Once again, it’s hard to know where to start writing about the astrology for the week. The Grand Trine in Earth Signs continues to provide a positive backdrop to daily life. Mercury is direct. But Mars continues to disrupt regular routines, making a peaceful passage through the days nearly impossible, even if its disruption is only felt from afar and not through personal incident. As the next several weeks unfold, it’s important to stay true to yourself so that you can maintain an inner clarity even if you can’t find an external one.
Mars, retrograde in Sagittarius, is still the dominant force of the week as it continues to oppose a Sun/Venus conjunction, in Gemini. We’ve been in the tense grip of this opposition since last week. Mars symbolizes the ability to take a stand, for or against yourself or others. It’s the Warrior, and when it dominates daily life, many feel called to fight. The Sun, representing the vitality of the life force, feeds this need to do battle. And Venus, the goddess of love and beauty, also no slouch when it comes to taking a stand, has the power to amplify and magnify self-righteousness. The co-mingling of these forces tends to manifest as a restlessness that finds its release through confrontation and conflict. It also indicates a stubborn, recalcitrant streak that refuses to compromise, even though they are all in Mutable Signs, the peacemakers of the zodiac.
Mars enters Scorpio on May 27, and as it moves into a Fixed Sign—think “rigid”—it ends its opposition to the Sun. But there are a couple of glitches. First, be careful: As Mars separates out of this tense configuration, tempers could actually intensify. Second: Saturn, retrograde in Sagittarius, starts to oppose the Sun, in Gemini, the very next day, May 28. And because the Sun and Venus are in Gemini, the Sign of information, and because Sagittarius represents the probability of saying too much, this Sun/Venus/Saturn opposition is likely to designate words as the weapon of choice.
Amplifying this war of words are the two Full Moons, in Sagittarius. One took place on Saturday, May 21, and the second Full Moon occurs on Monday, June 20. And in between these two bright lights, we are talking—a lot. This is a fairly rare occurrence—a Full Moon at the first degree of a Sign and a Full Moon at the last degree of the same Sign. Because Sagittarius is where we search for truth, and because Gemini is the Sign where we share information, the field between these two Full Moons could be seen as permission to say whatever you want regardless of the consequences.
The challenge this week is staying true to yourself even as you attempt to navigate polarized waters. You don’t have to bludgeon others with strong judgments or opinions, and it also isn’t necessary to be ashamed of how you see it, even if you disagree with the prevailing opinion or the trending idea. Simply make kindness your constant ally, and you’ll find a way through the intensity as you simultaneously help to make the world a more peaceful place to live.
Sun Bursts: If you know your Ascendant and/or your Moon Sign, read that too.
Aries March 21-April 19
Opportunities for financial success continue, but making the most of those opportunities means keepin’ it real. And a reality check doesn’t necessarily mean difficulties automatically disappear or profits instantly appear. Be patient with this process and you’ll make the most of the moment.
Taurus April 20-May 20
You’re in the leadership role, and even though you may clash with your followers over differences in priorities, you have enough charisma to convince your cohort to trust your vision and help to make it work. Seize this moment, strut your stuff, and allow yourself a deep and abiding self-confidence.
Gemini May 21-June 21
It’s time to relax, and while I realize there are still many things to do and many pressing issues, it’s okay for you to simply exhale and let the stresses go. You deserve congratulations for diligently working on the same issues all year long, and now it’s simply time for assess your accomplishments.
Cancer June 22-July 22
You’re caught between two worlds. In one, you’re attempting to fend off pernicious brain worms whose only desire is to constantly chew on all the things that could go wrong. In the other, you’re engaged in powerful dialogue with those you love about how to create greater intimacy. It’s a no-brainer—choose love.
Leo July 23-August 22
Show up, be in the moment, and don’t let the opinions of others stifle your joy and gratitude. I’m not suggesting you’ve crossed the finish line or that financial success is guaranteed. But I am advising you to continue to be grateful for the abundance that is yours, which will only increase your sense of well-being.
Virgo August 23-September 22
The stars are smiling on you by providing a deep sense of belonging to yourself. This current state of existential calm co-exists with a deep restlessness to shift where you are living, whether that’s your actual home or your internal center. If you take the time to notice this contrast, you’ll learn a great deal about what you need to feel safe.
Libra September 23-October 22
No matter how tempting, do not engage in conversations with significant others about past events you’ve been holding on to for longer than a nanosecond. Learn to release the past by staying present in the moment and you’ll learn how to make lasting peace with those you love.
Scorpio October 23-November 21
You may think it’s all about the money, but it’s really a question of values: Are you willing to compromise yours in a spirit of easing the tension and helping others to do the same? I’m not advising you to worship false gods. I’m just hoping you can find the solid and humble ground of shared experience.
Sagittarius November 22-December 21
It’s another week to avoid brooding over relationship issues. Instead, focus on positive career opportunities. You don’t have to abandon your personal needs or desires. You just have to give the situation a little more time to cool down. It will eventually work itself out for the benefit of all.
Capricorn December 22-January 19
The best solution is to be of good cheer, and while I realize holding a positive attitude could be challenging—especially this week—there are opportunities to do good works for others if you’re willing to put pride aside. Give up the need for your efforts to benefit only yourself, and you could be surprised by the overall results that ultimately benefit everyone.
Aquarius January 20-February 18
Despite the external war of words taking place in the world, you have a real opportunity to experience a deep and rich inner calm. Make the most of this by noticing what it is that sustains your sense of internal connection to something greater than yourself. And then, make a commitment to nourish that connection every chance you get.
Pisces February 19-March 20
There is no need to do battle with those you love. So whether the turmoil is internal or external, refuse to engage in any activity that will draw you into a fight. You don’t have to submit or agree to anything you don’t want or don’t agree with. You simply have to be willing to be peaceful, inside and out.