The Wheel of Light
Monthly Newsletter - August 2010
Most of us have heard the dire predictions for the Winter Solstice of 2012. Whatever that event may bring, it is ironic that this month the planetary alignment is far more challenging than anything that will take place two years from now. This month is one of the most difficult configurations that any of us have ever experienced. I have mentioned, over several columns, the various squares and oppositions involving the ‘movers and shakers’, Saturn, Uranus and Pluto. This month Mars and Venus will conjoin Saturn; Uranus is still conjunct Jupiter and Pluto is close to the Moon’s North Node. All these planets are in the early degrees of cardinal signs. This creates a pattern that astrologers call a T-Square.
Change is always with us. Sometimes we could delude ourselves into thinking that we can stop or at least control these changes. Not now. This is a time to make creative, dynamic new beginnings in whatever areas of life experience (houses) are being triggered by these transiting planets in your birth chart. Trying to resist the changes will lead to behavioral or emotional road rash. Not only will there be nothing gained, but struggling to maintain the status quo will prove futile.
Although this month may be the peak of the tension producing transits, their effects will continue for several years. During that time we will be challenged both collectively and individually. Collectively, this alignment could challenge some basic institutions that we tend to assume are permanent, such as the US economy and even our basic life style and form of government.
The financial markets could react by creating a downward trend in a particularly volatile way. Some economists are even predicting a market crash. Politically, unprecedented challenges to governmental structure and leadership could take place globally. This could either be a bi-product of or lead to new international alliances. Following the alignment this month there will be a Full Moon on the Fall Equinox and a Lunar Eclipse at the Winter Solstice, further suggesting big changes that will affect both the people of the world and our leadership.
Individually, our challenges will be determined by how and where the T-Square aligns with the planets and houses of our personal horoscope. In general, however, we could assume that there will be a lot tested through relationship. The more primary or romantic the relationship, the greater the potential difficulty. The main issue is creating an interactive dynamic that allows for mutual independence while striving for mutual openness, vulnerability and intimacy. How can we maintain our individuality within the context of a deep, meaningful relationship?
Similarly, how can we maintain our identity in a world that increasingly demands conformity to a reality created by multi-national corporations and supported by the narcissistic demands of a culture that prioritizes materialistic consumerism above anything else?
One answer to both questions is to be clear about our goals and intentions. Goals refer to where we are going. Intention pertains to how we are going to get there. One key in doing that is balancing our needs for security within a traditional social construct with our need to creatively initiate new, inspirational activities that enhance and support our individuality. It isn’t necessary to abandon all conventions that were individually or collectively created prior to doing this. We do, however, need to actively, consciously update and upgrade our behaviors so that our lives reflect who we authentically are and who we are striving to become.
Three of the transiting planets are in Libra. This suggests that we have the opportunity to create these changes in ways that are gradual and harmonious. We can initiate new projects or relationships by being as thoughtful of others as we are committed to our own goals. The T-Square is like a dance through which we affirm both our own uniqueness as well as our connection and responsibilities to a greater social order. This could be anything from a relationship to a family to society at large.
The current challenges are unprecedented in my lifetime. From foreclosures and job loss to government run by corporations and wealthy officials, and from environmental disaster to the threats of global warming humanity is at a precipitous crossroad. How we respond individually and collectively to this planetary alignment over the next few years could determine the viability, as well as quality, of human life for a long time. The most important thing to remember is that this is a time of action. The cardinal signs are quite comfortable with trial and error. So have at it. It’s better to do something, learn from the mistakes and try again than to just sit on the sidelines waiting for something to happen. The more passive we are the more victimized we may feel. The reality, however, is that if we are not choosing our changes and new beginnings at this time the universe will do it for us. Under those conditions, our potential for fulfillment and happiness are not great. Seizing the time and having the courage to be ourselves and go for what we want has more positive potential and a greater feeling of fulfillment.
Aries (March 21-April 20)
You are usually comfortable being self-affirming and action oriented. In some ways, the current T-Square fits into your way of being. Growth for you, however, comes from being more aware and considerate of others. Don’t force others to be as you want them to be; accept them as they are. Similarly, don’t feel limited by others. Be yourself in ways that are also supportive to others being themselves.
Taurus (April 21-May 21)
Challenges abound for any sign that loves continuity as much as you do. You might assume that stability represents control. At this time the only thing we can control is what we do, how and where we do it. So growth for you comes from breaking out of your comfort zone and starting new patterns and projects that will open new avenues of experience.
Gemini (May 22-June 21)
Normally one of the more social signs, you may feel somewhat disconnected this month. Social activity may either not be there at all or, if it is, not feel particularly interesting or fulfilling. The way out is to develop activities that will enable you to feel comfortable being by yourself. Learning and inspiration can come from looking within rather than through social interaction.
Cancer (June 22-July 22)
The New Moon on the 9th challenges you to be more open and expressive. It’s a good time to take a risk or two and boldly do something new and exciting. The Full Moon on the 24th is a time to focus on the inner planes. This is a good time for a spiritual retreat or an opportunity to spend some alone time in pursuit of spiritual or metaphysical information.
Leo (July 23-August 23)
The biggest challenge facing you this month is staying on task. You could experience confusion about what to do or you may tend to trust the wrong people who are providing you with answers to that question. Growth comes from finding clarity within yourself rather than from others. This is a good time to focus on creative expression. A sense of direction could emerge from that type of endeavor.
Virgo (August 24-Sept 22)
Frustration could surface this month. You may feel as if you have a lot on your mind and want to share it with others only to find that there is no one to share it with. This could generate feelings of loneliness and isolation. Growth comes from finding other outlets of communication. Writing to others or journaling are ways to express yourself even with no one there to listen.
Libra (Sept 23-Oct 23)
Since you are all about relationship and this is a time of challenge in that area, this period is filled with growth potential for you. Staying centered and focused on your point of view or your needs is key. You already have the tendency and ability to be thoughtful and have the ability to see things from other’s perspective. This is a time to learn how be true to yourself even when involved with others.
Scorpio (Oct 24-Nov 22)
Family or neighborhood problems that have been festering for a while or have been open and in your face are now culminating. This is a time to take action that would help resolve the situations. Being nice or cordial in this process is desirable and beneficial. The priority, however, is bringing the situation to a close. Better to do this inharmoniously than not doing it at all.
Sagittarius (Nov 23-Dec 21)
This is a good time to start reflecting on what you’ve been doing all year. This review may last a few months, so take your time and be thorough. Pay special attention to activities taking place within the home and family (especially with parents or children). You may find the need to gather more information before you alter any previous decisions.
Capricorn (Dec 22-Jan 20)
A very challenging time for you. You may feel the need to help other people deal with their issues, almost as if it’s your responsibility. Growth comes from letting go of the need to control other people’s reality. This may cause you to shake up your social life and let go of certain relationships. This could even involve relatives.
Aquarius (Jan 21 to Feb 19)
Social interaction provides opportunities for growth this month. Normally you may feel comfortable maintaining a distance between yourself and others. That helps you to keep your sense of individuality but may limit you in getting your needs met. This is a month to take some risks and let others know who you are. It may feel awkward and scary, but should be worth it if the relationship is solid to begin with.
Pisces (Feb 20-March 20)
The Full Moon in Pisces on the 24th provides a wonderful opportunity to enhance your spiritual awareness. Even a day or two prior to the Full Moon, spend time alone and focused on the inner planes. Creative inspiration, intuitive insights into yourself and others and spiritual clarity are available.