As I face the blank page of this week’s astrological missive it’s hard to know just where to begin. I have been overseas for the last year-plus, and out of the barrage of bad news—tuning in only as I wanted or needed to. But for the last several weeks, I have been in New York City, taking in the depth and breadth of Trumpitis—and it’s been an eye-opening experience, if only because I am having a direct experience of just how much of the status quo has evaporated since I’ve been away. I’ve never adhered to the status quo, but neither am I an anarchist. I like order.
Over this last year, I’ve written about the poisonous polarization that brought Mr. Trump to power and how it has infected all aspects of life, not just the political arena. But it’s another thing to witness the toxicity first hand and feel its deleterious effect on almost every aspect of life. My heart hurts from the truth of this great divide—a chasm really—between the people who care about their fellow humans and those who don’t. Daily life resembles a battlefield as too many wrestle, not just with the psychic ramifications of Trumpistan, but also with its deadening actuality.
Yet despite all the negative signals there’s still good news, and this week that’s an important piece of the existential puzzle. On January 15 the CEO of BlackRock, one of the largest public investment firms, announced that it would invest in companies that “serve a social purpose.” The headline of that article in the New York Times was: Contribute to Society, or Risk Losing Our Support. This is a huge shift in traditional capitalist values and it bodes well for the idea that lots of our fellow travelers—from every walk of life, regardless of race, religion, gender, age, or economic status—are waking up to the need for a profound sea-change transformation of values. We may not see the effect of this announcement immediately, but it’s a sure signal that Mr. Trump and his Gang of Hungry Ghosts are walking on the not-so-solid ground of greed. It’s also another indication that he and his mendacious cadre are catalyzing a deep healing process—the Feminist Movement hasn’t been this alive and galvanized into action since the 60’s. And it is not going to quiet down any time soon.
www.nytimes.com/2018/01/15/business/dealbook/blackrock-laurence-fink-letter.html
www.nytimes.com/2018/01/21/us/womens-march-voices.html
As we contemplate this week’s good news, it’s important to keep in mind that for the next several weeks we’re in the eclipse zone—there’s a lunar eclipse on January 31 and a solar eclipse on February 15. Both eclipses are quite close to the degrees at which the eclipses of August 2017 occurred, and thus they are likely to trigger similar themes and issues—not that the issues have changed all that much since last summer. But eclipses always reveal previously hidden information, and while it is impossible to imagine what still might be revealed, it would be wise to anticipate even more startling developments. During the solar eclipse on February 15, Uranus sextiles both the Sun and the Moon, and because Uranus is the god of startling plot twists, anything goes.
Mars changes Signs on January 26, shifting its focus from the emotional waters of Scorpio into the fiery domain of Sagittarius, so don’t be surprised if you find yourself in a different mindset, one that requires decisive action without much deliberation.
Mercury conjuncts Pluto this week, forming a perfect union that fosters a penetrating intellect that’s unafraid to ask tough questions. Mercury symbolizes the mind, and Pluto signifies the ability to plumb the depths. Together they support the capacity to contemplate complex ideas. Use this influence wisely this week and let it help you move beyond the standard ways of understanding the societal decompensation that’s taking place. We’re still in the middle of a huge cultural healing crisis, and while most of us wish it would end soon, there are still too many people asleep at the wheel of their lives to realize that the Wheel of Life is turning. Do your best to continue your efforts for personal and planetary transformation—and remember…there is good news. Each and every second of each and every day another heart opens to the possibility of caring for our fellow travelers. Social justice is love at the level of the collective. It’s love as a manifestation of our shared lives. It’s love for each and every life form on our shared planet.
Sun Bursts: If you know your Ascendant and/or your Moon Sign, read that too.
Aries March 21-April 19
Yes…there’s a lot to handle, and yes, again, it’s stressful—so what else is new? Take a deep breath and as you exhale, release as much worry as you can, even if it is only for that breath, and let your body experience a stress-free moment. Eventually, and with enough practice, you’ll learn to manage the tension.
Taurus April 20-May 20
If you focus your attention on your career you may find it is possible to shift into greater clarity about what it is you would like to accomplish. Be realistic but also be idealistic. I’m not promising immediate results, but I am suggesting that a new approach will yield positive results.
Gemini May 21-June 21
You’re frustrated with the status quo in several areas of life, especially your finances, and while there are stagnant areas, there’s plenty of room for change. Question your assumptions about how it ‘should’ be and do whatever is necessary to shift your perspective—a new view will offer healthy solutions.
Cancer June 22-July 22
It would be wise to open up your view of partnership to include all your interactions with significant others—your spouse, parents, children, and even pets. It’s hard to feel lonely when you honor the truth of our fundamental interconnectedness. Lift your spirit by acknowledging our essential unity.
Leo July 23-August 22
You’re on the threshold of a rich creative phase, so seize this moment and let nothing deter you from concentrating on what it is you would like to bring to life. I’m not suggesting you shirk your responsibilities, but I am advising you to recognize inspired moments and make the most of them.
Virgo August 23-September 22
You’re likely to feel like hunkering down at home, either getting cozy and relishing a break from the world or getting busy and taking care of all those postponed home improvements. There’s no right way to approach this phase other than to appreciate the change of pace.
Libra September 23-October 22
Conversations with partners, personal and professional, stimulate a desire for a new approach in several areas, including finances (which you’re already focused on) as well as how to handle emotional interactions with family members. Listen carefully to what is being said, and before you leap into action, consider the consequences of your response.
Scorpio October 23-November 21
As Mars, one of your Ruling planets, moves into your Solar House of values, your attention focuses on money—how to make more and hold onto it. Great—have at it, but as you do, consider that your attitude toward money is part of the big picture: It reflects your attitude toward yourself as your greatest resource.
Sagittarius November 22-December 21
Step onto the public stage, find your light, and don’t be surprised if you experience a renewed determination to take a stand for your beliefs. Just be aware that some of your messages might lean toward a militaristic tone. I’m not suggesting that righteousness is wrong. I’m suggesting you avoid self-righteousness.
Capricorn December 22-January 19
How’s that driver’s seat feeling? A little overwhelming? Comfortable? Confusing? Or just new? Whatever you’re experiencing, avoid getting lost in judgmental thinking—you know, the coulda’s, shoulda’s, and woulda’s that can lead to brooding. We’re all learning here on Planet Earth, and perfection is just an concept.
Aquarius January 20-February 18
You could find yourself moving into community action, sharing your gifts with the world and inspiring others to do the same. The world needs as many altruistic participants as there are people on Planet Earth, so don’t hold back. Speak for those who don’t have a voice and you’ll help change the world.
Pisces February 19-March 20
Your attention shifts toward how you can integrate what matters most to you with how you are seen in the world. It doesn’t matter whether this is a professional bump up or a desire to volunteer, or even an urge to get involved politically. Whatever arena you choose, you’re certain to feel strongly about your choices.
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