or strangers) become “cranky pants” at the slightest infraction.

But that’s not all. As the Mars/Uranus square hits its exact contact, on July 25, several other important interactions aggregate at the same moment. Venus goes retrograde on July 25 and Uranus goes Retrograde on July 26. While I will be more specific about the particulars of these two astral events in the coming weeks, it’s still good to know that there are several forces building to a crescendo.

The good news is that the Venus/Jupiter conjunction, in Leo, continues to provide a generous and benign light to this week and the next several weeks. Use this positive, big-hearted astral combination to enhance all those places in your life that bring you joy. And when your need for happiness is satisfied, share that bounty with others who may not be able to access happiness all that easily.

The Venus/Jupiter conjunction is the perfect antidote to the volatile undercurrents of the next several weeks. But it’s up to each of us to choose which way we want to align with the planets: Under the thumb of angry interactions, which are likely to be mostly fueled by projection and ignorance? Or in sync with the more magnanimous approach of compassion and kindness to our fellow travelers?

It’s another week of astro-complexity, as the planets align in complementary as well as confrontational patterns. It’s likely that regular routines will be anything but…making it wise to expect more than a few unexpected events to disrupt even the best-made plans. While some of these surprising shifts of fortune might be classified as negative, for the most part this week’s unforeseen plot tweaks are beneficial. That being said, there are also tough configurations that suggest an increase in power struggles and those conflicts run the gamut from petty to profound. Take your stand when a stand is necessary — and in certain instances it is — but also try to avoid becoming embroiled in a meaningless standoff that serves no greater purpose than blowing off steam.

The source of conflict is a Sun/Mars conjunction, in Cancer, opposite Pluto, in Capricorn. A Sun/Pluto opposition always signals power plays, if only because Pluto represents the issues of power and control. The Sun represents spirit, the life force made visible through each living being. When the Sun transits Cancer, human spirits in the material world become concerned with issues of nurturing, safety, and security. Mars signifies the arms, legs, and muscle of the body as well as the ego, and when it shares the same space as the Sun, in Cancer, emotional bodies lean toward taking action to ensure safety and security.

Capricorn represents the structures of authority — actual structures, such as corporations, government, and political parties, as well as abstract structures, such as the constitution or economies. Pluto symbolizes death and rebirth, and as it continues to transit Capricorn we continue to experience its transformative power through challenges to powerful yet stagnant authorities that no longer serve individual and collective needs.

But it’s Mars that poses the problem because Mars likes a fight, and as it joins the Sun/Pluto opposition, it turns those power struggles even more volatile than they might normally be. What’s more, today and tomorrow, the Moon conjuncts Pluto and opposes the Mars/Sun conjunction, supercharging the entire bundle with a compulsive emotional need to be in complete control. Expect lots of ultimatums, yours or others’. Also anticipate many of those demands will be completely unrealistic. The Mars/Pluto opposition is exact on July 15, and as it separates, Mars is conjunct the Moon. Yikes! Yes, “yikes” because those of us who are committed to keeping the peace are going to need all of our stamina to hold fast to our resolve.

The good news is the ongoing Venus/Jupiter/Uranus alliance that continues to provide sudden — and sometimes startling — plot twists that are capable of steering a well-plotted course to an entirely new destination. Today, the Venus/Jupiter conjunction, in Leo, is exact, but because Venus begins a retrograde phase July 25, she will spend most of July in close proximity to Jupiter, which means the positive and powerful creative potential of this combination will last for several weeks. A Venus/Jupiter conjunction in any Sign stirs romantic yearnings, but when you add the influence of Leo, those longings have the potential to turn deeply passionate as well as dramatic.

Uranus, in Aries, supplies the element of surprise as well as innovation to the dynamism of Venus/Jupiter, an influence that’s best witnessed in the recent United States Supreme Court ruling on same-sex marriage. “Love wins” became the mantra of that day. Wouldn’t it be great if “Love wins” becomes the mantra for everyday, even the days beyond the influence of Venus, Jupiter, and Uranus?

I’m not sure what to say — the tragedy in Charleston has been discussed extensively and eloquently by many others. It’s hard to find words to express the great suffering of that event and all the other tragedies we have endured and are likely to continue to endure until we find a way to heal the hate infecting the hearts of so many.

Not every occurrence is explainable, and certainly many astrologers will look to the skies to identify planetary signatures that correlate to the murders in Charleston. And perhaps they will find them. But the astral patterns for last week were not pernicious. The richly positive Jupiter/Uranus trine dominated the astral airwaves. Yes, Saturn moved back into Scorpio — but it did not make harmful contact as it did so, at least not with the traditional pantheon of planets. Jupiter is often present in an individual’s chart at the time of death, but not always. As I have written over the years, the planets are not causal. They are indicators of archetypal patterns, universal patterns, patterns that we feel ourselves to be a part of, patterns that we participate in, because like those patterns we are dynamic. We are as alive as the sky. And we make free-will choices here on Earth through our reactions and responses to those patterns.

For the last several years, we’ve been under the influence of Uranus and Pluto, the two boldest change agents of the astrological system. In 2008, a Saturn/Uranus opposition indicated shifts in the status quo. Among many, many changes, the United States elected a black president, and that election was emblematic of things to come. And so was the reaction to that paradigm shift. Since that time, racism — latent and blatant — has been a key component of the American zeitgeist. One could argue that this has always been so, given the systematic genocide of the Native American people who originally inhabited this country. Now it is undeniable.

In 2012, Uranus and Pluto began a series of seven squares that lasted until just recently. The archetypal pattern of Uranus and Pluto interactions is revolution, and upheaval is a part of that transformational process. Revolution is a response to stagnation, but upsetting the tried and true — even if unjust — always generates a reaction. Some of us may view the 1960s as the halcyon days of innovative change, but they were tumultuous as well as painful. Lives were lost in the fight for civil rights, and there were times when it felt as if nothing would ever change and that injustice would persist.

Not everyone embraces change with an open heart. Certainly, as we continue to move through the aftermath of the last two years of Uranus/Pluto squares, two years of shift that have their origin in the Uranus/Pluto conjunction during the 1960s — we will continue to see the bitter resistance of those still unwilling to accept change. The confederate flag is just one symbol of that resistance.

Uranus, currently in Aries, seems to spotlight the need of the individualist to assert power. Aries signifies the impetus toward self-actualization. In its unconscious manifestation, it’s the sheer brute force of the will asserting its needs. In its conscious application, it is the self in service to others, the self that has understood that the needs of the one must be aligned with the needs of the many if all of us are to live long and prosper.

Pluto, currently in Capricorn, seems to focus on structures — institutional, political, economic, and corporate to name but a few — and because Pluto signifies the process of death and rebirth, it’s possible to witness its power through the destruction and deconstruction of structures and authorities once taken for granted.

There is nothing inherently kind about Pluto or Uranus. If we want this cycle of change to benefit the many, then each of us must recognize our role as a true agent of change. We must supply the necessary wisdom and compassion to transform this revolutionary phase into a cycle that benefits all sentient beings. Change doesn’t come from the planets. Change comes from the hearts of individuals who are no longer willing to live in a world defined by hatred and violence. Change comes from the hearts of individuals committed to love in all the small and seemingly insignificant moments of the day — the willingness to be kind to each other, to our children, families, pets, strangers, and especially, to be kind when we don’t want to be — so that when we are confronted by hatred, we have the fortitude to meet it with kindness and compassion.

Daily life clips by at an almost breakneck pace this week, so please pay attention to the when’s, where’s and how’s of your next steps — accidental detours are sure to be commonplace. While some of those missteps could lead to an excellent adventure, other unexpected twists and turns could devour your energy and effort. Caution aside, the current planetary patterns also indicate a dynamic playing field that supports ambitious efforts and accomplishments. Do not hesitate to make the most of this astro moment.

The very best news of the week is the exact trine between Jupiter, in Leo, and Uranus, in Aries, that occurs on June 22. Every time I write about this combination I get happy and say how much I love it — and this week is no exception. Jupiter is the planet of practical good luck, expansive vistas (spiritual and material), and libraries of knowledge that link the intuitive and intellectual aspects of the mind. When Jupiter is in Leo, the Sign of self-expression, creativity flourishes, as does the urge to take a chance on love. Expect to fall in love passionately — just don’t count on it lasting until the end of time. Providence is a part of this Jupiter/Uranus trine, but stability may not be part of the package.

Uranus is the planet of outrageous invention that flies in the face of convention, stimulating rebellion and insisting upon revolutionizing stagnant waters. When Uranus is in Aries, the Sign of individuation, it gives birth to all sorts of eccentric, free-spirited impulses. The entire bundle engenders a deep desire to know oneself as separate and distinct from the pack, but not just as the alpha dog. This transit of Uranus through Aries symbolizes the paradigmatic innovator who breaks barriers and burns through mores that have grown irrelevant. Notice what you are no longer willing to tolerate in yourself or others, but as you attempt to breakaway, or break through, or break up, try to be tender — most of us are still feeling raw from all the intensities of the last many months.

A Sun/Mars conjunction, in Gemini, continues to stimulate ambitious efforts to actualize goals as it underscores the desire to make a mark — to be seen and recognized as an individualist, a trail-blazer, and a strong leader, especially on the information superhighway. This conjunction was exact on June 14, but the Sun and Mars stay in close contact with each other through the end of the month.

Saturn moved back into Scorpio on Monday, June 15, and stays in the Sign of secrets until September 17. As Saturn revisits the Scorpionic themes of power and control, so will we, particularly when it comes to how we structure our personal as well as collective finances. Rather than dread this review, use it wisely to make an honest, barebones assessment of your financial situation. But don’t try to make that review this week or next — the Jupiter/Uranus trine is going to override all other activity. Wait until that stardust settles.

Enjoy the week, even if it is more than a little hyperactive and packed with more than a few surprises. Just be sure to pace yourself. And as always, do your best to help your fellow travelers. There are so many in so much need of a kind-hearted helping hand.

Welcome back, dear readers of the Aquarium Age. Only one more day until Mercury Retrograde ends — it’s over tomorrow, June 11, at 6:33 p.m. EDT — and what a long, winding, mind-bending retrograde it’s been. Some days sped by like the winged feet of Hermes himself, with quick plot twists and instant agenda shifts, all packed with the power to turn even well-made plans topsy-turvy. Some days creaked by at a glacial pace that made it impossible to accomplish anything or even to stay awake. The last three weeks were a mishmash of all the things that can go wrong when Mercury “reviews” its affairs — lost email, passwords, keys, and opportunities. But those delays and detours were nothing compared to the final week of Internet interference, much of which was so consistent with retrograde expectations that it felt premeditated, as if hackers, spammers, and trolls were following the planets, making a point to hide under the cover of Mercury Retrograde symptoms. But all that will be completely behind us by the end of the day tomorrow.

Mercury Direct begins with a big bang of forward motion. Yes, I know there’s a three-day waiting period for Mercury to gather momentum, and for the truly specific, there is a shadow period that ends when Mercury touches the degree that began the retrograde — but I don’t care. There’s too much going on for anyone to be patient and circumspect. Just don’t be too surprised if you encounter a couple of obstacles on the Mercury Direct speedway. Mercury “turns around” with a Moon/Uranus conjunction that’s trine Jupiter and sextile a Sun/Mars conjunction. All of which points to huge amounts of dynamic, fiery energy that won’t sit still a moment longer. The Moon/Uranus conjunction, in Aries, indicates impulsive emotions that are hard to contain, and because Jupiter, in Leo, supports their free-spirited expression, we’re likely to hear lots of confessions — and not just the ones that begin with “Forgive me, Father….” Expect long-denied feelings to spill out, mostly through eruptions of the heart that overflow into impromptu conversations.

The Sun/Mars conjunction, in Gemini, amplifies the need for those conversations to be laden with facts and figures as well as dates with destiny. But don’t let all the conversational brouhaha throw you off course. Yes, someone you know may have held back important information, but that doesn’t mean you have to provide a quick fix. Take as much time as necessary to digest and metabolize the many threads of what’s being presented and then offer your best response.

On Sunday, Saturn retrogrades back into Scorpio, revisiting its last degrees until September 17, when it reenters Sagittarius. To be sure, I will be writing more about Saturn’s return to Scorpio in future columns, but this week it’s enough to know that the change of “air” is more than just Mercury Direct. We’re moving into the summer signatures, and Saturn’s return to Scorpio provides a sustained undertone of intensity.

The other truly good news of the week is the ongoing Jupiter/Uranus trine, which is exact and separating on June 22, and fades away by mid-July. There isn’t another one until December 2019. I love this trine because its spontaneity always reminds me that I am not in control of anything and that something far greater moves the action. This week, its power is part of an enormous collective retrograde exhale, which is another reason why the momentum of Mercury Direct resembles a blast off.

I also love this Jupiter/Uranus trine because it’s all about fun. So despite any Saturnian obstacles or lingering retrograde interference, you can make the most of this week by engaging in pursuits that make you happy — and please laugh as much as you can. Also, when possible, remember to be kind. Everyone benefits from tenderness and care.

You might want to consider donning your not-so-gay Teflon apparel this week. It’s pretty much a you-know-what storm of misunderstandings — and you’ll want to make sure you’re wearing the kind of armor that won’t allow negativity to stick. Most of the drama comes from words spoken or written in haste, words that give voice to opinions that might be better left unspoken until the astral air clears, if only because for the next several days, words have the power to undermine, unsettle, and undo. The good news is that it’s not all bad news. But, unfortunately, that doesn’t mean the good news is powerful enough to neutralize the difficulties. I know we are all in need of a few weeks of easy-peasy, hassle-free interactions, but alas, that’s just not in the cards right now, which is why Teflon suits are looking so good.

The ongoing opposition between Mars, in Gemini, and Saturn, in Sagittarius, continues to be the main source of strife, simply because it indicates tense interactions, based on information as well as misinformation, between individuals and authorities. Gemini is the Sign of the day-to-day goings on of life. Mercury is its Ruling Planet, and together, Mercury and Gemini represent communication, language, travel and commerce. Mars signifies the warrior, and its position in Gemini could incline many of us to use words as weapons. Do your best to avoid threats and/or ultimatums — yours or others’. Choose your words carefully, knowing they will probably be misunderstood, and don’t resent having to repeat yourself — lots of people are going to have a hard time tuning in and really listening.

Saturn is retrograde in Sagittarius, the Sign of global communication, and given that all digital communication systems regardless of their location are actually global, this opposition could throw a monkey wrench into routine interactions, especially if satellite systems and other networks that tie us together are under some kind of attack by viruses, sunspots, and other phenomena such as the upcoming Mercury Retrograde that begins on May 18 and lasts until June 11.

But before we segue into Mercury Retrograde, there’s a little more to consider about the Mars/Saturn opposition, which is exact and separating on May 15. Sagittarius signifies the ability to cobble together a worldview — it is home to philosophy, religion, spirituality, classical traditions, and the search for truth. Saturn’s transit through Sagittarius is certain to provoke changes in how each of us perceives our world, from the micro of the everyday to the macro of politics, economics, cultural traditions, and the environment. Currently, as Saturn opposes Mars, clashes between personal opinions, observable fact, intuition, and expert advice could turn moods more than a little testy, especially when we challenge someone’s worldview or our own perspective encounters opposition. So rather than rail over differences, take as many deep breaths as possible and keep breathing until you feel your center restored.

The problem with the separating Mars/Saturn opposition is two-fold. (1) Whenever hard aspects separate, we experience the brunt of their force, which means May 15-May 20 are the hardest days of the coming week — and really the hardest days since mid-March. (2) These five days also collide with the start of Mercury Retrograde, particularly the three days prior to the retrograde when almost everything starts to move like molasses. There’s bound to be a pileup on the information highway as these forces coalesce into one problem after another.

Mercury Retrograde is never a good time to initiate new projects and almost all Mercury Retrograde phases are best spent reviewing and refining projects and plans already in the works. For those unfamiliar with retrograde hassles, here’s what to expect: Snafus of every denomination in all areas related to communication and travel. Of course there are always exceptions. But forewarned is better prepared, so back up those hard drives, now. And while you’re at it, make sure you have copies of everything in all the possible electronic Clouds — just in case.

Please Note:

I am taking off for the entire Mercury Retrograde.

I will see you back here on June 10.

As these coming weeks unfold, try to keep in mind that we are still very much in the wake of the Uranus/Pluto squares, and as the Moon, Mercury, Venus, and Mars touch the degrees of those squares, the various themes of the last two years are certain to rise to the surface of daily life, causing many to be on edge. Do your best to help your fellow travelers. Be kind, considerate, and understanding. We are all in this together.

Polarized planets indicate the potential for subjective points of view this week so don’t be surprised if you encounter more than a few attempts to skew the data in a specific direction. Yes, it is possible say that bias already infuses most opinions, especially when it comes to politics. But this week, the need to “make it so” has a zeal that’s hard to ignore. Call it “might for right” or simply call it a “bully pulpit,” but whatever you call this atmosphere of strong opinions, best be ready for confrontations. The antidote to this atmosphere is objective discernment — they ability to see clearly, delineate the facts, and avoid having to shame or otherwise denigrate your opposition. For those inclined toward action, make every effort to employ skillful means when dealing with difficult people or situations: Know your audience and gauge your methods with wisdom and compassion. There’s no need to make human relations anymore prickly than they already are.

The source of conflict is a Mars/Saturn opposition. Mars ends its transit through Taurus and begins its transit through Gemini on May 11. This week, as Mars moves through the final degrees of Taurus, it starts an opposition to Saturn, a tense interaction that is exact and separating on May 15. Gemini is the Sign of information, communication, travel, and commerce. Mars is the planet of war, but before it shows its purely bellicose side, Mars is mostly the planet of self-assertion — it symbolizes the ability to take a stand. Sometimes taking a stand is necessary, especially if it helps to clarify your needs, desires, intentions, and values. But taking a stand purely for the thrill of battle isn’t the best use of power, and ultimately only bites you in the ass.

Sagittarius is also a Sign of information, and like Gemini, has a wide bandwidth. Its extensive reach includes global communications and all belief systems, including all religious, spiritual, and philosophic traditions. Saturn is the planet of structure, but it is also the planet of limitation and authority. And when it clamps down on a free-wheelin’ Martian need to skew the facts to its own advantage (which can happen when Mars is in Gemini) clashes are probable.

Fortunately, there is also good news this week, although it comes with surprising developments that may be startling at first glance. A Jupiter/Uranus trine begins this week and continues to exact contact on June 22. Regular readers of this column know just how much I love this “thank the lord” interaction. And I love it because it signifies the possibility of sudden bursts of good fortune from surprising sources. From my perspective, it’s always good to be reminded that no matter how much you think you’re in control, you’re not.

The only thing we have control over is how we handle each moment of every day. We can choose to be reactive, act out of habit, and perpetuate the same unconscious (and in some cases conscious) negative patterns. Or we can bring awareness and consciousness to our situation and do our best to create new habits. And even if some of our attempts to do so are awkward, that’s okay. Awkward moments powered by good intentions usually don’t blow up. So this week if you find yourself polarized with someone over information, figure out how you can keep the peace without surrendering your point of view. It is an alchemical challenge, but a worthwhile one, if only because the difficulty of finding a positive solution forces the brain to consider new options, a process that can dissipate old mental habits that are no longer applicable.

And of course, even if it is hard to do, put a little more love in your heart and make an effort to be kind to your fellow travelers.

I won’t lean so far into the positive and proclaim this week to be “a great one” — too much is happening in too many places on the planet to be that optimistic and cheerful. But I will say there is less negative planetary interference this week than we’ve grown accustomed to, and because of that absence of pernicious alliances, we have another week to catch our individual and collective breath and replenish our reserves, internal and external. Use this time wisely, please, because by the end of next week, attitudes will once again bristle, as tempers once again turn testy. But for now we’re still basking in the glow of “not so bad.”

The strength of this week is a Sun/Pluto trine that persists for another two weeks. This is a hardworking interaction that creates the potential for strength and stamina. It also generates a desire for power, so mind your inner despot and be wary of others’ dictatorial dispositions. Even though this interaction is inherently positive, it does foster tyrants, great and small. Use it for hard work of every sort, and do your best to avoid using it to subjugate your competition.

Jupiter squares the Sun for approximately the same amount of time, and while this is not really a fractious interaction — at least not in the way we’ve come to understand hard-hitting squares — it could turn the days and nights just a little edgy with overextension of all varieties. Among its many meanings, Jupiter symbolizes excess and extravagance, and when it clashes with the Sun, the potential to spend too much, drink too much or anything else too much is highly probable. Bear in mind, however, Sun/Jupiter contacts are often about humor, so don’t be surprised if you find yourself laughing at these excesses rather than bemoaning them. And don’t be surprised if the square shows itself through sarcastic or sardonic quips. Be witty, but realize that being the brunt of a joke, especially if it’s shaming, hurts for a very long time.

Mars enters Gemini on May 11, but by May 8, it moves into an opposition to Saturn that is exact and separating on May 15. This is a pernicious interaction, and as its tension builds toward a crescendo, many are sure to struggle with keeping cool. If you’ve made a commitment to making the world a better place through peaceful living, make every effort to reaffirm that commitment now. Starting next week that commitment will grow increasingly difficult to keep.

Also, jumping ahead a few weeks: Mercury Retrograde begins on May 18 at 9:49 EDT. Back up now, please. This is Mercury Retrograde in Gemini, the keeper of data. Fortunately, as Mercury “turns around”, it doesn’t oppose Saturn. That opposition occurs this week, so be prepared for encounters with roadblocks, especially when it comes to information that’s needed for the day-to-day to function well. Back up those passwords, and then back them up again. The retrograde will last until June 11.

Rather than squandering your energy on frivolous matters, conserve your energy this week by only spending it on things that matter most. We aren’t out of the shadows yet, and restoring and replenishing your reservoirs of strength is a must. Enjoy the week by getting ready for the next phase.

The planets continue to align in dynamic, industrious formations this week, and the routines of daily life continue to reflect their celestial resolve. Anticipate plenty of planetary support for accomplishing your goals or all your tireless work helping others to accomplish theirs. The good news is that you can also expect tangible results for your efforts. But don’t worry that the week is all-work-and-no-play. Flirtatious interactions spice up what might otherwise be deemed a highly ambitious atmosphere. And those flirtations give the week a sense of balance. But not normalcy — normalcy isn’t returning anytime soon. Nevertheless, there are real opportunities for getting a steadier grip on the day-to-day, opportunities that should give nervous systems a chance to relax.

The determination to work hard and the consolidation of efforts are attributable to a trine between a Mercury/Mars conjunction, in Taurus, and Pluto, in Capricorn. This combination of influences indicates indefatigable energy, coupled with a desire for success. Jupiter squares that Mercury/Mars conjunction, adding the potential to take on too much, if only because the potential for being overly optimistic drives the mind, symbolized by Mercury, and the muscles, symbolized by Mars. Taurus as well as Capricorn are practical Earth Signs, which minimizes the risk of being rash. But given that Jupiter is tightening its trine to Uranus, optimistic, impulsive, and grand schemes are probable. Think big…but not so big that you run out of steam before you start.

Venus, the goddess of love, beauty, and true value, is in Gemini, where she continues her sextile to Jupiter, a convivial interaction that supports creativity and fosters gregarious alliances. Venus also sextiles Uranus, in Aries, an alliance that signals the desire to flirt with all sorts of pursuits from romance to creativity to causes. And her current pursuits aren’t necessarily trivial, so don’t be surprised if you find yourself occupied with ideological concerns.

This week, seize as many moments of astral stability as possible. We are still dealing with powerful waves of change, waves that have destabilized daily lives, individual and collective. Reach for strength, but not just physical endurance. Reach for spiritual strength that makes sense in the midst of change. Reach for strength that encompasses the highest ideals of tolerance, compassion, and non-violence. And then bring those ideals down to Earth through your choices to live as if all life matters.

The planets are realigning in new patterns this week, and their dynamic interactions signal another week of powerful transitions here on Earth. In the Northern Hemisphere, spring takes hold and hibernation becomes a thing of the past. In the Southern Hemisphere, the opposite may be true, but that change of season also inspires action, even if the activity is geared toward contraction rather than expansion. Change is in the air — everywhere. But please don’t jump to the conclusion that we’re out of the reach of the Uranus/Pluto squares — we are well within their range. And for the next little while, each time the Moon, Mercury, Venus, or Mars forms a relationship to either Uranus or Pluto, that interaction will amplify the intensity of the Uranus/Pluto shadow. Yet despite those ongoing powerful waves of change, there is good news this week, especially if you’re in the mood to get things done.

Several planets are changing Signs and those shifts mirror the seasonal transitions: Venus just entered Gemini on Saturday, April 11. Mercury just moved into Taurus on Tuesday, April 14, where it will be joined by the Sun on Monday, April 20. The transit of Venus through Gemini promises to be a flirtatious phase, so don’t be surprised if you find yourself inclined to toy with or simply tease others’ affections, or likewise if others are inclined toward teasing or toying with yours. Hold the view that it’s all in good fun and you might find a way to bolster your spirit. Mercury and the Sun are both leaving the tempestuous Sign of Aires, and as they move into Taurus, the business of daily life is certain to settle down. Taurus is a deeply creative as well as thoroughly practical Sign, and the Mercury/Sun combination gives birth to the potential for applied insight that could yield tangible rewards. They are not conjunct, and that separation fosters objectivity.

Mars is currently in Taurus, and all week long it tightens its trine to Pluto, a positive and powerful interaction that will be in effect for the rest of the month. This trine is industrious and productive, so don’t hesitate to harness its power and apply it to all those projects that have been moldering in stasis, whether that inactivity is a result of neglect, disinterest, or just not enough time and money to finish what’s been started. Whatever the root, the Mars/Pluto trine signifies the potential to move into action.

Pluto goes retrograde on April 16, and stays retrograde until September 25. As Pluto retraces its path, we will retrace part of ours, specifically our responses to the multitude of changes that have taken place in such a short time.

Transitions always require flexibility, but this particular change of season requires a gentle suppleness that will allow moving from the known into the unknown without losing hope for a favorable outcome. Yes…the changes we’ve been through and continue to endure have manifested as abrupt interference with regular routines, and not everyone knows how to get back on track. Here’s some help: It is possible to return to the present moment by simply catching your breath. But the true challenge of the week is figuring out how to let go of rote responses that no longer provide the necessary vitality to handle the rigorous demands of transformation. Growing is hard work no matter how experienced you are. So make an extra effort to be kind to your fellow travelers. They may not be as skillful at handling these shifts.

It’s a tempestuous week here on Planet Earth, and the days as well as the nights are driven by passion and fervor, making impulse control a challenge. It would be wise to at least try to watch those urges with as much objectivity as you can muster. Too much self-indulgence just might land you in the middle of an intense situation you hadn’t bargained for and aren’t quite sure how to exit. But this celestial fire doesn’t only spark strong reactions in individuals. It also ignites even more fanaticism in all those places already ablaze in violence. Expect eruptions — lots of them — from the personal to the political. But also know, this very same astral fire indicates an equally powerful potential for creative brilliance.

The planetary patterns are straightforward:

(1) Mercury, Uranus, and the Sun, are all conjunct in Aries. Mercury symbolizes all mental processes. Uranus signifies the astro-revolutionary who is ready and willing to agitate stagnation wherever it has taken hold and paralyzed progress. The Sun represents Spirit, or the essential light of being. And when these planets share the same space in Aries, the fiery Sign of adventure, all things, especially the impossible, become possible — at least in the mind. Given the fiery intensity of the week, caution isn’t likely, so try not to take on more than you can handle. Instead, aim the planetary power of the week at specific projects or plans.

(2) Jupiter goes direct, in Leo, today, at 12:57 PM EST. Leo is also a Fire Sign and it symbolizes individual creative expression. Jupiter signifies enthusiasm and expansion, as well as the search for truth. As Jupiter moves forward it tightens its trine to Uranus, a positive interaction that is exact on June 22. Jupiter/Uranus contacts indicate sudden and unforeseen instances of good fortune, which is something we can all use and we’re under its influence for a nice long time. I love this trine because it bodes well for unusual creative efforts by individuals as it simultaneously feeds the hope that individuals everywhere can and will make a difference in the world. It’s all too easy to think that no progress is being made toward living in a more conscious world, but all around the planet, individuals are making strides toward change, strides that are making the world a better place for everyone. Change is happening everywhere. We just hear more about negative events than we do about positive efforts: For example, I received a notice from Open Farm openfarm.cc about how individuals can make a difference in saving the planet: medium.com/@trizcs/tools-of-change-5d43b4635194.

(3) Venus enters Gemini on April 11, immediately forming an opposition with Saturn, in Sagittarius. This is a tense interaction which leans toward a critical artistic eye that can either be used to undermine creative efforts or enhance them. It’s up to each of us to determine how we want to use its potency. Both Gemini and Sagittarius symbolize the power of curiosity, which is why they are associated with the gathering and dissemination of information.

Let the potent astral fire of the week feed your curiosity about what’s possible. Recently, a reader wrote asking about choices for the future: Survivalist or activist for social causes? He wrote that he was disillusioned about the current state of the planet and concerned about how to make the best choices for what lies ahead. I offered no answer other than to keep looking for creative solutions. Be curious about what lies ahead, and also be curious about finding answers, because staying interested keeps both the heart and the mind alive.

The lunar eclipse on April 4 is the last major astral event of the season. Some will argue that Jupiter’s “course correction” — it goes direct on April 8 — is a big deal and Pluto’s “course correction — it goes retrograde a week later on April 16 — is also a big deal, but I don’t think so. Well…maybe Jupiter, but only because it is a big planet that likes to throw its weight around. But truly there are no further teeth-gnashing planetary signatures until Mercury goes retrograde on May 18. I wouldn’t be so bold as to deem the next several weeks relief, but certainly by next week, nervous systems will start to quiet down, and with the lessening of stress, the regular routines of daily life are sure to unfold with greater ease. But this week, disruption continues to agitate emotional bodies. So take a deep breath and do your best to get through the intensities.

A Sun/Moon/Uranus configuration defines the week and it also defines the lunar eclipse. The Sun is conjunct Uranus, in Aries, and that conjunction opposes the Moon, in Libra. Uranus is a freedom-loving and freedom-fighting force, and when it shares the same space with the Sun, personal freedom becomes a necessity. Many will chafe under this influence and attempt to break free from whatever they feel is holding them hostage, but it might be especially wise to keep a watchful eye on teenagers who are likely to say “no” more than they usually do.

However, because the Moon is in Libra, the Sign of relating, this amplified need for independence will probably show itself most blatantly in relationships of every denomination — marriage, business, and all other close friends and intimates. Libra signifies the need to know oneself in relation to others. The Moon represents the feeling or emotional body, and when the Moon is in Libra, the need to be connected tends to dominate. What this opposition indicates is the problem of how to handle the need to be connected to others, especially a significant other, as you simultaneously try to be true to yourself. Sometimes that’s not a problem. But for many, if not most, finding that balance and maintaining it is a lifetime’s work. Anticipate many emancipation proclamations. Listen carefully to what’s being said by you or by others, and also keep in mind that Uranus only provokes what is stagnant. Translation: Dealing with the issues doesn’t mean the relationship has to end; it simply has to shift.

Don’t hesitate to put your shoulder to the karmic wheel this week. We are still in the shadow of all that has transpired, and there is a lot of work that lies ahead. But the promise of a respite also lies ahead. And because so much depends on how we treat each other during these troubled times, please be considerate of your fellow travelers and when possible, try a little tenderness.

This week, next week, and for quite a distance into the future, you’re likely to define success and stability by how skillfully you work your way through a multitude of shadows. Don’t misunderstand — I’m not suggesting that the future is only dark and murky. But I am going to be honest about our current situation, which is clouded by a vast number of issues that will continue to insinuate themselves into our personal lives as well as into our collective experience until we find a way to transform and resolve those concerns through consciousness and creativity.

Shadows, from a psychological point of view, particularly a Jungian perspective, are powerful dimensions of the personal and collective unconscious. Shadows are aspects of our interior world that embody negative qualities we don’t want to recognize in ourselves, qualities we project onto others and then judge harshly. For example, anger, fear, cruelty, greed, neglect, thoughtlessness, and narcissism — all are qualities we deem intolerable in others but often fail to see in ourselves. The process — and it is ongoing — of creating wholeness or mental health includes encountering our shadows and allowing that experience to foster greater awareness and authenticity.

Bringing shadows into the light is not about permission to act out those negative qualities, but rather to see them as part of what it is to be human, and then to have that awareness foster an integration process that ultimately leads to wholeness. Shadow work is probably the hardest of all psychological endeavors and it requires courage, determination, endurance, and above all, the capacity to move beyond the ego and its pattern of separation and into a more inclusive view.

From a transformational perspective, this is the current challenge as well as the challenge of the next several years. It won’t be an easy process. Even the mightiest consciousness struggles to find itself in the senseless cruelty and violence of the terrorist. And yet that is the work: to grow beyond our current view of the world into a new way of understanding our day-to-day reality, a new reality based on our interconnectedness.

Most immediately, we’re in the shadows of two eclipses — the solar eclipse of March 20 and the upcoming lunar eclipse of April 4. Solar eclipses bring to light what otherwise might not be seen in the normal illumination of the Sun. Lunar eclipses refocus personal and collective attention back onto practical concerns. Look to see what was made apparent to you over the last several weeks and also pay attention to figuring out how to get back on track with that new information.

But the current eclipse shadows defy normal interpretation because they occur within yet another much more powerful shadow, the shadow of the final Uranus/Pluto square of March 16, the seventh in a cycle that began in spring 2012. When the powers of Uranus and Pluto combine, revolution with all its upset and upheaval is undeniable. The turmoil has been startling, shocking, and traumatizing for many, because what makes this shadow extremely powerful is the degree to which violence, despair, and disregard for life have been, and continue to be, acted out upon the world stage through the devastation of human lives, the environment, and the other inhabitants of the Earth. The shadows of bigotry, sexism, religious fundamentalism, as well as the shadows of callousness and greed, are all on display every minute of every day through every media technology possible. As my 95-year old mother commented when she finished watching the news last night: How can we still be living in a world where people care so little for each other?

The good news — and there is always good news — is that we already know what we need to work on. There’s no question that we need to find positive, creative solutions to these monumental issues. While that sounds like a daunting task, it can be done, and indeed, communities everywhere, communities composed of individuals consistently working to change the world one heart, one mind, and one situation at a time are making a difference.

And perhaps that is the most powerful potential of the Uranus/Pluto shadow — the notion that the individual, symbolized by Uranus, in Aries, the Sign of individuation, can clash with the status quo, represented by Pluto, in Capricorn, the Sign of authority, and ultimately emerge victorious. But only if the individual is willing to put aside the old violent forms of revolution as a viable means of change and instead employ tools that exclude the notion of causing harm to any sentient being.

The planets align in complex patterns this week, and working through the astral intricacies requires an expansive perspective. Expect to be confounded by the challenge of figuring out not only where to stand on a variety of issues, but also how to stand in relation to this mashugana world. So many significant transitions are occurring simultaneously that it’s simply impossible to track the shifts. From political nervous breakdowns to the realization of just how deeply the fault lines of bigotry penetrate societal structures to the widening economic and educational chasms that exacerbate divisions in an already too divided world to religious fanaticism based on literalism, it’s a mind-boggling mess. How to walk through the collective upheaval and still find meaning and purpose in the routines of daily life is the trial of the times. And while it is not an easy one, answering the call of this challenge is soul forging.

The most important planetary pattern and the one that underlies all that is taking place is the ongoing cycle of Uranus/Pluto squares. The final exact contact was only two days ago, on March 16 — and we’re still in its wake. While it is a relief to have the series over, the powerful forces of change associated with this interaction are not behind us. What’s more, the aftermath is likely to be where we will witness and experience its deeper effects. Since June 2012, when these squares started, Uranus and Pluto have highlighted, spotlighted, and underscored all the places still in need of transformation. Racial, religious, gender, and economic prejudice are at the forefront of this wave of change, and the events have been so shocking that denial is impossible. Now the work begins — personal work to ferret out all the places where each of us still adheres to stereotypes that keep us mired in separation and judgment, as well as our collective work to address these issues of social justice and facilitate positive transformation. We have the solutions. We just need the will and determination to continue applying them.

A solar eclipse on March 20 adds emotional complexity to the week. When the Moon overshadows the Sun, unconscious feelings overshadow practical concerns. This eclipse occurs at 29 degrees Pisces. Because the Sign in which an eclipse occurs colors its effect, and because Pisces, a Water Sign, is already deeply emotional, it would be wise to expect this eclipse to bring a tidal wave of feelings to the surface of daily interactions. We often feel the effect of an eclipse prior to the actual event as well as in its aftermath, which means you may already be experiencing a highly sensitive state of emotional awareness. Or others in your life may be expressing feelings previously unexpressed but nonetheless strongly felt. Be patient with yourself and others as you work your way through this eclipse effect.

But that’s not all. There is also a lunar eclipse on April 4. Normally, a lunar eclipse illuminates conscious concerns, but this eclipse has the Moon in Libra opposing the Sun/Uranus conjunction. This conjunction signifies the need for tremendous personal freedom. Uranus adds an element of urgency as well as surprise. Expect strong emotional responses to startling revelations. Again, you may already be feeling the effect of this eclipse, given the range of its shadow, or you may feel it as we draw closer to the actual event.

By the way, for all those people who think that Mercury is retrograde because all your technology is acting as if it is…Mercury is not retrograde. The culprit is the Mars/Uranus conjunction that’s been in effect since the beginning of March and continues for another couple of days. It’s an erratic signature with the power to disrupt normally stable connections.

Again, finding a broad perspective that allows you to view the immediate intensities as part of a much bigger perspective is the key to handling this week and the next couple of weeks. If you’re suffering from issues that are not life threatening, then you’re suffering from issues of privilege — and just knowing that should put an end to your lament. Of course, if you’re oblivious to the suffering of others, you’re probably not reading this column. On the other hand, if you are suffering over the difficulty of a world in transition, start looking for positive solutions to your angst — meditate, read, seek the counsel of a good therapist, join a community of like-minded people, volunteer where your efforts will be appreciated. In other words, do something about it. Each of us is the antidote to the turmoil in the world because each of us can create peace right where we are. It’s all a matter of perspective.

Nervous systems are likely to grow increasingly twitchy this week, as Uranus and Pluto form their seventh and final square on March 16, turning up the heat on the caldron of change — personal and collective — and bringing it to a roiling boil. We’ve been in the unrelenting grip of this fractious interaction since spring 2012, and so much has shifted during the last three years that it’s impossible to deem any one event as emblematic of the entire cycle or to deem this last contact as the most significant. We usually feel the brunt of any pernicious planetary interaction as the planets separate out of exact contact, which means the days following this final square are likely to be even more intense than the days leading up to it. But because we are also in the shadow of a solar eclipse that occurs on March 20, we may already be feeling the full force of Uranus/Pluto because an eclipse effect can be felt six weeks before and/or after the actual event. All of this activity coalesces into the probability that very few of our fellow travelers will be able to handle the stress and strain gracefully — for most, it’s just too much to cope with. Try to be kind to each other, please, especially to children, who tend to experience these astral pressures more keenly than grownups. And by the way, pets also tend to feel the intensity, so don’t be surprised if the dogs are restless and the cats are way more fussy than usual.

Uranus symbolizes invention, innovation, and insurrection. Pluto signifies death and rebirth. Squares represent friction. And certainly that entire bundle describes “the condition our condition is in.” Those born in the first two weeks of the Cardinal Signs — Aries, Cancer, Libra, and Capricorn — were hardest hit by this series of squares. (Folks who are aware of their personal birth charts and who have the Moon or other planets at the early degrees of the Cardinal Signs have also felt the harsh brunt of this configuration.) And while it’s true that not everyone has suffered — some have even flourished under the influence of these squares — all of us have been subject to ongoing social/global issues in need of viable solutions, solutions that require all of us to participate in creating new paradigms for our collective survival.

Planetary patterns are cyclical — the planets move in fixed orbits, and because of that, just as history repeats itself, so do significant astral signatures. This is what makes it possible to make predictions. Of course, predictions aren’t always accurate because while the patterns are repetitive, the circumstances they occur in are not exactly the same. Reactions or responses, individual or collective, are dependent upon a multitude of factors. Nevertheless, it’s possible to observe historical trends and from those trends to see patterns of planetary influence.

The repetitive cycles of Uranus/Pluto signal times of social upheaval. Human rights, civil rights, gender rights, labor rights and all the many movements for social justice take center stage during Uranus/Pluto phases. For example, the conjunction that started the squares we are currently experiencing began in the mid-Sixties, when Uranus and Pluto formed a conjunction in Virgo that was exact in l965-1966 and separating during the Summer of Love in 1967. The Selma March on March 7, 1965 took place under the influence of a Uranus/Pluto conjunction. In that chart, Mars was retrograde, opposite the Sun, and moving into a conjunction with Pluto and Uranus, a strong indication of the potential for violence. Unfortunately, the chart for the final Uranus/Pluto square has Mars separating out of a conjunction with Uranus and a square to Pluto, a similar signature, with the same indications for violence.

Mars signifies the warrior, and for the last week or so it has been moving into a conjunction with Uranus and a square to Pluto, both of which are exact and separating today. From a personal perspective, expect to be agitated about a wide variety of issues. From a collective perspective, as Mars continues to ignite the revolutionary spirit, we’re likely to see even more violence in all those places that are already rife with egregious conditions.

When Gandhi broke an unjust law by making salt on April 6, 1930, an act of defiance that challenged the British Empire, Uranus was in Aries. Pluto was in Cancer, almost exactly opposite its current position in Capricorn. The Dharasana Salt March and the violence by the police against the satyagrahis (those trained in non-violent resistance) brought the struggle for India’s independence to the world’s attention. Gandhi called non-violent resistance satyagraha, which can be translated as “truth force”, a philosophy that profoundly affected Martin Luther King, Jr., as well as Nelson Mandela. Gandhi knew that the means never justifies the ends; he understood that every action plants a seed, a seed that holds the blueprint for what will grow. If you sow the seeds of violence, you will only harvest more violence. Thus, for revolution to truly work it had to occur through the soul-force of truth.

It’s always a good choice to apply the soul-force of truth to every situation — it makes us better humans to answer to a higher imperative. These next weeks and even months are the perfect time to make satyagraha a part of your personal process. The world wobbles less when we hold onto what matters most.

On March 16, at 9:53:26 PM EDT Uranus and Pluto will complete the final square in a series of seven exact squares that began on June 24, 2012. And for the next several weeks, as they finish this cycle, daily life will reflect this last contact with escalating intensity — if such a thing is possible. Expect most of your fellow travelers to be on edge. This isn’t a peaceful finale, and it is certain to wreak havoc on nervous systems, as well as on attitudes. Mars plays a large role in the culmination of this fractious Uranus/Pluto alliance, and its presence lends a warring signature to the interaction. What’s more, Jupiter also joins the fray, and its presence amplifies and magnifies the already extreme tendencies of the entire bundle. But that’s not all: There is a solar eclipse on March 20 and lunar eclipse on April 4, both of which contribute to the mounting turmoil and tumult, personal as well as collective. Even if you are prepared — after all the mounting stress is fairly obvious — don’t let that foresight blind you to the necessity for humility. Uranus signifies sudden reversals of fortune, and no one, not even the most prescient among us, should take that power for granted.

This week, Mars moves into a conjunction with Uranus, which is exact in one week, on March 11; later that same day, Mars moves into a square with Pluto. This is a pernicious, warmongering interaction that fuels the fighter in everyone. Be prepared for people to be more than slightly belligerent. Also be aware that when hard aspects — which these are — separate, we feel the friction even more intensely. Expect meltdowns, yours or others’, to season the days with drama.

Jupiter adds its voice to the ongoing intensity as it forms a trine to the ongoing Venus/Uranus conjunction that is exact today. This is a powerful interaction — and a rare one. For while Venus conjuncts Uranus on a fairly regular basis, that conjunction doesn’t often include Jupiter. Venus/Uranus interactions have the power to make us fall in love quite suddenly with just about everyone we meet — for at least five minutes. Add Jupiter’s naturally expansive force to the mix, and those infatuations could take on gargantuan proportions. Of course, Venus/Uranus contacts are equally notorious for falling out of love just as quickly, which is why I always offer this cliché but time-tested advice to people who are under the influence of Venus/Uranus transits: “Marry in haste, repent at leisure.”

But here is the thing: Jupiter/Uranus trines are often connected to or synchronistic with experiences of divine intervention — an outcome so powerful and so unexpected that you feel as if you’ve been pulled from the edge of the abyss and guided to a safer place.

A sense of benevolent divine guidance is something we all could use in ample doses right now. The world is decompensating from so many maladies that it seems impossible to make much sense of the patterns. It struck me last week as the what-color-is-this-dress question seemed to take over the media universe that the world was having a totally appropriate inappropriate response to its present state: It’s much easier to focus on something as silly as that dress than deal with the incredibly complex question of how we are going to restore order to our world. Mad religious fanatics are destroying artifacts of their own civilization, let alone the world, and yet we are arguing about whether the dress is white and gold or black and blue. Really? Seriously. Really?

So, Evolutionaries, keep your wits about you, for you are the leaders of what is to follow. The next several weeks are the culmination of three years of persistent deconstruction, a process that won’t end quickly, a process that will linger long after the seven exact contacts are a thing of the past. Just as the previous Uranus/Pluto conjunction of the mid-1960s still reverberates today, the current cycle will continue to highlight what no longer works, whether that’s sexism, racism, greed, political manipulation, corporate exploitation, cruelty of any kind, or any other position that undermines the planet and her inhabitants. Try not to be discouraged. Use your intention to create new paradigms for conscious living in the areas of your life in need of transformation, and be sure to include compassion as part of your personal program. Revolution only succeeds when individuals have a complete change of heart. And every heart has the power to transform.

The veils between dimensions grow increasingly thin this week, and as astral alignments provide greater multidimensional clarity, daily interactions take on a no-nonsense approach that is sure to unsettle even the most candid commentator. Expect you, those you love, those you barely know, and even those you’d rather not know, to be saying all sorts of things that have needed to be said, but have been held back because uttering “those things” actually requires great courage. Mars provides the nerve to say it “your way” and whether it’s a dialogue or a diatribe it is likely to be delivered in a direct and succinct way that borders on military orders. The only problem with this up-front, down-to-earth, in-your-face attitude is that some of what’s said is sure to sting, making hurt feelings and ruffled feathers probable. The good news is that it’s possible to see beneath the bluntness to the truth that the underscores these concerns. That expanded vision is accompanied by a fair degree of empathy, making it possible to contextualize the candor from a compassionate perspective. So don’t reject what’s being said because it makes you uncomfortable. Honor your feelings, but allow yourself to learn and grow from the experience.

It’s Mars, in Aries, that antes up the drill sergeant tone of the week. Mars is quite comfortable in Aries, its Home Sign, because Aries signifies the warrior, and its transit through Aries fires up self-assertive tendencies, from fierce competition to fierce willpower. Ambition flourishes under this transit. So don’t be surprised if you simply want to win or, in the absence of contests, you simply want to be right. Also anticipate that almost everyone is going to be feeling exactly the same way, which could lead to fierce rivalries. Just be aware that this concentrated force can also give birth to a contentious point of view that simply wants to fight for the thrill of a brawl. Do your best to diffuse petty confrontations by refusing to engage. As Mars moves closer to Uranus over the next two weeks there will be more than a few opportunities to take a stand on serious issues. But even then, you might want to consider making love instead of war.

Fortunately, Venus is conjunct Mars for the next week, softening that Martian edge, or at least transforming that need to assert into an iron fist in a velvet glove. However, Venus is no slouch when it comes to taking a stand for what matters — she does signify values, after all. And that devotion to her own point of view could turn into righteous efforts to secure an agenda, personal as well as professional. Try to avoid self-righteous positions that have the potential to turn into showdowns or standoffs.

Saturn, in Sagittarius, trines that Venus/Mars conjunction, and when its inherent authority joins with the militancy of the Venus/Mars mighty duo in Aries, it’s difficult to avoid the driving, must-do-it-now impulse of the entire bundle. This trine can make you feel as if you will live forever; it provides deep wells of stamina and strength. But it’s still important to hold a steady, moderate pace. Saturn also modulates the impulsive leanings of Aries, with the reminder that all action, spontaneous or strategic, has consequences.

Saturn also continues to square the Sun/Neptune conjunction, in Pisces. Pisces is the Sign of imagination and dreams. Neptune is its Ruler, and Neptune symbolizes all altered states of consciousness. This conjunction encourages the thinning of dimensional veils, making it possible to gain greater access to the invisible realms. Under the influence of a Sun/Neptune conjunction, meditators, visionaries, artists — and really all of us — can key into those altered states more readily. And because Saturn represents discernment, it’s possible to delineate previously hidden information. Pay attention to your intuition, but pay equal attention to your need to skew the information toward your emotional perspective. Allow Saturn to provide the discernment necessary to wield your superpowers with skill.

This week and next we are walking an edge: On one hand, the news, in all its digital and analog iterations, blares the harsh violence of our world — and Mars, in Aries, is only going to exacerbate tensions everywhere. Yet on the other hand, there is a mounting, steady flow of grounded efforts to transform the world we live in through effective movements for social justice. Maybe these movements still need to gain greater traction, but they are building — and that’s a positive sign in the midst of all the turmoil.

So Mercury went direct and Uranus took over, right? Or am I the only one who experienced several vital areas of life simply going topsy-turvy in the nanosecond it took to adjust to a hassle-free communication environment? And if your life didn’t rattle or roll with a surprising plot twist or two in the last week, then you might want to be prepared for several startling developments this week, as well as the next several weeks. We’re in the inexorable approach to the seventh and final (at least in this cycle) Uranus/Pluto square, on March 17, and daily life reflects that mounting intensity in situations both large and small. From a personal perspective, many are dealing with a crisis (or crises) stemming directly from issues that can no longer be denied or ignored. From a collective perspective, so many boundaries have disintegrated and dissolved over the last several years that the rules of the game — particularly the rules of war (if such rules are possible) — seem to shift with the wind, creating chaos and violence even in places that are not prone to warfare. From either point of view, very little about life resembles what it once was or what we hope it might be.

Several current astrological factors amplify the intensity. First, Mars moves into Aries, its Home Sign, tomorrow. Mars symbolizes the ability to take a stand in the world. At the negative end of that ability lies raw self-assertion that often expresses itself through a belligerent attitude or a bellicose personality. At the positive end, Mars represents the principle of self-actualization, the ability to fully realize and utilize the gifts and talents that are uniquely one’s own. Aries signifies that process of individuation — the will, as well as the desire, to know oneself as separate and distinct from others. When Mars transits Aries that concentration either manifests as the brutish/boorish need to brawl over any perceived infraction. Or it can manifest as the ability to take a stand for something greater than the personal ego, and by doing so, activate the potential to transform self-involvement into a more expansive, generous worldview, one that sees the needs of others as equal to or perhaps even more important than personal needs. As Mars matures, the needs of the many often become a greater priority than the needs of the one.

Over the next several weeks, Mars moves into a conjunction with Uranus and a square to Pluto, both interactions exact on the same day, March 11, just a little under a week before the exact contact between Uranus and Pluto. Mars, Uranus, and Pluto are a fundamentally volatile combination of influences, a combination that’s certain to inflame already over-stimulated situations and circumstances, both individual and collective. Make it a point to watch your temper over the coming weeks. Try not to assume either the victim or the victimizer role. Instead, try to find a neutral stance that doesn’t contribute to the fracas of clashing egos, agendas, and opinions.

The good news is that by this time next week Venus joins the team, and her presence could soften the hard of edges of Mars as it joins with Uranus and Pluto. The very good news is that before the tension of the seventh square releases, the Venus/Uranus conjunction trines Jupiter on March 3 and 4, offering the promise of lessening stresses and strains through divine intervention. Whether that intervening presence is simply good old-fashioned common sense or some form of magic that pulls individuals and/or governments back from the brink remains to be seen. But the entire bundle speaks to positive reconciliation and outcomes.

I know no reminders are necessary, but as tensions mount and intensities intensify, remember to be as kind as possible to your fellow travelers. We are all in this together and most of us feel better about our situation when we don’t feel so alone.

A sing along to a Christmas favorite, Do You Hear What I Hear?

Said the smart phone to the smart TV…
Do you hear what I hear?
Everything is coming back online.
Do you hear what I hear?
The sigh, the sigh of retrograde relief
As Mercury finally goes direct.

Well…isn’t it a little like Christmas? The detours, delays, and (dare I say it) the snafus of the last several weeks fading in the rearview mirror, and the path ahead finally clear — at least of retrograde issues. It’s enough to make a technophile fall on her knees and sing of wonder and joy. What’s more, there’s not a lot of lag time bringing the routines of daily life up to speed. Uranus, the planet that illuminates trouble spots with its thunderbolts of lightning, is continuing to inspire innovation and invention, and that translates into something new replacing the tried and true — but only when necessary. As a counterbalance to that Uranian fire, several planets are stirring the sentimental waters of Pisces, which translates into richly woven emotional threads. Be prepared for feelings…lots and lots of feelings. (I won’t say, “Nothing more than feelings….)

The ongoing Jupiter/Uranus trine continues to stimulate surprising and sudden changes of fortune. It’s fundamentally a positive interaction that combines the creativity of Uranus with the expansiveness of Jupiter. But Uranus is volatile, and when that instability mixes with Jupiter’s tendency to exaggerate, unusual manifestations are probable. Trines offer support, but given Uranus’ nature to excite whatever is stagnant, it’s possible to mistake sudden shifts in circumstances as negative occurrences rather than just what was needed to move us out the mire.

The sentimental agents of this week and next week are a lineup of planets in Pisces. Right now, it’s Neptune, Venus and Mars, but next week the Sun and the Moon join the team (or should I say “stream”?) Pisces is an empathetic Sign that feels the emotional environment keenly (even if that environment includes YouTube videos of baby elephants in Africa). Don’t get me wrong, I am as sentimental as the next person (and those who know me would say even more), but this planetary aggregation is likely to turn already tearful situations soupy. It is a great antidote to the often-harsh edge of Uranian fire. But this concentration in Pisces does have its dangers; it can turn into a deluge of feelings that are hard to resolve because you feel powerless to act on them. Try not to be overwhelmed by circumstances out of your control, circumstances that cannot be changed, circumstances that require heartfelt empathy as well as strong psychic boundaries.

As the week unfolds, try to pace yourself. You may be tempted to shift into turbocharged action as soon as Mercury goes Direct, but you might want to take your time getting up to speed. Remember, life isn’t a race. It’s meant to be lived as fully as possible.

The planets continue to align in several patterns, all of which speak to surprising plot twists that continue to transform a mundane Mercury Retrograde into an exceptional one. So don’t be surprised if one thing or another rattles, startles, shocks, or shakes you into a different perspective. People — including you — are making unusual choices, and as situations shift to reflect these eclectic decisions, personal proclamations, yours or others’, are likely. Anticipate individual declarations of independence to steal the thunder of Presidents’ Day festivities, and be prepared for the consequences of these emancipation proclamations to linger for quite some time.

What’s more, we’re in the final stretch — seven more days — of Mercury Retrograde, which means that the one dreaded task you’ve been refusing to handle is going to rear its head and demand that you pay attention to it. Whether it is a loose wire or a loose screw, neglect could finally make it all fall down. Or perhaps it is a conversation with someone you dearly love but also really need, and that need is getting in the way of telling the truth about a certain situation. Or it’s finding out that certain bills you thought were paid still linger, which means you don’t have as much money in the bank as you thought you did. Whatever verse of the Retro Blues you find yourself singing, you’re sure to be joined by others, equally encumbered by procrastination.

But don’t despair. Hidden amidst the debris of this final week of Mercury Retrograde are some stunning astral interactions that could help you gain clarity and (believe it or not) find a way to laugh (when appropriate) at life’s ironies:

(1) That retrograde Mercury, in Aquarius, sextiles Saturn, in Sagittarius, forming a positive alliance that brings a penetrating fire to Mercury’s review of the facts and figures. Allow this partnership to help you clarify what details still need your attention.

(2) Uranus, moving ever more tightly into its square with Pluto, sextiles the Sun, providing the impetus for all those proclamations of liberty and freedom. Sun/Uranus contacts are the starry muses of revolutionaries, and under their brilliant creative influence, ideals have the power to take form. We’ve been under this Sun/Uranus sextile for the last week, and this week, as it pulls apart we’re more likely to feel its effect. Be prepared to move into action.

(3) The Sun/Uranus sextile also includes Jupiter, in Leo. Jupiter opposes the Sun as it simultaneously forms a trine with Uranus, and because Jupiter amplifies whatever planet it's interacting with, its presence ramps up those Sun/Uranus urges for personal freedom. And since Jupiter is in Leo, the Sign of drama, you can anticipate melodrama as part of the process. But that’s not all….

(4) While the opposition pulls things to extremes, the trine between Jupiter and Uranus, signals sudden and unforeseen changes of fortune. Close to zero in the bank one day and easily paying the bills the next — or the other way around — is just one example of how Jupiter/Uranus contacts can shift circumstances in the blink of an eye.

All week long these interactions are going to challenge your picture of reality. Unforeseen information, secret alliances, hidden agendas, as well as non-charged, positive exchanges all have the power to shift perspectives. Use this power. Notice where you are holding on to an old point of view that no longer serves and be willing to break free from outworn ties that have bound you out of obligation to hold on no matter what. I’m not suggesting cavalier behavior that only serves a narcissistic purpose. I’m simply suggesting that the force of these planetary alignments can assist in generating the necessary impulse to move out of stasis and into growth.

And one last thing: Try to be patient with yourself as well as with your fellow travelers this week. Remember, we are all feeling the stress of the retrograde and some of us are still learning how to handle the strain with greater skill.

It’s Mercury Retrograde until February 11 and as its effects — delays, detours, and snafus of every variety — continue to dominate daily life by disturbing regular routines. Try not to succumb to retrograde dyspepsia because you forgot to set the alarm, put gas in the car, or neglected to pay the bills on time, take a deep breath and just do what needs to be done. Try not to blame anyone for making the same or similar mistakes. And really make an effort to be kind to your fellow travelers — we could all use a little more tenderness and care.

Sun Bursts: If you know your Ascendant and/or your Moon Sign, read that too.

Aries March 21-April 19
Continue to use the retrograde to reflect on past, present, and future alliances and partnerships. Consider the following questions: What qualities do you crave in a partner? What qualities do you provide? What’s necessary for you to feel supported? How do you support others? Try not to use this review as an opportunity to blame yourself for past transgressions. Instead, concentrate on how you can refine your role in an effort to form better partnerships.

Taurus April 20-May 20
It’s all about work — and not just what you do, but how you do it. Be willing to reexamine the power of your internal attitude to determine your external behavior. Are you assessing your situation through the widest possible lens? Are you only complaining about what’s wrong? Or (my favorite), is your attention focused on all the things that are going well in order to sustain a positive approach? Don’t be afraid to just sit with this process. While it may be frustrating, it can also help you to move through persistent negative habits.

Gemini May 21-June 21
It’s too early in the process to start reconciling the disparate threads of your current situation. At the moment, there are just too many contributing factors to gather into a coherent pattern, and insisting on a specific outcome could result in even greater retrograde frustration than normal. Just continue to let things unfold at their own pace. Of course, you can add a tweak or two — just a nudge, not a push. You will know when the process is complete. And you’re likely to be pleasantly surprised by the outcome.

Cancer June 22-July 22
The retrograde continues to stir a deep process of transformation, so don’t be fooled into thinking that nothing is happening. You’re in the midst of sorting through several significant issues, all of which relate to how to align your personal values with your professional standards. It’s not your way to cut corners, but every once in a while, even the most diligent among us are tempted to let something slide. I’m not suggesting that you’re making a mistake; I’m simply suggesting this isn’t the moment to shrug off the details.

Leo July 23-August 22
The secret to handling this retrograde phase is surrendering to the process and allowing it to lead the way. I know that sounds a little esoteric, but for you, so is this Mercury Retrograde, if only because it’s highlighting a very important piece of your relationship puzzle — how to blend with your partners without losing your individuality. This is no small feat, for while many of us wrestle with this theme, for you it also involves handling the need to be the star as you simultaneously encourage others to assume a leading role.

Virgo August 23-September 22
The emphasis is still on self-care, and while you may think that I am repeating myself — and I am — it’s for a good purpose. Mercury is your ruling planet and because of that strong influence, you tend to feel a retrograde more keenly than most. So don’t underestimate the stress and strain of retrograde frustration on your nervous system, and when possible, bump up your meditation and other stress reducers. Also, use this time to review what other ways you can improve your health.

Libra September 23-October 22
It’s okay to feel confident about your choices — even if you change your mind, which you may do as you continue to weigh your options. This retro phase is one of the few times indecision could work for you. Continue to review the situation, and when necessary, ask others for their insights. You don’t have to agree with their opinions; you just have to consider alternate points of view. Remember, this phase is not about putting anything in motion; it’s about revising, reconsidering, and reflecting on how to move forward when the time is right.

Scorpio October 23-November 21
You’re still in a deeply thoughtful retrograde phase that is focused on what you need to feel at home, inside and out. Part of this process includes the notion of “family,” specifically, how important it is for you to participate daily with those you love, whether it is your family of origin or your family of choice. There’s no need to hurry this process — and of course you can’t hurry a retrograde — plus it wouldn’t be like you to skip over any part of it, even those aspects that are uncomfortable.

Sagittarius November 22-December 21
I could repeat myself and run the risk of contributing to your retrograde frustration by telling you just how much you are likely to be repeating yourself. Or — and I think you might like this — I could open up a different channel by suggesting that all the conversations you’re having, even the ones you think are repetitive, are covering subjects that are still in need of your attention. Rather than think anything is a done deal, take your time and go over the details. You might discover previously overlooked and valuable information.

Capricorn December 22-January 19
It would be a worthwhile process for you to continue to reflect on what matters to you most — and why. I completely understand that financial matters of every denomination play a significant role in the formation of your worldview. While the importance of financial stability is self-evident, sometimes it is important to push beyond your comfort zone into previously discounted realms. Notice value systems you would rather avoid, and then be bold and explore those arenas, if only to gather data to support your position.

Aquarius January 20-February 18
Read Leo above and add this: You’re longing for an enthusiastic, good-natured partner who has the capacity to joyously embrace the world. Great…let that yearning be a reflection of your own desire to spread your wings and fly to greater heights. Just use this retrograde phase to reexamine persistent patterns that keep you from being yourself in partnerships — personal as well as professional — with significant others. Make your mantra, “I am true to myself” and you’ll benefit from this retrograde.

Pisces February 19-March 20
I could go on and on and on in true Mercury Retrograde fashion about not allowing yourself to brood over the past, especially relationship issues, past, present, or future. But I won’t — I’ll just remind you that there are many alternative ways to process important information about interactions with others, and not all of those ways are through discussions. Pay attention to your dreams, for they have the power to deliver powerful messages on potential next steps.

It’s Mercury Retrograde — first one of 2015 — from today until February 11. And it’s a doozy, if only because it’s more emotionally charged than a retrograde is supposed to be, and those strong feelings tip the normal frustration of a retrograde to extremes. For those new to astrology, let me explain: Three times a year (and sometimes four), Mercury appears to be moving backwards in the sky relative to its orbit and our orbit around the Sun. Within the astrological system, Mercury symbolizes all things related to communication and language, as well as commerce and travel. So according to astrological wisdom, when Mercury seemingly retraces its path (as it does during a retrograde), all things contained within its vast domain tend to go a little strange. Contracts of every type need extra revisions, mail of every class gets lost in the same place where the socks disappear in the dryer, detours of every dimension from the physical to the psychic are problematic, meetings are endlessly postponed or delayed, and smart phones just turn stupid.

Those not new to astrology know the drill: Mercury Retrograde is a great time to review, reflect, revise, and reconsider plans and projects already in motion. Mercury Retrograde is not a good time to initiate anything new. And at the risk of repeating myself, during Mercury Retrograde you need more than the normal amount of patience. It’s not that what you’re working on won’t come to fruition eventually; it will simply take much longer than you’d like — or it should.

Because of that lag, Mercury Retrograde phases are normally highly charged with frustration — the “Gee, I want to get this done now, so why aren’t the printer, wifi, or any of my apps working?” But the current retrograde (the one that starts today) is supercharged because as Mercury turns around at 17 degrees Aquarius, the Moon, which symbolizes feelings, is also in Aquarius, only 12 minutes (nothing in astrological time) away from Mercury. And this Moon/Mercury conjunction amplifies the normal retrograde rub. For those who follow retrogrades closely, (and you know who you are) having this conjunction occur in Aquarius is kinda like having Uranus Retrograde simultaneously with Mercury Retrograde — a combination that just spells trouble.

Uranus has a very special relationship to electronics, a liaison that’s deadly for recording equipment, cameras, printers, routers, scanners, and just about every type of wireless device you can name.

But that’s not all: Uranus is actually sextile both Mercury and the Moon at the moment of today’s retrograde, so don’t be surprised if your TV stops working or your network goes down for no known reason.

And there’s more: Jupiter opposes that Moon/Mercury conjunction, creating a potent interaction that throws the entire bundle to extremes. Jupiter signifies expansion, and when it is in an opposition to any planet, the tension of the opposition often resembles a seesaw — one minute it’s up and the next, down. Be prepared for mood swings, yours or others’, to dominate daily to-dos.

The good news is that the pernicious influence of the Mars/Saturn square that generated so much harshness last week is replaced by a Sun/Saturn sextile, a positive interaction that offers the possibility of stability — and even a little will go a long way.

Sometimes — not often — I actually love Mercury Retrograde. To the ears of most believers, I know those words are heresy, but Mercury Retrograde is one of those categories of astrology that turn non-believers into staunch followers — at least when it comes to retrogrades. What’s more, Mercury Retrograde is so well known that it has become a modern astral myth. Even those who do not consider the stars causal — like me — pay attention to Mercury Retrograde. I mean it when I say, “Don’t buy a computer or a printer or a phone under Mercury Retrograde because it will be a purchase filled with hassles.”

As the next weeks unfold, see how the retrograde unfolds in your life and in the lives of those around you. And if you notice an increase in testy tempers and frayed nerves, yours or others’, do your best to be kind to your fellow travelers. A compassionate gesture or word could shift the energy and make life easier for everyone.

Despite the possibility — no, make that probability — for strong emotions this week, the planets continue to offer the potential for inspiration and insight. They also align in an unusual configuration that provides the capacity for profound empathy, as it simultaneously opens wide the door for harsh criticism. This is what I find most interesting about astrology: All the symbols in this system play out along a spectrum from negative to positive, a spectrum that not only reflects the duality of life on Earth, but also a system that presents the wide range of free will choices, all the while defying the ossification of a one-view-and-one-view-only perspective. Of course there are astrological fundamentalists, but at its core, astrology is not about literalism; it’s about contextualizing life experience as part of some much greater narrative, a narrative that is simultaneously familiar and mysterious; familiar because it describes the day-to-day; mysterious because it attempts to express the ineffable.

The core of this week’s mystery is a complex alignment between and among Mars, Saturn, and Neptune. Mars just entered Pisces and is in the process of forming a conjunction with Neptune. When Mars and Neptune share the same space, boundaries tend to blur and the urge to merge increases. Mars symbolizes individuation, Neptune represents dissolution, and their combined influence increases empathy because it enhances the capacity to step into someone else’s shoes. But — and this is a big exception — at the same time, this conjunction also represents the capacity to get lost in the process, and the result is a struggle to maintain personal identity — a struggle that can make some decisions dicey with co-dependence at one end of the spectrum and hyper-independence at the other.

Saturn is all about boundaries, and that’s a problem for both Mars and Neptune when they are on their own, but when Saturn squares a Mars/Neptune conjunction, the merging problems are exacerbated by Saturn’s relentless determination to delineate structure. Saturn isn’t interested in merging; Saturn wants clear lines so it can function within regulated systems. Saturn wants order and Mars/Neptune interactions are messy. A Mars/Saturn square often manifests as a harsh, strident approach that is more critical than helpful. When Saturn squares Neptune, it insists on clarity, and that insistence is often a buzz-kill for the dreamy fantasy world of Neptune. As Saturn squares the Mars/Neptune conjunction, many of us are likely to feel confused and/or despondent about the ongoing process of trying to figure out just how far is too far to walk in another’s shoes.

The question of distance and duration is not an easy question, especially in the midst of the tightening final Uranus/Pluto square, an interaction that puts social justice at the forefront of our collective interactions. Social justice is love at the collective level — it is the recognition of our interconnectedness and interdependence. Just how far each of us is willing to extend to help our fellow humans and our planet is the question of the day. It is a question each of us must answer within before we can respond to external circumstances.

It is possible to view the enormous, historical demonstration in Paris against the violence and atrocity of terrorism as a ground swell of compassion and concern. Again, along that spectrum of choices we have to make in this realm of duality, as a collective we must not only take a stand against terrorism. We must also be willing to face the roots of this disease and do whatever is necessary to find a remedy.

Gandhi, as well as the Reverend Martin Luther King, Jr., understood that violence against violence only creates more violence. That line of thinking can also extend to the notion that internal violence — harsh self-judgment and mean-spirited self-criticism — only creates an internal hostile environment that can then be projected outside onto others. As each of us learns to quiet the turmoil within, we learn to quiet the external tumult.

While many of us feel powerless in the face of our global situation, we are never without the power to experience a change of heart. This is where true revolution occurs, not with despair, but with hope — the hope that lies with the millions who gathered in unity to protest the senseless killing of their fellow travelers. To be sure, one of the most important lessons of our time is that no matter how hard we would wish it otherwise, we are no longer local. Again, one more way of viewing the spectrum of choices: We can suffer through the labor pains of this process wishing it were otherwise, or we can continue to make all the adjustments that are necessary to create a unified field of diversity.

The planetary patterns of the week offer opportunities to create a fresh start to a new year. And even though the sky isn’t presenting a completely clean slate, this week’s astral activity does provide the potential to shift certain situations. Embrace this possibility for improvement and allow it to infuse your outlook with a fresh, positive perspective. Of course there is still work to be done, and yes, we need sweeping reform in many areas of life, but many of those solutions will be found in the mundane tasks of daily life. So use this week to reaffirm your commitment to making “energetic progress in the good.” (I-Ching, Hexagram 43.)

Mercury, Venus, and Saturn are at the core of this positive energy. Mercury and Venus are conjunct, in Aquarius, and both are in a sextile to Saturn, in Sagittarius. Mercury symbolizes all forms of communication as well as all intellectual processes; Venus signifies grace and love, as well as the highest ideals; when they unite in the innovative and occasionally eccentric Sign of Aquarius, we experience the desire for inspired conversation and the graceful expression of values. Expect interesting exchanges about the nature and quality of love.

Saturn is currently at the beginning of its journey through Sagittarius. Saturn thrives on order and organization, and over the course of the next several years it will strengthen the Sagittarian search for truth. This week, as Saturn joins with Mercury and Venus through the supportive angle of a sextile, many may experience the desire to deepen their spiritual search through increased meditation or contemplation, or through a more consistent devotion to creative endeavors. Others may feel the need to make the mundane, day-to-day structures more graceful, and even more of our fellow travelers may simply experience the urge to reorganize those structures after the chaos of the holidays.

All week long, Mars and Saturn will be moving into a square, so don’t be surprised if you’re feeling just a tad testy. By the end of the week, Mars moves into a conjunction with Neptune, and that alliance is sure to turn the already fractious force of the Mars/Saturn square into confrontations over boundaries. Commit to making peaceful choices during the coming weeks, choices that benefit you as well as others, choices that cause no harm.

A word of warning: Mercury begins its first retrograde phase of the 2015 on January 21, a phase that will last until February 11. Remember the three-day rule about Mercury Retrograde and make sure you’ve backed up everything by January 18. (More about Mercury Retrograde next week.)

In the Hexagram 43, Kuai /Break-through (Resoluteness), the I-Ching advises that if one “were to pile up riches…without considering others,” collapse would be inevitable. “For all gathering is followed by dispersion. Therefore the superior man begins to distribute while he is accumulating.” And further: “In the same way, in developing character” one should not become “hardened in obstinacy” but rather remain open to growth by the “help of strict and continuous self-examination.” Use the wisdom of this ancient Book of Changes to start your new year.