The planets align in pernicious patterns this week, and as these difficult combinations coalesce with the “normal” frustration of Mercury Retrograde, patience, care, and consideration for yourself or others won’t be easy to access, let alone actualize. Expect aggressive attitudes from just about everyone – many of us will be struggling with the urge to use sheer brute force as a way of insuring a specific agenda. Also anticipate dramatic mood swings as many more struggle to break free from persistent emotional patterns that only seem to inhibit rather than enhance happiness.
Part of the problem stems from the disparity between the ideal, which is all too easy to imagine, and the seemingly endless effort it takes to turn those visions into reality. Transformation always requires tremendous determination. It also requires humility, especially this week, when astral forces feed the tendency to bully or to be bullied. If possible, resist the temptation to devolve into a rant or a tantrum. Adding to the drama won’t serve any greater purpose – and it will probably only make matters worse.
Mars, Uranus, Pluto, and the Moon are the source of the strife. Mars, in Capricorn, conjuncts Pluto, as both Mars and Pluto simultaneously square Uranus. This is volatile alignment. Mars symbolizes the warrior. Pluto represents irresistible compulsions. And when they share the same space, Pluto tends to amplify Mars’ pugnacious temperament, a condition that translates into the urge to push certain situations regardless of the short or long-term consequences. Also be wary of rationalizing brutality as a necessary evil. The positive potential of this conjunction is the ability to demonstrate great determination through unrelenting effort. Unfortunately, that constructive application is likely to be out of reach, given the square to Uranus.
Uranus always accelerates change, and its presence and pressure through the friction of a square destabilizes the persistence of the Mars/Pluto conjunction. That destabilization has the power to turn the combined influence of all three planets toward violence. Bloodshed and loss of life in all those areas of the world that are erupting with aggression are sure to escalate. Personal grievances, petty or significant, are also likely to worsen. Avoid instigating a fight just to blow off steam. Children are especially vulnerable under this influence. As are patiently enduring pets, so please don’t kick the dog because you can.
But that’s not all. The Moon moves into Aries on November 22, forming a conjunction to Uranus, and a square to the Mars/Pluto conjunction. As the Moon amplifies this already too intense astral bundle, lots of us will feel pushed to the brink. Be prepared for declarations of emotional independence, some of which might be bitter with disappointment, and others that might be too poignant with need and longing. Also expect that some of what’s said and done could have a cruel or brutal edge. Do your best to be compassionate. Soothing words will work wonders not just for the person you may be trying to calm down, but also for you, as a way of stepping away from an out of control emotional vehicle.
Sometimes the unseen forces that underscore day-to-day reality are daunting in their intensity, and meeting them with aggression often only worsens the situation. Although humility may feel like weakness in the midst of maddening hostility, humility in the face of what cannot be controlled has tremendous creative power. Let it be the wise choice.
If you know your Ascendant and/or your Moon Sign, read that, too.
Aries March 21-April 19
Don’t waste time on trivial matters – life is too short to squander your time and energy on petty arguments and disagreements. Instead, be determined to make a positive contribution that will make a difference.
Taurus April 20-May 20
Rely on yourself as your only resource, you run the risk of physical and psychic exhaustion. Be determined to draw your strength from a higher source, and you will feel sustained and supported.
Gemini May 21-June 21
Interactions with associates could be tense, especially if you’re counting on a certain outcome. The best solution is to work diligently on maintaining a positive attitude, trusting that benefits will follow.
Cancer June 22-July 22
While your way may actually be the best way, ignoring the opinions of others won’t serve the process, and will only make it more difficult. Listen with respect, and you’ll figure out how to persuade.
Leo July 23-August 22
There’s no need for a dramatic result. What is necessary is a commitment to make small, thoughtful steps toward your goals, knowing that in time, inconspicuous efforts will produce the desired outcome.
Virgo August 23-September 22
Cooperation is the key to navigating obstacles of every variety; so don’t be shy about asking for help. Not everyone will volunteer, graciously, but those that do will be sincere.
Libra September 23-October 22
You’re still in process, and even though you’re longing for a consistent external pattern to remedy your internal upset, inner peace is still out of reach. Continue to use this disruption to indicate the next important step.
Scorpio October 23-November 21
Even though it will be challenging to hold your tongue, mean-spirited conversations will only exacerbate underlying tensions. Yes, your way is the best way, but that doesn’t make it the only way.
Sagittarius November 22-December 21
Recognizing limitations can often become the starting point for creating greater confidence. Acknowledging what you don’t know, and concentrating on what you do best will start a positive progression.
Capricorn December 22-January 19
The temptation will be to use Mars in your Sign to cut through any perceived obstacle, but the problem is knowing the difference between an obstacle and an opportunity. Wear your power well by being circumspect.
Aquarius January 20-February 18
Pay no attention to external disruptions, and use this time to replenish your inner resources. Meditate, dream, daydream, doodle – do whatever it is you do to refuel your reserves.
Pisces February 19-March 20
Pushing the river is not the solution, especially this week, when so many are pushing so hard. Be determined to let go of the need to control a specific outcome and just let the situation unfold in its own time.
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 © 2012 by Ralfee Finn