Astrology Report October 2008 　
By Linda Clave
　
This month is a very important time to achieve balance in every aspect of Life, especially in our relationships. The Cardinal Air Sign of Libra is about relationships. Relationships require our willingness to consider the needs of others and get our egos under control. It is here our energies begin their journey inward as the Sun crosses the Equator moving south into the Tropic of Capricorn. Planet Venus, ruler of Libra, rules the blood flow back to the heart, again emphasizing our return to the inner world. Social skills and grace develop with Venus. Libra is rich in aesthetics, diplomacy, and charm. During the 2008 transit of the Sun through Libra, the lovers Mars and Venus are transiting the Fixed Water Sign, Scorpio, cloaking their activities in secrecy under the covers. Passions run deep! Convictions are not easily changed. The Full Moon October 14 at 21 Aries, ruled by Mars, increases this challenge to relate openly and fairly. We should expect to have a better understanding of the US’ part in the world market crisis. This Mars-ruled Moon is within a degree of the opposition to Mercury when it went retrograde on September 24. At that time Mercury was at 22 Libra 50 in conjunction to Mars at 23 Libra 30. Battle lines are formed! The remaining presidential debates will be intense and highly charged. All parties need to step back and get a more holistic view of the urgent matters on the table.　Indeed, global change has been launched with this economic crisis. Honesty and transparency are hard to come by as all the facts are shaded by complex transactions.

LIBRA, an Esoteric Approach to the Inward Journey, by Peter Kubaska:

"Ten of the twelve signs of the zodiac grow and evolve through conflict, crisis, and meeting the challenge of communication, understanding, and loving and intelligent cooperation.
　
Libra, along with Aries, is one of the two signs which do not develop or evolve through crisis. Their method is to achieve a point of balance, tension and poise — Aries, a point of silent tension before the projection of the creative impulse or thought form, and Libra, a point of silent poise before bringing two factors into harmony and creating a third and liberating factor.
　
Libra rules No Man’s Land. We are left to our own devices and Karma in Libra to judge ourselves from the point of view of our higher Self, wherever stationed. Libra rules the duality of Self and Humanity at large.
　
We all know the rather negative traits of Librans — sacrificing all for comfort or harmony, sitting on the fence until the self-serving values emerge, lots of talk about seeing both sides of the issue at hand (when someone is about to be figuratively raped) with no real interest in inquiry and justice, only pacification and face-saving. Libra is very good at creating the appearance of cooperation and even-handedness, but often with a hidden agenda, only revealed at the moment of self-interest. There can be talk of justice, but Tact can be expressed as either infinite or devious manipulation or as a kind of divine vision and diplomacy. 　
　
Libra is meant to serve brains over brawn, or brains over the gut-brained. Most people do not think. They only think when confronted with a conflict or crisis. Humanity has the addiction of conflict. This is the challenge of the 2008 elections coming up. Will demagogues be able to manipulate the gut-brained 50% of the populace into violating basic humanitarian values, or will America regain its Soul?
　
Virgo gives humanity a choice in terms of purification — through Vision or through War (society’s "favorite holiday") — change through brains or through dumb force. Libra gives us the choice of humanity’s approach toward the use of law — the guardian of fairness, justice and positive righteousness, or law as the enforcer of a kindergarten regime for men, such as we see with the present administration (2000–08) encouraging private-sector building and management of detention facilities while creating a plantation-slave casino economy with a ghetto wall to the south. A mercenary armed forces parallels a potential mercenary municipal order — how sick and degenerate can a society get before the rot actually dismembers it for composting? Unfortunately this disease and rot spreads throughout the planet from a country that once represented the human democratic ideal.
　
The Bull in Taurus swerves in Libra to reverse the zodiacal wheel. Most of humanity revolves backward through the signs. The spiritual disciple moves forward. As the animal gut-brain was transformed into the human brain, and instinct became intellect, so the basic human instincts and urges must reverse direction to direct the self-interested personality nature toward the Soul — intellect evolves to include intuition and true vision. We once were blind, but now we see.
　
In Libra the evolving human reaches a point of tension that demands nerve and poise to make the best decision. Without that poise, he slouches back into the familiar and comfortable.
　
Libra is meant to have a very wide view of social and worldly affairs. Libra’s standard symbol of The Scales is superceded by its esoteric symbol, the Triangle that surrounds the All-Seeing Eye of God — Duality surmounted by a Point of At-One-Ment. It is only with this very broad vision that Libra can make those choices, establish that poise, and exercise the tact that enables great and broad effects within the family, group, nation or planet within which it functions.
　
In Libra the value of self-interest widens to include greater and greater spheres of interest and an ensuing sense of social responsibility. Self-interest finally dissolves in this greater Vision."

The New Moon at 10° Leo is challenged by an opposition to the powerful midpoint of Uranus and Pluto. It brings to mind again the 60’s when Uranus and Pluto were within one degree of a conjunction from September 1965 to August 1966. This configuration sets up a deep transformational vibration that resonates with people anxious for change. The eclipse begins a 27-month period when one’s perspective is pressured to change. Once again old ways of thinking are not supported in this future-motivated time. It is an emotionally restless period that is constantly seeking the truth that will incite change and break through new ways to implement freedom from past restraints. There will be no doubt that the engines are fired for a new era. 　
The Eclipse point is also in aspect to the Mars/Pluto midpoint. This indicates it is time to cut a new fabric for life and to utilize personal power. This aspect indicates superhuman energy. The temptation is to overwork. 　
　
If you are an artist of any type, this is your eclipse. Plan a show for mid-August and gather support from interested parties. The money is available for those with a clear set of goals and a motivated vision. Children are inspired or are an inspiration during this time. The child within yourself is transformed."


　　　　The diagram shows the alignment of the Sun, Moon and Earth during a solar eclipse. The dark gray region to the right of the Moon is the umbra, where the Sun is completely obscured by the Moon. The small area where the umbra touches the Earth’s surface is where a total eclipse can be seen. The larger light gray area is the penumbra, in which only a partial eclipse can be seen.
　　　　The Moon’s orbit around the Earth is inclined at an angle of just over 5 degrees to the plane of the Earth’s orbit around the Sun (the ecliptic). Because of this, at the time of a new moon, the Moon will usually pass above or below the Sun. A solar eclipse can occur only when the new moon occurs close to one of the points (known as nodes) where the Moon’s orbit crosses the ecliptic.
　　　　As noted above, the Moon’s orbit is also elliptical. The Moon’s distance from the Earth can vary by about 6% from its average value. Therefore, the Moon’s apparent size varies with its distance from the Earth, and it is this effect that leads to the difference between total and annular eclipses. The distance of the Earth from the Sun also varies during the year, but this is a smaller effect. On average, the Moon appears to be slightly smaller than the Sun, so the majority (about 60%) of central eclipses are annular. It is only when the Moon is closer to the Earth than average (near its perigee) that a total eclipse occurs.
　　　　The Moon orbits the Earth in approximately 27.3 days, relative to a fixed frame of reference. This is known as the sidereal month. However, during one sidereal month, the Earth has revolved part way around the Sun, making the average time between one new moon and the next longer than the sidereal month: it is approximately 29.5 days. This is known as the synodic month, and corresponds to what is commonly called the lunar month.
　　　　The Moon crosses from south to north of the ecliptic at its ascending node, and vice versa at its descending node. However, the nodes of the Moon’s orbit are gradually moving in a retrograde motion, due to the action of the Sun’s gravity on the Moon’s motion, and they make a complete circuit every 18.6 years. This means that the time between each passage of the Moon through the ascending node is slightly shorter than the sidereal month. This period is called the draconic month.
　　　　Finally, the Moon’s perigee is moving forwards in its orbit, and makes a complete circuit in about 9 years. The time between one perigee and the next is known as the anomalistic month.
　　　　The Moon’s orbit intersects with the ecliptic at the two nodes that are 180 degrees apart. Therefore, the new moon occurs close to the nodes at two periods of the year approximately six months apart, and there will always be at least one solar eclipse during these periods. Sometimes the new moon occurs close enough to a node during two consecutive months. This means that in any given year, there will always be at least two solar eclipses, and there can be as many as five. However, some are visible only as partial eclipses, because the umbra passes above Earth’s north or south pole, and others are central only in remote regions of the Arctic or Antarctic.

Source: 　http://www.total-eclipse-2008.com/eclipse/geometry.php

Energy leys are a key to our connection with the Earth. My friend and colleague, Peter Champoux, is a seasoned geomancer and author of Gaia Matrix. 　Please check this link to his web site: http://www.geometryofplace.com/ley.html

From his web info:
"Landscape Alignments have been variously described as ley lines, dragon paths, and song lines depending on the culture and location. The practice of geomancy concerns itself with directing or deflecting these currents of earth energy that affect our lives, both positively and geopathically."
　
I asked Peter to comment on the work he has been doing:
"For the past five years the Arkhom crew has been tuning the North-South serpent strings of New England’s regional ‘geography of light’. It has come clear that this landscape geometry is a kind of resonant instrument of light that projects and amplifies the efforts of Light Workers’ activity engaged in the Ascension process. Tuning this serpent string with the new frequencies tunes the region with these same frequencies. Curiously none of these string tunings have been planned. Each year a new set of invitations for workshops and ceremony cohere on a North-South alignment along these string lines.
　
This year our work has taken us to the center string line that courses north-south through the center of Arkhom in Shelburne Falls, MA. The ceremonial season was initiated in Shelburne in early May with a Despacho Ceremony performed by Laurie Friedler completing her work with her Peruvian teacher Mariano Quipe Flore. Next we were brought to a farm on the Vermont/ Quebec border at a gathering of good hearts to witness the summer solstice sunset at a Woodhenge set in a stunning setting of mountain, lake and distant horizon over Montreal. This solstice ceremony was followed by the just complete Magdalene Gathering due south in New Haven where this group introduced the holy energy of The Magdalene into this city of king makers and the New Jerusalem template New Haven’s founding fathers set up there in 1638. With both North and South American artifacts spirited away in the bowels of Peabody Museum and New Haven’s longitudinal alignment with Machu Picchu, this Gathering did its best to connect the earth energies of the Eagle and Condor with the sacred feminine. The next event along this Serpent String will take place at the American Society of Dowsers gathering in Killington, VT where we’ll be further tuning this string through the co-creative efforts of all concerned.
　
It is my thinking that once the strings are tuned then this matrix at the center of North America’s tectonic plate will be able to make some beautiful music out of the discord this planet danced to for the past 10,000 years. Tripping the Light Fantastic"
http://www.geometryofplace.com/center_sphere.htm  http://www.geometryofplace.com/  
Peter Champoux. FIELD Geometer. 413-773-0010 www.geometryofplace.com <http://www.geometryofplace.com/>
August 3 ~ Awakening Spirit, Chelmsford, MA　<http://myawakeningspirit.com/workshops.htm> August 6–13 ~ American Society of Dowsers, Killington, VT <http://www.dowsers.org/cons.htm> 　
September 22–26 ~ The Reshel Grid: Gateway to the Future, Charlottesville, VA <http://www.geometryofplace.com/wayne.htm>

July begins with the New Moon on July 2 at 11 Cancer 32. It is a month of getting ready for the eclipses in August: Total South Solar on August 1 at 9 Leo 32, and Partial North Lunar at 24 Aquarius 21 on August 16. The Moon rules Cancer, a Cardinal Water sign. Archetypically feminine and associated with dreams and things of the night, yin, meandering and indirect, the Moon is ever mysterious. Cancer and the Moon are associated with the Mother and with nurturing, whether it’s an infant, a pet or a creative project. It is the unconscious beginning we all experience in the womb. Its instinctual process directs the emergence of our physical form from our DNA codes. The effect of the Moon in the summer angular sign of Cancer is easily felt in the rocking motion of the ocean’s tides ebbing and flowing, as well as in the waxing and waning light of the lunar month. The Moon travels around the zodiac each month touching every planet and recording in our unconscious every detail we experience.

The Moon in association with the Earth and Sun make up our shifting patterns of eclipses. At this time the nodal axis of the Moon is moving through North Aquarius and South Leo. The issues that were left unresolved last year during Saturn’s transit through Leo are now working their way out through the South Solar Eclipse. The South Node is associated with the past, what has been done, while the North Node is oriented toward the future, experiences to be attained and developed. Therefore the South Node brings both rewards and demotions based on earned work and performances. Eclipses have a reputation for causing difficulties, but they are there to help us grow. Without a cosmic shove we are often content to remain in comfortable positions, unmotivated to meet challenges that can bring forth our true nature and talents. Growth is always less comfortable than what is familiar.

The New Moon on July 2 is at 11 Cancer 32 with 12 Aquarius 41 rising over Washington, DC. This lunation falls in the Fifth house near the cusp of the Sixth house. Therefore its influence will be felt more in matters of the Sixth which includes employment, health and work environments. However, the angular activities demand most of our attention with the North Node at 19 Aquarius in the First House of the Self or the Nation, conjunct Chiron at 20 degrees retrograde and Neptune at 23 degrees 54 retrograde. They oppose the South Node sitting in the Seventh house of relationships along with a highly charged applying conjunction of Mars at 0 Virgo to Saturn at 4 Virgo 42. We the nation, the people, need to refocus, step back and straighten out our national and international relations and heal our misguided sense of reality. Assisting this aim is a good aspect between Mercury and the North Node, Chiron and Neptune, opening a flow of healing energy and inspiration. More news emerges about what went on in the manipulation of facts that lead us to war. Mercury, our communicator, is at 20 Gemini on the hidden side of the Fifth house. It is about to square First house Uranus retrograde at 22 Pisces. Uranus is the planet that works in lightning flashes to bring us fresh inspiration, but can also cause sudden unexpected changes. Mercury also opposes powerful retrograde Pluto at 29 Sagittarius 31 in the Eleventh. Demands for better policies and cleaner politics and campaign funding is apparent with these aspects and with Sixth house Venus at 18 Cancer opposing retrograde Jupiter at 18 Capricorn in the Twelfth house. People will need to wake up to what current legislation is being proposed on environmental issues that will effect their everyday life, such as their right to collect rain water http://www.ecy.wa.gov/news/2008news/2008-157.html.

I have asked esoteric astrologer Peter Kubaska, to comment on the US chart.

"In the esoteric astrology of Alice Bailey, the United States is said to be ruled by an Aquarian soul and a Gemini personality. Both rule the fusing of nationalities and ethnicities. Both rule science, which has the capacity to bring light to human relations and to the environment.

Washington DC, on the other hand, is said to be ruled by Cancer and Sagittarius, the traditional rulers of the US chart in orthodox astrology. Cancer represents self-interested and self-protective (and now security-conscious) isolationism, while Sagittarius tends toward blind adherence to formal decision, which negate long-range vision. DC, the capital of the US, is said to be moving in the future to New York, as the US grows out of its adolescence. This will be good, since NY is a planetary center, not just a national one.

Among the Twelve Labors of Hercules, Cancer was a test of the wisest choice—made from the Heart—and which took a complete cycle to achieve (a year, a lifetime, a century). It involved letting go of precious achievements and material earned by one’s own efforts—but only after delivering it to the temple or shrine of the Deity.

The esoteric trouble with Cancer is that it must rise from collective Instinct to pure Intuition, without the intermediate stage of Intellect. This is often great for creativity, but perhaps not so much so for rational decision-making or intelligent leadership. Cancer rules capitalism and the consumer society, which is another word for ‘addiction society.’ Add a Sagittarian proclivity for geopolitical gambling, and you have a constantly degenerating market, communication and leadership situation.

If Benjamin Franklin’s Plan of Union (between the colonies and Great Britain) of the 10^th of July 1754 had been accepted, we might now exist as a Commonwealth with a parliamentary democracy and restricted two-week election periods, able to chuck out unworthy tyrants in a single day. But we chose the ancient four-year Venus/lunar cycle of office—sacrifice the sacred king every four years. (See Graves, The White Goddess.)

In terms of hope, the US is at a decision point this year, 2008, which will have reverberations for decades. As Edgar Cayce observed, the US would be ruled by a mob after the second president (of the 20^th century) died in office. This has come to pass.

Any cause for hope in general is based on taking right initiative, right decisions, and right action. Hope, if it exists, has to do with unconditional love and vision, ignoring appearances and the fear and glamour thrown in the Path by dark forces of materialism. What is democracy but humanity’s response to universal love? But true and effective democracy depends on universal education and a free flow of information.

The key signal of America’s future maturity will be an intelligent collaboration of labor and capital. The merging of democracy and humane social ethics will come later as a result. This latter evolution has begun in Britain. ("Britons never, ever will be slaves…" from their national anthem.) Unfortunately, we still seem to have a large and ignorant political constituency promoting "plantation" or "trickle-down casino-capitalist" democracy.

Cancer and Aquarius were deeply involved in the Great Depression. But the Depression saw a mobilization of the American people and a readjustment to the realities of politics and ‘class.’ FDR facilitated the New Deal, which was politically credible to the Republicans as the only way to restore the economy for future looting. Of course, what was much more important for the future was the American people’s response with a culture of greater intelligent cooperation and public works.

If Humanity is viewed as part of a larger organism (e.g., the planet, a solar deity, God), it is easier to see how suffering is a major factor in the evolution of consciousness, and the growth of awareness, which is truly global in nature. Humans don’t ‘deserve’ suffering, but bring it upon themselves through ignorance.

True science (not corporate or ‘nazi’ science) is one of America’s greatest possible contributions to the world. Scientific workers are some of the most selfless (and therefore spiritual) workers in the world. Also, the recognition by fundamentalist Christian groups of environmentalism as responsible human stewardship of God’s creation is a great sign that in the US there is arising the possibility that science and religion are truly beginning to reconcile. This has planetary implications, especially considering the rise of a new world religion, unifying the best and most universal of all the world’s faiths.

One of the greatest hopes for the US is the entrance of Pluto into Capricorn (opposite sign from Cancer). It will oppose the US Sun, Jupiter and Venus. Pluto’s lower aspect is clearing the decks for an inflow of new life, and so it involves death. Its higher aspect is holistic healing, enlightening, and the possibility of self-resurrection from the ashes of self-immolation, symbolized by the Phoenix. Since Pluto is in opposition, it signifies a total overhaul of US relations with the rest of the world. It should clean up the materialist of many sham elements in the US government and society at large. For instance, the last two periods of Pluto in Capricorn came during the Anglican, Protestant and printing press revolutions (1516-32) and the period leading up to the American revolutionary period (1762-77). They were periods of great effort that matched the great reforms in society that were accomplished.

Faith and hope are important virtues for Cancer, but the greatest of these is universal unconditioned Love and loving intuitive responsible Freedom."

Peter Kubaska can be reached for astrological consultations at kubaska7@yahoo.com.

July 5. An exact square forms between Mercury in Gemini and retrograde Uranus in Pisces. Be ready to take a fresh look at whatever plans you are making; they may need adjustments.

July 6 is great day for fun and romance as Venus in Cancer trines retrograde Uranus in Pisces and Mercury in Gemini trines retrograde Neptune in Aquarius.

July 9. The Sun in Cancer opposes retrograde Jupiter in Capricorn. This can be a challenging and tough day for the politicians and for our economic situation.

July 9. There is an exact conjunction of war-like Mars and disciplinary Saturn at 5 Virgo. The brakes are on. But, it can be good a day to focus on and finish work. Watch what you say and do as your words or actions will have a long-term effect. Be cautious traveling. At least be sure to tune up your car before you set out.

July 10. Mercury in the last degree of Gemini exactly opposes retrograde Pluto in Sagittarius. What was unsaid comes out! This may be a day of confrontation with those forces and powers that make great demands. Don’t allow the situation to escalate unless you are sure of the cards you are holding. Then Mercury enters Cancer until July 28, a good time to connect with family.

July 12. Lovely Venus enters the dramatic and creative sign of Leo until August 6, when she enters Virgo. Time to show your stuff and have a good time.

July 14. The Sun is in a creative intuitive trine to retrograde Uranus in Pisces, sparking spontaneity!

July 18. The Full Moon at 26 Capricorn with 29 Gemini rising over Washington, DC. The Moon is in the Eighth house in opposition to the Second house Sun in Cancer. This is all about the economy and its effect on our ability to manage our finances with the high cost of energy. This is emphasized with retrograde Pluto in Sagittarius sitting on the cusp of our Seventh house of relationships. What deals are we making with oil-producing countries? Also Mercury is at 13 Cancer in the First house, (conjoining the US Sun) and is opposed by retrograde Jupiter in Capricorn in the Seventh House. The stalemate of the Mars/Saturn conjunction in Virgo is now loosening its grip. They are in the Fourth house of home and homeland security. This could bring some gradual relief in the housing market and the credit situation caused by it. But it is still a time to be cautious and careful, taking the time to do a good deal of planning.

This Full Moon is Guru Purnima. From the 2007 Report: "This Full Moon is Guru Purnima in the Hindu tradition. It is the guru who shows us the way to lead a noble life and grants us the experience of the supreme light. All true teachers of Spiritual Knowledge are honored and asked for their blessing to aid the aspirant on the spiritual path. In the ancient Indian scripture there are seven great sages called the sapta rishis, who have taken on perpetual responsibility for the entire world and its people. We can pray or meditate on this auspicious Full Moon asking for their guidance and expect a response." For more info: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guru_Purnima.

July 22. The Sun enters Leo. The sign of fiery Leo has been undergoing a cleaning-out for the past 3 years, first with the transit of Saturn through Leo and now with the South Node of the Moon eclipse on August 1. Leo is a warm and vital sign ruled by the Sun. It is a Fixed sign, the second Fire sign, holding the essence of the summer season. After passing through Leo, the Sun moves further south toward the Southern Hemisphere and the days grow shorter and cooler. The Leo portion of Summer is full of beautiful golden light, associated with creative expression and the passions of the heart. Since the heart is Leo’s organ, maintenance of one’s authenticity and inner truths is of crucial importance. Pride is a Leo trait that can be a virtue or an Achilles heel. Here love of the pride/offspring is also of great importance. The courage of the Lion is famous for taking any risk to keep its loved ones out of harm’s way. Like the Lion, it is hard to ignore the Leo: their light and charisma attracts others, making them natural leaders and centers of attention.

July 26. Mercury enters Leo until August 10. This is a great time to open new chapters of expression, perhaps through writing, painting or acting. Release your talents!

July 26. Mars at 15 Virgo trines retrograde Jupiter in Capricorn. This would be a good time to invest if you have done some planning earlier during the Saturn/Mars conjunction and have grasped a sense of the market and the growth you can expect.

July 29. The Sun and Mercury are conjunct at 6 Leo, a nice time to be in close touch with a child or loved one.

July 31. Expressive Venus in Leo opposes dreamy retrograde Neptune in Aquarius. Enjoy a lovely romantic moment or the opportunity to perform for friends. But don’t get sucked in with promises and expectations that are unrealistic.

June 2008 Astrology Report
By Linda Clave

The month of June begins with the New Moon in Gemini, the sign of communication, June 3. Gemini’s ruling planet, Mercury, the messenger, is retrograde along with dreamy mystical Neptune. These retrograde planets are opening up time for the renewal of our inner connections and resources. A key word for this period is reflection. Reflection allows the input we have been experiencing time to be digested, so it can be appropriately evaluated for its true meaning in our lives. Choices then become more conscious and meaningful. (Please see the May report for more on the nature of Gemini and Mercury retrograde.) Gemini is also the sign of the student and of education, so the many graduates both formal and nontraditional will have breathing space to reflect on their future path in life. All of us will get a sense of the level we are operating on with tests from Pluto. Pluto is in a transitional phase as it retrogrades back into Sagittarius June 14, making an exact opposition to Venus in Gemini on June 18 during the Full Moon, and then to the Sun just before it moves into the Summer Solstice.

June 20 is the Summer Solstice and it arrives just after the Full Moon on June 18 and after Mercury stations direct June 19. The Summer Solstice is the longest day of the year (with the most hours of daylight) in the Northern Hemisphere. When the Sun enters cardinal water sign Cancer on June 20, the second phase in the yearly growth cycle, the summer quadrant, begins with its days of warmth and the gradual decline in the number of daylight hours. This cycle brings crops to fruition in time for the Fall harvest. This cycle of outward growth makes manifest the promise of Spring. These plantings are our desires and needs put into form for their intended uses and can work on any level. We are the parents creating and sustaining with nurturing love our progeny as children of our bodies and our mind.

Continuing the journey through the signs with The Labors of Hercules by Alice Bailey, the lesson for Gemini is the third test/mission in humankind’s evolution towards its potential for innate divinity.

Guest astrologer Peter Kubaska, an expert in esoteric astrology and himself a Gemini, shares the myth with you. (You may reach Peter for consultations at kubaska7@yahoo.com.)

From The July 2007 report on Cancer: "Cancer Is the Moon’s sign, it is cardinal water, tidal motion pulled by the effect on the Earth by the lunar force. Out of the ocean Life evolved as while in uterus we are surrounded and sustained by life-giving fluid. Water makes our planet fit for Life. Cancer, then, is the natural ruler of the Fourth House of home and family. Cancer’s glyph looks like the number "69" turned sideways, or the ocean moving in tidal waves pushing and pulling us in its rhythmic play. We all need a place to grow, one out of which to unfold, and yet we retain memories and imprints as well. Cancer is a birthing sign associated with nurturing and mothering and its path leads us to climb upward to the tenth sign, cardinal earth Capricorn. Together they represent the parenting and growth process. The Full Moon represents the climb from unconscious instinct to conscious awareness. The mantra for Cancer from the esoteric tradition of Alice Bailey and the Tibetan says it nicely: "I build a lighted house and therein dwell."

June 3. The New Moon at 13 Gemini 34 with 13 Libra 19 rising over Washington, DC. This lunation with Libra rising falls in the Ninth House. Gemini’s ruling planet, Mercury, is retrograde, and its esoteric ruler, Venus, which is also the ruler of the Ascendant, are also in the Ninth House of religion, travel, higher education, publishing and higher courts. It is crucial to find the right communication in order to negotiate and bring into balance personal and global situations. The Democratic Presidential Race will be a key area where this need applies. The Full Moon also has Libra rising, creating a greater emphasis throughout the month on diplomacy and tact. When dealing with others, take nothing for granted. Check out their position and give yourself options to work out solutions. Be part of the solution and stay proactive (and patient).

June 4. The Sun at 13 Gemini makes a harmonious sextile to Mars in Leo. Courage and showmanship pay off this day—a good day to promote yourself in some area in which you may have hesitated or procrastinated.

Take a look at Mars: http://news.aol.com/story/_a/spacecraft-looks-at-mars-north-pole/20080525124109990001?icid=1615988631x1203051464x120030907 <http://news.aol.com/story/_a/spacecraft-looks-at-mars-north-pole/20080525124109990001?icid=1615988631x1203051464x120030907>

June 6. Venus at 14 Gemini sextiles Mars in Leo. Make this a day for harmony and enjoy your relationships, especially those romantic attractions.

June 7. A special day, for the Sun, Mercury and Venus are conjunct at 16 Gemini. This is a good time for graduations and affairs that bring families together in reunion.

June 12. Venus at 22 Gemini squares Uranus in Pisces. Feelings change quickly that can lead to the need for more freedom and space. This is a short transit, so hang loose. It can also indicate a sudden attraction or a spurt of inspiration. Be creative!

June 13. With the Sun at 22 Gemini squaring rebellious Uranus in Pisces, this is a high-pitched day demanding more autonomy and freedom. However, charming Venus softens the situation with a lovely trine to the mystical and dreamy retrograde Neptune in Aquarius. The whole day leads to the evening departure of retrograde Pluto in Capricorn for a stay in Sagittarius until November 29. This transit will resurrect unresolved issues from last December and January.

June 18. The Full Moon is at 27 Sagittarius 50 with 2 Libra 23 rising over Washington, DC. This is a very intense time with a stacked opposition near the angles of the Fourth and Tenth Houses, and Mercury about to turn direct the next day. The Moon in Sagittarius is conjunct retrograde Pluto on the hidden side of the Fourth House with the Sun, in opposition, conjunct Venus at 0 Capricorn close to the Tenth. Expect much more political rankling and news revealing information from the past year when Jupiter conjoined Pluto last December through last January. Uranus in the Sixth House loosely squares Mercury and the Sun, bringing unexpected outcomes. News may break days later as Mercury turns direct and moves toward Uranus. Jupiter, ruling the Moon, is retrograde in Capricorn in the Fourth House. Conservative tendencies restrain action that can affect housing and business. With Mars in the Eleventh House opposing retrograde Neptune in the Fifth, we can expect more political party and entertainment issues to arise. Disguised actions and back room negotiations make it difficult to put trust in love or politics. Look deeply into all matters and don’t let yourself get carried away with fantasy unless it is for entertainment! A trine between Mars in Leo and the asteroids Vesta in Aries 　and Juno retrograde in Sagittarius could make for a fortunate outcome in settlement negotiations. 　　

June 19. Mercury stations direct at 13 Gemini. Mercury leaves its retrograde position, which is often described as a period of reevaluation and change in plans. Having slowed our forward motion to move us into a deeper consideration of matters, we can now emerge, having had the time to plan for possible outcomes.

June 20. The Summer Solstice with 22 Sagittarius rising over Washington, DC. (Check out the astronomical info: 　http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Solstice). This summer quadrant highlights the Sun at 0 Cancer in the Seventh House of relationships in opposition to retrograde Pluto 29 Sagittarius 49 in the First House of self or the nation. Again politics and relationships take center stage. Love, caring and support are the best ways to overcome differences as Venus (ruling the Tenth) is in the Seventh House. Watch your finances while Mars in the Eighth House moves into a closer opposition to Neptune in the Second House. Don’t let the glamour of a situation carry you into deals that are not trustworthy. Jupiter retrograde, ruler of the Ascendant and the Moon, are in Capricorn near the Second House. This puts a conservative spin on money matters. Caution and clarity keep matters under control with the square from Vesta in Aries in the Fifth House of speculation and risks.

June 26. Uranus at 22 Pisces 39 turns retrograde until November 28 at 18 Pisces 44. Now we have Pluto, Neptune, Chiron and Uranus retrograde. Major shifts are being worked out through inner work. Processing and reflection bring better results than pushing at what is not ready to move. Expect late Fall and Winter to bring 　new activity on a different level.

June 30. Mars at 29 Leo trines Pluto retrograde at 29 Sagittarius. With this duo in harmony in fire signs, healing miracles can manifest. They bring extraordinary power up from the primal depths.
 

May is a great month this year. Why? Taurus has two Full Moons acting as bookends to this very creative sign. Taurus the Bull is the first of the four fixed signs on the fixed cross representing the element Earth. The Taurus constellation has an eye, the fixed star Aldebaran, whose suggested meaning is, "success through integrity." To our naked eye, this is one of the brightest stars in the evening sky. It is a symbol of holding the light in the form: "When the eye is single, the whole body is full of light." Venus rules fixed Taurus, and the Moon when in Taurus is in exaltation. This is the most potent time for the Moon, whose monthly cycle builds and releases forms. When the form is imbued with desire, the power of creation is set into motion. Therefore this New Moon on May 5 has a lot of potential impact. What is it you want? 　Be sure not to charge up what you don’t want. The Full Moon on May 20, with the fullness of its light, brings to fruition the plantings at the New Moon. This Full Moon is also called a blue moon, the name given to an extra full moon in the span of a year (most years have 12 full moons). (There is more on it, if you are curious, at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Blue_moon.) This last degree Moon at 29 Scorpio is the second Full Moon in Scorpio, the sign in which we are challenged to battle our shadow issues. This is a very intense time, but a special opportunity for us to let go of our deep wounds and grudges, bringing into our lives fresh vital energy for renewal.

This Full Moon brings Wesak in the Buddhist tradition. From the April report: "There will be another Full Moon within a month at 29 Scorpio on May 20. The light of this Full Moon is the anticipated yearly Wesak Festival. For more info try this link: http://www.wesak.us/articles.php. Here is a passage:

"The Wesak Festival has been traditionally associated in eastern civilization with the Buddha, divine intermediary between the highest spiritual center on the planet, Shamballa, and the Hierarchy. The Buddha is the expression of the Wisdom of God, the embodiment of Light and the indicator of divine purpose, cooperating at this festival with his brother the Christ, who represents the Hierarchy. The Buddha embodies the Principle of Light, and because of this illumination humanity was able to recognize the Christ, embodiment of the still greater Principle of Love. Each year at the time of Wesak, two great streams of energy—one focused through the Buddha and the other through the Christ—are fused and blended, and it is the task of world servers to precipitate this combined energy into the waiting world."

The Labours of Hercules by Alice Bailey offers a nice way to follow the lessons of each lunation. The Aries test or labor initiates the cycle for Hercules. Hercules is the symbol of our soul in evolution. He is both human and divine. In this first test he fails and has to do it over but only after he has experienced the sorry consequences of his inflated ego. The test is to round up the killer breeding mares of the son of Mars. These are our runaway thought forms recklessly breeding havoc. It is only with the conscious control of our mind that we can begin to shape our lives. The mantra is "I come forth from the plane of mind and rule." Mercury is the esoteric ruler of Aries striving for conscious control over thought impulses.

In Taurus, his second labor, Hercules is to go to an island, thought to be Knossos, to find the sacred bull of King Minos of Crete and save it from being sacrificed. The King’s plan to sacrifice the bull is the unjust misuse of a sacred being for personal gain. King Minos is the same king who built a maze to keep imprisoned the ferocious Minotaur, a bull-headed man who devours those lured inside. (For more on the Minotaur, see http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Minotaur.) The maze symbolizes our confused desires which trap us, and lead us toward our destruction. To save the bull, Hercules must first find and capture it. Then he has to bring the bull safely across the sea to the Isle of Crete and place the bull in the hands of the three Cyclops initiates, who deliver it to the Holy Temple. The bull is sacred and is bright with the light from its eye (thought to be the star Aldebaran). After much searching and effort, he succeeds in capturing the bull. Then, riding on its back, he crosses over the sea while the Seven Sisters, the Pleiades, surround them, singing them onward as they ride the waves to the shore. (The Pleiades can be found in the late degrees of Taurus. One of the Seven Sisters, Alcycone, is the Sun our Sun is thought to revolve around.)

April 2008 Astrology Report
By Linda Clave

Eclipse points are also sensitized. From the January 2008 Astrology Report: "Each year the eclipses frame the sensitive points of the upcoming year, as their degrees are activated by passing transits. The lunar nodes determine the eclipses; they are now in north Aquarius and south Leo.

2008 Eclipses. The eclipses are Annular North Solar on February 7 at 17 Aquarius 44 followed by Total South Lunar February 21 at 1 Virgo 53 (this is within a degree of Saturn’s direct station May 2). Then on August 1 at 9 Leo 32 there is a Total South Solar Eclipse, followed by the Partial North Lunar on August 16 at 24 Aquarius 21."
　
April 2. Pluto stations retrograde at 1 Capricorn 09. 　Pluto, Lord of the Underworld, is residing in Hades, his kingdom below ground. This is a strong position for inner work. However, on the surface, don’t take what you see to be what you will get. Investigate matters for hidden information that will have consequences down the line.

April 2. Mercury enters Aries. Fast moving Mercury in Cardinal Fire puts a spin on all deals and communication. Mercury in Aries is often responding to urgency and crisis with fast thinking and even faster movements. You will have the courage to speak up for your truths, so caution yourself not to be too quick and miss out on the effect you have on others.

April 3. Mercury moves into a square to retrograde Pluto. Avoid letting issues build up inside. It is best to check your temper at the door and work out your issues before blurting them out impulsively, since they can have a deep, lasting effect.

April 5. New Moon at 16 Aries 44 with 9 Sagittarius 39 rising over Washington, DC. This is the invisible dark phase of the Moon, a time of planting. Results become visible later with the illuminating light at the Full Moon. The Aries lunation is in the Fourth House, a home area, but it is also affecting the Fifth house of children, creativity, speculation and gambling. There is a separating square to the lunation from Cardinal Mars at 13 Cancer in the Eighth House. Expect there to be more fallout from financial institutions concerning credit. This can also affect creative enterprises of any kind. Problems for the economy also come from the applying square to Jupiter in the Second House. What will the government do to stay a full-blown recession? At least three cities have lawsuits against lending companies. With consumer confidence at a five-year low, and market value of homes down 9 percent, what additional interventions and guarantees will be made to stabilize the flow of capital? Venus is at the last degree of Pisces near the cusp of the Fourth House of family, home and real estate. This placement opposes the former eclipse point in the Tenth House, the executive branch of government, administration and leadership. This could play out as pardoning or giving a break to those in crisis with mortgage companies. Their voices can’t be ignored. The volume gets louder as Mercury in the Fourth House in Aries is in an applying square to Mars in Cancer. Pluto is retrograde in the First House trine Saturn also retrograde in the Ninth House at 2 Virgo 18. Behind the scenes, negotiations may be very helpful in stabilizing the future outcome of those in conflict. More stability comes with the shift into Taurus later in the month.

April 6. Venus enters Aries. Venus in fiery Aries has charm, but her style is very individualistic and outgoing, pushing for her agenda as the best possible option. Get your plans out on the table and be prepared to defend them.

April 7. Venus squares retrograde Pluto at 1 Capricorn. What you want to have happen in romance or finances needs to be assessed for its long-term implications. Make promises only if you can keep them.

April 10. The Sun at 21 Aries squares Jupiter at 21 Capricorn. Jupiter turns retrograde in a month at 22 degrees Capricorn and passes over this station June 3 while retrograde, and then once more in direct motion on November 25. Keep your focus on the long term when it comes to expectations for success and better financial times.

April 10. Mercury in Aries squares Mars in Cancer. Take care when confronting expressions of anger or hurt feelings. Old family issues can steam up to a boiling point.

April 13. Mercury at 21 Aries squares Jupiter at 21 Capricorn. Conflicts and obstacles arise as to how and when plans get under way. Travel plans should be reviewed in light of current situations.

April 17. Mercury enters Taurus, Fixed Earth. Mercury is more aware of practical and logistical planning as it also moves into a Grand Trine April 18 with retrograde Pluto at 1 Capricorn and retrograde Saturn at 1 Virgo 54.

April 19. The Sun enters Taurus. The Sun gives power and stability to the Grand Trine. The Sun in Taurus from the April 2007 Astrology Report: "The Sun enters the earthy fixed sign of Taurus on April 20. Venus, planet of love and appreciation, rules Taurus in contrast to the stirring Mars energy of Aries. This is a feminine and very magnetic place, full of all the earth mysteries. The Moon is exalted in Taurus, harmonious and fulfilling. Earth Day, Mother’s Day, and dancing around the maypoles celebrate the grounding of the Aries fire into rhythms expressing Mother Earth’s fertility and beauty. Planting and the development of land, cattle and agriculture are associated with Taurus as is the voice vibration. Bird songs are said to open the morning sunrise. Here there is much emphasis on staying power and endurance."

April 20. Full Moon at 0 Scorpio 43 with 29 Aries 59 rising over Washington, DC. The elements are in a fixed holding position. Much will surface concerning the War and the economy. The transitional point of 29 Aries is rising. It is energized by the Sun almost smack on the Ascendant, while the light of the Full Moon illuminates the Seventh House of our relationships with our partners and/or enemies. The Sun is also heading a Grand Trine with retrograde Saturn in the Fifth House and retrograde Pluto in the Ninth House. This assures back-up power to the leadership from the Sun’s focus in the First House. Mars at 19 Cancer near the cusp of the Fourth House is in an applying trine to Uranus in the Twelfth House. This emotional and intuitive combo opens us to new insights and opportunities. Could this trigger a release in the stagnating housing market? Personally this boost from the water signs gives our emotions the assurance of being in our groove.

There will be another Full Moon within a month at 29 Scorpio on May 16. The light of this Full Moon is the anticipated yearly Wesak Festival. 　For more info try this link: http://www.wesak.us/articles.php. Here is a passage:

"The Wesak Festival has been traditionally associated in eastern civilization with the Buddha, divine intermediary between the highest spiritual center on the planet, Shamballa, and the Hierarchy. The Buddha is the expression of the Wisdom of God, the embodiment of Light and the indicator of divine purpose, cooperating at this festival with his brother the Christ, who represents the Hierarchy. The Buddha embodies the Principle of Light, and because of this illumination humanity was able to recognize the Christ, embodiment of the still greater Principle of Love. Each year at the time of Wesak, two great streams of energy—one focused through the Buddha and the other through the Christ—are fused and blended, and it is the task of world servers to precipitate this combined energy into the waiting world."
　
April 21. The Sun at 1 Taurus 45 makes an exact trine to Retrograde Saturn at 1 Virgo 48. Take advantage of this opportunity to resolve matters with authority figures and renegotiate your position based on your performance.

April 22. Mars at 21 Cancer is in an exact trine to Uranus at 21 Pisces. The floodgates are open and high energy is flowing. Intuition and inspiration make for a magical life.
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April 23. Venus at 21 Aries moves into a T-Square position. Venus squares both Mars at 21 Cancer and Jupiter at 21 Capricorn, while Mars and Jupiter oppose each other. Venus rules Libra, the empty end of this T-Square. The best way to get clear of conflicts arising from the need to step free of stagnant social positions is to use your understanding of others’ needs and negotiate knowing your time has arrived.

April 24. The Mars/Jupiter opposition becomes exact. 　It is part of the above T-Cross, so it is more complicated than an opposition. Use caution and good judgment as to how far to stretch your limits. Both Cancer and Capricorn are conservative signs holding traditional family and the world in place.

April 28. Mercury at 22 Taurus trines Jupiter at 22 Capricorn. Options arise to upgrade your status financially. Do a thorough check of your accounts or find a professional who could be a big help in these matters.

April 29. Mercury at 24 Taurus squares Neptune at 24 Aquarius. This is a good time to dream but not a good time to place your signature on documents. Mercury needs clarity in order to get the facts straight, but the square to Neptune obfuscates situations much like a fog hiding a mountain peak.

April 30. Venus enters its own sign Taurus. This Venus transit in earthy Taurus will bring out Spring’s glory with all the lovely flowers and plants in high bloom. Venus remains in Taurus until May 25. A great time for gardening!

March 28. Venus conjoins Uranus at 19 Pisces. This is an "outside-the-box" transit given to romantic attractions. Breakthroughs are possible with this combo in many areas, especially for artistic and musical endeavors. Peace brokers in troubled areas of conflict may find new solutions coming forth.

February is a complex month: the New Moon on February 6 is a Solar Eclipse and the beginning of Year of the Rat, followed by the Full Moon on February 20 which is a Total Lunar Eclipse. Beginnings and endings will mark 2008, a "one" year, numerologically. One means the opportunity to get started, so here we are at a starting point. Likewise, the Rat is always the first character of a new twelve-year cycle in Chinese Astrology. Going deeper into the idea of the number one, we find Pluto, a planet whose effect is profound and heavy-hitting, standing on the doorstep of Capricorn. Capricorn, Cardinal Earth, is a collective sign ruled by Saturn, planet of work, discipline, laws, rules, regulations and the awareness of one’s limitations. Having Pluto in a Saturn-ruled sign is extremely intense. Expect demands for a New World Order with a major focus on restructuring worldwide political and economic patterns. No one can be sure exactly what events will take place, but we can be sure there will be a very big shift underway for the next 16 years. On a more personal level, Mars, our energy and mobility planet, is now direct and in Gemini until March 3 when it re-enters Cancer. In contrast, the motion of the fastest-moving planet, Mercury, the messenger, is slowing down and turning inward while it retrogrades until February 19. If you can’t be sure of where you are going or what to do next, it is no surprise.　In summary, ones and beginnings imply the fulfillment of promise, but only if the impetus to begin is brought through to a conclusion. Some plans will have cycles to grow through before they can be completed. It helps, to get a fix on your particular opportunities and challenges, to have your astrological chart read with the numbers keyed into your planets and houses. Astrology focuses on understanding these organic cycles that revolve around particular times, and is therefore a good tool for more effective planning and better results.

The Year of the Rat goes with the Earth Element trend for 2008, with Saturn in Virgo and Jupiter and Pluto in Capricorn. Staying concrete and focused is recommended.

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia: "The Chinese zodiac refers to a pure calendrical cycle; there are no equivalent constellations like those of the occidental zodiac. In imperial times there were astrologers who watched the sky for heavenly omens that would predict the future of the state, but this was a quite different practice of divination from the popular present-day methods. Year of the Earth Rat: The Rat was welcomed in ancient times as a protector and bringer of material prosperity. It is an animal associated with aggression, wealth, charm, and order, yet also associated with death, war, the occult, pestilence, and atrocities. In the Chinese Zodiac, the Year of the Rat is associated with the earthly branch symbol. Earth is a balance of both yin and yang, the feminine and masculine together. Its motion is inward and centering, and its energy is stabilizing and conserving. It is associated with the color yellow and the planet Saturn, and it lies at the center of the compass in the Chinese cosmos. It is associated with the turn of each of the four seasons and with dampness. It is believed to govern the spleen, stomach, mouth and muscles. Its negative emotion is anxiety and its positive emotion is empathy. Its Primal Spirit is represented by the Yellow Phoenix.

In Chinese thought Earth is associated with the qualities of patience, thoughtfulness, practicality, hard work and stability. The earth element is also nurturing and seeks to draw all things together with itself, in order to bring harmony, rootedness and stability. Other attributes of the earth element include ambition, stubbornness, responsibility and long-term planning. In pathology, the earth can represent selfishness and self-centeredness. In the controlling cycle earth controls water and is controlled by wood; while in the conducive cycle earth is produced by fire, and in turn produces metal."

(See the January 2008 report for more information on Aquarius and the New Year.)

February 1: The month starts off with a beneficial conjunction of Venus and Jupiter in Capricorn. These bright planets are now prominent just before sunrise. Take advantage of this timing to make deals, but remember, Mercury is retrograde. To make good use of earthy business matters, use careful consideration.
　
The New Moon Solar Eclipse at 17 Aquarius on February 6 occurs at 10:45 PM with 21 Libra rising over Washington, DC. Balance is the key. Markets may plunge and rally working out the currency and world trade crisis. There is a stellium in Aquarius at the foundation, the Fourth House, that includes Chiron, Mercury retrograde, the Sun, Moon, Mercury, Neptune and Vesta, with the North Node right at the cusp moving clockwise into the Fourth. The Fourth House is the area concerning the home, homeland and real estate. Retrograde Mercury at 16 degrees Aquarius 52 conjoins Chiron at 15 Aquarius 57 and the Lunation. Expect more market adjustments while governments and business interests seek to heal consumer confidence and find ways to make available needed funds to end the credit crunch. On a positive note, Mars, elevated in the Ninth House, is now direct. As Mars moves out of its station at 24 Gemini issues that have been stuck will slowly get some traction. Also of benefit in the search for financial solutions are Jupiter and Venus in Capricorn in the Third House boosted by Saturn retrograde in Virgo in the Eleventh House, which is moving into alignment with Pluto, also in the Third House. Perhaps Congress will get the stimulus package out in time to stay a deeper recession crisis.

February 10. The Sun is conjunct the dreamy creative and inspired planet Neptune in Aquarius. Take advantage of this opportunity to soar. Save work on more practical issues for another day.

February 17. Venus enters Aquarius, staying until March 13. Here Venus is guided by principle and intuition rather than emotion so the effect is cool and friendly.

February 18. At 9:57 PM Mercury stations direct, just in time for the Lunar Eclipse.

February 19. The Sun enters the collective water sign Pisces.

February 20. Total Lunar Eclipse at 1 Virgo 53 with 29 Libra rising over Washington, DC. Balance again will be a key.

A note on eclipses from the March 2007 Report: These events give us opportunities to cleanse both our physical and mental bodies and renew our belief in our self, our mission and our place on our chosen path. It is difficult to say exactly what an eclipse will mean. Traditionally, if the eclipse shadow falls on a planet or angle (cusp of the first, fourth, seventh or tenth house) within one or two degrees, this planet or angle will be activated for the period of a year as planets and the moon pass over that degree. Heightened by the extra activity, the shadow/dark side reveals itself for cleansing. Cleansing is multi-leveled as we have accumulated many experiences in the course of our lives, both in our present incarnation back through the lessons our souls have learned in previous lives.

Pisces and Virgo are the two signs most associated with cleansing and discrimination. Pisces, the last of the twelve zodiacal signs, sweeps up all the experiences from the preceding signs to dissolve them in the collective ocean of memory. A mutable sign, Pisces is moving us from one phase to the next, leading us into the next cycle. Pisces is the last of the three water signs. Here feelings, intuition and psychic visions lead into realms beyond the physical to experience a sense of wholeness and of being part of a greater reality. Therefore this is the sign of religion. (The word "religion" means to bind together). The Lunar Eclipse has the moon in the opposite sign of Virgo, an earth sign where we learn to evaluate and separate the healthy usable seeds from the unhealthy ones. Virgo relies on analysis rather than feelings. Together, Pisces and Virgo are compassionate and truthful, making a checks-and-balances system.

The Lunar Eclipse focuses on eliminating unhealthy attitudes, beliefs and habits that keep us from experiencing the healthy balance we desire. The old traditions such as Lent or Passover were given to us with cleansing diets that included bitter foods to help detoxify the liver. Both physical and emotional attention is necessary. Bodywork that includes breathing into areas of concern is of great assistance. Body tissues store toxins and memories that can be released with an increase in circulation that promotes oxygenation. Low oxygen levels preserve toxicity in the body, as charged memories from the past remain mired in stagnant areas. Wherever we are stuck, we need to bring fresh blood into the tissues to bring about change.

Astrology of the Lunar Eclipse: This is a potent event with the Moon approaching retrograde Saturn. Saturn will station at the eclipse point in May making this degree very sensitive and likely to get triggered through out the year as planets pass over this degree and make angles to it. Issues brought to the table by these transits will need time and consideration to resolve. Saturn and the Moon are associated with our deepest conditioning. Going back into our family ancestry and past lives we can find the roots of our patterns that we often carry unconsciously. The Moon conjunct Saturn is an emotionally difficult combination leading to depression and exaggerated feelings of responsibility especially in family matters. Virgo has discrimination and cleansing as virtues but, carried to excess, it can take away the joy and spontaneity of expression. Being careful is good when it does not become hyper-vigilance. The Moon is high in the chart in the Tenth House while the Sun in Pisces is in the Fourth House, as in the previous Solar Eclipse where it is part of a stellium. Expect more emphasis on the state of the housing market and its effect on credit and the economy. The President and Congress will need to show more leadership to help the public’s depression with the market. To this effect, Pluto in Capricorn makes a helpful angle to both the Sun and Moon, acknowledging the profound needs of this time. Urgency is a key issue as Mars, ruler of the Seventh House, re-enters Cancer, the sign ruling the home, from March 4 until May 10. This combination is great for working with your dreams to unlock patterns from the past as well as to for envisioning the future.

February 24. The Sun in Pisces opposes retrograde Saturn in Virgo. You can feel challenged, so be prepared with a good sense of your plans and objectives.

February 29. A Leap Year day ends the month.