The shift continues, and this week, the ongoing process and struggle of transformation can be easily identified through contrasting attitudes and approaches. On one hand, planetary patterns push for innovation, but those visions of the future meet with a grinding resistance that clings to the days of yesteryear. Yet on the other hand, an expansive, and dare I say, optimistic celestial current with the power to replace fear with fact, sweeps aside conservative reserve. But even that mighty voltage encounters a recalcitrant refusal to consider contemporary conditions and creative solutions. As Uranus and Pluto are squaring off, and this week Saturn and the Sun, so are we, and the constant clash of viewpoints and opinions, personal and collective, keeps pressing each of us to determine where we stand and what we stand for.
It’s an arduous journey, and whether it’s gun control, abortion rights, gender equality, health care, social services for the poor and others in need, education, immigration, disaster relief, and/or any other issue, there are very few healthy ways to escape participation. Each of us is a thread in the collective fabric and all of our combined choices determine the quality of our cloth.
Innovation comes in through a combination of several patterns. Jupiter, in Gemini, trines the Sun/Mercury conjunction, in Aquarius, while Uranus, in Aries, sextiles all three, and we love this. Mercury symbolizes intellectual processes, and even though it’s close to the Sun, which often indicates a subjective perspective, the Aquarian filter supports the pursuit of radical points of view on persistent problems. Jupiter also tends toward an expansive perspective, and its journey through Gemini is all about gathering and sharing the latest information on a variety of subjects. Positive Mercury/Jupiter contacts provide the possibility of intelligent conversations and an articulate exchange of ideas. We can only hope this potential is used to dispel stagnant systems, personal as well as collective.
Also, be aware that Jupiter goes Direct on January 30, and all week long as it prepares to “turn around” certain areas of life are sure to feel stalled. But don’t despair – the delay is only momentary, and Jupiter’s forward motion will accelerate certain plans and projects, which is sure to bolster spirits.
But Saturn, in Scorpio, dampens the possibility for pure optimism. And this is where we meet the resistance of the week. Saturn squares the Sun/Mercury conjunction, turning attitudes serious in most instances, and downright dour, in others. Be careful not to let an overly critical mind or attitude focus solely on the flaws – sometimes mistakes can lead us to even more interesting creations. On the positive end of the Saturn spectrum, this square emphasizes caution and sobriety, and if you can avoid using its critical eye as a weapon, Saturn’s capacity for discernment might prove to be a beneficial ally.
Hold fast to Jupiter this week, if only because it represents humor, and during times of turmoil and tumult, laughter is one of the best remedies for what ails.
If you know your Ascendant and/or your Moon Sign, read that, too.
Aries March 21-April 19
Put your everyday affairs in order, now. For whether it’s laundry, finances, or just plain housecleaning, you don’t want any obstacles or distractions to inhibit Jupiter’s forward motion, which is guaranteed to accelerate contacts and connections.
Taurus April 20-May 20
Investigate where you might still be clinging to a negative mindset, and do your best to weed out the roots. Jupiter has the power to expedite positive financial shifts, and you want to be ready to receive the goods.
Gemini May 21-June 21
You’re primping – much like the Dorothy before she sees the Wizard – and there’s no need to be self-conscious. Jupiter puts you in the spotlight, and you simply want to look your best before you achieve world domination.
Cancer June 22-July 22
Give yourself permission to take your time – there’s no need to rush your internal rhythm to meet the demands of others. In the not too distant future, it will be you setting the pace, so for now, be patient.
Leo July 23-August 22
Be mindful of obligations at home or with loved ones, but don’t let conflicts with partners, personal or professional, interfere with opportunities to expand contacts and connections, again, personal and professional.
Virgo August 23-September 22
Jupiter is about to open up job opportunities, and the timing is perfect for you to make a change. Aim your time and energy at getting and being clear about what it is you want to accomplish.
Libra September 23-October 22
Creative projects would be the best use of your time, and it doesn’t matter where you begin – existing projects or something new – as long as you’re authentic and open to where the process may lead.
Scorpio October 23-November 21
The bottom of your psychic pond is disturbed, but don’t let the “muddy” waters alarm you. Simply recognize that you are in a profound phase of personal transformation, and allow the process to unfold.
Sagittarius November 22-December 21
Try not to let serious conversations with significant others turn into peace of mind stealing brain worms. Simply allow for differences of perspective, and you’ll assimilate the information with greater ease.
Capricorn December 22-January 19
Put aside any sense of futility, and instead reexamine how to renew and refine your sense of personal power. Just remember to be realistic – powerful people are keenly aware their limitations.
Aquarius January 20-February 18
You’re about to step into the spotlight, and bask in Jupiter’s bright light. So please don’t worry about overshadowing others. This is your moment – make the most of it.
Pisces February 19-March 20
While you haven’t solved every problem – including world peace — you’re settling into yourself in a new way. Rather than reject this process because it is uncomfortable, embrace it.
Ralfee Finn specializes in Transformational Astrology. For readings, call 1-888-937-9264, write P.O. Box 343, New York, NY 10025, visit AquariumAge.com, or e-mail Ralfee@AquariumAge.com. Copyright © 2013 by Ralfee Finn