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Capricorn Weekly Horoscope (MAY 11 - MAY 19, 2012) |
Capricorn Weekly HoroscopeCapricorn (Dec 21 – Jan 19)
The current continues to flow your way. Yet you are still expected to give to the situation. With your concentration powers at full force, you stand to get a lot done. This week is especially good to focus on projects and creative, constructive activity. Your focus may not be so strong by month’s end. Yet it may be best to hold off on big investments for now.
Tip of the WeekSpecial Edition
Horoscope for the Week: May 11-18, 2012
Mother's Day & venus Rx Spotlight
Tip of the Week:
Sunday May 13th is Mother’s Day. Does this have anything to do with Astrology? Well, yes and no. No because that is not probably what was in mind when this day was chosen. Yes because we all come from our mother by birth and it is for that key moment when we are born and we take our first breath that our Astrology Chart, also called Birth or Natal Chart, is ‘cast’. Relieved of the burden of pregnancy, especially after 9 months, and that initial joy, wonder and awe… that is felt at the time of birth brings special emphasis to mother and child. In a wider sense, we can speak of Mother Earth and we can speak of Mother Nature, both of which are intimately connected to Astrology. Though there is ever male within the female and female within the male, Yin within the Yang and Yang within the Yin, it is primary the principle of the feminine and of Mother to which is given the honour of bringing forth the many miracles which together comprise what we call life. Astrology has always been intimately focused upon this core life principle.
Flowers are precious and cards warm the heart but perhaps this year giving the gift of Astrology which celebrates many of the deeper realities and miracles of life will produce an extra special symbol of love and appreciation for your mother. sunstarastrology@gmail.com
In other news, Venus turns retrograde this week (May 15 - June 27). Traditionally in Western Astrology and Vedic (Jyotish), Venus is linked to both Taurus and Venus. There has been some debate as to which one predominates. Having to choose, I would give it to Taurus. The actual characteristics of Venus as hot and rotating more slowly on its axis than an entire orbit around the Sun lends to the slow but sure, steady and sensual characteristics of Taurus over that of the more airy, intellectual vacillating, yet assertive, nature of Libra. Taurus is also associated with the throat and more specifically with the voice and we find people with a strong Venus often possessing a beautiful voice most noticeable when singing. Yet Venus is also strongly evidenced in the charts of counselors which are generally given to Libra. But, Taurus is also connected to the processes of deciphering what is important and of value and is linked to the task of making choices which are based on values and priorities. Venus is also considered to be strongly associated with relationships and harmony, thus we see Libra again. So, as far as I am concerned in light of the evolution of Astrology, the jury is out on this one even though traditionally, Venus is linked to both signs.
Venus is associated with beauty, values, priorities, wants, desires and pleasure. Generally, when Venus is retrograde it is considered best not to make big purchases. At least, it may simply be best to choose a very auspicious date and time if you do feel moved and inspired to invest. Knowing when is the best time is an ancient technique and is called “Electional Astrology”. Making bad choices is common and it is partially due to excess will at the expense of considering larger rhythms and cycles of time. Many contracts, leases, business start-ups, marriages, loans and other such activities that imply long-term investments and usually larger layouts go awry every day. At least a significant portion of those probably would not if people stopped assuming that their will is stronger than the natural and rhythmic timing. It is due to this erroneous notion that we are superior to and must conquer nature. Now look at our world. Sure, science and technology have produced ‘flowers’ but they have also bought are leading us to destruction and despair due to wrong thinking that has produced unsustainable attitudes and actions. Venus retrograde offers us an opportunity to reconsider our values and priorities and to think carefully before we reactively engage backed by short-term and excessively willful attitudes. The lower side of the expression of Taurus involves ‘bullying’ our way through or others.
In as much as retrogrades in general go, Astrologers commonly speak of ‘re’…viewing, reconsidering, reevaluating, reassigning, revisiting and so on. As valid is this perspective is it is also a bit simplistic in terms of the deeper implications - what is called a cookbook approach. So, while it is a good general guideline, the deeper fact is that every case must be approached on its own ground. In other words to get the deeper story one’s birth chart must be considered.
Venus will be retrograde in Gemini which will stir and weave complexes in communications. It may feel a bit like a Mercury Retrograde where miscommunications of all kinds stand to emerge. Issues around impatience, taking things too literally and at face value verses seeing beneath the surface stand to arise. Since Gemini is ruled by Mercury, its activity in terms of motion and making aspects with other planets will come to the fore, thus the emphasis on a Mercury Retrograde flavour. The fact that Mercury is in Taurus, ruled by Venus, along with the Sun and Jupiter, bodes well for how we will experience this influence in general. With Venus in Mercury’s sign and Mercury in Venus’ we have what is called a “Mutual Reception” which is very favorable. So, we stand to get the best we can hope for from this special transit.
That the Moon will be Void-of-Course (V/C) at the time however, does chime in with some of the complications we can usually expect from retrograde ‘personal planets’ (Mercury, Venus and Mars). The V/C influence will contribute to mixed messages and potentially to confusion due to hypersensitivity and perceived slights, whether real or not. This is one of the lower expressions of Pisces and in linked to playing the victim again due to excessive sensitivity and as a means of getting attention – a classic manipulation tactic. In its more positive effect, it is likely to make people feel more sensual, affectionate and pleasure oriented. With Neptune at the lowest degree and the Moon at the highest and both in Pisces, we can also expect an increase in imaginative perspectives leaning toward dreams and fantasies and, at its highest reach to a deep feeling of communion and oneness with others. At worst, it will activate denial, wishful thinking, ungrounded idealism and euphoria. Generally we can expect a measurable increase in emotional sentiments being shared and which way it leans will vary thus we will likely get clear reflections of both the positive and the negative. Expect an emotional ride and flow with it!
On a final note, it should be emphasized that Venus will be retrograde when it ‘Occults’ the Sun on June 5th, the day after the Full Moon Lunar Eclipse. On the latter note, that means that it will also be significant in the special New Moon Solar Eclipse scheduled to occur on May 20th. On that day the Solar eclipse New Moon will be conjunct the Pleiades and at the Zenith point in the sky and exactly conjunct the Pyramid of Kukulcan in Chichen Itza Mexico. This special event in Mayan Cosmology only occurs every 360 years and in light of the 2012 focus on 12-21-2012 emphasizes a keynote event that adds to the significance of this year. It is this New Moon that will activate 2012 into it next effectively dramatic phase. I will bring more attention to this in my upcoming Newsletter for May 20th. Stay tuned and tune-in, these are very special times indeed! |
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Capricorn Weekly Horoscope (JAN 11 - JAN 01, 2013) |
Capricorn Weekly HoroscopeCapricorn (Dec 21 – Jan 19)
You are in the mood to advance your position. This process has been underway for a couple of years but is getting some extra juice now. Tapping your creative imagination to stimulate inventive thinking is featured. Key investments of time, energy and/or money are implied. Who are the experts who have the knowledge, influence and power to assist you? Pluto’s influence these days is one of making you feel more assertive. Since it is in your own sign and at the early degrees still, those of you born near the end of December especially are in for some real powerful changes. Anticipate these and work with them. Neptune is poised to stimulate your overall mode of perception. This may help you to feel extra poetic. However, it could also leave you feeling confused. You too do well to consider meditating more or at least learning to flow more with things and avoid controlling attitudes. Pluto in your own sign may be stimulating just the opposite, so it is a tricky task. Uranus will continue to shake your world close to home somehow. You may feel the urge to make some very big and literal moves. Yet renovations are good possibilities as well. In either case, go for creating a creative space that meets with your style and needs. Saturn continues to demand disciplined action from you and because you are generally good at that it stands to be guiding you to earn some real stripes these days and this trend will continue. Jupiter’s influence remains positive in a creative sense, yet you are wise to make good of it prior to summer.Tip of the WeekTip of the Year:
Happy New Year 2012!
The most talked about year since Y2K is here. This is the year when the tide finally turns. Fears and even desires that this year will usher in the end of the world are lingering. This weave of apocalyptic scenarios between various cultures has certainly fueled imaginations. There has been a steady build up to this. In certain respects it goes back many years. Yet in other respects the last few, since 2008 especially, have been momentous. Just like in any other year, events and drama will occur. Thus is life. In other regards, 2012 will be the next major stage of changes that have already begun.
In certain respects 2012 is a peak year and we can expect that one of the most obvious themes of the year will emphasize social revolution in regard to the economy and the extreme imbalance in the distribution of wealth. What we might justifiably anticipate, from the standpoint of planetary activities is ‘the end of the world as we know it’! Given the relativity of human experience, even that might be deemed a grandiose statement, yet we have reached a brink on many fronts and some things are ripe for measurable change.
In this article I will outline some of the planetary aspects, main themes and indicators of change. I will offer a brief review of the Numerology, and then briefly take a sneak peak at the Chinese New Year. I will review the aspects of the December 24th New Moon, which is the closest New Moon to both the Winter Solstice and the Calendrical New Year of midnight on January 1. Then I will look to the actual aspect of December 31st & those of January 1st 2012. Then I will provide an overview of the overall planetary activity slated for the year 2012 and finally conclude with an overview for each sign of the Zodiac.
These are exciting times and despite the escalating drama, humanity is truly coming together! As we awaken to the fact that we share more in common than the apparent differences that tend to divide, a ‘global village’ is being born. The labor has been long and it is not over yet, but the child is in sight. So, let’s take a look at the times we are in, from a variety of perspectives.
There is actually so much to say about this year, that this Horoscope for the Year edition of my Newsletter may be considered part 1 and the Full Moon Horoscope slated for January 8, 2012 will be part 2.
So, I will begin by reviewing some of the more basic themes.
2012 when added = 5 and is therefore is considered a Universal 5 Year in Numerology. This generally implies teachers and teachings, both within and without. Learning by experience and experimentation is a main them for # 5. Again, we can direct our focus within or without – the choice is ours. Yet setting intentions to access both ‘realms’, inner and outer, is ideal.
# 5 also speaks to the desire for freedom and the recognition that it is unattainable without a due amount of discipline. This is the deal life demands. Implied here are visions, goals, intentions and plans balanced by consistent, flexible actions and follow through until desired outcomes are achieved. That # 5 implies variety and curiosity as well poses a challenge to the requirements of discipline. So, focused follow through will be a basic challenge.
So, emphasis towards experiential and experimental learning will escalate. There are of course natural features of life but we should see a greater measure of it. Trying new angles of perception and approach on both individual and collective levels sounds good given the general state of affairs in the world. In the world of politics, our ‘elected representatives’ would be wise to assert a cooperative, innovative and adaptive approach if they wish to win the support and approval of the people. Not doing so will likely prove to backfire on those who don’t, to a very noticeable degree.
In addition to new perspectives, approaches, knowledge and skills, we also look to teachers and teachings for wisdom when # 5 is active. How we define wisdom is open ended. However, it certainly includes honoring the processes of reconciling conflicts - a major aspect of life - and directing our thoughts and actions towards creating harmony. How we achieve wisdom is yet another question? The basic answer is through confronting and overcoming the many tests and challenges of life. Given what we have seen in 2011, a 4 Year and corresponding to the Emperor in the Tarot, the main message of which states, “The status quo must change”, and it has; we are wise now to look to the guidance of 5, which in the Tarot is the Hierophant, to help us to meet the very real tests and challenges that 2012 holds in store. In other words, expect 2012 to be a year wherein people are seeking answers, knowledge, wisdom and guidance at a higher level of determination than we have seen in a while. I will elaborate upon this shortly.
2012 is also the Year of the Water Dragon. The Dragon is the only truly mythic creature in Chinese Astrology. In this regard it is special. The Dragon is best understood as the ‘tempter of the fates’ in Chinese lore. The ‘scales’ of the Dragon do in fact refer to the image of the weigh scales where a new state of balance is sought, rather assertively I will add! The Dragon is generally associated with Aries, if one were to try to translate the systems. However, where Western Astrology is a Solar Astrology or Sun based system, Chinese and Vedic Astrology especially are considered Lunar Astrology, or Moon based. In this respect, when referring to Aries as the sign most closely associated with the Dragon, it should be noted that it is the Moon not the Sun in Aries. More specifically, it is the Full Moon. Further, when the Moon is full in Aries, the Sun is invariably in Libra, the sign of the scales…!
The Water Element emphasized this year signifies a softer Dragon generally, but that too is relative. We are all quite aware of the powerful force that water can and does have. Also, just as true with any system of Astrology, how the current cycles will influence and affect individuals does depend on the relationship between their own Natal Chart and the current planetary and cycles activity for any given time period. In this respect, forecast of this sort remain general. These general trends can prove useful, yet for more specific insights it is best to actually consult with an Astrologer. It should also be noted that this also implies that Good Astrology is not pat. In other words, every case must be approached on its own ground. This ancient adage largely applied to healing and medicine certainly applies to Astrology as well. Working with archetypes in general requires that we take a very flexible approach. With archetypal thinking, one size does not fit all’, though this is how it may appear when one approaches Astrology from a beginners perspective. Sadly, it is from this perspective that Astrology is often judged. Such sophisticated systems that Astrology comprises requires sensitivity to the subtleties, levels, range and scope inherent in any archetype. This point can not be emphasized enough.
Interestingly, Chinese New Year always begins at the time of the New Moon in Aquarius. Therefore, I will leave it there and will bring more attention to it in the New Moon Newsletter scheduled for January 23rd.
Now, let’s look to some of the base themes which provide an overall foundation perspective to 12 months ahead.
Incidentally, to gain a real full spectrum perspective on the anchor themes of the New Year, what might metaphorically be deemed the stock of the soup for the year; there are several factors that one might accurately consider to gain a whole perspective.
These include the following:
· The last New Moon of the Year, the Sun conjunct the Galactic Center (currently at about 27 degrees but which incrementally changes from year to year due to it being directly tied to the Precession of the Equinoxes – the approximate 26, 000 cycle upon which the Ages are based, as in the Age of Aquarius, and which is the basis of the entire focus surrounding when the next great Precessional cycle will begin, from the standpoint of Mayan Cosmology).
· The exact moment of Winter Solstice which occurs when the Sun enters exactly and officially enters the Tropical Sign of Capricorn.
· The last day of the year as mentioned above and the 1st day of the year and the aspects of each.
· Then we have the first New Moon after of the year after the January 1st date turn.
I briefly mention these because they together constitute something of a formula approach to gain a sense of the foundational features of the year.
On a final note regarding this formula, it is worth noting that no two consecutive years are ever the same, so although the formula appears pat, the exact dates considered are not. For example, this year the last New Moon of the Year which crosses the Calendrical Date Line of January 1st was on December 24th, which was in Capricorn. But in other years it could have been Sagittarius, as was the case last year.
For this year, it also presents the fact that the First New Moon after January 1st this year is an Aquarius New Moon where last year it was Capricorn. This underscores the Aquarian Revolutionary tone of the year.
These may seem like technical points, but they lend to the understanding of what constitutes the foundational themes for any year in question, and a study of these can provide some very useful insights; again, like a chef knowing the exact ingredients that went into making the soup stock.
So then this year, the Winter Solstice, the New Moon and The January 1st New Year themes together bring their own special emphasis especially. Due to their close proximity in time, they each present rather strong planetary position similarities. The only real changes that really stand out are those of the Moon. So, the themes related to the Moon’s respective positions takes on added importance. Together they indicate very clear endings and beginnings. This will occur in stages and will be most noticeable in late spring onward.
What was particular about Winter Solstice this year was that it occurred during the last Phase of the Moon, the Balsamic Moon, and was in the Sign of Scorpio. Winter Solstice remains central to this overall perspective because it is the official beginning of the Natural New Year. This lends emphasis to why the new Precessional round of the Mayan system has been at least popularly given to winter Solstice 2012. While some will debate this, it at least brings special attention to Winter Solstice, which measures the intimate and all important relationship between the Earth and Sun.
In light of looking at the Waning Moon as a base theme for 2012 itself, we can see the theme of endings, completions and visions of the future (= Balsamic Moon). The association with Scorpio, the sign in which the Moon is considered to be in ‘Detriment’, meaning most challenged, is suggestive of the inevitability and complexity of the process of changes to come. Scorpio is the sign of transformation, death and rebirth, recycling…. Since Scorpio is also the Sign of Banks we get a strong hint at where the emphasis will be directed. In its highest reach, Scorpio is the sign of shared wealth! That it is also the sign of the elite and of elitism is also worth mentioning. That this theme comes as not surprise given the activities of 2011 is valid, but the synchronicity implied is the main point here and we are getting a clearer picture of what is in store. The Occupy Wall Street movement is from over it would seem given this aspect.
Venus did change signs from Capricorn to Aquarius on December 20th, just in time for the Winter Solstice and that is noteworthy. Aquarius is the sign most closely associated with democracy.
What is of particular note in this regard is the Moon on New Years Eve was in Aries and was also an exact half waxing Moon. This factor lends into own significance to the over all perspective. This can be better appreciated when we understand that from an archetypal standpoint, we can make the following statement:
0 Aries = Spring Equinox = 6 Am = Dawn = 1st Quarter Waxing Moon (Half Moon) = Lower Square Aspect.
This offers an important example of the range, flexibility and parallel nature of archetypes and archetypal symbols. A purely linear perspective would perhaps not appreciate that when it comes to archetypes, we are invited to, we might even say required to, employ a more flexible approach than what a pat interpretation would tend to do. This is significant for approaching each chart and case on its own ground. Astrology cannot be reduced to pat formulas at the deeper levels of approach.
It is for this reason that computer generated Astrology Reports, while providing a detailed spectrum of factors and some pretty good initial insights will always fall short of what can be achieved by a live, in-person consultation with a seasoned and knowledgeable Astrologer.
Of itself, Aries is a very dynamic Moon, at worst reactive. The same is true of the exact Half Moon. That the Moon in its exact Half Moon Waxing Phase was in Square Aspect to Pluto is the other very significant factor at play here. This was the basic theme of the last day of the year for 2011. It was also the active aspect at the exact time of midnight officially ushering in 2012!
Now some say that though midnight is the official beginning of the day, dawn as the official beginning of the day is the other way of looking at it. This is especially emphasized in Vedic Astrology. The main point here is that coinciding with sunrise on January 1st, we have a lovely and opportunistic Sextile Aspect between the Moon in Aries and Venus in Aquarius.
This can be interpreted as follows: despite the implied drama of the Half Moon in Aries Square Pluto; there is a bright light at the end of the tunnel.
What is most noteworthy about the Christmas Eve New Moon is the fact that Uranus holds such a strong position. The Sun and Moon are in a close Square to Uranus in Aries. This produces many unexpected surprises. Since it is the New Moon that carries us into the New Year, it carries extra weight of influence. Fortunately, Saturn in Libra is strong in this chart and is serving to keep everything grounded and sober. I believe this will become more noticeable is 2012 as well.
I believe people will generally be friendlier even with one another due to Venus’s position in Aquarius. Venus is the ruler of Libra so there is a direct connection with Saturn. With Venus, in turn in close Square aspect to Jupiter Retrograde in Taurus, people will feel challenged to be less materialistic and superficial. This will produce its own tone and wave of disturbance especially if this attitude shifts towards decreased spending. This is ever the great dread in our precarious consumer based society. This is certainly one of the more perplexing challenges of our times.
Can the environment withstand an ever growing populace that ever increases the consumption demand? Businesses may thrive, amidst increased competition, yet the environment must take on the added burden. As the economic balance grows, more people will have more money to spend. If the economic status quo remains the economy will be less stimulated and this will increase poverty, frustration and unrest.
The importance of asking this question is that it challenges us to reflect, meditate and concentrate upon the answers we need. There are solutions for every problem and we can overcome them all, provided we are willing and able to communicate and cooperate more fully. This is certainly the role of the internet and any attempts to limit the free flow of information on will go directly against this need for increased networking. These greater necessities will certainly outweigh the resistance, yet there may well be some. We are therefore pushed by necessity to seek alternative solutions to solve our collective problems.
That Jupiter and Saturn remain in quite close Opposition aspect at the outset of the year is also noteworthy since it was such a strong theme in 2011.
Jupiter and Saturn are called the Social Planets and their relationship is closely associated with changing trends in the economy. Given that the last conjunction aspect between these two gas giant planets was in Taurus, as part of a 7 planet ‘stellium’ (close alignment) which gained the attention of Astrologers everywhere. So, even though this occurred in May of 2000, we can look back to that time to gain insights on the foundational processes as symbolized by the conjunction of Saturn and Jupiter in particular. This is the sort of things Astrologers do as conjunction aspects represent anchoring themes which subsequently unfurl for many year thereafter. Jupiter and Saturn share a 20 year cycle and Neptune and Pluto, for example share an approximate 500 year cycle! That Taurus is a foundation building sign is significant here. That it is also linked to personal wealth and values plays a major role as well.
The point here is that the cycle initiated there is a 20 year cycle, the time span between consecutive conjunctions between these two planets, and now it is at a peak point in that cycle measured by the opposition aspect which exactly occurred first in March 2011. Many Astrologers would agree that this was the peak theme of 2011. Not surprisingly 2011 very much illustrated the many imbalances linked to economy and distribution of wealth ‘a la Occupy Wall Street….’ A couple movies recently released linked to this peak include one called I AM by a director name Shayciac http://www.iamthedoc.com/ which has been pre-released by the Spiritual Cinema Circle http://www.spiritualcinemacircle.com/how-the-circle-works and the other that comes to mind is THRIVE - Full Movie
which was free but not looks like you have to pay to get it.
That Jupiter is now again in Taurus, since its cycle is 11.86 years, is also noteworthy in this regard. Due to its re-activation of the initial conjunction which in this case occurred in May of 2000 at 23 Taurus, we have yet to experience this important re-activation theme on about May 11, 2012. That Jupiter will be conjunct the Sun on that exact day is very significant. Further, they will be conjunct within less than one degree that Jupiter and Saturn were at when they formed their last conjunction in May of 2000! That degree by the way was 22 Taurus and this time it is 23 Taurus.
In the Sabian Symbols, that system which gives a symbolic interpretation to every degree of the Zodiac, Dane Rudhyar (whose interpretations I deem the most profound and accurate) in his book “An Astrological Mandala” summarizes it with this Keynote: The aggressiveness of human instincts when fighting for their earthly base of operation. That sure does seem consistent with the themes of our times!
Watch for this date line and perhaps as early as late April. With Jupiter now direct as of December 25th, we can also say that this build up process is already underway. Also, due to its retrograde, we begin the year with Jupiter at 0 Taurus. From the perspective of the January 1st date, Jupiter is the planet of lowest degree and Neptune is the planet of highest degree.
The lowest and highest degree planets are very significant as they frame the overall chart pattern, so to speak. This is very significant in Natal Charts and is also significant in the January 1st chart which again lends insight to the anchoring themes of the year. Thus the planet of lowest degree indicates how we ‘begin the day or our basic motivation and the planet of highest degree indicates the goal or how we want to ‘end the day’. That 0 and 29 degrees of any sign are considered critical degrees in Astrology (technically, ‘Anaretic Degrees’) is very significant. That Neptune is at 29 Aquarius, the last degree of that sign, brings attention to the aims of democratic goals. It should also be mentioned that Aquarius is the sign of revolution. So, as may be expected, 2012, beyond apocalyptic scenarios will be one of social and economic revolution and this is already underway.
Gaining an overview of the actual planetary alignments destined to occur for the year ahead is the main focus here. The following is a list of planetary activity scheduled to occur in 2012:
Here is the summary overview and it will be followed by a more elaborated focus upon each factor: Mars begins the year in Virgo and will remain there until July, due to a rather slow retrograde process it is currently in. Chiron at 2 degrees Pisces will reach 10 by mid June and end the year at about 6. Uranus at 1 degrees Aries will reach 8 by mid July and finish the year at 4. Neptune begins the year at the last degree of Aquarius, enters its own sign of Pisces on February 3rd will reach 3 degrees by mid June and end the year at 1 Pisces. Pluto begins the year at 7 degrees Capricorn achieves 10 by about mid April and completes the year at 9. The Lunar Nodes are currently in Sagittarius (North) and Gemini and will end their 18 month cycle to begin a new one in early September with the North Node in Scorpio and the South in Taurus. The most potent planetary aspect of the year will be between Uranus in Aries Square Pluto in Capricorn and this dynamic aspect pattern will be active for 3 years!
Now for a more detailed breakdown of each planet and aspect:
Mars entered Virgo on November 10th at the time of the Full Moon in Taurus and it will remain in Virgo until July 3rd! This extended duration for a planet that generally completes an orbit in just under 2 years. Mars has been ‘appearing’ to travel slowly in Virgo due to the fact that it is poised to turn retrograde on January 23rd – within a Day of the New Moon in Aquarius and Chinese New Year! Some would certainly look upon this as a ‘sign’ and something of an ominous one at that.
What the effects of Mars retrograde are, or for any planet, retrograde or not for that matter, always depends on how it’s position relates to the ‘person’ (individual, city, state, province, country, enterprise, organization…) in question.
Virgo is a much more complex sign that it may seem to be. In addition to occupying the location is space, from the Earth’s perspective where we find the densest field of galaxies of all, Virgo is also co-ruled by the planetoid Chiron and the asteroids Ceres and Vesta. Generally, Virgo is ‘archetypally characterized’ (= it does not necessarily refer to all those who have a Virgo Sun Sign or Ascendant) as service oriented, humble, hygienic, organized, analytical, resourceful, efficient, technical, detailed and tends to be a perfectionist. A dualistic sign, Virgo swings from being very detailed oriented to endeavoring to see and function from the whole. Yet, the latter, the holistic, is the greater challenge and does not represent the obvious tendencies.
It so happens that Mars Retrograde in Virgo is one of its most difficult positions, especially in the realm of inter-personal relationships. The basic challenge of Mars Retrograde is that it pushes us to live our ideals, walk our talk. Given the times, this may not be such a bad thing. Yet, it is the perfectionist tendencies that cause the most troubles. This tends to make people too critical of themselves and others for real intimacy to occur. Yet, at best this can serve to lead people to be more efficient.
Looking to the general influence, Mars Retrograde basically indicates lowered energy levels.
Since Mars is in Virgo, this will also depend on the position and aspects of Mercury as well, because Mercury in the ruler for Virgo. As the first planet beyond our own Earth/Moon system, Mars is basically the planet of action. Often confused as the planet of desire, Mars more accurately acts upon the motivated objectives of our Sun sign, the thoughts, perceptions and interpretations of Mercury, the desires of Venus, the emotional needs of the Moon and the actual physical requirements of life here on Earth.
Jupiter begins the year at 0 Taurus then enters Gemini on June 11th. Gemini is the polar opposite sign to Sagittarius which Jupiter rules and therefore Jupiter is in one of its more challenging signs in Gemini. The main issue is the tendency to take on to much ad to scatter ones focus and energies. Again, since Mercury also rules Gemini attention is again cast to it.
Mercury completes a cycle in 88 days so moves quickly and each year it turns retrograde for about 3 weeks give or take a few days. So, watching Mercury this year in light of Mars Retrograde and Jupiter in Gemini will be a main focus for Astrologers. The overlap period between June 11th and July 3rd could prove especially interesting since that is the time period during which Summer Solstice occurs and Venus occults the Sun.
Venus Retrograde in Gemini from May 15th to June 27 is yet another significant factor. First because it is in Mercury ruled Gemini and because it will be retrograde when it is conjunct (occult) the Sun. Venus retrograde tends to overemphasize materialistic values. Venus Retrograde in Gemini tends to be fickle and defers to the likes and dislikes of others, thus tends to be overly acceptance oriented.
Again, there is nothing pat about Astrology and sometimes such a factor can have positive results. This can be said of almost any factor I Astrology. More responsible and wise and less fatalistic Astrology recognizes and works with their clients this way. However, it remains ideal to present the pro and con possibility and in the case of Venus Rx in Gemini, the tendency is to think more about how we feel verses feel more about what we think. Upon reflection, it would seem our entire society tends towards the characteristics of Venus Rx in Gemini.
Saturn in Libra since October 2009 will enter Scorpio in October 2012. Saturn’s influence is to contract, concentrate and delay for the sake of cultivating respect, patience and integrity. Yet whatever sign Saturn is in tends to be extra challenging for the people with that Sun Sign. So Librans have been under the guise of Saturn since 2009 and it is not over yet. Actually, Saturn is said to be ‘exalted’ in Libra. So, all else aside it has perhaps proven to be more of a stabilizing force than many may realize. Perhaps it was Saturn in Libra, the Sun Sign of Mahatma Gandhi that served to inspire the largely peaceful Occupy Wall Street protests which swept the world. Of course, the same can not be said of the Middle East. I would venture that Saturn in Libra in the summer of 2012 may well prove to be a saving grace as well. Yet, it will be interesting to see how the collective handles the Venus Retrograde period. (Venus co-rules Libra).
Saturn in Scorpio generally is indicative of a metamorphic process.
Uranus in Aries will certainly play a significant role this year especially due to the fact that it will form the first of 2 exact Square Aspects to Pluto in 2012. These two are actually the first of 7 exact Square Aspects between these two major players over the next 3 years. The first one occurs in June so we can expect that month and even May to be especially momentous. The original Conjunction aspect to which this series of Squares over the ext few years refers occurred in 1965!
As an aside here, for the sake of context which is what my Full Moon Newsletter will more fully outline, it is helpful to realize that Astrology measures cycles and sometimes these span decades and even centuries. Understanding this can help people to realize just how wide the scope can get. The anchor date can be given to the conjunction between Pluto and Neptune. Their cycle lasts 500 years! The last time these two were conjunct was April 30, 1892. So, we can use this scale to outline evolutionary cycles contained within the conjunction of the two furthest major planets in Astrology (though more have been discovered, their roles are not as strong). From this standpoint we are still in the early stages of the current era! Looking back upon it we can certainly see how much the world has changed into its current general condition since that time.
Of itself, Pluto in Capricorn signifies an important cycle of change and purification, yes Pluto purifies, in all governmental institutions. This cycle officially began in early 2008 and will continue until 2023! So, we are still only in the earlier stages of it as well.
Uranus in Aries of itself signifies rapid revolutionary change. This began in 2010 actually and will continue through to 2019. Yet, due to its retrograde process it continues to hover at the first degree of Aries so we have only had a few tastes of it. Uranus in Aries will certainly synchronize with what will soon be clearly recognized to be an accelerated period of dynamic change. Aries is a very assertive sign and Uranus has the reputation of acting as if suddenly. Consider Fukushima Japan on March 11th, the day Uranus entered Aries again! The massive changes unfolding as a consequence of the internet can certainly been posited as examples of this change linked to Uranus. The playing field is being leveled yet there remains a significant imbalance and in the distribution of wealth and this remains one of the most significant issues of our times. Some would argue, a probably rightly so, that the truly biggest issue is the damage we have done to the environment. Overall, it may be agreed that what is truly at stake however, it our collective vision of ourselves and of our relationship with nature and this may be best interpreted as a spiritual theme.
It is apt to complete this section with a peak at Neptune which is poised to enter Pisces, its own sign. Any planetary aspect will express the full range of possibilities. With Pluto in Capricorn, the negative feature is big power players flexing their muscles in resistance in ay changes to the status quo that might challenge their position. With Uranus in Aries violence and aggression of all sorts are the main issue. With Neptune in Pisces, the highest reach stands to be a global spiritual awakening. In the negative, we may experience an increase in denial and escapism in the face of the many significant changes destined to occur over the next 10 years anyway.
Before I provide an overview of what is in store this year for each sign, from the perspective of the planetary cycles and alignments, I want to bring attention to some perspectives which are important for a clearer understanding of our times and of what I will present as forecasts in the sign entries below.
I would first like to remind you that as powerful as horoscopes can prove to be, they invariably offer a generic perspective. Due to the holistic and paradoxical nature of reality and to the overriding power and importance of the Sun in Astrology, as it relates to our ‘nature’ our natural psychology, Horoscopes can be illustrated to ‘work’ surprisingly well. That is, they offer valid and useful insights and guidelines. It may seem reductionistic to say, but it is as though there are 12 Tribes in the world. Each is delineated by the ‘Sign’ the Sun was in at the time of birth based on the seasonal round, which is, in turn, determined by the cycle of the sunlight. This perspective is not absolute and conclusive, rather it is archetypal and it works. Horoscope measure the relationship between the planets at any given moment, but only really references a person’s Sun Sign and not even the exact degree, for that matter, which will also make a big difference.
The main point here is that as powerful as is our Sun Sign, the fuller measure of Astrology requires that we look to the “whole chart”. While a good reading of a chart can be rendered without the exact time, one’s whole chart perspective is based on the day and place of our birth generally, and knowing the exact time sharpens the picture significantly. Knowing the exact time is especially important for predictive astrology. Thus, with one’s actual Natal Chart as the base and then measuring the actual placements of the planets at any given moment against this base chart, the picture is much clearer and precise. As helpful as a horoscope can be, it cannot achieve this level of refinement and accuracy. Horoscopes and computer generated interpretations can and do offer some pretty good insights but they simply are not the full measure of Astrology. For this reason, an actual Astrology Reading, whether in person or by phone, is the deepest, most accurate and best means of gaining the rich insights into your nature, overall destiny and current cycles that good Astrology offers. Make your appointment HERE now!
The following links will access the Horoscopes for the Year that I have written in the past. You may later find it interesting and worthwhile at some point to reflect upon some of the major themes outlined in them to review both the general forecasts and those specific to each Zodiac Sign. You will also gain different angles of insight especially linked to Pluto, Uranus and Saturn.
2011 http://sunstarastrology.com/content/view/5004/280/
2010 http://sunstarastrology.com/content/view/5661/275/
2009 http://sunstarastrology.com/content/view/4280/308/
2008 http://sunstarastrology.com/content/view/3333/308/
If you wish to review previous yearly Horoscopes even earlier than 2008, please visit my website, go to Library, then Horoscope Related Articles |
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Capricorn Horoscope