The Wheel of Light
Monthly Newsletter - February 2021
The most challenging aspect this year is a square (ninety-degree angular relationship) between Saturn in Aquarius and Uranus in Taurus. It will last all year. Squares are always challenging. They posit two influences that are at odds over what to express and how to express it. This is a particularly difficult square because Saturn and Uranus are totally different energies, and Aquarius and Taurus are different in their values and behavioral patterns.
Saturn is grounded. It likes to define and achieve concrete goals. It plays by the rules, thus tends to be conservative and traditional. It likes to establish and enforce limits and boundaries as a way of maintaining control and feeling safe.
Uranus is electrical. It seeks inspiration with which to make changes. Its nature is to be progressive, innovative and experimental. It values the unique and strives to be free. As such, it can rebel against being restricted in any way..
What makes the tension between these influences even more striking is that Saturn in Aquarius, a sign that likes change and Uranus is in Taurus, a sign that likes stability. We can already see how these forces can play out in the political arena. One side wants to radically change the ongoing, traditional patterns. The other side wants to maintain the status quo. One side calls for returning to a simpler time when everyone had a place, knew their place and stayed there. The other side wants to continue to develop new patterns sociologically, economically, politically and even spiritually. But which side is which? Who are the tradition keepers and who are the revolutionaries, and what and who are they fighting against? The irony is that both sides point to the other as existential threats to our security and well being. Each side insists that they speak for truth and justice while claiming the other side will take us away from the principles and values upon which our nation is based.
The way out of any square is not to assume one is right while the other is wrong. The opportunity is to create a third option, one that is brand new. Remember that Uranus can bring inspirational and liberating changes while Saturn likes to ground ideas in pragmatic action. Name-calling and finger-pointing does not create any new possibilities.
The highest option in integrating these energies starts with Saturn, the planet of personal responsibility. If we each strive to take total responsibility for all our thoughts, feelings and actions we will be too busy to judge others or project our fears onto them. This will, in turn, enable us to own our Uranian energy. This means we will be able explore, experiment with and express our uniqueness in ways that are honest, yet grounded and potentially productive. This frees us to be our authentic selves and not be bound by limitations imposed by outmoded values, thinking or behaviors. We will be more likely to be able to realize a peak in our personal and collective organizational and creative potential. Our social order can become more fluid, not defined by race, gender, economic status or religious beliefs.
By emphasizing personal freedom within a context of personal responsibility we can combine the principles of a meritocracy (show up, work hard and positive results will follow) with compassion and concern for the well being of us all (from each according to their ability, to each according to their need).
Without some similar type of integration, we are likely to see our nation, and by extension, the world, become more autocratic. Power will be more hierarchical and exercised by the elites in government, corporations (including technology and social media) and certain religious organizations. Simultaneously, individuals could take it upon themselves to act out in violent ways against those whom they perceive as threats in whatever way.
The challenge, and opportunity, of the Saturn-Uranus square is to see ourselves as responsible, independent people who strive to function effectively in a society in which everyone’s needs for survival and dignity are respected. It’s certainly a tall order, even idealistic in its concept. But as we’ve noted in recent current events, big changes are happening. Why not try to respond to them in creative ways that enable us to generate a social order that embodies the most illuminated potential that can be conceived of at this time?
Aries (March 21-April 20)
Aries: Early month could bring conflicts with friends or colleagues, especially about personal values. Late month can bring opportunities to generate new income streams. Reallocation of resources in some way may be required in order to take advantage of those potentials.
Taurus (April 21-May 21)
Taurus: This is a good time to be more assertive. This could be in the form of social activity or simply being more physical. Professional potential is enhanced by also making new connections in your career.
Gemini (May 22-June 21)
Gemini: Early month provides the energy to satisfy your curiosity about new ideas and concepts that you haven’t entertained or comprehended before. Late month brings the opportunities to share your new understanding with others.
Cancer (June 22-July 22)
Cancer: This is a time for information gathering and sharing. Some of the ideas or concepts you are interested in may be somewhat esoteric, so be selective about who you choose to share them with. It’s not about intelligence or understanding as much as it is about interest.
Leo (July 23-August 23)
Leo: One-to-one relationships could be a priority, especially in early month. There may be a tendency to exaggerate their importance, either to you or to the other person. In that case conflict may ensue. Growth can come from being as receptive to the other person’s energy as you are to sharing yourself with them.
Virgo (August 24-Sept 22)
Virgo: The full Moon in Virgo on the 27th could bring up more emotion than you usually feel. Getting clear about those feelings can lead you to effectively communicate your feelings and emotional needs, especially in close personal relationships. This opens the door to greater fulfillment in those situations.
Libra (Sept 23-Oct 23)
Libra: This is a good time to explore new creative options and outlets. Tune in to your inner muse and follow its inspirations wherever it takes you. The energy this month could also bring up unexpected issues with children. Don’t put a lot of time or energy into them; they will pass as quickly as they arose.
Scorpio (Oct 24-Nov 22)
Scorpio: This is a good time to focus on planning long-range goals. If you are already engaged in one, the energy is available to you this month to make major strides toward your goals.
Sagittarius (Nov 23-Dec 21)
Sagittarius: This is a good time to check in with relatives and good friends, especially if you haven’t connected with them in a while. Bringing the relationships up to date should bring joy and well being to all. Alternatively, this is a good time for creative writing.
Capricorn (Dec 22-Jan 20)
Capricorn: This entire year is a time to pay attention to long-range financial planning. Be open to new ways to utilize your tools and resources. In turn, this could enable you to be open to new possible sources of income.
Aquarius (Jan 21 to Feb 19)
Aquarius: The new Moon in Aquarius on the 11th could inspire you to get in touch with new insights into yourself. Pay attention to both feelings of which you’ve been unaware as well as unique parts or yourself that you haven’t felt comfortable with. Growth can come from increasing self-esteem.
Pisces (Feb 20-March 20)
Pisces: This is a good time to get involved with your community. This could also be a good time to reach out to family members. Being more physically active in general is also a good way to take advantage of the energy available to you this month.
Rio Olesky has been a professional astrologer since 1976. He is the author of A Manual for the Modern Mystic, Astrology and Consciousness and The Astroreader. He offers both private readings as well as classes for both beginning and intermediate students. Call Rio at 707-887-1820. Check out his website: www.starwatcher.com.