The
Weekly Frequency Archives 2001 You can also select the links
to go to that month's columns. January
February
March
April
May
June Copyright © 2001 by Ralfee
Finn Unfortunately, two potent
planetary configurations focus on 3-D matters making it hard
to settle down or into a contemplative state. First, there's
a Lunar Eclipse on December 30. During a Lunar Eclipse, the
shadow of the earth obscures the light of the Moon, and
concerns of earthly life overshadow the power of the
unconscious. As survival issues dominate the conscious mind,
you could find yourself fretting over whether or not there
is enough. While the issue of abundance is important,
focusing on lack amplifies anxiety. So instead of
concentrating your awareness on what you don't have, spend
time acknowledging where your life is bountiful. I'm not
suggesting denial. Need is need. But a primary rule of
transformation is learning to manifest prosperity through an
attitude of gratitude. Second, and also on December
30, Pluto forms an exact square to Mars. This fractious
energy carries over the stress of last week's Saturn Mars
square as it simultaneously triggers the on-going tension
generated by the Pluto Saturn opposition. A Pluto Mars
square fuels ruthless self-interest and as this energy
coalesces with the survival concerns spotlighted by the
eclipse, opportunism flourishes. Resist the urge to profit
at another's expense, especially if your good fortune causes
another's demise. Set harmful energy in motion under this
influence and those bad intentions will boomerang with
lasting consequences. As 2001 ends, heartache,
personal and collective, is apt to color New Year
resolutions with despair, which is why the next few days are
best spent in a contemplative state of mind. For while this
grief may seem unbearable, it can, with time, become a
catalyst for lasting transformation. As the I-Ching reminds
us, change is constant and change is our greatest teacher.
This ancient book of wisdom also suggests the best way to
fight evil is to make energetic progress in the good. The source of this year's
holiday friction is a Saturn Mars square. Saturn represents
the principle of authority and thrives on being in charge.
Mars symbolizes the principle of assertion and finds its
deepest joy in movement. As Saturn inhibits Mars, the air
turns harsh with resistance. Anticipate organizational
disputes ranging from how to get there to how long to cook
the turkey. But avoid getting lost in a power struggle.
Arguments started under Saturn Mars are apt to wake the
Ghost of Christmas past, and before you can say "Tiny Tim"
you'll be duking it out about everything but the turkey.
Fortunately, Neptune trines
Saturn supplying an ample helping of self-restraint. This
positive alliance generates sincere charity. Use it to ease
emotional tension, and allow your heart to turn away from
bitter conflict toward true compassion. A Uranus Venus sextile spices
up the week by providing the potential for romantic
reveling. Infamous for fanning the flames of erotic fantasy,
this combo also feeds artistic vision. Fall in love, but
don't expect the attraction to last. Channel this energy
into creative endeavors, and brilliant inspiration could
enhance your efforts. Adding a slightly manic note to
the week, Jupiter trines Mars. This vibrant couple is all
about good cheer and an appetite for celebration and while
this Jupiter Mars trine encourages excessive appetites for
all kinds of indulgences, who cares. What's more, a Jupiter
Mars trine supplies enough energy to accomplish all your
last minute goals, from baking to shopping to just having
fun. As the holiday week unfolds,
allow the pleasures of the season to restore your spirit. If
you're communing with family and friends, appreciate the
gift of that connection. If you're alone, treat yourself
with tenderness and care. Whatever your celebration rituals
may be, make an effort to put aside the judgments that
cement separation, and say a prayer of peace for friend and
foe. The Eclipse takes place in
Sagittarius, the Sign of belief systems, where we strive to
synthesize instinct and reason. From a transformational
perspective, Sagittarius represents the principle of
integration and the journey to reach wholeness by working
through what's fragmented within. The shadow of that process
often manifests as alienation, when doctrine falls short of
its promise, or fundamentalism, when dogma offers the
promise of certainty. The hope of the Sagittarian quest is
learning to align information with intuition. Use the energy
of the eclipse to see where you are still feeling divided or
split. Uranus sextiles the Sun and the
Moon during this Eclipse, providing the potential to
recognize and break free from the unconscious patterning the
Eclipse is apt to reveal. Uranus, infamous for its
disruptive force, is also the leader of innovation. A
creative force outside the limitation of known experience
drives its revolutionary energy, which is why Uranus
catalyzes dynamic change. Again, notice what shifts as a
result of the eclipse, and how that upheaval might have
positive results. A Pluto Venus conjunction also
falls within the orb of Friday's Solar Eclipse. Known to
imbue romantic attraction with an almost compulsive
fanaticism, this conjunction also infuses artistic endeavors
with fervent vitality. As the combined power of Pluto
conjunct Venus coalesces with the effect of this eclipse,
the power of the unconscious motivates extreme reactions.
Unrequited love is felt more deeply. Mutual reception is apt
to feel preordained. The on-going Pluto Saturn
opposition is separating, and while the tension of this
difficult face off is lessening, the shadows it revealed are
still a part of our consciousness. Fear is a dominant theme
of this opposition, particularly the fear of what we don't
understand and cannot control. The influence of a Pluto
Saturn conjunction in 1947 provided the energetic ground for
McCarthyism, when colleague turned against colleague and
panic permeated the lives of those who dared to dissent. As
part of the effect of this eclipse, we're apt to see an
escalation of ideological persecution. Allowing the
systematic erosion of civil rights because we're still
yearning for perfected father figure to makes us safe from
harm doesn't protect democracy. As you experience the emotional
impact of the eclipse, try to remember we're in the season
of joy and peace, one of the few times each year
specifically devoted putting aside our differences in
recognition of our common ground. The planets support this
reflective perspective. Pluto, Mercury, Venus, and the Sun
are all in Sagittarius, the keeper of belief systems and the
Sign where we attempt to reconcile and synthesize ideas with
action. Jupiter rules this Sign where we learn to walk our
talk, and while astrologers aren't' supposed to have
favorite planets, I must confess, for me, Jupiter is best.
Jupiter supports the search for truth through education. Its
wide band frequency includes the expansion of consciousness.
Jupiter relishes in earthly delights, which is why its
shadow can manifest as excessive appetites. But most
importantly Jupiter thrives on humor and its laughter gladly
supplies the antidote for heartbreak. This big, fat planet
delves into the deeper meaning at it simultaneously reminds
us not to take suffering so seriously we forget to enjoy the
gift of life. This week, let the thoughtful
energy of Sagittarius infuse your awareness with an expanded
perspective. Notice where you need the remedy of laughter to
lighten your load, inside or out. Also pay attention to what
needs to be learned. Pluto and Saturn are transmitting a
profound signal, and the intensity of their opposition has
surfaced and will continue to surface the shadows of
consciousness, personal and collective. While the disruption
and violence put in motion by the Pluto Saturn opposition
rocked foundations, personal and collective, to the core,
the motivation behind those egregious acts isn't new. The
primitive urge to harm another in order to survive is a part
of the human condition, and the key to healing that theme
lies in the individual desire to live a peaceful life. Mass
movements don't change human nature. True revolution takes
place one heart at a time. The Uranus Mars conjunction
continues pumping action, generating surprising developments
of all kinds, personal and collective. Uranus loves
upheaval, Mars loves movement, and when they join forces
premature action is probable. We've been under this willful
influence for a week, and now as Uranus and Mars separate,
the release is apt to fray that one last healthy nerve. Try
not to let tension motivate impulsive behavior. Act if you
must, but also know when enough is enough. Rather than
dissolve in a personal meltdown, make an effort to
cooperate. Unfortunately, finding the
ground of compromise won't be easy. Pluto conjuncts the Sun,
amping up a hunger for power and a need for control. What's
more, Saturn opposes both the Sun and Pluto, fueling a
desire to strictly enforce rules of all kinds, even when
those restrictions defy common sense. Be patient with those
less compliant, particularly if you're blustering with
charge and insisting on your way and your way only. Saturn
is apt to turn opinions inflexible. So rather than ossify,
soften. The situation may be serious, but a stern approach
will only promote equally rigid resistance. Fortunately, Neptune sextiles
Mercury and the Sun, broadcasting increased empathy and
compassion. Neptune aims our sights on the mystic, and when
it forms a positive relationship with the Sun and Mercury,
spiritual concerns rise to the surface of consciousness.
This positive alliance supports a sympathetic mindset and
enhancing intuition and insight. Here, in the Northern
Hemisphere, this week and the next several weeks are the
darkest days of the year, just before the Solstice, when the
roots of life gather strength and prepare for the next
cycle. This year, don't let the distractions of the modern
holiday season distort its true meaning. Instead, attune to
a truer power. 'Tis the season of faith, when we celebrate
the renewal of light and hope--something we could all use
right about now. Mars spends the week moving
into a conjunction with Uranus and this close coupling
stimulates unstable air. Uranus symbolizes shift. Mars
represents the ego. Uranus is the God of Revolution. Mars is
the God of War. Uranus represents the power of the
unexpected. Mars, the power of the will. Together, they
produce prodigious, often volatile energy. What's more, Mars
marches to a military drum as Uranus amps-up a fighting
spirit, which means skirmishes, big or small, personal or
collective, are likely. But try not to use this agitated
atmosphere as an excuse for violence. Instead, notice what
needs to give. Then, use the innovative, ingenious power of
Uranus to invent positive solutions to stagnant situations.
Just be aware, the combined force of Uranus and Mars feeds a
need to hurry, which is why this configuration is also a
signature of accidents. Avoid extreme sports and if you're
driving, take your time. In America, Thanksgiving marks
the threshold of the holiday season, when emotional tides
tend to run high. This year, feelings of all kinds flood
celebrations and ceremonies, making meltdowns probable. The
next few weeks are also the time of year best spent in
contemplation, pondering a year's worth of experiences. 2001
opened on a note of emotional healing, and the first six
months confronted many of us with a personal retrospective.
For some, that review offered opportunities to heal the
past. For others, it provided closure and a chance to move
on. 2001closes on an emotional note as the trauma and grief
set in motion on September 11 continue to stir heart and
soul. For some, the pain of that day is still palpable. For
others, the shock waves awakened old, seemingly unrelated
wounds, still painful despite the passage of time. Psychic
injuries need gentle treatment, as do hurting hearts. No
matter how fast the external world might move this week,
there's no need to hurry through this healing process. Mars assumes the leading role
in this week's astro drama, as it trines Saturn, exact on
Thursday, and sextiles Pluto, exact on Saturday. There's
nothing namby-pamby about Mars, and when it combines its
strength with the discipline of Saturn and the power of
Pluto, the air hums with authority and purpose. A positive
alliance between Mars, Saturn, and Pluto set sights on
specific goals, and provides enough juice to work through
the days completely oblivious to the clock. Just try not to
overextend. Even the Energizer Bunny needs to recharge.
What's more, these astro superpowers generate enough
ambition to conquer the world. If you're at the helm, try
not to impose your personal agenda. Not everyone will share
your need to succeed, so be careful about turning bossy or
combative. If you're the worker bee, be prepared to work
harder, but also expect to feel an increased ability to get
the job done. As Mars forms a perfect union
with Pluto and Saturn, it provides a release valve for the
tension generated by the on-going Pluto Saturn opposition.
Because Mars is the planet of war, this vortex is decidedly
militaristic, but you don't need to be enlisted in an actual
army to feel this militant pulse. Battles over all sorts of
issues are likely as people everywhere fling open their
doors and windows, shouting, "I'm mad as hell and I'm not
taking it anymore." Collectively, the combined potency of
Mars, Saturn, and Pluto escalates military action everywhere
war is being waged. Mars also squares Mercury and
the rattle of this fractious interaction heightens an
already belligerent environment. As Mars and Mercury clash,
minds turn critical, conversations, grumpy, and grousing
becomes common place. Try not to get caught up in
hypercriticism. Stay patient and understand lots of us are
simply exhausted from the stress and unable to process the
tension. Jupiter trines Mercury and that buoyant partnership
offers a bit of optimistic relief. This week, instead of engaging
in combat, channel your efforts into peaceful endeavors.
Stay focused, and you can use the power of the week to make
positive personal progress. Several sources contribute to
the energetic shift. First, Mars separates out of its
conjunction with Neptune, and marches right into a sextile
with Pluto and a trine with Saturn. The combined influence
of Mars, Pluto, and Saturn provides the power for hard work
and endurance. Take note: These three kings also signal
increased military maneuvering. Mars is the principle of
war, and as it mixes with the cold force of Pluto and
Saturn, attitudes are apt to turn hostile. Mars easily
assumes the role of solider, protector, and angry citizen.
Be sure to breathe deeply and consider peaceful alternatives
before this hostile force moves you into a belligerent
attitude. Next, a Uranus Sun square amps
up this aggressive atmosphere, fueling a revolutionary
spirit. Don't be surprised if you're eager to break free
from stagnant situations. On a personal level, this "Gotta
be me, gotta be free" refrain translates into decisions and
declarations you might later regret, particularly if those
proclamations are made as a reaction to recent stress rather
than based on a thoughtful process. Collectively, this
impatient force also contributes to an increase in military
operations, organized or otherwise. The trauma of September 11
continues generating aftershocks. On a personal level,
emotional, mental, physical and spiritual ground might still
feel shaky. From a collective perspective, the economic and
political ramifications seem to have a life of their own,
particularly as the leaders of the world make their stand,
and draw lines in the sand. This intense atmosphere makes it
hard holding fast to a peaceful stance, especially if inner
battlegrounds are still unexamined. Living a peaceful life,
inside and out, requires a conscience, capable of
self-examination. A peaceful life also requires conscious
awareness of the interdependent nature of existence. We're
all in this thing called life together and each of our
thoughts, words, and deeds contributes to collective
reality. This week, as the stars stir the warrior in all of
us, notice where you're still at war within yourself and how
those hostilities express themselves in daily life. Then,
renew your efforts to negotiate an internal armistice, and
try to let that inner accord inform a compassionate approach
to external events. Several planetary sources
contribute to this week's complex weather. And frankly,
there's simply no telling how the energies will play out. In
part, the uncertainty of the week is due to the influence of
Uranus. Uranus went Direct October 30, and as Uranus moves
forward, it gains momentum. Uranus lives to be free, and
this love of freedom encourages spontaneous acts of
independence, personal and collective. The shadow side of
this need for action is action for action's sake, regardless
of the consequences. If you're feeling the need to leave a
job, relationship, or other situation try considering the
long-term impact of your actions before you make the break.
You might discover, upon reflection, a deeper source of
irritation, triggered, but not dependent on your current
circumstances. From a collective perspective, Uranus amps-up
an already too urgent atmosphere. This restive Uranian force
builds momentum just days before the next exact opposition
of Pluto and Saturn on November 2. The tension generated by
the Pluto Saturn opposition polarizes along the axis of
conflicting ideologies. Pluto is in Sagittarius, the sign of
belief systems--all belief systems--and as Pluto probes the
validity of these systems, it illuminates the shadow of
fundamentalism. In the face of too many ideas, too much
diversity, or too much contradiction, the notion of one way
and one way only offers the supposed security of simple
answers. Unfortunately, fundamentalism as a coping mechanism
for existential angst tends to devolve into a myopic
viewpoint, intolerant of other points of view. Too often,
this fanaticism turns to violence as a way of eradicating
opposing systems. Saturn is currently in Gemini,
the sign of information. Saturn wants limitation,
restriction, and constriction as an antidote to Pluto's
disturbing investigation. Saturn is the voice of authority
and it doesn't likely dismantling its rules and regulations.
On the negative end of Saturn's spectrum, fear promotes
rigid resistance, and this insistence often translates into
a judgmental, critical attitude, intolerant of
change. Fear is a signature of this
Pluto Saturn opposition, which means we're being asked to
face what we're most afraid of, personally and collectively.
While some prefer never to mention fear, others find it
impossible to deny. Squelch fear in an effort to make it
disappear, and it will inevitably find other ways of
expressing itself. Misplaced anger, intolerance, depression,
are just a few of the symptoms of displaced anxiety. When we
face fear and process it through, anxieties often transform
into expanded awareness and self-knowledge. "Our greatest
fear is fear itself" is as true today as the day it was
first spoken. In the chaos since September 11, many among us
are afraid to speak their truth because they are afraid of
being unpatriotic. Peace is never an unpatriotic position.
And while it's been said a trillion times, dissent is the
backbone of democracy. Just because your neighbor isn't
flying the flag or is opposed to violent retaliation,
doesn't mean they love their country less or experience less
grief over the loss of life. Unfortunately, this week, we're
still in a miasma of apprehension, as Neptune continues its
conjunction with Mars. Neptune represents the principle of
imagination and when it shares the same space with Mars,
they produce a peculiar lack of energy. Don't let this
conjunction paralyze your determination to make positive
courageous progress. While external circumstances may feel
overwhelming, internal conditions can remain solid and
centered. Last night, as I was once again
wondering what I would write, an angel came to me, disguised
as a New York City cab driver. As we taxied through Central
Park, we discussed the events of September 11. And the angel
said, "That day just broke my heart. And I'm still reeling
from the pain. Sometimes I cry when I talk about it. It just
hurts so much. My father worked on the Trade Center," he
continued, "and as a boy, I helped him. And now, it's just
gone." Then the angel described a friend's reaction. "My
friend just keeps looking over his shoulder, jumping at the
sound of sirens. And I keep asking him how do you feel. But
he can't tell me. All he does is tell me what he's doing. He
never tells me about what's happening, here," pointing to
his heart, "where it still hurts." Each of us handles a broken
heart the best we can. Some of us become defended. Some of
us collapse. Others pretend it never happened. A few seek
revenge. And still more accept the reality of the pain, and
then, muddle through, searching for answers, trying to
remain aware and open all at the same time. There is no
right way to process the enormous grief we feel as
individuals, as a country, as a planet. This week, as
powerful winds of change continue blowing through the days,
just keep asking yourself, how you feel, and let the truth
of those feelings steady your internal ground of being and
guide your choices. A Neptune Sun square is the
source of the deepening paranoia. Neptune is the Trickster,
and its negative domain is part projection, part deception,
and lots and lots of confusion. As Neptune squares the Sun,
it produces gaseous mists, turning perception cloudy, making
it difficult to discern concrete reality. Apparitions appear
and disappear, and then appear again. A Neptune Sun square
also gives birth to hypersensitivity, increasing
susceptibility to suggestion. This is unfortunate, because
as this week and next week unfold, we're likely to
experience a rash of hoaxes aimed at exploiting the already
traumatized collective psyche. These cruel pranks could have
a devastating impact on nervous systems. So, again, make
every effort to strengthen your connection to the
transcendent. Listen to soothing music. Commune with nature.
Delve into a creative project. But try to avoid addictive
substances as a way of numbing out. Neptune square the Sun
feeds the additive appetites, so instead of indulging, find
healthy ways of managing the stress. Mars is still square the Sun
and continuing to charge the air with animosity. On Sunday,
Mars enters Aquarius, and by Tuesday, Mars moves into a
conjunction with Neptune. Mars is the principle of decisive
action. Neptune is the principle of diffusion. As Neptune
blurs Mars' vision, direct action turns murky and specific
goals evaporate in the confusion. The ethers turn moody, and
we turn even testier with frustration. But that's not all. A
Neptune Mars conjunction also fuels a suspicious
attitude--something we don't need right about now. Don't
rush to conclusions or project your fears onto others.
A huge component of the
zeitgeist is the collective gathering of fear. This group
anxiety has a life of its own, and it grows daily as
individual concerns mount and each new episode stirs a sense
of trepidation. Neptune rules imagination, and the combined
imagining of so many distorts and amplifies personal
disquiet. Don't become mesmerized by worry. What's more,
because Neptune also encourages mass fascination, over the
course of the next two weeks, the power of this collective
dread gains momentum. As the terrible consequences of
September 11 are magnified through this Neptunian lens, the
media, obsessed with every conceivable possibility, pulses
with a hypnotic effect, exacerbating mass hysteria. I'm not
an anti-information. But dwelling on dread only increases
its power. Break the spell of this constant blaring
negativity by turning off your television or radio. Focus on
the simple tasks of the day. Make mindfulness a daily
practice and your internal immunity to the constant barrage
of threats and scares will start to increase. On October 30, Uranus goes
Direct. When Uranus changes direction, the ethers shiver
from the energetic disturbance. Uranus fuels an urge for
freedom, personal and collective. As Uranus makes its course
correction, it trines Mercury and Venus, both conjunct in
Libra. Normally, this positive contact bodes well for
unfettered minds, able and willing to consider alternative
viewpoints. But in light of current conditions, this trine
is likely to fill the sails of zealots everywhere with the
hot air of rhetoric and the need to take a stand. As this
Uranian need for action coalesces with the mounting
collective dread, the air turns thick with foreboding.
Uranus thrives on surprise, which means there's simply no
way of knowing how this energy is likely to manifest. Of
course, nothing could happen, and that would be the best
surprise of all. This week and next, it's
important to take each day as it comes, committed to
transforming fear into valor. It's as if we're stumbling
through the marshes of Mordor, and each step through the
putrid terrain awakens another terrifying ghost. Those
humble hobbits saw the grim and noble faces of orcs, elves,
and men trapped in the dark mirror of that noxious swamp.
And though the stagnant waters filled them with dread, they
moved forward, one painstaking step at a time, resisting the
toxicity of fright. We're are on a similar mission, and
while it's hard being brave in the face of so much fear,
just as Frodo and Sam summoned the strength to go on, we,
too, must accept the challenge of courage. As I stood outside the hospital
at 3:00 AM, waiting for my 82-year old stepfather to be
admitted to the third hospital in almost as many weeks, I
wondered what I would write. Another Mercury Retrograde
column, offering advice about circumventing computer hassles
seemed irrelevant, especially as I contemplated my
stepfather's condition and how my 81-year old mother was
handling the tension. But a snappy retrograde column seemed
particularly superfluous as my attention was drawn to the
walls and doors of the hospital. They were covered with
pictures of loved ones&emdash;mothers, fathers, wives,
husbands, sisters, brothers, and children&emdash;lost In the
World Trade Center disaster. I'd seen those flyers on the
news, and while heartbreaking at a distance, up close and
personal, the pain and grief became palpable. In the middle of the night, I
felt the casualties of our current holy war. You don't have
to be a rocket scientist or even an astrologer to recognize
the world is caught in the grip of a massive, grinding
global shift. The Pluto Saturn opposition is an energetic
component of this cyclone of change, and a historical study
of previous hard Pluto Saturn configurations reveals the
potency of this volatile combination. But beneath the movement of the
stars, the unfathomable journey of human life continues. As
the I Ching teaches, life expands and contracts. That's all
it does. We get born and we die. And what happens in
between&emdash;who we love, how we love, and what we make of
our lives&emdash;isn't necessarily dependent on our
ideology. A capitalist loves as deeply as a communist, and
the loss of a child is as devastating to an Israeli mother
as it is to a Palestinian mother. Under the rhetoric, death
rips a hole in your heart and no matter what language you
pray in, that gaping wound only hurts. How we live is what matters.
Taking the time to touch another heart is what endures. Just
as the people in the World Trade Center counted on doing
what they always did that dreadful day, most of the people
in the Emergency Room last night didn't wake up in the
morning expecting themselves to be on a gurney. Most of us
don't anticipate something horrible happening, which is why
we're so shaken when it does. We simply live life as it
comes, reaching for whatever will make us happy, never
thinking about how tenuous life truly is. Muslim, Christian, Atheist,
Jew, Buddhist, or Hindu, the mystery of life is exactly the
same. We can cling to a philosophy or ideology, religious or
secular, and insist we're right, but when someone we love is
suffering, a soothing touch has more power than a slogan and
a kiss generates greater healing than a vote. Free, enslaved, destitute, or
prosperous, no matter what age, size, shape, race, or
gender, war harms life. Statistics don't feel pain. People
do. Animals do. The Earth shudders with each and every blow.
And the truth of that undeniable, specific, individual pain
cuts through the illusion of opinion and righteousness to
reveal the fragility of human life. The Pluto Saturn opposition
illuminates the shadows of that frailty. Pluto is in
Sagittarius, the Sign where we struggle to make sense of the
human condition. Its symbol is the Centaur, who represents
the challenge of synthesis. His arrow reaches for the stars.
His body walks on all fours. This is the conundrum of being
human. Our consciousness perceives the possibilities of
greater understanding. Our instincts pulse to primitive and
primordial urges. There is no one belief system capable of
containing or explaining the vastness of human experience
and at the same time, any belief system, lived with the
desire to honor life itself, becomes a path to
enlightenment. Saturn is in Gemini, the Sign
of information. Symbolized by the Twins, Gemini represents
the dual nature of reality. There's always another side.
There's always more to know. But it's all too easy to be
overwhelmed by too much information, especially when we lack
the skill to sort through the data and discern what's
important and what isn't. We live in the Information Age,
where we can access and download the facts about
anything--bombs, munitions, flight simulators, as well as
cutting edge medical information capable of saving life. As
this enormous expansion of knowledge collides with our
primitive drives, it's exacting a terrible toll. But it's
not the information that's scary. What's frightening is our
inability to integrate the data and turn it into wisdom.
My stepfather is a man of
character and principle. He's lived his life with a sincere
desire to make a difference in the world. Now, as he faces
the limitation of the body, his desire to be of service is
honorable and his philosophy valuable. But last night, as he
waited in the hallway of the hospital, what brought him
peace was holding the hand of the woman he loves and feeling
the comfort of her presence. Ideas, no matter how deep, are
machinations of the mind. Hearts know the truth. The on-going Mars Sun square
pulses to a fractious beat. Mars is the planet of
aggression. It's eager to compete and determined to win.
Currently in Capricorn, the Sign of down-to-earth
practicality, Mars is focused on achieving its
goals&emdash;it wants results and wants 'em now. The Sun is
in Libra, best known as the Sign of balance and harmony. But
the shadow of Libra's need for equipoise, is the tendency to
deliberate over every choice. Libra takes its own time,
considers every move, and while this hesitation can be wise,
it can also mask procrastination. What's more, Mercury,
Retrograde in Libra, is conjunct the Sun increasing the need
to ruminate over the details. As this retrograde energy
combines with the infamous Libra need to weigh decisions,
Mars melts down in a puddle of frustration. Expect battles
of will over all sorts of situations, large and small,
important and unimportant. Adding a jarring rhythm, Uranus
trines the Sun and Mercury amping up a need for
action&emdash;and lots of it. Uranus is devoted to freedom,
and when it trines the Sun, unilateral declarations of
independence are likely, personal or collective. Keep in
mind, this dynamic force isn't partial to a particular
ideology. Revolutionaries of every ilk respond to its potent
influence. We're still caught in the
repetitive tape loop of Mercury Retrograde, which means
communication, computer, and commuter snafus also pepper the
days. Mercury Retrograde does slow the pace of life, but
this week, its retrospection feels antithetical to the free
spirited energy of Uranus and toxic to the ambitions of
Mars. Push ahead, but remember, projects of all kinds
started under Mercury Retrograde take a long time to bear
fruit. Unfortunately, the tension
generated by the on-going Pluto Saturn opposition continues
fueling fear and contraction, turning the atmosphere heavy
with anxiety. When fear and frustration mix, worries of all
sorts float to the surface. Try not to succumb. Address your
distress. Journal, meditate, exercise, process with friends,
or go to therapy. There's no need to let apprehension
fester. Remember, the core of Pluto Saturn contains seeds
for great leaps of growth. As frustration rumbles through
the week, impatience is apt to motivate lots of acting out.
Rather than engage in melodrama, make a renewed commitment
to kindness. A gentle attitude goes a long way toward
soothing the fevers of stress. Mercury is in its final
retrograde phase of the year. It went retrograde on October1
and it stays retrograde until late in the day on October 22.
For those of you just arriving in Astro Land, Mercury rules
all things related to communication and travel, and when
Mercury seemingly moves backwards, snafus, delays, and
interruptions abound. Allow extra time for your commute. Be
prepared for computer crashes. Also anticipate contractual
dawdling. Don't be surprised if you find yourself in a tape
loop of repetition. Pushing this Mercury Retrograde River by
insisting on immediate results and satisfaction will only
make you crazy, so take your time. Mercury Retrograde is always an
invitation to slow down and it is best spent reflecting and
reconsider. Ordinarily, October is the energetic harvest
season, when we review the first nine moths of the year,
cull through our experiences, and prepare for what lies
ahead. Mercury Retrograde amplifies this process, and in
light of all there is to contemplate, right about now, this
retrospective feels appropriate, if not welcome. A T-square between Jupiter,
Mars, and the Sun generates strife, as it produces a
tendency toward extravagance. Stay moderate and try not to
use excess of any kind as a way of assuaging your
frustration. What's more, this entire bundle stimulates a
need for action, making it all too easy to jump headlong
into rash deeds, words, or decisions. As this impulse for
activity collides with the snail pace of Mercury Retrograde,
you're likely to grind your teeth or pound the desk. Before
you do injury to yourself or others, find healthy ways of
expressing your restlessness. The Pluto Saturn opposition
continues radiating waves of tension, but this week, there's
a break in the broadcast signal, as the Sun trines Saturn
and sextiles Pluto. A Saturn Sun trine supports modesty and
the need for quiet contemplation. Use this energy to steady
your center and don't hesitate to devote a portion of your
day to introspection. A Pluto Sun sextile is a highly
creative alliance capable of opening a portal into a deeper
understanding of power, personal and collective. Use this week to dig down deep
and expand your self-awareness. The last several weeks
surfaced enormous anxiety, and while external uncertainty
still hangs in the air, we don't have to become hostages to
fear. I'm not suggesting you interrupt your
sorrow--authentic healing takes its own time. But finding
and building the courage to face fear opens us to a
heightened state of clarity, and that lucid state
strengthens the heart, enabling us to embrace life with
renewed vitality. The influence of the stars
mirrors the complexity of our situation. The Mars Sun square
continues amping up agitation. Mars is the planet of War,
and when it butts heads with the Sun, the sparks of their
fractious relationship stimulate the need to fight.
Anticipate quarrels of all kinds, justified or unjustified.
Take your stand, if you must, but be aware everyone is
feeling testy. Jupiter opposes Mars, generating energy--and
lots of it. This dynamic configuration also produces a
tendency toward exaggeration and excess. Harness the power
of this opposition, and you'll find the strength to
accomplish your goals. Fall prey to extremes, and you're
likely to over-extend and exhaust your resources.
Beneath the Sun, Mars, and
Jupiter commotion, lies a quieter force and the source of
this hush is two fold. First, Mercury goes Retrograde on
October l, and this week, as Mercury "turns around" time
seems to stand still. For those of you new to Mercury
Retrograde, here's the Reader's Digest version. Mercury
rules all things connected to communication, travel, and
negotiation. When Mercury moves in reverse, everything
within its domain goes awry. Mercury Retrograde is not a
good time to initiate new projects or buy a new car or
computer. Also anticipate more than the normal delays
commuting. Back up important information, now, and don't
install new software until October 23. On the positive side
of the spectrum, Mercury Retrograde slows the pace of daily
life, inviting us to review and reconsider. Second, and adding a somber
tone to this reflective phase, Saturn goes Retrograde,
today, and as Saturn retraces its recent steps, so do we.
Saturn is a sober, serious force, and in light of current
events, this retrograde cycle is likely to be melancholy.
While the on going Saturn Pluto
opposition does surface fear, personal and collective, that
doesn't mean we have to cringe in the constriction of
anxiety. Even when hearts are heavy with suffering, it's
still possible to push the envelope of consciousness and
reach for the core of wisdom. Make every effort this week to
acknowledge your emotional process through these
"interesting" times. Allow feelings of external
vulnerability to help you build a stronger sense of internal
safety. Most importantly, as you make your way through the
week, try to be kind. We could all use a little tenderness.
September 19, 2001 The stars, too, weave a simple
pattern, but before interpreting this week's planetary
interactions, there's something I need to clarify. Astrology
is just one way among ten thousand ways of understanding
life's mysteries. And it's important to understand the
planets don't make specific events occur. If they did,
everyone would believe in astrology and astrologers would
rule. The heavens exert influence and then, we respond to
those forces depending upon where we are in our personal
evolutionary journey. Astrological configurations speak to
energetic potential. The planets move in fixed cycles,
making it possible to recognize probable manifestations. But
it's our reaction to that potential that ultimately
determines the outcome. One person may experience suffering
under a particular influence and another may experience a
breakthrough as a result of that very same energy. What's
more, each of us creates our personal reality each day by
our choices, often forgetting those choices contribute to a
vast collective, where everyone's choices, positive and
negative, coalesce and come forth as the complexity of life
on Earth. While it's possible to frame
recent events through the lens of the on-going Pluto Saturn
opposition, it neither wise nor prudent to use astrology as
a way of explaining these tragedies away. The tension
between Pluto and Saturn focuses on opposing ideologies,
personal and collective, conscious and unconscious. Tension
always needs release, which is why the Pluto Saturn
opposition portends acts of violence. But this opposition
also offers opportunities to move out of ancient polarized
patterns of hatred and into a new paradigm of peace, capable
of inclusion rather than exclusion, as a way of coping with
our differences. By the weekend, Mars squares
the Sun, amping up an already angry atmosphere. Anger, too,
is an important component of grieving because it provides a
container for feelings we cannot contain. Nevertheless, it's
crucial to stay with the truth beneath the feelings of rage
and revenge and continue to mourn rather than act out in a
harmful way. If you're having trouble finding healthy ways
of expressing your outrage, seek the counsel of someone who
can help you make this journey. The week's to come challenge
the capacity of our hearts, minds, and spirits to move
forward with compassion. It won't be easy tolerating the
stress. Even if you're committed to peace, those around you
may not be, and the constant grating of opposing viewpoints
is likely to rattle the nervous system. As an antidote to
this agitation, make every effort to connect with what's
transcendent, and allow what exists beyond the paralysis of
fear and despair to inspire and restore hope. September 12, 2001
There are no words
capable of expressing the grief I'm feeling as a result of
yesterday's tragedy. Manhattan is my hometown. America is my
country. Earth is my planet. My eyes see the images. My ears
hear the facts, information, and reports, but my body,
heart, and soul can't accept and process what's happened.
It's just too soon and it's simply impossible to grasp the
reality of the horror. As an astrologer, I've
known the Pluto Saturn opposition portends this kind of
violence and hatred. As a human being, I can't take in it.
The devastation is too big. My prayers, as your
prayers, are with those suffering the physical effect of
this catastrophe. Prayers are also needed for all of us
reeling from the psychic impact. At this time of emergency,
compassion is essential. The ground of daily life shifted,
yesterday, and it's important to direct this movement away
from hatred, toward peace. The world changes one person at a
time and each of us has the power, no matter what the
adversity we face, to keep our hearts open and loving.
As many of you know, the
Aquarium Age is written well in advance of its publication
date, which means what follows was written prior to the
events of September 11, 2001. Since this week's column has
already been published in several newspapers, I'm publishing
it here, on-line, and privately, for subscribers. Please
don't misconstrue these words as a response to yesterday's
destruction. This week is a non-stop
think-a-thon, as Mercury continues to alter the routines of
daily life. Ideas flash across the mind offering
opportunities for inspired solutions to ancient problems.
Light bulbs of innovation appear over heads, dotting the
astral landscape like pop-up bubbles jammed with
information. This intellectual energy is so powerful you
won't need a thinking cap to access its juice, but you will
need your multidimensional antenna to harness its full
thrust. Stay open to the possibilities no matter how
impossible they first appear. Most importantly, believe in
the power of creation and you'll set your mind free from
whatever enslaves it. A Uranus Mercury trine is the
source of these intellectual-lightening bolts. Uranus is the
Father of Invention, catalyzing creativity, as it heats up
the caldron of change. Mercury is the Mental Yogi, governing
ideas and information, as it simultaneously holds language
and communication within its domain. But Mercury is more
than just facts and words. Mercury is the only astro action
hero capable of moving between heaven and hell in the blink
of the mind's eye. Mercury's quicksilver movements defy
gravity, inviting us to flex and stretch our mind muscles by
exploring conscious and unconscious terrain. When Uranus and Mercury unite,
they foster adept intellectual flexibility. Use this trine
to enhance your thinking process. If you're stuck in an
entrenched position, frustrated either by your own role, or
the role of others, this trine allows you to step into
alternative perspectives. Put your position aside--even for
a moment--and this Uranus Mercury produces the ability to
consider a holographic reality. The circumstances won't
necessarily shift, but your attitude will, allowing you to
assume a different posture and breakthrough the bonds of
habitual response. From a transformational
perspective, the pattern-busting presence of Uranus Mercury
is the perfect remedy for the shadowy quagmire of the
on-going Pluto Saturn opposition. This opposition challenges
authority of all kinds--internal and external, conscious or
unconscious. On the personal plane, the tension of this
influence confronts the underbelly of compulsive behavior,
surfacing the demons of fear, anger, sorrow, futility, or
disappointment. Collectively, external dictators experience
this dark undertow as the need to resist change and instead,
hold fast to existing structures of power. No matter where you're feeling
the stress of the Pluto Saturn opposition, the Uranus
Mercury trine opens up a portal of new awareness. If you're
suffering at the hand of Pluto and Saturn, use the positive
energy of Uranus and Mercury to probe the casual level. If
you're witnessing the impact of this opposition on the lives
of others, use Uranus trine Mercury to increase your
understanding and compassion. If you're experiencing both
positions, let this inventive force provide new insights and
open up previously closed or shut down systems. Of course, insight, alone,
won't always change the circumstances, but a new perspective
is a powerful first step toward shift. Action follows
thought, and when we're willing to change our minds,
anything is possible. September 5, 2001 Several configurations
contribute to this week's refreshing sensibility. At the top
of the list, Mars moves into Capricorn on Saturday, ending
its almost seven month sojourn through Sagittarius. As Mars
moves out of the fiery intensity of Sagittarius, and into
sober energy of Capricorn, we move out of passionate excess
and into practical reality. Mars in Capricorn is definitely
down-to-earth, delivering the stamina and endurance to
achieve ambitions and reach goals. It may take a while to
adjust or attune to this new frequency. While some may miss
the excitement of the last seven months, others are apt to
find Mars in Capricorn a welcome relief. But the ardent need not fear. A
Pluto Venus trine holds high the banner of desire, infusing
the week with passion of all kinds. Venus is in Leo, the
sign of romance and risk, Pluto is in Sagittarius, the sign
of questing, and their coupling encourages adventure, with a
special emphasis on falling madly in love. Just be aware,
this trine also feeds obsessive or compulsive attraction, so
avoid forcing your affection where it isn't wanted. If you
aren't amorously inclined, channel this intensity into
artistic pursuits. If you're not artistically gifted, visit
a museum, take a gallery tour, or spend time simply
appreciating the wonder of beauty. Mercury supplies the next
breath of fresh air as it intervenes in the on-going Pluto
Saturn opposition. Mercury sextiles Pluto and begins a trine
with Saturn on the 8th. Mercury's facile presence provides
the first big breakthrough in the ponderous energy of this
opposition. The Pluto Mercury sextile generates the mental
prowess to ask big questions. Mercury's trine to Saturn
makes finding answers to these queries possible, as it opens
the capacity for logical, thorough examination. Don't
hesitate to get deep. This trine will help you organize your
thought process and find your way home. What's more, this
entire configuration produces the skill to be philosophical
and direct, all at the same time. Mercury also squares Jupiter
feeding a need to exaggerate. There's nothing dangerous
about this fractious relationship, unless you suffer from
more than your fair share of the blarney. Avoid boasting,
bragging, or puffing up like a blowfish. Just stay honest
about what you can and can't accomplish. On the positive end
of the spectrum, this square provides a profusion of ideas,
as well as a heaping dose of humor. Let this astro change of air
renew your spirit. Don't hesitate to breathe it in and
experience a different point of view. A Jupiter Sun sextile supplies
the week's rapid stride and supports an active attitude.
Jupiter likes expansion, the Sun loves life, and when they
work in unison, the Sun and Jupiter produce a happy heart,
eager for experience. Jupiter does tend toward excess,
encouraging endeavors of all kinds--especially activities
aimed at pleasure. Use this sextile to have a great
time--revel even--but try not to over do or squander your
energy. A Neptune Venus opposition
warps time in a completely different direction. When Neptune
and Venus face off, we space out. Daydreaming flourishes
under this influence as fantasies about the past or the
future obscure the present moment. This opposition also
turns the air hypersensitive. Illusion replaces reality,
which means perceptions are likely to be based on
projections. Before you make assumptions, check your facts.
Keep in mind, a Neptune Venus opposition thrives on romantic
imagination. As this influence coalesces with the excessive
exuberance of the Sun Jupiter sextile, you could find
yourself infatuated one moment and disappointed the next.
Once again, the on-going Pluto
Saturn square provides the undertow of the week, and its
pull is capable of producing waves of overwhelm. This week,
Pluto, in Sagittarius, squares the Sun, in Virgo, as Saturn,
in Gemini, also squares the Sun. Virgo is a naturally care
giving sign and one of its shadow themes is learning to
discern the difference between sacrifice and service. The
Pluto, Saturn, Sun T-square amps up this lesson, as it
highlights the notion that struggle is the surest way to
success. Try not to let this cold, rigid influence
degenerate into an attitude of renunciation or deprivation.
If you're attached to the idea that suffering is noble, use
this influence to reevaluate that pattern. Don't
misunderstand. There's nothing wrong with hard work--it's
just not synonymous with hard labor. What's more, any work
expressed with joy, ripples across the pond of life with a
lasting positive effect. The source of the week's upsets
is the Uranus Mars sextile. Uranus loves upheaval, Mars
thrives on challenge, and both represent an urge for freedom
and independence. When they combine their efforts powerful
change is possible, so don't be surprised if you or someone
you love suddenly expresses the need to break free from an
old, stifling pattern. This Uranus Mars sextile also
generates the enough energy to accomplish your goals. If
you've always wanted to be an athlete you may find yourself
leaping off of the couch and onto the track. Or, you may
suddenly experience the motivation to finally quit that job
you just can't stand. If the combined power of Uranus and
Mars feels like too much is happening to quickly, don't
force yourself to do something you might later regret. For
some of us, this sextile supplies the necessary might to
move mountains, but for others the intensity translates into
meltdown. Keep in mind, Uranus Mars contacts generate the
need to hurry. Rush if you must, but remember, getting
wherever you're going alive and in one piece is well worth
being five minutes late. A quieter, but no less powerful
thread also underlies the week's activities, as Pluto
continues its opposition with Saturn. Pluto is in
Sagittarius probing the validity of belief systems, personal
and collective. Saturn is in Gemini examining the structures
of daily interaction as it simultaneously examines
communication, again, personal and collective. This
opposition is in operation for the next several months and
as part of this long intensive, we're facing the shadows of
habituation. Use this opposition to gain greater
authenticity. Don't hesitate to question your habits. Are
they based on true need, or are you functioning on auto
pilot? Are you content with the status quo, or do you want a
revolution? Do your words have meaning or are you skating on
a veneer of charm? If you need to stay focused in
a specific area, the energy of the week could fray your
nerve ends, especially if you're bored and longing for
spontaneity, instead of concentration. As unspontaneous as
this may sound, be disciplined about what you need to
accomplish, but also set aside some time to take advantage
of this week's surprises. Not too much has changed in
astro land since last week and the same fiery configurations
continue amping up the action. Mars, in Sagittarius, still
trines the Sun, in Leo. Mars adores adventure and wants to
get physical. The Sun loves life and wants experience. Allow
this positive alliance to propel you out of your head and
into your body, and you're likely to move out of the house
and into nature. If you're allergic to grass, try the beach.
If you're afraid of the water, take a trip to the mountains.
Physically connect with this exuberant energy, and any
lingering mental cobwebs will melt away. But if moving your
body just ain't your thing, use this Mars Sun trine to move
your spirit, instead. This courageous trine is a non-stop
invitation to overcome difficulties and obstacles. Let Mars
and the Sun invigorate your attitude and you'll not only
take bigger bites of life, but you'll also have the stamina
to digest your experiences. That other dynamo of power,
Uranus, still sextiles Mars and opposes the Sun. The Uranus
Mars sextile produces prodigious energy and this power
easily translates into additional strength. But don't get
cocky. Uranus sextile Mars feeds the need for impulsive
behavior, and because it urges haste, it's often associated
with accidents. The Uranus Sun opposition creates an air of
excitement, as it feeds the need for independence and
freedom. A word of caution: This entire bundle has a
peculiar relationship with the heart. So if you're out of
shape, don't attempt a 10K race. Put to positive use, this
intense energy supplies the power to catalyze what's stuck
and move through obstacles and limitations. One more bit:
Uranus thrives on surprise, so be prepared for a few
unexpected plot twists. If the planetary pace feels
just a tad manic, instead of mimicking the stars find a
stride that works for you, and you'll avoid crashing into
the wall of overwhelm. Use the energy of the week to support
what you want to do, when you want to do it. Several astro influences
contribute to this week's dynamic atmosphere. First, Mars,
in Sagittarius, trines the Sun, in Leo. This positive
alliance makes muscles ripple with heartiness, so put that
body in motion, and honor its need for activity. Hike, bike,
swim, go to the gym, and give up your membership in the
couch potato club. Just move and you'll feel better. What's
more, a Mars Sun trine is ambitious. It wants and needs
goals, which means it's the perfect antidote for
procrastination or lethargy. Focus this force on specific
tasks and by the end of the day, you'll feel a deep sense of
accomplishment. A word of caution: this trine stimulates the
courage to fight, especially when individual needs and
desires are challenged, so try to be clear about when to
take a stand and when to back off. Amping up this feisty climate
Uranus, in Aquarius, opposes the Sun, in Leo, as Uranus
simultaneously sextiles Mars. This volatile bundle produces
enormous energy and the overload often manifests as
impulsive or impatient behavior. A Uranus Sun opposition
yearns for freedom. A Mars Uranus sextile wants immediate
results. On the negative end of the spectrum, this hasty
combo often creates upset. On the positive end, Uranus,
Mars, and the Sun, feeds a need for innovation and reform.
Use this energy without regard to the consequences, and you
could find you experiencing a surprising set back. Use it
wisely, and you'll access the inspiration for innovation.
A Jupiter Venus conjunction in
Cancer softens the hard edges of the week, as it provides a
pliant, tender touch. This conjunction is a
come-in-from-the-cold combination, offering and delivering
sincere, warm affection. Let it nourish your love of love
and you'll fill your home and heart with happiness.
Of course, the on-going Pluto
Saturn opposition continues and the planetary fire of the
week could ignite increased of upheaval, especially as
authorities of all kinds struggle to maintain their
positions. But for those among us interested in making
positive strides, the week provides plenty of support to do
just that. August l, 2001 As this Pluto Saturn opposition
gains strength it focuses on ideological differences,
personal and collective. Pluto is in Sagittarius, the sign
of belief systems. Saturn is in Gemini, the sign of
information and communication. Pluto wants change. Saturn
wants the status quo. What's more, Pluto is at the midpoint
of its journey through Sagittarius, which makes Saturn's
opposing energy an interesting synchronicity. It's as if
Saturn is asking Pluto to focus, get real, and present
concrete reasons why certain system should be overhauled.
Pluto isn't the least bit interested in rationalizing or
justifying its examination. Pluto is probing the power of
convictions, whether those beliefs are personal, political,
or spiritual. And Pluto wants ultimate truth, not relative
truth dictated by the transitory demands of social mores or
cultural tradition. Saturn resists Pluto investigation,
justifying its rigidity as the voice of practical reality.
While Saturn supports wisdom, it is also constricts in fear,
and when Saturn is afraid, it clings to rules and
regulations. You may find yourself insisting on things being
done a certain way and only that way. If you hear yourself
saying, "But that's the way it should be" you'll know you're
positioned with Saturn. What's more, if you find yourself
seeking revenge against those who don't agree with you,
you'll know you're trapped in the negative energy of Pluto.
Collectively, Pluto Saturn
struggles tend to manifest as an increase in violence,
particularly in parts of the world where violence is,
regretfully, already routine. Personally, petty despots
thrive on the cold, hard edge of this energy, which means
power plays pepper the days. The best way to avoid getting
caught in the undertow of this opposition is refusing to
participate in cruelty or violence of any kind, with any
one, including yourself. Make a list of all your grudges and
have the courage to examine why you're still holding on to
ill will. If you need a reason to release your rancor, just
watch the news, and witness how ancient grievances still
perpetuate hatred. You may not be able to bring peace to a
foreign nation, but you can certainly call a cease-fire in
your own heart. July 25,
2001 Here's the astro
skinny. First, Uranus trines Venus
giving birth to a need for excitement and romance.
Impulsive, sentimental attraction blossoms, and you could
find yourself falling in love a dozen times a day. Keep in
mind, Uranus Venus liaisons have a tendency to burn out as
quickly as they flare up. That's doesn't mean you can't have
fun. Just don't expect the fascination to endure. Uranus
trine Venus also enhances artistic endeavors, stimulating a
desire to experiment. Let your imagination run wild. Try new
colors or a different instrument. This trine feeds
unadulterated, free-spirited abandon. Allow it to catalyze
your choices and you'll move out of the doldrums and into
action. Next and amplifying the powers
of imagination, Neptune opposes the Sun, making us highly
susceptible to suggestion. Be wary of schemes or situations
that sound too good to be true because they are. Neptune
loves playing the Trickster. A Neptune Sun opposition also
produces an atmosphere of hypersensitivity, making us
permeable to our surroundings. Avoid negative environments,
especially if you're feeling a little down in the dumps.
What's more, Neptune opposition the Sun often arouses the
need for addictive substances. Find healthy ways of
channeling this energy or you could find yourself in a state
of constant craving. Lastly, Pluto and Saturn
tighten their opposition. As these two mighty titans
continue to generate tension, we continue to experience the
stress of polarization. But here's my moment of kvetching.
I'm tired of writing about Pluto and Saturn, and I suspect
that means you're just as tired of reading about it. So this
week, I'm taking a break from the deep waters. Blame it on a
Uranus Venus preoccupation. Call it a Neptunian space out.
Chalk it up to feeling scattered. But sometimes even those
who love to delve need to come up for air. If we don't, we
lose perspective. July 18,
2001 At the core, Mars represents
the principle of individuation. It symbolizes the process of
having a self, separate and distinct from other selves. As
part of its review, Mars led us on a journey of self-hood,
internal and external, revisiting old people, places, and
patterns. This trek also focused self-assertion, in all its
complex manifestations. You may have found yourself cleaning
up the past, making amends where due, or receiving those
very same apologies. Now, as Mars moves forward, it covers
the same path it followed during its retrograde, providing
opportunities to integrate what we've learned and create
positive resolution. We can't go back and rewrite the past,
but we can make our current conduct congruent with who we
are now. While this Martian chronicle
was strenuous, it was also the perfect preparation for what
lies ahead. Pluto and Saturn will oppose each other for the
next ten months, and their interaction is a minefield of
egoistic encounters. Pluto is the principle of power. When
its urges are unconscious, unprocessed, or unwholesome,
Pluto's energy easily turns into a ruthless need to win at
any cost. Saturn is the voice of authority, and when its
edicts are challenged, Saturn turns stern and severe,
diminishing what it can't control through punishing
criticism. This opposition hardens hearts, creating a cold,
harsh emotional environment. It won't be easy being
flexible, especially about what you want and need. Even if
you can keep your own appetite for power in reign, dealing
with the ravenous hunger of others is apt to wear you down.
Put to positive use, Pluto Saturn supports stamina and
serious self-discipline. However, to derive beneficial
results, you have to first pass through a series of tests
designed to challenge the unbridled ego, unaware or
unconcerned about the consequences of its actions.
This week, as the need for
action crashes into a wall of resistance, take your time.
There's no need to push. And as always, remember to treat
your fellow travelers with respect. July 11,
2001 Here's the good news: Only
eight more days of Mars Retrograde. Now, the bad news: As
Mars changes direction, daily life slows to a snail's pace,
and the seconds turn into minutes, minutes into hours, and
an hour into an entire day. What's more, whatever you
managed to deny or ignore during the course of this
retrograde is likely to surface and demand immediate
attention. The focus of Mars Retrograde is self-hood and as
part of the process we've been examining issues of
assertion, aggression, anger, and passion. Retrograde since
the middle of May, Mars has revisited places, inside and
out, where the self was fragmented or lost. Take some time
during these last days to reflect on the impact of this
retrospective. Do you have a stronger sense of self? Did you
reclaim lost vitality? Are you determined to be all you all
the time? Saturn also throws its weight
around this week. First, it conjuncts Venus. When Saturn and
Venus share the same space, they give birth to
disappointment and inhibition, especially when it comes to
matters of the heart. Avoid being critical to yourself or
others. Second, Saturn tightens the
grip on its opposition with Pluto. This opposition feeds
cruel intentions, so continue monitoring your motivation,
conscious and unconscious. If you find yourself needing to
punish anyone--your lover, neighbor, parent, or pet, think
twice before you indulge a hard attitude. I've said it
before and I'll say 10,000 times over the course of this
Saturn Pluto opposition--engage in violence, toward yourself
or others, and that harmful energy will boomerang with
lasting consequences. Fortunately, Neptune trines
Venus, softening the hard edges of the week by creating an
inclination toward mystic pursuits and positive receptivity.
Allow this dreamy, gentle energy to soothe your weariness.
Mercury and Jupiter move into
Cancer, tomorrow, and their movement also adds a softer
touch. As they focus their energy through the Cancer lens,
the emphasis is on the home. Don't be surprised if you feel
like hunkering down under the covers or if you're suddenly
inspired to take on home improvements. Most importantly, this Jupiter
Mercury conjunction engenders a kind-hearted attitude
sincerely interested offering comfort wherever it is needed.
Reach out for help if you need it and don't hesitate to
offer help where you can. July 4,
2001 Three key-players--Pluto,
Saturn, and Mars--are the source of strife. When they
negatively engage, we do, too. Here's how their
dysfunctional relationship plays out. This week, Saturn, in Gemini,
begins moving into an opposition with Pluto, in Sagittarius.
This opposition is cold and hard, producing an unrelenting
need to have it your way--and your way only. Pluto is all
about power. Saturn is all about limitation. Pluto wants
control. Saturn wants the last word. Don't be surprised if
you find yourself dictating demands. Also be prepared for
despotic stipulations from others. Everyone wants to rule
the world, and in lieu of establishing a universal domain,
fiefdoms sprout up all over the place. On a personal level,
anticipate calculated attitudes averse to even considering
an opposing viewpoint. Also expect confrontations with
authority figures, real or imagined. Collectively, zealots
of all kinds thrive on the self-righteous discharge of this
energy. We're in the throes of this
opposition until May 2002, which means we've got plenty of
time to figure out how to transform this intensity into
greater understanding and awareness. And there are respites
along the way. But this week is the start of a ten-month
astro enduro aimed at challenging egos of all sizes.
Mars plays a role in the first
lap, as it continues to conjunct Pluto. This conjunction
encourages ambition and doesn't hesitate to employ
ruthlessness as a means of achieving success. If you
experience a need to vanquish your opponent, instead of
acting out, contemplate the source of your ire. Get in touch
with where you're feeling so ineffectual you have to lash
out at another in order to feel powerful. This week, and the coming
weeks, won't be easy. The overwhelming intensity of the
Pluto Saturn opposition tests character, and the influence
of Mars makes it all to easy to put your needs above all
other. Yet it is possible to embrace this challenge and move
out of the petty and into the meaningful. Fussing and
fighting will only mire you in the mundane, so reach for a
touchstone capable of reminding you of what's important.
Immerse yourself in the transcendent and you'll deal with
the temporal from a position of strength. Mars is still Retrograde--only
three more weeks to go--amplifying issues of selfhood,
particularly ambition, assertion, and aggression. This week,
Mars' reverse motion moves it into a conjunction with Pluto
and that conjunction continues until the end of the
retrograde. As Mars and Pluto share the same space, they
generate tremendous power, but their conjunction isn't kind.
In fact, it engenders an almost compulsive need to use force
as the means of getting your own way, regardless of the
impact on others. As this dynamic energy coalesces with the
release of Mercury Retrograde tension, insistence is
probable. It is possible to harness this power and aim it at
specific goals, but you need to stay mindful of your
intentions to handle it effectively. Brute force eventually
backfires, especially now, because everyone else is apt to
be feeling just as adamant about their own agenda. Soften
your need to win, and make room for others. Fortunately, Neptune trines
Saturn, producing the potential for self-restraint and
caution. Let this steady, spiritual influence feed prudence
and patience. Take your time. The Mercury Retrograde
roadblock may be history, but that's no reason to be
hasty. One more bit: Uranus squares
Venus this week, giving birth to a deep need for personal
freedom and independence. This square often makes
relationships wobble. If you're in a good relationship,
Uranus square Venus shakes out as positive changes. If
you're relationship isn't built on solid ground, this square
could break it apart. Uranus square Venus is also a highly
creative partnership. Channel its energy into artistic
projects and you'll experience the potent juice of
inspiration. Despite the lingering planetary
tension, it's a good week to take a break from the intensity
and catch your breath. Summer is here and these days made
for play. June 22,
2001 The source of this week's angst
is many-fold. First, we're in the last lap of Mercury
Retrograde--Mercury goes Direct late in the day on June 27.
Don't get too excited. While relief from the tedium of
details is in sight, as Mercury turns around, life seems to
stand still. What's more, Mars, Retrograde until July 19,
continues to oppose Mercury. This opposition taxes nervous
system, creating the need to grumble. Complain, if you must.
Whine, even. Just keep in mind, everyone has been under the
strain of this irritable influence for the last several
weeks. So as you bemoan your fate, be equally willing to
indulge to the grousing of others. The next stress contributor ups
the emotional ante. The stars are moving out of their
tightly held, polarized positions, which should make it
easier to drop entrenched positions and rigid postures. But
a Solar Eclipse on June 21 stymies this separation process,
making it harder to access an easier attitude. During a
Solar Eclipse, the Moon overshadows the Sun, and the
unconscious takes center stage. As the tension of recent
weeks releases, it converges with the untrammeled energy of
the eclipse, making eruptions probable. What you managed not
to say in the midst of the retrodrama might be the only
thing you say, now. Fortunately, Uranus provides
catalytic conversion, as it continues trining Jupiter and
Mercury. We love this astro combo because it inspires the
desire for the biggest possible perspective. If you're lost
in small-minded thinking, this trine can pull you out of the
doldrums and onto the high seas of consciousness. Anticipate
unforeseen solutions suddenly appearing on the horizon.
Uranus loves surprises and when it unites with Jupiter and
Mercury, miracles are possible, particularly if you're
willing to reinvent your outlook. What's more, optimism
flourishes, generating the necessary breath to explore your
options. Expect something good to happen and it just
might. June 15,
2001 This particular retrograde
feels extreme because it is. Mars went Retrograde on May 11.
Mercury went Retrograde in an opposition to Mars on June 3.
While I'm willing to hold fast to my rule that all
retrogrades are great opportunities to review the details,
this retrograde is starting to feel too much like Ground Hog
Day. I don't know about you, but if I cull through the fine
points of certain situations one more time without the
benefit of knowing the questions on Jeopardy, I'll lose my
mind. That's why I'm so happy Uranus
is grabbing the spotlight. Uranus isn't interested in old.
Uranus wants new. Repeat performances are passe to the
Planet of Revolution. Yes, Uranus, too, is Retrograde, but
that doesn't diminish its need for innovation. Uranus'
backward journey started on May 29th and continues until
Halloween. As Uranus retraces its path, it provides us with
opportunities to change our minds--and that's just what
minds are made for. Don't worry, this isn't about frivolous
behavior, or capricious whim. Many times, the forward,
impulsive nature of Uranus prompts rash decisions. Then,
when Uranus revisits choices made in the heat of the moment,
we have a chance to reconsider our commitment. This week, Uranus moves into an
exact trine with Jupiter, Mercury, and the Sun, and acts as
a lightening rod for tension, catalyzing stress of recent
weeks into a hunger for wisdom, knowledge, and hope. During
a prolonged retrograde it's all too easy to become fixated
by the same old story. Now, Uranus breaks that spell,
inviting us to get deep and probe the causal level. Use the
divine inspiration of Uranus to figure out why or where you
feel stuck and how you got there. Be aware, Uranus is still
sextiling Chiron and Mars, generating the need for action.
No matter how fast your mind may be moving as a result of
Uranus trining Jupiter, Mercury, and the Sun, your body is
still in retro-land. Don't expect the fruits of your insight
to instantly shift your situation. Do have faith in your
ability to finally grasp what needs to change. June 8,
2001 Mars is conjunct Chiron and
both are Retrograde in Sagittarius. This conjunction focuses
on issues of self-hood, specifically where self-assertion is
wounded and in need of repair. Both Mars and Chiron oppose
Mercury, in Gemini. This opposition engenders a faultfinding
mindset. Notice what needs work, but resist the temptation
to dwell on what's wrong. Also avoid being too critical of
yourself or others. The Mars, Chiron, Mercury bundle breeds
hypersensitivity, and this tenderness is apt to make even
the "right" word sound judgmental. The Sun is conjunct Jupiter, in
Gemini, and by the middle of the week, both the Sun and
Jupiter conjunct Mercury. Fortunately, when the Sun,
Jupiter, and Mercury share the same space they produce an
optimistic outlook. Unfortunately, Mars and Chiron also
oppose the Sun and Jupiter, instigating excess and
exaggeration. Commit to moderation, and use this energy to
redefine your goals and aspirations. All these oppositions and
conjunctions constellate along the Gemini/Sagittarius axis.
Gemini and Sagittarius are dual Signs and represent two-fold
systems. Gemini is the Sign of the Twins. Its ruling planet,
Mercury, is in charge of the mind and focuses the binary
energy of Gemini on intellectual pursuits. Gemini loves
gathering and sharing information, but struggles with
applying all it knows. For Gemini, finding the facts is
often juicier than the arduous process of integrating that
knowledge. Sagittarius is the Sign of the Centaur. Its
ruling planet, Jupiter, also enjoys collecting information.
But Jupiter's quest differs from Mercury's. Jupiter wants
wisdom capable of synthesizing the supposed split between
instinct and reason and the struggle to make sense of the
human condition often produces a profound sense of
alienation. For Sagittarius, finding a system that satisfies
intellect and intuition often generates despair until the
focus shifts away from external evidence and concentrates,
instead, on internal knowing. Conjunctions consolidate
energy. Oppositions generate tension. Mercury Retrograde
amplifies this stress mess by making forward progress
problematic. For some, the strain is aggravating and
agitating. For others, retreat feels like the only viable
solution. For still more, old information collides with new
facts, exacerbating an already too confused climate. Instead
of clinging, let go. Take a deep breath, and reach for
wisdom capable of containing contradiction. June 1,
2001 Mercury goes Retrograde on June
3 and stays Retrograde until June 27. For those of you new
to Mercury Retrograde, here's the Reader's Digest version:
Communication is Mercury's domain, which means when Mercury
appears to be moving backwards, all things connected to
communication also seem to move in reverse. Mercury
Retrograde wrecks havoc with computers, telephones, faxes,
and mail of all denominations. Do back up everything. Don't
buy new software. Also don't expect to get anywhere quickly.
Mercury governs the day-to-day movements of life and its
retrograde makes traffic jams probable. This is not a good
time to initiate new projects. If you can, wait. Mercury
Retrograde is always best spent reviewing, reexamining, and
reconsidering what's already in motion. Mars Retrograde amplifies the
slo-mo effect of Mercury. A Mars Mercury opposition
irritates nervous systems, producing a restive environment.
This impatience easily translates into a combative attitude.
Try to avoid rash behavior. If externals thwart your
ambitions, bide your time. Uranus, also Retrograde,
provides some much needed astro relief as it sextiles Mars,
trines Mercury, and trines Jupiter. Uranus sextile Mars
generates lots of energy. Unfortunately, the free flow of
that tremendous force is blocked, so make sure you have
healthy outlets for spending this excess. Uranus trine
Mercury fans the fires of invention, providing intellectual
flexibility--something we can all use in times of stress.
Apply this ingenious energy wherever you feel stuck. You may
not be able to act, but you will gain greater insight into
how to solve the problem. Uranus trine Jupiter supplies a
"Thank the Lord" attitude as it stimulates release of
tension. Anticipate sudden realizations capable of unlocking
old systems. Back to the oppositions. Pluto,
in Sagittarius, opposes the Sun in Gemini, exacerbating
power struggles. Before you point a blaming finger or cement
yourself in a self-righteous stand, take responsibility for
your half of the situation. Rather than mimic the planets'
polarity, use the next few weeks as a mirror for
self-reflection. If something or someone makes you nuts,
examine your charge on the situation. Keep in mind, clinging
to a dualistic perspective feeds a judgmental attitude. If
one person is right, the other must be wrong. A
multidimensional perspective feeds big-heartedness, as it
bridges divisions, inside and out, and provide the
possibility of common ground. May 25,
2001 Mars Retrograde continues to
focus on issues of selfhood and certainly selves are
challenged when forward movement is blocked. But Mars isn't
an introvert and doesn't much care for self-examination.
Mars is a warrior. It's aggressive and when its ambitions
are threatened, Mars gets angry. Unfortunately, most of us
aren't skilled at expressing anger in healthy ways. We
suppress, deny, or feel ashamed of angry feelings. That lack
of skill often translates into passive aggressive behavior,
a grudging nature, or the need to lash out in global rage,
unaware or unconcerned with the consequences of our fury.
What's more, the majority of us lack the tools to cope with
the anger of others. We retreat, collapse, or become
aggressive ourselves, meeting fire with fire. Anger is a
powerful force, and while it can be dangerous, there are
times when anger is appropriate. From a positive
perspective, anger is an instinctual, healthy response
against the injustice of having a self denied. Anger
provides the backbone to say, "No". Expressed
inappropriately, anger becomes harmful hostility aimed at
dominating others. As the next few weeks unfold, angry
outbursts simmer through the days. Backing off or backing
down won't be easy. But before you start swinging, try
probing your motivation. Does your ire stem from old,
unresolved encounters? O
December 26, 2001
Introspection is essential to navigating these last days
of a troubling year, but finding quiet, inside or out, won't
be easy. 2001 ends on a manic note, as too many distractions
demand too much time and the overload becomes overwhelming.
Of course, it's possible to ride these tides without getting
swept off course. But staying steady requires the skill to
circumvent mundane diversions and concentrate on what truly
needs attention. There's a lot to think about as this year
ends, so no matter how busy the days and nights may be, make
time to reflect on your journey. Measure the good and the
bad, but as you weigh in, apply depth perception to the
process, and don't be fooled by appearances. What at first
glance might look negative could have lasting, positive
results.
December 19, 2001
Diverse planetary forces deliver a multifaceted
Christmas. Some of these astro gifts are genuinely aimed at
good will and some aren't. But don't worry, there's plenty
of holiday cheer and even a dash of romantic excitement,
this week, to neutralize the Scrooge effect. Just keep your
expectations realistic and you won't find disappointment
under the tree. Also be aware, this week and next are the
two most emotional weeks of every year, which means
meltdowns are likely to be as common place as mistletoe.
December 12, 2001
A Solar Eclipse on December 14 sends an emotional charge
through the week. During a Solar Eclipse, the Moon
overshadows the Sun, and unconscious drives dominate daily
life. As these powerful urges interrupt the "normal" flow of
activity, the desire to share feelings previously held in
check, season the days with intensity. What's more, because
Uranus plays a role in parting the veils of awareness, these
spontaneous revelations could jolt the nervous system.
Expect the unexpected, but keep in mind, the impact of an
eclipse is often felt days before or after the actual event.
December 5, 2001
This week, the troubled waters of recent weeks recede a
bit and rest replaces activity. As the tumult settles down,
quiet clears the way for clarity, making it possible to
assess just how much has shifted since September 11. Some of
the changes have their roots in causal elements set in
motion long before that day. Yet the actual event catalyzed
and continues to catalyze choices, big and small, personal
and collective. Try not to confuse this break from intensity
as a return to normal. The depth, breadth, and range of
change propelled by the Pluto Saturn opposition is still in
effect. Now, it's time to reach for deeper awareness, in the
hope of integrating the impact of these powerful forces.
What's more, this is the time of year best spent
replenishing internal reserves. As Gaia gathers strength in
preparation for the Solstice, we're invited to do the same.
Use this week and the next two weeks to touch the truth of
your own heart. Then, let that Inner Light illuminate what
you want to take with you into the New Year and what you
want to leave behind.
November 28, 2001
The week is a balancing act. On one side of the scale,
mundane life crackles with activity, as power plays, big and
small, punctuate the days. On the other side, a quieter, but
no less powerful force pulls away from the secular toward
the spiritual. Finding the still point between these diverse
energies won't be easy, especially if you're in the grip of
too much to do and not enough time. And while most of us are
simply exhausted from psychic, emotional, or physical
stress, a sense of duty is apt to keep routines in motion.
But it is possible to honor external responsibilities
without denying or ignoring internal needs. Schedule the
time to honor the subtler currents of the week, and you'll
replenish your 3-D reserves as you simultaneously restore
your spirit.
November 21, 2001
Unpredictable. That's what life is. And while it's true,
we've spent the last several weeks in a state of
uncertainty, this week, the stars instigate unexpected plot
twists. As the ethers ping with surprise, it's important to
keep in mind, this charged air isn't necessarily negative.
Sudden inspiration is just as likely as sudden setback. Just
be aware, nervous systems, already overloaded and hungry for
rest, are apt to overreact from over-stimulation. Anticipate
a restless attitude, but try to avoid rash acts born of
impatience. Impulsive movement might feel satisfying for a
moment, but the benefits could fizzle out in the blink of an
eye or, more importantly, make you careless or cavalier. If
you're external world starts wobbling, seek the safety of
solid, internal ground. Take as much time as you need to
consider your options, no matter how boring those plodding
steps might feel.
November 14, 2001
The stars strike a dominant chord, this week, and
determination defines the days. For some, this
straightforward force serves as a welcome shift from
indecision. For others, this strident air stimulates a
military mode, feeding aggressive action. For still more,
this decisive atmosphere feels too dynamic, particularly if
you're feeling pressured to make decisions you're not quite
ready to make. Rather than let the power of the week compel
you into accelerated maneuvers you're not quite prepared
for, honor your own rhythm. Find a comfortable personal pace
and you'll accomplish your goals without compromising your
integrity.
November 7, 2001
It's out of confusion and into movement, this week, as
the stars align along a different grid. Don't mistake this
new pattern for a return to normal. We're not out from under
the threat of war, and as the week unfolds, a militant
attitude prevails. If you feel a call to arms, try not to
act in haste. High-pitched adrenal alert tends to exhaust
the nervous system, and when we're tired, overwhelmed, and
overloaded, premature action tends to backfire. Frankly,
this week is a good week to take a break from the intensity
and get some rest. There's plenty action on the horizon, and
those days are best greeted with a rejuvenated mind and
body.
October 31, 2001
Intense astral winds blow through the week, stirring an
already unsettled environment. As these gusts impact daily
life, external vision could become unreliable. One moment is
clear with insight, but the next is overshadowed by doubt.
Maintaining perspective in the midst of these currents
requires strong inner vision, aimed at the big picture.
What's more, this week's turbulent forces are too powerful
to be controlled. Rather than spend the days trying to force
a specific outcome, surrender to what is. Just don't confuse
letting go with capitulation. This isn't about defeat. It's
about developing resilience. Insisting will deplete your
resources. Surrendering supports a positive attitude capable
of staying open to the possibilities. Of course, prayers for
peace are always powerful no matter what the psychic climate
might be, as are kind and compassionate words and
deeds.
October 24, 2001
This week, and next, paranoia strikes deep, poisoning
the atmosphere with apprehension. The collective aggregation
of fear grows daily, making it hard to hold the clear vision
of a hopeful heart. As the Pluto Saturn opposition probes
the shadows of the soul, both personal and collective, the
once solid ground of daily life turns boggy with
trepidation. Demons, real and imagined, hamper positive
progress, and whether these monsters are external or
internal they seem to exert a superhuman power. Several
factors magnify collective dread, making it difficult--but
not impossible--to stay calm. Reach for the broadest
possible perspective and then, let the big picture help you
stay grounded. Earth has survived countless Pluto Saturn
cycles, and as always on this free will planet, the choices
we make determine the outcome. Choose to constrict in
paralysis, and the waves of fright are overwhelming. Choose
to believe in life, and each breath helps to dissipate the
dread. This week, refuse to be infected by fear. Instead,
concentrate on trust. Listen to your heart. Rely on its
truth. And whenever possible, comfort those with lesser
strength and stamina.
October 17,
2001
I spent the entire night, last night, October 9, in the
Emergency Room at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City, at
my own personal ground zero. I've been in New York since
September 28. A family crisis called me back home and I'm
certain others facing similar situations, are also returning
to this shaken city. The shock waves of September 11 still
reverberate, and for many, the impact is physical. Heart
attacks, strokes, bad backs, kidney failure, all signs of
somatic trauma are occurring everywhere, not just New York,
as we continue to process the stress.
October 10, 2001
Frustration underscores the week, as diverse planetary
forces generate contradiction, making it hard to maintain a
consistent stride. It's hurry up and race to the end, one
minute, and slo-mo rewind, the next. Try not to let the
clash of these conflicting rhythms make you crazy. It's a
dissonant week, and you'll only add to the strident tone by
insisting your agenda is the most important one. Instead of
fighting what is, surrender, and consider the notion of
providence. Then, try turning the challenge of delays,
interruptions, and disappointments into a trust exercise. If
you do, you'll not only maintain your mental health. You'll
simultaneously deepen your relationship with the Greater
Flow.
October 3, 2001
It's another complicated week, here, on Planet Earth. As
the stars align in intricate patterns, we engage in complex
interactions, and hours of the day seem to short to handle
all that needs doing. Unfortunately, in the midst of this
already stretched atmosphere, we're also in the grip of
Mercury Retrograde, which means in addition to feeling
overwhelmed, you're also likely to be frustrated. You'll
need patience to handle the hassles--and lots of it--so do
whatever it is you do to stay calm and centered.
September 26, 2001
Waves of emotion continue to ripple across the
collective pond, as the shock of recent weeks echoes through
the ethers. Trauma always taints the air with fear, turning
us hyper-vigilant with uncertainty. Even if you're not
experiencing the obvious symptoms of stress, don't
underestimate the power of this psychic disturbance. What's
more, don't be surprised if you find yourself revisiting
personal experiences, seemingly unrelated, but fraught with
similar feelings of anxiety. Although the advice about
returning to normal is well intentioned, it may be too soon
to settle down. We're still in shock, and declarations of
any kind won't wipe away the tears, especially if those
proclamations exacerbate a sense of danger and promise to
prolong the violence.
Simplicity underscores the week, as the impact of last
week's events continues to reverberate through daily life
and we struggle to make sense of the senseless. Tragedy
strips away what's false, making what's essential all the
more important. And as loss reveals the fragility of life,
we appreciate the passage of time with increased
sensitivity. Boring routines turn into touchstones. Loved
ones, always precious, become cherished treasures. Allow
these shock waves of grief their time. There's no need to
hurry this process.
The planets stimulate a change of air, this week,
providing a fresh perspective. As these energetic breezes
blow through the days, attitudes open to new ideas and
previously stagnant systems input new information. While
most transitions are uncomfortable, this passage offers the
promise of balance. The stars also stir activity,
invigorating a back to school, back to work approach to the
day-to-day tasks of life. Expect to be busy, but not
frantic. This new atmosphere delivers a grounded
determination to shepherd whatever you're working on to
completion.
August 29, 2001
Energetic crosscurrents distort the passage of time,
this week, creating peculiar daily rhythms. On the 3-D, too
much fun causes certain hours to disappear too quickly,
while burdensome tasks make others tick away at a snail's
pace. Don't be surprised if you're confused by the
contrasts. These riptides also have an emotional impact and
adjusting to the constantly shifting flow could make you
feel out of sorts. Instead of struggling to match the
external, erratic beats of the week set your inner clock to
a tempo suitable to your individual needs, and you'll ride
the waves of the week with greater ease.
August 22, 2001
Surprising plot twists dot the landscape of daily life.
Interruptions replace routines, new developments interfere
with plans, and fresh information rearranges the details.
While some of these sudden events could create strife,
others are likely to clear the air. Surprises, positive or
negative, tend to jolt nervous systems so do whatever it is
you do to stay calm and centered in the midst of
uncertainty. Fortunately, the planets are still providing
abundant energy, which means there's plenty of strength and
stamina to deal with whatever comes up.
August 15, 2001
Daily life buzzes with action and interaction as the
planets continue providing abundant energy. All week long,
you're apt to find yourself zipping from one activity to
another, and by the time the week is over, day planners look
more like scorecards than calendars. Even if you're in the
midst of a summer vacation and plan on taking it easy, you
can count on being busier than expected. If you've got
deadlines or goals that need attention, you'll need to stay
focused and determined, because distractions of all kinds
punctuate normal routines. Consider the week an event
marathon and pace yourself accordingly. Try not to
over-extend. Too much fun can be just as exhausting as too
much drudgery. Use the dynamic forces of the week wisely and
you'll enjoy a true sense of vitality.
August 8, 2001
It's a big, fat, juicy action packed week designed to
stimulate a new attitude. The energetic climate still
carries a powerful emotional charge, but this week, instead
of feeling overwhelmed by the intensity, the emphasis is on
handling it. The planets are aligned with vibrant fire, and
their heat supplies the strength and stamina to both break
through obstacles and move forward with renewed vitality.
Expect to be busy--even busier than you already are. Also
anticipate the determination to get the job done--whatever
that job might be.
Waves of emotion break against the shores of daily life,
this week, as the Pluto Saturn opposition, exact on August
5, continues creating a highly reactive climate. Feelings
surge through the days, as need clashes with desire, desire
collides with reality, and a yearning for what's true
challenges the safety of habituation. Riding these tides
isn't easy. You'll need patience and skill. The good news is
there's plenty of time to practice--this is just the first
of three exact Pluto Saturn contacts over the next ten
months. At the core, this opposition is an opportunity to
move into a deeper, more inclusive consciousness. But before
that awareness can flourish it's necessary to notice where
you're resistant to change and where you're open to the
possibilities of greater unity. Be authentic. Just because
something looks like the "right" choice, doesn't necessarily
mean it's the true choice. Listen to the murmurs of your
heart, trust its truth, and then, let that wisdom guide you
through these intense waters.
The week unfolds at a peculiar pace, as a planetary
hodgepodge creates energetic crosscurrents. Daily life
bustles with activity, but tension brews beneath the
surface. Some of the stars promote fun. Some cause
confusion. Others produce intensity. As these various forces
converge, you're apt to feel pulled in diverse directions.
What's more, the hours of the day slip away as
interruptions, necessary or unnecessary, break
concentration. This scattered rhythm makes it hard settling
down or settling in. So if you're feeling out of sorts and
experiencing the need to whine, go right ahead. Sometimes
complaining, even about nothing, just makes you feel
better.
The Retrodrama of 2001 ends tomorrow, late in the day,
when Mars goes Direct, ending its two-month plus
retrospective. As Mars shifts its focus from the past to the
present, so do we. The activities of daily life quicken with
renewed vitality, shaking loose what was stuck or stagnant.
Unfortunately, that Martian need to forge ahead runs
headfirst into barriers and obstacles, as the ongoing Pluto
Saturn opposition continues generating a highly--and I mean
highly--resistive climate. Don't be surprised if you find
yourself caught in power plays, your own or someone else's.
Also be prepared for bristling egos, offended by even a hint
of constraint. Finding and maintaining your center in the
midst of these contrasting energies requires a healthy sense
of self and an awareness of a greater Self. Do whatever it
is you do to strengthen your spiritual connection, and let
that alliance guide your choices.
The big wheel keeps on turnin' and the 3-D keeps on
burnin' with intensity. For some, this energetic grind feels
oppressive, as obstacles, internal and external, block
progress. For others, the planetary abrasion rubs away
what's unnecessary, making what's important impossible to
ignore. For still more, the continuous astro pressure
squelches free-spirited abandon. While it's impossible to
eliminate the negative, this week, the stars do offer a bit
of astro aid. Make every effort to accentuate the positive
and you'll have an easier time handling the tension.
This week, and the next several weeks, unfolds with
increasing intensity, as the pent up frustration born of the
recent retrodrama collides with equally strong resistance.
Power plays pepper the days, egos go unchecked, and a need
to dominate motivates callous choices. You'll have to get
out of your own way to handle this stress effectively, so
make every effort to look beyond selfish concerns to find
the Self in all things. You don't have to set the bar of
daily life at a height only the Sainted can reach. But be
aware, egocentric behavior is apt to backfire with serious
repercussions.
June 29, 2001
Functioning in the 3-D is slightly easier, this week.
Mercury is finally Direct, which means the grueling
intensity of constantly reviewing and reexamining the
details is over. Telephones work at last, crashing computers
settle down, emails lost in cyberspace appear in the
appropriate in-box, and that pesky fax machine sends and
receives the way it was meant to. Call me a cockeyed
optimist, but the next few days offer the possibility of a
respite from frustration. It's not that we're out of the
woods. The planets are still dialing up difficulty, so don't
expect daily life to be free from bumps and glitches. But
that doesn't mean you can't use this week to rest,
recuperate, and relax.
Contradiction and contrast continue coloring daily life.
"Buts" cause confusion. Activities move to uncertain beats.
The strain of frustration reaches the break point, and
carefully contained feelings bust through barriers of
restraint. Put simply, it's a mess. Fortunately, insight and
revelation also continue to prevail, making it possible to
find short cuts through this complex maze. You'll need a
reliable internal compass to guide you through external
obstacles. You'll also need a strong sense of humor, capable
of laughing at life's ironies.
And the retrodrama goes on and on as the stars continue
strewing the path of daily life with obstacles, big and
small. Schedules fall apart. Plans get postponed. Two-minute
trips to the grocery store turn into time intensive
excursions. It's a hell-zone of reverse motion capable of
making even the most compassionate among us lose that lovin'
feelin'. But don't despair. This week, Uranus, that
scene-stealer of shift, provides plot twists guaranteed to
break the monotony of frustration. Don't expect complete
relief. Do anticipate opportunities to access a new
attitude.
Mercury Retrograde slows the pace of daily life, dotting
the energetic landscape with delays, disappointments, and
detours. Normal routines feel mired in molasses and
unforeseen circumstances make it difficult to get anywhere
in a hurry. Make sure you leave enough time to get there on
time, and try not to lose your mind when everyone else shows
up late. Reverse motion tends to grate nervous systems, so
as the days play out, try to be as patient as possible. It's
only the beginning of Mercury's retrospective, but this
retrograde is particularly complex because several other
planets participate in the rewind process making it much
harder to muddle through. So get out your astro
scorecard--you'll need one to track the action.
This week, and the next several weeks, are exercises in
duality. Several planets polarize along the
Gemini/Sagittarius axis, and the tension created by these
oppositions generates a seesaw of contrasting agendas.
Staying balanced in the midst of this stress won't be easy,
so don't be alarmed if you're up one minute and down the
next. What's more, Mercury, in Gemini, and Mars, in
Sagittarius, are both retrograde as they oppose each other,
which means we're also moving backward instead of forward.
While this astro ride is bumpy with confusion, breakthroughs
are possible, particularly as startling developments
catalyze consciousness. Aim your efforts at increased
awareness. Make "spectrum" your mantra and you'll step out
of the tension of division and into the power zone of
unity.
Mars Retrograde: Part Four
Waves of frustration pound against walls of routine as
brooding clouds turn the climate confrontational. Overwhelm
is likely. Emotional overload makes showdowns probable.
Anticipate a great gnashing of teeth, especially if you're
trying to move forward and make progress. Better to ride
this backward tide than resist it, because this week, in
addition to Mars Retrograde, Uranus, too, turns around. But
(and there's no way to break this news gently) next week,
Mercury goes Retrograde for nearly the entire month of June.
As Mercury slows down in preparation for its second
retrograde cycle of the year, the cosmic brakes go on. Daily
life shudders from the strain of this non-stop stoppage. The
best way to handle the stress is to hunker down, go within,
and get comfortable revisiting previously covered terrain.