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Astrology by David Weatherly
August/September 2003
Astrological trends are now directing
individuals toward an inner search for meaning. With the Aquarian
age in full swing, perceptions and attitudes have changed,
as well as ideals and viewpoints. In the midst of the turmoil
we've experienced the last few years, a new world has been
forming. These sweeping changes are ushering in a new era-the
age of the spiritual hero has come. In the past, we have honored
the fallen, the everyday hero, and even sports champions.
Now our world is changing at a rapid pace, and it is time
to honor those who follow the path of Spirit. The search for
these heroes has begun, and we have much to experience in
the process.
It seems we just finished dealing with
Mercury retrograde (actually it was May), but the planet again
turns backwards in its movement on August 28th. The last retrograde
period produced a large number of accidents and communications
problems that carried far past the retro period. Combined
with shifting Jupiter, this will be a particularly challenging
time for the small details that fill day-to-day living. Additional
caution is called for when dealing with any kind of paperwork,
especially legal proceedings or business transactions. Don't
finalize any deals during this transit, which will end when
the planet turns direct on September 20th. This is also an
unwise timeframe to deal with the stock market in any form.
Finish any details you can prior to this period, or delay
them until after the 20th if at all possible. Like the last
couple of Mercury retrogrades, this one will be difficult.
Although it is a fast-moving planet, the irony of Mercury
is that slowing down and exercising caution is the wisest
course of action now.
Don't expect any quick cures for the
ailing stock market. The status quo is apt to continue on
its same course. Can anything help the economy? The planet
Chiron says yes, but the answers are not traditional ones.
This planet represents the wounded healer, and with its continuing
journey in Capricorn, it speaks of the need to approach the
economics of our nation and our world in a different manner.
There is also a personal message here, and we should all consider
how we live and conduct ourselves on both the spiritual and
material levels.
Venus is quite busy these two months,
traveling through Leo, Virgo and Libra-fire to earth to air.
In general, there is a stabilizing trend for personal relationships.
Look for important turning points in September, as both you
and your loved ones start thinking in practical terms about
what the future holds. Artistic energy begins to slow down
to a more even pace as the fall begins. Expect the force of
creative energy to be more subtle now, but strong and earthy.
The fiery Mars is retrograde through
all of August and most of September in the sign of Pisces.
The watery nature of Pisces is in direct contrast to Mars,
so this can be a difficult aspect to deal with. If you are
highly affected by Mars, beware of misdirected anger and the
need to "blow off some steam." Fire and water produce
this tension, and the energy will indeed ease off when Mars
goes direct on the 27th of September.
This is not a good placement for the
dynamic energy of Mars. It can actually be put to good use,
however, if proper focus is applied. The self-determination
and strong will that is empowered by Mars can be directed
towards spiritual matters. Growth is possible on a soul level,
and we can experience a new phase of self-realization. Remember
to leave the ego out of the equation, and you will accomplish
much more. A positive outlet for this mix is indulging in
water sports such as swimming, surfing, etc. This will allow
the elements to blend in a more natural fashion.
Saturn was discussed thoroughly in the
last column, when it moved into the sign of Cancer. This is
an ongoing transformation for all of us, and for the United
States in particular. The U.S. natal sun in Cancer is bringing
about a new direction for both the United States and its people.
Right on the heels of this Saturn movement,
the other big planet of the solar system makes a move into
a new sign. Jupiter exits fiery Leo the lion and moves forward
into the calmer earth energy of Virgo. This move takes place
on August 28th, and we can expect an interesting shift in
energies. Virgo's energy is rather introverted, and attention
is now directed towards things of a more personal, inner nature.
There is a growing trend to withdraw and regroup. The inner
self and the immediate environment become more of a priority.
Focus and solidity become keywords as many consider the direction
they are taking. Long-term goals begin to take shape. This
is a prime period to return to school for additional education
or training. Attention to personal health also takes on a
deeper meaning. Many will feel geared towards the expansion
of personal energy and well being.
Pluto makes a move on the 29th of August,
finally going direct in the sign of Sagittarius. The planet
has been retrograde since March, so this is a major shift.
Pluto, the ruler of the underworld, drags things up from the
depths. Ideas or plans you may have given up on finally start
to move forward. Pluto's effect is both sweeping on a grand
scale and felt deeply on a personal level.
On a broader scale, there is a chance
of earthquake activity at this time. With the outer planets
Uranus and Neptune still retrograde, we may see heavy storms
early in the fall, and you should try to limit travel at the
end of August. With its placement in Sagittarius, look for
Pluto to cause some shake-ups and changes in the world of
sports. Underdogs have a bit more edge during these types
of transits, so some surprises could be forthcoming.
Somewhere in your life is a hero, a person
you can look to for inspiration or guidance. Someone who walks
their talk and follows the path Spirit has led them on. These
are courageous souls, following their inner calling, and they
give the gift of example, showing that you too can be a spiritual
hero. We are all transforming together, and together we can
usher in a heroic, spiritual age.
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