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Astrology by David Weatherly
December 2004 /January 2005
Spiritual and physical energy both flow strongly over this two-month
period. Spiritual organizations and churches will see an increase in
attendance. On a personal scale, there is a strong inclination to "get in
shape." With the year 2004 drawing to a close, four planets will find their
way into Sagittarius. By December the 26th, Mercury, Venus, Mars and Pluto
will all be in the sign of the archer. This is a fire sign, and in the
midst of winter it brings us energy and inspiration. The holidays bring
warm and rewarding experiences. It is important to take time to enjoy
the power and connection of friends and family. As the new year begins,
the ideals of your heart will find a new burst of initiative and the power
to manifest.
Mercury will turn retrograde on November 30th. These are always periods
when you should avoid signing contracts or important legal documents if at
all possible. Communications can be hampered, so take the extra time to be
careful and clear. Fortunately, Mercury is a quick-moving planet and it
will go direct on December 20th.
Venus is in Scorpio until December 17th, when it moves into Sagittarius. In
Scorpio, the planet of love can bring intensity to intimate
connections. Passion and jealousy both hit high points during this
placement. Emotional intensity is extreme and excess is likely, especially
when dealing with partners and family members. Once Venus moves into
Sagittarius, the energy will begin to shift. The fiery, intense feelings
will become focused and it will be much easier to find valid outlets. This
is an excellent time to become more physically active. In fact, beginning
new physical regimens will be simpler at this time. Moral and spiritual
inclinations will now rule the day, giving relief from the emotional
dynamics of Venus in Scorpio. Venus moves again on January 10th, when it
goes into Capricorn. Capricorn is an earth sign and this placement will
offer a stabilizing influence. Relationships will settle into a grounded
rhythm, and a general feeling of solidity will prevail.
Mars is in Scorpio until December 26th, when it moves into
Sagittarius. Mars in Scorpio brings raw, intense energy. This placement
can lead to powerful spiritual development or dark emotional
experiences. Mars in Scorpio offers extremes; it is up to your inner
wisdom to determine the direction the energy will flow at this time. When
the planet moves into Sagittarius, physical aspects of nature are
highlighted. Sports and outdoor activities are excellent at this time and
provide a positive outlet to the bottled intensity of Mars in Scorpio.
Jupiter has now been in Libra for several months and its influence
continues to be a major factor for our society. Jupiter, the planet of
expansion and growth, highlights spiritual matters and social concerns in
this position. The principles of justice are at the forefront, and
religious reform begins to take deeper root. Jupiter is bringing growth to
our society, and it starts at the spiritual foundations of our
culture. On a personal level, the spiritual journey takes on a greater
significance during this time.
Saturn went retrograde in Cancer early in November, and it will continue
moving backwards through December and January. This transit has brought a
lot of difficulty to our country since the US natal sun is in Cancer. This
retrograde movement began shortly after the presidential election and will
continue through the winter months. Domestic difficulties will continue to
build as a major concern. The situation in Iraq will also present new
challenges, and the overall effect of the US involvement in the Middle East
on our country itself will become clearer. As the emotional scars of
the war on terror become more obvious, a greater number of people will push
for peace and resolution to the current turmoil.
The outer planets continue their journeys in the same signs they have spent
the year in: Uranus in Pisces, Neptune in Aquarius and Pluto in
Sagittarius. These planets continue to have an influence on the shift in
consciousness that we are all experiencing as we move further into the Age
of Aquarius. Social reform and spiritual awakenings will continue to
slowly reverse old paradigms that can no longer hold sway on a changing world.
Everyone's personal journey has an effect on the society in which they
live. During this winter, you'll experience inspiration along with the
energy needed to fulfill your spiritual goals. As society changes,
personal paradigms will change too. The challenge of course is in rising
to the occasion. It is simple to procrastinate and plan for tomorrow's
change. Ultimately, it is more fulfilling to begin in the present moment,
or as Ram Dass says, "Be Here Now." Setting a spiritual course and
following it fully is its own greatest reward, and your life and society
will be richer for it.
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