Aquarium Age - Transformational Astrology

Hello to readers in Charlottesville!

There aren’t many days left until the end of 2018, and now that Mercury Direct has gathered momentum (it went direct on December 6), the days and nights that are left could become a blur of endless tasks and details, and while I can’t argue against taking care of what needs attention, this is the time of year when the impulse of the natural world is to slow down, go within, and gather strength for the coming year. What' more, 'tis also the season to p-a-r-t-y, which makes the idea of ramping up chores and other responsible activities seem extremely counter to the seasonal pull. I don’t think the profusion of influences will stop anyone from getting as much done as possible. 2018 was a year of so many delays and detours—one retrograde after another impeded forward progress—that slowing down now might not feel like the right thing to do. Fortunately, planetary patterns this week support introspection, reflection, and reveling, which means there’s no need to choose one way to spend your time. The only challenge might be finding the right balance.

The introspective potential is attributable to a Neptune/Saturn sextile, a positive, if subtle, interaction that continues well into 2019. Neptune symbolizes imagination, spiritual pursuits, and all altered states, which includes addictive appetites. Saturn signifies structure and order, and because this is a positive alliance, Saturn is likely to harness the positive threads of Neptune and turn them toward contemplative pursuits.

But a Jupiter/Neptune square also begins this week, a fractious interaction that also continues through 2019. Jupiter signifies exaggeration, which means that this dynamic interaction could tilt Neptune’s appetite for altered states toward excessive behavior. Of course, that would fit the seasonal need be jolly, and revel in good food, wine, and every other type of sensual pleasure. The only risk is overdoing, so pace yourself or you will burn out quickly.

By the weekend, Mercury moves into a conjunction with Jupiter, and as these two share a perfect union, they incline hearts and minds toward jovial attitudes and a desire to have fun. Expect some of that joy to involve convivial conversations. This conjunction takes place in Sagittarius, an already loquacious Sign, and that translates into a wide range of topics, so anticipate talking about everything—and I mean everything, from the smallest to the most significant goings-on in your personal world and the world at large. But because this is a benign conjunction, most interactions will reflect the goodwill of the season and aren’t likely to turn sour. Jupiter symbolizes humor, and Mercury represents the mind, so this combination easily keeps a light touch—a welcome relief for many, I am sure.

As the last days of 2018 unfold, find time to reflect on the multitude of events that have occurred this year, not just what’s transpired in your life but also what’s happened in the world. We are citizens of Planet Earth and we share her destiny. Recently someone asked me how I thought the coming astrological events—events I will continue to go into detail about during the coming weeks—will play out. I replied that I don’t think it’s possible to know because we are in the process of creating our individual and collective vision for the future. Make yours a positive vision that includes kindness and care for all sentient beings, from your family and friends to the plants in your garden to the animals you may never meet to birds that welcome the morning.

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

Aries March 21-April 19
The best way to dispel any lingering tension would be to stay present and rather than lean toward one outcome or another, allow the situation to unfold. You don’t have to hold back—speak your truth and be passionate about what you have to say. Just be aware that others are as passionate as you even if they don’t share the same perspective.

Taurus April 20-May 20
It’s not easy to see what lies behind the façade of any situation, but this week the veils seem thin and that transparency makes it easier for you to witness underlying intentions at work, yours as well as others’. Take your time working your way through these insights—there’s a lot of material to explore and absolutely no need to hurry through.   

Gemini May 21-June 21
If you’re clear with yourself about what you feel, you’ll inspire significant others to be just as clear about their feelings. Be sure to spend time considering your expectations, individual and joint, personal and professional. Many times what we are hoping will happen is a way to understanding what we are craving in life. Be brave and willing to explore your deeper needs and desires.

Cancer June 22-July 22
You’re working hard and hoping to see good returns on your efforts. This potential for success isn’t only about finances, although you could make good money this week. There is positive support for your efforts no matter what it is you are attempting to manifest. Continue to concentrate your time and energy on projects that you love and you will see beneficial results.  

Leo July 23-August 22
Be willing to stand every obstacle on its head and look at what’s inhibiting your forward motion from every possible angle, and you will make great strides in all your endeavors. This isn’t about finding flaws, although you may uncover places that need improvement. This is primarily about the flexibility to examine your endeavors with the intention to do whatever it takes to create excellence.

Virgo August 23-September 22
Find the cosmic joke—even if that requires a large helping of gallows humor—because if you can find the resilience to laugh at what is going on, you will find the necessary lightness of being to handle all the issues that need your attention. I’m not suggesting you be cavalier or sarcastic at the expense of others. I’m simply advising that a lighter touch will be transformative.

Libra September 23-October 22
You have an unusually strong desire to be honest and share the power of truth- telling with loved ones. Stimulating conversations with family and friends have the potential to offer penetrating insight into important personal patterns that may be inhibiting the free flow of your creative vision. Listen carefully to what’s being said, both your contribution as well as others’.

Scorpio October 23-November 21
The planets say there’s money to be made, so if that’s your goal, have at it, but also be aware that this very same signature has the potential to provide a strong sense of self-confidence and self-esteem. There’s no telling how this strength will manifest, but it is quite clear that you will need to decide how to use this potent force.

Sagittarius November 22-December 21
You’re in a process of beginning and completing a couple of cycles. One is based on creativity and your ability to confidently express yourself. The other cycle is linked to the first, but it feels more like an identity crisis. There’s no need to suffer over either cycle. The best way to handle what arises as a result of both is to stay steady in what it is you value you most and apply those principles.

Capricorn December 22-January 19
The most important thing you could do is stop worrying about the future and instead concentrate all your energy in present time. Remember, the past creates the present as the present creates the future, which is why the power to transform any situation is always in the present moment. It may not be an easy space to hold, but it’s a powerful one and you are up to the task.

Aquarius January 20-February 18
It’s a choice: Worry about what you have no control over or be proactive and assert your power where it will have the greatest positive effect. Of course, there is room for improvement, but as many people have learned, sometimes things need to fall apart before they can get better. This is one of those times, so contemplate how you want to contribute to healing the situation.  

Pisces February 19-March 20
Allow yourself to be enthusiastic about the various plans and projects that are gaining momentum. Yes…it has been a strenuous year, and while much has been hard to cope with, you have built stronger soul muscles to tolerate the stress. So take this moment and contemplate what you’ve accomplished and what you’ve learned and allow that knowledge to propel you forward.