2021 Astrological Overview

2021 Astrological Overview

At this time of year it is customary to say Happy New Year and offer well wishes for good health, joy and prosperity.  But as I prepared this blog, I caught myself, wondering if I should stick with such traditional greetings.  After all, the Age of Aquarius is fully upon us now and such traditions may need to be reinvented.  And after the extreme upheaval of 2020, it is with hesitation that I offer any sort of salutations; however to honor and keep with tradition:  I come bearing warm greetings for a Happy New Year in 2021, knowing even as I say the words that the up coming months will feel like a full on hangover from last year.

The astrology for the New Year is about forming something useful out of the rubble of the past.  Anyone who as ever survived a natural disaster or big personal crisis knows what I’m talking about.  2020 was a year to be gotten through, of managing and surviving rather than accomplishing goals and thriving;  For many, it was an exhausting year due to the virtual siege of cosmic events and alignments in one calendar year; more than any astrologer can remember.  Just for starters, I note six eclipses, the grand conjunction of heavyweights Pluto-Jupiter and Saturn last March in austere Capricorn, as well as Mars 6 month long challenge to this power house trio made for a daunting twelve months. 

 I wish I could wave a magic wand and say 2021 will be miraculously better.  Alas, while I have the gift of astrological foresight, I cannot guarantee that next year will be completely different.  What I can promise is that 2021 will pick up where the old year left off.  The crisis is over; yet the battle is not quite won.  In the coming months we begin sorting through the remains and pick up the pieces, what to salvage and put to good use, planning our next steps in the wake of the disaster.

2021 will not barrage us with nearly the onslaught of cosmic triggers.  In this sense, the year will be calmer and gives a reprieve for us to gather ourselves together.  Or get our SHIFT together as we say in my line of work.  There are remarkably fewer major cosmic events in 2021:  there are 4 eclipses instead of 6, Mars and Venus stay direct all year, and the titans Pluto-Jupiter and Saturn are separating as we speak and moving on, the latter two giving us breathing room in airy Aquarius.  All to say, with much less stirring of the celestial pot so to speak, we are able to move about our business with less interruption. 

I like to describe 2020 as the game board being thrown up to the sky and all the player pieces flung hither and yon.  In 2021, some may feel there is a whole new game on, with new rules. Some will try to play the old game even with the player pieces missing.  The rest of us know the Game of Life must still be played, with the same standard rules as before 2020 have not changed:  truth, honor, integrity and responsibility.  Cosmic Law and Earthly law are akin to Macro and Micro.  Remember:  as above, so below.  As the game board player pieces begin coming back down, we sort through them to find what’s available and workable. 

So let’s begin our month by month breakdown of the year ahead:

JANUARY: 

The overarching theme of 2021 begins straight off the bat early in the month.  It sets the tone for the entire year.  Now that Saturn is firmly in Aquarius it begins a year-long showdown with Uranus.  Mythologically, these two planets were father and son who battled it out for dominance.   We take a cue from this dynamic:  the old versus the new, the struggle is REAL I tell you.  Old versus new is the dominant theme for all of 2021.

Both Uranus and Saturn are in FIXED signs:  Saturn is in Aquarius, a fixed air sign and Uranus is in Taurus, the earth fixed sign.  Fixed astrological signs are different from their cousins the cardinal and mutable signs in that their perseverance and stamina are second to none.  Never say die is their motto.  They will stick to their beliefs, their work, or relationships like glue and see something through to the finish.  That said, these fixed signs are notable for their stubbornness, inflexibility and in some cases, yes, rigid orthodoxy.  So you can probably see what’s coming.

Saturn the Taskmaster, ruler of structure, karma, dharma and responsibility, is now in Aquarius, sign of innovation and invention, the radical, rebellious, the revolutionary, technology, the individual, groups, networks, friends, the humanitarian, teams.  In aquarius, Saturn mandates the NEW, anything new, whether products, approaches, methods, strategies, tactics, processes.  Different, unusual, alternate and alternative, non-mainstream, out of the box, avant garde are Aquarius’ favorite words.  It is the Salvador Dali of the zodiac.  For the first half of the year, Generous Jupiter is closely paired with its Titan partner Saturn, marking the entrance into the Age of Aquarius.

Meanwhile Uranus has been cycling through Taurus.  Now, hang on a second:  isn’t Uranus the ruler of Aquarius?  Why, yes it is. And it is not so comfortable in earthy, sensual Taurus, the SHOW ME and SHOW ME the money sign.  Uranus is the only planet that cycles vertically instead of horizontally.  And here in Taurus, the sign of natural resources and Mother Earth herself, our values are turned upside down.  Uranus has us looking at how we utilize our resources, skills and talents, our worth, the money we earn, the bacon we bring home, in a whole different way.  You only need to look at the climate crisis to see how this is playing out in real time.  You think money is valuable?  Wait til you don’t have any water to drink says Uranus.

So we can see how, boxing with each other, especially in the beginning of 2021, there is some real pushing and shoving of the old up against the new.  Saturn sets the tone, agenda and current events while Uranus counters, well we’ll just see about that. In fact, both are saying the same thing but in different languages, (sounds like some of the human beings I know…familiar right?)  And like the planets, we are all human beings trying to get along.  Saturn is demanding we try new approaches; while Uranus has us earning a living in ways we never thought possible.  Uranus is changing our values, whom and what we value and assign worth to; while task master Saturn says you’ll need to come up with something new to meet the crisis at hand.

With this primary theme as the backdrop, let’s look closer at the cosmic events of January:  first up on Wednesday, January 13^th, just after midnight, there will be a new moon conjoined to transformer Pluto in austere Capricorn.  The very next day, Uranus turns direct motion on Thursday, January 14^th.  This gear shift can often stir up extremely unpredictable and unexpected events.  Take it easy this particularly stretch of the January; especially through the 21^st of the month as Mars approaches Radical Uranus, both challenging the Titans Jupiter-Saturn duo.   You will feel the wheels grinding against each other, resistance of the fixed signs chafing against one another.  It is no accident that the Inauguration of Joe Biden occurs this week.  The reluctance to pass the baton of power over and the insistence it must be done, is palpable. 

The good news is that we have a two week window from January 15^th-29^th where the all ten planets are cycling forward.  This takes a bit of the edge off the friction, enabling us to navigate and accomplish our tasks more easily, even if others are reluctant or have an attitude.  Keeping an open mind and heart during this two week stretch is key as we head into the Full Moon in Leo on January 28^th opposite Jupiter, Sun and Saturn in Aquarius, with Uranus challenging both in the middle.  YIKES!  Watch for massive resistance and deeply entrenched positions where each person or group believes their way is the ONLY way. 

When really, if everyone got over themselves and got out of their own way, the innovation and creativity of this Full Moon is AHMAZING!  The problem with our perception of the opposing viewpoint is big as we want to imagine; when really, if each was willing to give a little, our problems would solve themselves.  Transformation is possible leading into the full moon on the 28^th if we are willing to share power, resources, information. 

If not, then we will just have to sit with our problems a little while longer until we are willing to be more agreeable as Messenger Mercury turns retrograde the very next day on Friday, January 29^th.  Our thoughts turn inward for the next three weeks in the sign of Aquarius, the Great Connector and Inventor, problem solver extraordinaire.  For the next three weeks, Mercury reverses gear, reviewing ground it has already covered, encouraging us to do the same. So remember to practice the Retrograde RE words:  rest, restore, review, relax, renew, renovate, revisit.  The messenger planet stays retrograde for three weeks until February 20^th.

Which brings me to the second month of 2021, FEBRUARY:

Lets call this month what it is:  THE BIG SHIFT.  Five, yes, FIVE out of ten planets in our galaxy are in the inventive sign of Aquarius this month.  That’s a whole lotta air.  So who’s in the Fab Five?  First up, we have Mr. Sun, our will and identity, how we engage with the world, along with Messenger Mercury, ruler of our mind and our mouth, next up is Valuable Venus, focused on love, money and relationships, and then of course the two Titans Generous Jupiter and Taskmaster Saturn.  Together, we are focused the Greater Good; Aquarius is Humanitarian, wants what’s best for everyone, the common man most of all. Aquarius treats everyone the same whether the garbage man or the CEO. 

The New Moon Joins the Aquarian Cadre on February 11^th, giving us 6 planets in the air sign for two days from late on Tuesday, February 9^th through Thursday, the 11^th.  Aquarius is removed and detached, some would say unemotional; the upside this energy allows for cooler heads to prevail which is greatly needed as Saturn and Uranus are really dug in at this point, going at it with all their might. 

The Fab 5 converge in Aquarius until February 18^th, when the Sun rolls into dreamy Pisces.  Until then, however, the first three weeks we get off on exchanging ideas, anything off beat and uncommon or alternative.  You will be doing your own thing; marching to your own drummer, even if you are part of a team or group.  Think of it like playing an instrument within a band.  They need you to do your part in your own way as much as you need them.  

Two days after the Sun moves into Pisces, Messenger Mercury turns direct motion, continuing forward now in Aquarius.  Its cycle through this airy sign of ideas and invention is most welcome and highly favored as Mercury is called exalted in Aquarius.  Meaning, it shines particularly well.  Our minds are sharper, our words land better, we connect to the right people and ideas.   Common sense and ingenuity prevail.  Mercury’s lengthy passage through Aquarius is one of the blessings of 2021 since due to its retrograde, it will be in its favorite sign from January 9^th all the way to March 16^th.  HOORAY!  Count on this window to help you solve problems and find answers to stubborn questions. 

Rounding out the month is the Full Moon on Saturday, February 27^th in Virtuous Virgo.  Dream and go with the flow of Mr. Sun if you must, but first take a bath and brush your teeth wags this Moon.  And don’t forget to do the dishes before you leave…

Now on to MARCH.

Calling all listeners:  All Planets are direct!!!  You won’t want to miss this window of opportunity.  Now that Messenger Mercury turned direct last month, all ten planets are forward motion through the very end of April.  TAKE ADVANTAGE!!!!  Build baby build; put your dreams into motion.  Now is the time.  We rarely get planetary opportunities like this once in a while so make the most of it.  First up this month, Mars turns into Gemini.  Hmmm, do you hear that sound?  Mars is sharpening its tongue.  Get ready for some intense rhetoric.  Listen carefully as Gemini is the salesman of the zodiac; so caveat emptor:  make sure you want what the salesman is pushing you to buy; and for goodness sake don’t pick a fight just for the sake of it.  Watch your thoughts and mind your mouth.

Especially as you set your intentions on the New Moon which occurs on Saturday, March 13^th.  This weekend is one of the highlights of 2021 as the energy is SO gorgeous.  If you are looking for a date to get married this year, the weekend of March 13^th and 14^th is IT.  Talk about TRUE LOVE!  All New Moons are about new beginnings but WOW, we are enveloped by Love, Love, Love as we set intentions for our goals and wishes.  Heres why:  the Sun and Moon conjoin Venus and her older sibling Neptune, all in compassionate Pisces.  Not only that, these four align helpfully with transformer Pluto and Generous Jupiter.  All to say, we come together, we unify, our understanding of each other glows and grows.  We BELIEVE. 

A few days later, Messenger Mercury enters Pisces, the visionary.  Create a vision of what you want to achieve over the next few months or by year’s end.  Especially as a few days later on the 20^th of March the Sun enters Aries, marking the Spring Equinox.  Valuable Venus joins Mr. Sun on Monday, the 22^nd and we have all the energy and fortitude we could ever ask for.  This fearless duo in warrior Aries are undaunted by much.  They incite us to leap into action, particularly how we earn a living, trying new skills and talents on for size, anything we’ve never tried before.

The caution with Aries energy is impulsiveness, getting in over our heads before we have full understanding what we’re in for.  The potential for overload is highlighted at the Full Moon in Libra on Sunday, March 28^th.  Libra strives for balance in all things, especially relationships.  Watch for an us versus them mentality around the end of March.  The good news is healer Chiron pairs up with the Sun-Venus duo at Full Moon, delivering new healing modalities and measures.  On a real-world level, the much anticipated Corona virus vaccine will be fully rolling out at this time.

Welcome APRIL:

A yes, April.  We think of April showers bring May flowers and April in Paris, all the pretty things.  That’s great, but did you know the shadow side of this otherwise first month of springtime is that it is statistically the most violent month of the year?  April 2021 could very well live up to this unfortunate label with the preponderance of planets in Aries beginning with Messenger Mercury joining the Sun-Venus duo in Aggressive Aries, or assertive depending on your viewpoint. Impatient, impulsive and brash, this fearless threesome are joined by the New Moon in Aries on April 10-11^th.  We have enough energy, will power or firepower in some cases, to barrel and blast through any resistance put up by the on-going Saturn-Uranus stand-off.   Our heavy foot on the gas pedal of life isn’t in the mood to wait around til they figure it out.  So check your impulse control and look before you leap this feisty and ferocious month.  In your rush to get going, just don’t forget to hand write your New Moon intentions on the 11^th or 12^th of April.

A steadier hand and cooler winds prevail as Valuable Venus moves into her own sign of earthy Taurus on Thursday April 15^th followed by Mercury’s turn into Taurus four days later on the 19^th and the Sun on the 20^th.  Quietly, graciously, our minds and interests take pleasure in moving a little bit more slowly.  Turning over each piece of life that comes our way, feeling the textures, inhaling the scents, and why yes, stopping to smell the roses too.  The venus-mercury pair act like a brake after that lead foot Aries energy.  They want to look under the hood, are focused on value, want to know what their hard earned dollar applied through their carefully honed talents are actually getting for money they’re putting down.  Taurus is slow to part with cash and reluctant to use credit.  It’s the original Show me the money sign. 

A few days later, on Friday, April 23^rd, Motivating Mars moves into Cautious Cancer the Crab, a sign it’s definitely not comfortable in.  Mars is a warrior, ready for battle and looking for its next initiative.  Cancer is gentle and soft. Wants to curl up under the covers, watch Netlix with a cuppa tea.  See what I mean?  Not exactly a smooth fit this planet in this sign.  So just make sure you exercise as much as you eat and are as forthright and forthcoming as you can be rather than resorting to passive aggressive measures which Mars in cancer is notorious for.

This awkward energy tees us up for the Full Moon in Scorpio on Monday, April 26^th opposite four, yes four planets in practical Taurus:  Sun, Mercury, Venus and Uranus.  With five planets in the money signs Scorpio and Taurus, we are ALL about the money, power, resources, manpower, who has it, who doesn’t, who wants to get it, and who is keeping secrets about it all.  The full Moon in scorpio is especially notable as the next day Pluto, the ruler of Scorpio, turns retrograde.   BOOM.  Or KABOOM, should I say.  Thus ends the 9 week run with all planets moving forward in direct motion.  Let’s just hope this one-two cosmic roll of the dice of the Full Moon on top of Pluto’s gear shift doesn’t boost April’s violent streak even more.  Fortunately, four planets in Taurus at the same time keeps us grounded and keeps it real.

The Merry Month of MAY:

May clickety clacks into gear as Messenger Mercury twirls into its own sign of Gemini on Tuesday May 4^th followed by Venus on May 9^th, Mothers Day.  Our mind and hearts turn toward messaging, communication of all varieties as Gemini is flexible and versatile.  Where there is a will, Gemini will find a way to make it happen.  Just remember:  Gemini are the twins of communication, the dominant and passive twin.  In our day and age, the dominant twin that talks and engages with the world often overshadows the passive twin who listens, hears and integrates.  Make sure you allow equal time for both twins and that you don’t listen simply to reply but rather listen and hear so you integrate and understand.

 

The communicative Gemini energy is terrific for the New Moon in Taurus on Tuesday the 11^th of May; sun and moon are loosely conjoined to Change Agent Uranus.  Remember to hand write your intentions and goals for the next month and season and plant them in the fertile May earth.  Three days later, Generous Jupiter rolls into Mystical Pisces where he’ll stay until the end of July.  Jupiter loves Pisces, the ruler of music, visions, dreams and all manner of water.  This combination helps to unify, bringing us together by finding what unites us rather than divides us.  Jupiter is the planet of Faith in the spiritual sign of Pisces; in turn, we focus more on faith rather than FEAR, false, evidence appearing real.  Jupiter takes the edges off the divisiveness in our world and inspires, gives hope.

On Friday, May 21^st the Sun moves into Gemini joining Valuable Venus and Messenger Mercury as we find our ideas, thoughts and words witty and quick to the draw.  The Gemini planets helpfully align with Taskmaster Saturn in Aquarius which, two days later turns retrograde.   We do not tend to feel these outer planets reverse gears as we do say Mercury, Venus and Mars. 

Nonetheless, when the planet of dharma and karma turns retrograde, we tend to be a bit more cautious and careful, preparing us for the first eclipse of 2021 on Wednesday, may 26^th.  And it’s a Full Moon Total Lunar eclipse in Gemini and Sagittarius, meaning:  the Sun is in the air sign of Gemini opposite the Full Moon in adventurous Sagittarius.  Both Sun and Moon challenge Jupiter in Pisces, pushing us to search for truth in the midst of thick spin, smoke and mirrors, and overthinking.  Watch your words, that you say what you mean and mean what you say at the end of May.  Thoughts and language are key this week. Be careful of overpromising to anyone about anything if you cannot sincerely honor your commitment. 

This is particularly important as this Full Moon Lunar Eclipse falls just days before Mercury turns retrograde in the sign of communication, Gemini where it will stay for 6.5 weeks until July 11^th.  Good thing Messenger Mercury will only be retrograde through June 22^n, at the time of the summer solstice.  Just remember to do the RE words for the next three weeks:  Rest, Restore, relax, renew, Revisit, renovate, research.  For the next three weeks, hold off on signing any major documents, or significant purchases such as homes, cars or appliances.  Use this time to do your research on best products and financing.

JUNE:

With the Messenger Mercury retrograde, the first three weeks of June are excellent for taking time off or moving into the SLOW lane.  Moving more mindfully is KEY this month because as relatively quiet the prior few months have been cosmically, June is a full of gear shifts.  First up is Valuable Venus who turns into Cancer the Crab.  Venus thrives in this maternal, nurturing and compassionate sign. 

Bask in the homemade treats she has in store especially as gearing up for the New Moon Solar Eclipse in Gemini on Thursday, June 10^th.  Conjoined to Messenger Mercury, this eclipse is all about communication:  your thoughts, words, intentions, language, and conscious mind.  Watch for matters involving siblings, your car, neighbors or community surfacing.  Mystical Neptune challenges Mercury during the eclipse requiring us to REALLY FOCUS and pay attention as the air is rife with disillusionment, fantasy and escape.  Discern what is real or what is not, fact vs. fiction, truth or illusion.  Listen as much as you talk and speak.  Ask questions if you don’t understand. Look for spin doctors, con artists and take note particularly as Mercury is Retrograde right now, if you can hold off on major purchases until the end of June, all the better. 

Two days later, Motivating Mars rolls into festive Leo. You will feel your creativity soar for the next two months.  Enjoy, as this is a super fun and playful placement.  Then, the third week of June we have a number of cosmic gear shifts in quick succession leading into the summer solstice.  First, Generous Jupiter turns retrograde on Sunday, June 20^th.  We don’t feel this so much but may experience some delayed gratification in our goals.  The next day is the Summer Solstice on Monday, June 21^st as the Sun moves into Cancer the Crab on the longest day of the year!. 

Great timing too as Messenger Mercury turns direct motion the next day, Tuesday, June 22^nd.  Proceed with large purchases such as cars, homes and appliances and signing major documents and contracts. A good thing too as we see exactly what we’re getting under the light of the Full Moon in practical Capricorn on Thursday, June 24^th.  The next day, the tides roll out as Dreamy Neptune turns retrograde has us reflecting on our deeper, soul purpose.  Last, Valuable Venus changes signs to join Mars in Look at me Leo.  For the next month, these two will be the spice of life by bringing a much needed sense of humor and fun to our world.

JUMPING JULY!

The Peak Month of the Summer is notably calmer than June as there are fewer planetary shifts and events.  That said, Motivating Mars joins the ongoing fray between Radical Uranus and Taskmaster Saturn for the first week of July.  It translates as deep frustrations in particular areas of our lives.  Fortunately, after the holiday weekend of July 4^th, the tension begins to ease up heading into the New Moon in Cancer the Crab on Friday, July 9^th. 

Feel the flow!  Because we will be IN IT as Dreamy Neptune aligns with both Sun and Moon, our will and emotions.  Beach and boating activities, any water born endeavor really, will be magical this second week of July.  Venus joins Mars in Leo, moving him off the very hard edge he made earlier in the month to Uranus and Saturn.  The dynamic duo make for a joyful, festive and creative mid month while Messenger Mercury finally shifts out of Gemini on Monday, July 12^th where its been since early May!  Now in Cancer the Crab until the end of the month, our mind and words turn toward home, family and food. 

Venus dances away from Mars as she shifts into Virtuous Virgo, the same day that the Sun turns into Leo on Thursday, July 22^nd.  Pay particular attention to messages, communication and what you are being shown now under the blazing light of the Full Moon in Aquarius the very next day, July 23^rd.  Messenger Mercury opposes Pluto and while we may not like what we are hearing or seeing, it is incredibly important to pay attention to what crosses our radar and not sweep it under the rug.

The following week Messenger Mercury turns into playful Leo on July 28^th followed two days later by Mars entering Virtuous Virgo.  In between, Generous Jupiter backs out of Pisces and reenters Aquarius where it will remain for the rest of 2021.

AUDACIOUS AUGUST

The Luckiest Day of the year 8/8 if you follow Chinese numerology.  8 is believed to bring good fortune and be terrific for building firm foundations.  So it is notable that the New Moon in Leo occurs on this most auspicious day, Sunday, August 8^th.  Watch for potential big announcements around this time as Messenger Mercury conjoins the Sun and Moon.  All in expressive Leo, who loves to make a splash. Make sure to hand write your goals and intentions for the coming weeks and months and plant them in the ground to grow and multiply. 

On Thursday, August 12^th, Messenger Mercury shifts into its own sign of Virgo, sharpening our minds and words into precise, detailed and efficient language.  Virgo rules health, work and service so we pay more attention to these arenas of our lives.  As Mercury gradually joins Motivating Mars in Virgo and both align to Uranus in Taurus, our ingenuity to streamline our lives is unbeatable now.  It is excellent energy for planning and preparing, focusing on healthy choices, whether food, exercise or lifestyle, what works well.  The downside of Virgo is perfectionism:  to watch for anxiety, guilt, worry or trying to control all the moving parts of your life.  Do what you can as best as you can and let the rest go!  Analysis paralysis just isn’t worth it! 

On Monday, August 16^th we receive some help as Valuable Venus moves into her own sign Lovely Libra.  Here she seeks to bring balance to our world through grace and beauty.  We will need her help as the trickiest day of the month and perhaps the year approaches on August 20^th when Radical Uranus turns retrograde until January 2022.  This gear shift is never comfortable as Uranus rules shock and surprise.  Expect the unexpected around this time especially as Uranus turns retrograde leading into the Full Moon on Sunday, August 22nd.  The Moon conjoins Jupiter in Aquarius, ruler of Uranus.  With both the Sun and moon in the final degrees of Leo and Aquarius, we could be in for a big awakening, or surprise. Again, I must emphasize this could be the trickiest period of all 2021.

The drama may quickly die down as the Sun turns into Virgo the very next day on August 23^rd, joining Mars while Messenger Mercury moves into Lovely Libra a week later on August 30^th, balancing out our thoughts and words.

 

SEPTEMBER:

Opens with a Labor Day New Moon on Monday, September 6^th in Virtuous Virgo, the very sign of work, labor, service and health.  Both Sun and Moon loosely conjoin Motivating Mars, our energy and drive to get things done, as it exactly aligns to its elder sibling Powerful Pluto.  Talk about getting some help where and when its needed.  This is one powerful New Moon for manifestation.  Be sure to set your intentions and goals over the coming month and season. 

Talking about Power, Valuable Venus shifts into Scorpio on Friday, September 10^th.  Scorpio rules power, money, shared resources, joint finances and yes, secrets.  Venus brings all of these in spades through the end of September.  Meanwhile, her counterpart Mars turns into Libra on September 15^th.  Lovely Libra which rules relationships, art and beauty is not the most comfortable fit for Masculine Mars who prefers battle and conflict. So for the next two months during its tour in Libra, watch that you aren’t picking fights or looking for trouble where there is none. Best to use this energy to build constructive and productive relationships, including with yourself.

Fortunately, Taskmaster Saturn and Radical Uranus give us a bit of reprieve from their year long struggle as they pull apart, separating for the greatest distance in the sky during September and October.  Take advantage of this break by creating what you want to grow in the months to come.  The breathing room these two offer us is part of the Full Moon on Monday, September 20^th.  This is a particularly tricky full moon as the Sun conjoins Mars opposing the Pisces Moon conjunct Neptune, the ruler of Pisces.  Illusion, escapism and fantasy are hard wired into this Full Moon so we will need all of the discernment and discriminating skill the Sun in analytical Virgo has to offer.  Watch for wanting to run away from everything, wanting or expecting life to be other than the way it actually is, fact versus fiction, and illusion versus reality that results in big disillusionment.  The only way out of this is through curiosity and asking questions.

If we do not get a handle on exactly what is going on, what our situation truly is, we certainly will when Mercury turns retrograde on Monday, September 27^th, giving us the next three weeks to reflect, review, and revisit our lives, to take stock and get a handle on who we are and how to proceed from here.

OCTOBER:

Can you say LOTS of cosmic gear changes this month? And all in a good way as all three heavy hitters, Pluto, Jupiter and Saturn turn direct motion along with Messenger Mercury.  However, until they get going forward again, the opening week of October may feel very sluggish.  You may find your energy is stagnant or you just cant make any headway on projects or goals. 

Then like dominoes, the energy begins to shift as Powerful Pluto turns direct on Wednesday, October 6th^th, the same day as the New Moon in Libra!  Talk about manifestation to the max!  This is one crazy strong in a good way New Moon.  It is conjoined to Motivating Mars and Messenger Mercury, giving us an abundance of giddy up and horsepower.  With 4 out ten planets in Libra, we feel centered, balancing our lives and relationships comes more easily, gracing us with an artful outlook, beauty and peace. Take advantage of this energy!   Remember to handwrite your goals that you hope to manifest over the coming days and months and plant them in the ground. 

The very next day, Valuable Venus rolls into adventurous Sagittarius for the rest of October, opening us up to learning and seeking answers, or perhaps stoking our interest to travel near and far.  A few days later on Monday, October 11, Taskmaster Saturn turns direct motion followed by its counterpart Generous Jupiter on the Monday, the 18^th.  It is especially noteworthy as Messenger Mercury turns direct the very same day as Jupiter.  Expect a BIG announcement or to receive news around this time as we head into the Full Moon in Aries on Wednesday, October 20^th..  The Aries Moon opposes the Sun joined to Mars in Libra so please take a breath, take a beat as needed and hit the pause button as this full Moon approaches from Sunday, October 17^th through the 20^th.   Even if you aren’t looking for trouble or a fight, others may be… so tread lightly.

With the two titans, plus Pluto, and Messenger Mercury all now forward motion again within the span of two weeks, we feel the weight of the world has fallen from our shoulders.  That or that we are now able to see more clearly and understand what’s up.  Any projects, purchases or plans that you have been holding off on during the last three weeks of Mercury retrograde, proceed as needed. Go ahead and sign major documents or significant contracts that you have held off on.

A few days later, on Saturday, October 23^rd, the Sun moves into Scorpio followed one week later by Mars on Halloween, Sunday, October 31^st.  Just in time to get your spooky ON!

NOVEMBER

Boom, boom, boom we have several planetary gear shifts right off the bat as November breaks open with the New Moon in Scorpio, on Thursday, November 4^th.  This is no lightweight New Moon and promises to unleash secrets and surprises in the coming days and weeks. Both Sun and Moon directly oppose Radical Uranus in Taurus with Taskmaster Saturn challenging all of them in fixed signs. Meaning:  no one wants to budge from where they are.  You may feel dug in or feel the resistance of others to your ideas and efforts.  Use caution at the beginning of November with this New Moon.  The energy is combustible and laden with deeply layered psychology.  Particularly noteworthy, Venus is at the final degree of Sagittarius at this New Moon, making sure the truth is told, seen, and heard. 

All to say, the seeds of this New Moon will be harvested two weeks later on the Full Moon Lunar Eclipse in the money signs, Taurus and Scorpio.  This November is not for the faint of heart.  The day after the New Moon, Valuable Venus turns into Capricorn, pragmatic, cold and calculating, while Messenger Mercury shifts into Scorpio the next day, Saturday, November 6^th.  What Mercury turns over from its detective work digging underneath the surface, it hands over to Venus to manage.  In Capricorn, she doesn’t care whose toes she steps on as she takes control. 

We feel the energy build toward the mid-month Full Moon Lunar Eclipse on Friday, November 19^th.  Messenger Mercury and Motivating Mars join the Sun in Scorpio opposite the Taurus Moon shining a spotlight on any dirt or dreck swept under the rug over the past months or years.  There is no hiding from anyone or anything now!  The rug is fully pulled out from underneath anyone trying to cover up or conceal what must be known. 

Whatever is revealed by the eclipse will handed over to Mr. Sun to deal with three days later, when he turns into Sagittarius on Monday, November 22^nd.  This fiery sign of education, spirituality and the law takes all that was turned up by the Lunar Eclipse and either teaches it a thing or two or prosecutes to the fullest extent possible.  If you needed a reminder to keep your ducks in a row, mid-to late November is here to tell you.  Especially after Thanksgiving on Thursday, November 25^th when Messenger Mercury joins the Sun in Sagittarius to really tell it like it is.  You, me, everyone will see and hear the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the Truth by month’s end.

DECEMBER:

Shortly after December opens we have the second of the two eclipses of this fall on Saturday, December 4^th.  It occurs on the New Moon and is a total Solar Eclipse in truth telling Sagittarius.  With both the Sun and Moon tightly conjoined to Messenger Mercury in honest, adventurous Sagittarius, we speak our minds, or, speak truth to power regardless of the consequences.  So aim your arrow high and long.  You will be sure to hit your intended target.  Remember to set clear intentions and goals for what you seek to manifest in the coming weeks and New Year just around the corner.

At mid month, Motivating Mars joins the Sun in Sagittarius passing the baton to Messenger Mercury as it exits into practical Capricorn on Tuesday, December 14^th.  While Sun-Mars are focused on education, travel, truth and justice, Mercury ruler of our minds and mouths pursues real world application of all that book learning.  I mean, how are you going to make your ideas work on the ground?  It wants to know.

Mercury tips us off as Valuable Venus turns retrograde motion in the sign of Capricorn on Saturday, December 18^th.  For the next 40 days and 40 nights, Venus, planet of love, money and relationships has us reflecting on pieces of ourselves we have disowned, or never recognized in the first place, what Carl Jung calls our shadow.  In Capricorn, we are to look at the basic foundations of our life.  Is it firm or flimsy?  Do the bare bones and cold, hard facts of our lives need reworking?  Venus rules Values and in Capricorn, she wants a full accounting, hard look taking stock at what we’re made of.

As this occurs in the deepest, darkest part of the calendar year in the Northern Hemisphere, it is an excellent time to turn inward for meditation and contemplation.  It is no accident that Venus turns retrograde just one day before the Full Moon on Sunday, December 19^th.  Under the glaring spotlight of the Full Moon, we can see exactly where we fall short in our relationships, including to our self, our primary relationship.   We stand naked under the spotlight of the Full Moon in communicative Gemini opposite the truth telling Sagittarius Sun, highlighting the good, the bad and the ugliness of who we are, our flaws as well as our perfections.

Until late January 2022, use this passage to review and reconnect with parts of yourself and your life, what you may have forgotten about or pushed aside.  The best use of this time between December 18 and January 29^th, 2022 is to review your financial situation and spending habits; reconnect with old friends or relatives; embark on reflective retreats; do deep psychological dives to revisit pieces of yourself that need to be re-worked.

What is for sure, is that if you are willing to invest the time and yes, a little money in knowing yourself better, you will emerge from this period with greater self respect and clearer understanding of how to move forward.  Just remember:  BUY YOUR HOLIDAY GIFTS before December 18^th this year!  Do not wait until the last minute as purchases made after December 18^th when Venus turns retrograde will be returned.

Four days after Venus turns retrograde, the Sun joins her at the Winter Solstice on Wednesday, December 22^nd.  From here, the light only grows stronger and brighter. So too may your year ahead in 2022!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!  May 2021 be infinitely easier for you and your loved ones!

 

 

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Welcome to the New Age: Crossing the Revolutionary Threshold

“In a time of deceit, telling the truth is a revolutionary act”, George Orwell

December opens in the wake of a Full Moon lunar eclipse in Gemini and Sagittarius on Monday, November 30^th.  It is the first of two eclipses which set the tone for the end of 2020, a notorious year that has brought many to their knees and reminded the rest of us that we only control small elements of our lives; the major sectors, however, macro strings are pulled and orchestrated by a Force infinitely greater than we can imagine.  Anyone with planets in the early degrees of Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius or Pisces are particularly affected by this eclipse.

The larger lesson of 2020 is surrender; let go of what you cannot control and focus on what is truly important:  your health, loved ones and living honestly.  The double eclipses on November 30^th and December 14^th on the Gemini-Sagittarius axis drive home that there is absolutely no room, a zero tolerance, for any behavior or language that is not 100% honest.  The Sagittarius Sun aims its arrow of truth and justice high and wide, then releases it sharp and long to pierce its target.  If you seek to cut corners, sneak around or shade the truth in anyway, you will be exposed.  Speak truthfully or face the consequences. 

This is Sagittarius:  truth, the law, education, learning, and the quest to understand.  It rules the law:  as above, so below, and applies to everyone regardless of age, money, power, or race.  Slick maneuvers to wiggle around the truth or law, perhaps what worked in the past, or where you got away with anything before, simply will not work going forward.  Like a rubber ball bouncing off of a wall, it comes right back at you.

The circle of truth, honesty and the law closes in now, surrounding and enveloping us with each passing day.  First, on Wednesday, December 1^st, Messenger Mercury joins the Sun in Sagittarius, sharpening our words with a blunt edge, not caring who is hurt or felled by its honest axe.  Like a baton passed from the Full Moon lunar eclipse the day before, Mercury picks up the sword of truth and carrying it forward across the winter solstice. 

For those seeking comfort in the Truth’s freedom, the circle of planets is liberating.  We are amongst our tribe, friends and community.  Conversely, this planetary loop is unsettling for anyone trying to end run justice or worm their way out of honest living.  Rather, these enveloping arrows of Sagittarian truth will feel like a constricting prison out of which there is no escape.  Don’t bother even looking for one.  You either told the truth or you didn’t.

The second eclipse on Monday, December 14^th slams the gavel down on the verdict.  Both Sun (our will) and Moon (our emotions) join forces in Sagittarius at this New Moon solar eclipse.  Release your arrows.  What you think, say, and project, you will become; so be extremely careful handwriting your New Moon intentions. 

The weight and gravitas of this pure, new beginning cannot be overemphasized:  Messenger Mercury closely joins forces with the Sun and Moon, and all three align with Mars, our energy and drive.  There is absolutely nothing we cannot do, be or become if we are aligned with our own spirit, truth and rightful soul path.  If you are off path, listening to spin doctors or worse, weaving illusions, denial and deceptive traps for yourself or others, the Gates of Consequence stand wide open now, awaiting you. Through the gates, your very own, custom-made harvest of plenty or punishment looms.

Why?

On the second eclipse, titans Jupiter and Saturn finish their tour thru austere Capricorn while Venus hits her final note in karmic Scorpio.   In short:  they bring IT.   Whatever you have sown, now you shall reap.  Capricorn and Scorpio never suffer fools or excuses.  Jupiter-Saturn form the planetary bridge between the interior and outer planets.  Hovering on the last, 29^th degree of Capricorn, the titanic duo act as witness, judge and jail keeper.  Skimmed or shirked your soul work?  Jupiter-Saturn usher you into your personal cell, your new home until you reckon with and obey the Truth.

What goes around comes home to roost now.  Saturn will not return to its own sign Capricorn for another 30 years.  Paired with Gigantic Jupiter, Saturn seizes this momentous opportunity to make sure you understand dharma, personal responsibility, integrity, and honor.  That what you put in, you really get out of life.  If you still refuse and resist to acknowledge your part in the result, well, you will have a good, long while to sit in your cell until you DO.  With Venus at the final degree of Scorpio, she power slams the door behind her and turns the key.  Locked. 

Again:  if you have played fairly, honestly and walked your soul path, you have nothing to worry about.  You can focus on creating the future you seek to manifest.  You may even be bestowed with special honors, awards, or rewards, whether financial or personal support.  If otherwise, though, karma awaits, and no, it will not be kind.  Ask for mercy all you want; but expect your pleas to fall on deaf ears.  Heavy mid-month planetary activity does not want to hear.  You’ve had your chance to walk honorably.

The day after the second eclipse, Venus picks up the Sagittarian baton on December 15^th, ensuring truth and justice prevail, especially in our relationships.  What we value in ourselves and others, whom we value in our lives, draws focus.   Venus asks:  what is meaningful and relevant about how you earn a living?   Are you pursuing work that gives you purpose as well as income?  Is it fulfilling, honest work you are proud of or passionate about?   Sagittarius Venus, Mercury and Sun seek to learn and pursue adventures that stretch us personally both in mind and spirit.

December 17^th, Taskmaster Saturn enters Aquarius and paves the way for Generous Jupiter to join two days later on December 19^th.   The significance of this shift cannot be overstated.  The titans unite every 20 years.  The last time was 2000, in Taurus.  Now in 2020, this pair have united at the end of Capricorn and the beginning of Aquarius, two remarkably different signs.  Capricorn is the old; Aquarius is the new.  The mission of their alliance in these two signs and at these notable degrees sends an unmistakable message:   out with the old, in with the new.

Capricorn, where Saturn and Jupiter joined forces for much of 2020, stamped a seal on established customs, traditions and ways of life that have had their say and seen better days. The Old Era is now done, done, done, over and gone with a clear, certain finality.  In quick succession, the gate to the old is firmly closed and the door to a new way is opened.  

A revolutionary threshold is upon us:   Will you cross over?

Within two days, titans Jupiter and Saturn move from dense and deadly serious Capricorn, to light, inventive Aquarius; taking us with them, we shift from the heaviest earth energy to a light, frothy frequency.  All new, all the time is on the agenda for the next 12 months.  The Titans usher us into a brand new age:  inventive, connected, avant garde, non-mainstream, highly individualized marching to its own drummer yet operating within a team, marked by networking and technology, and radical, rebellious, and revolutionary. Aquarius pushes boundaries and tweaks us out of our comfort zones; gets off on exchanging information and ideas, from the simplest concept to solving steep problems to reaching for the most extreme, far-fetched possibilities. 

By December 20^th, we are now firmly in the Age of Aquarius.  There is nothing too wild we can imagine.  Consider, after all, one hundred years ago electricity (ruled by Uranus and Aquarius) had just been “discovered”.  Imagine how we will live 100 years from now?  The Aquarian mind says there is no limit.  So get out of your own way and hop into your imagination.

As Einstein said, “the imagination is the gift, the mind is the servant.  Man has made the mind the master and the gift a slave.”

No more. 

We will now live the inverse of this tenet where imagination rules.  Jupiter-Saturn demand we rise to meet life in brand new ways throughout 2021.  The doorway to our new life is highlighted and emphasized by the Winter Solstice on Monday, December 21^st, when both Sun and Messenger Mercury enter practical Capricorn.  Greeting us at the threshold of the next season, Sun-Mercury steer us to apply our fired-up ideas and inventive notions in a realistic, useful way.  You may have all the creativity in the universe but if it isn’t useful to your neighbor, what good is it? this pragmatic duo asks.

The best place to start solving problems and answering questions is right in our own backyard, in our own home, family and community.  We see the importance of this under the growing light of the waxing moon, climaxing to Full in its own sign of Cancer the Crab on December 29^th.   Doing your own thing is great and all, says the Cancer Moon; but first, let’s connect to our own beings and our loved ones; then gradually extend care and compassion outward like great ripples, embracing each other as one, unified whole.

 Of special note:   I am thrilled to announce the launch of my podcast Mystical Messages on Friday, December 18, 2020.  Tune in to hear experts from the alternative healing and metaphysical fields as well as my astrological forecasts for your month ahead.  You may subscribe to Mystical Messages via Apple, Google, Spotify or Stitcher.  To learn more, please visit:  https://mysticalmessages.libsyn.com/mystical-messages...  

 

Brace For Impact

We are really IN the thick of it right now.  Some may say we are in FOR it.  Wow and how.  Either way, you can cut the cosmic weight and gravitas with a knife.  Pushed, pulled, squeezed and contorted we are. Cosmic cues abound.  Careful you do not twist yourself into a pretzel or a tangled, hot mess as you make your way through each day.  Anyone worried about the future?  If so, the best remedy is to put your head down and focus on your work, what is right in front of you.

A wise therapist told me years ago:  control what you can and let the rest go.  Expending energy on the momentous shifts occurring every day is a complete waste of energy.  This is magnified as November opens in the wake of a Full Moon on Halloween.  Tightly conjoined to change agent Uranus, the Full Moon in Taurus is a shake up and shake down of values:  whom and what we value, in ourselves, others and in life.  Opposite the Sun in Scorpio, we are shown in unmistakable clarity any misuse or abuse of our values along with power, sex, and resources – whether material or spiritual.  We see now what has been hidden, avoided and swept under the rug what we’d rather not discuss or address.

The Halloween Full Moon needs a warning label:  CAUTION:  unsettled energy and paths ahead.  Some may feel the actual ground shifting beneath them or electric currents running through their bodies (Uranus rules lightning and electricity).  Venerable customs and traditions, established structures of our lives, stalwart pillars holding reliable systems together come tumbling down around us.  Scorpio, the sign where the Sun is opposite the Full Moon is ruled by Pluto.  Think Plutonium:  this Full Moon is nuclear.

On November 1^st and the days following, we still reverberate with the fractured shards warning us to pay attention.  Look for breakdowns and breathtaking breakthroughs, often intertwined.  Resist with all your might if you must but know that it is better to embrace change and now.  There is no going back from here.  We are past the point of no return.  Boat rockers and chain rattlers are in their glory.  The rest of us do what we can to smooth ruffled feathers and simply survive.  Mother moon shows us in her glaring reflection how far we’ve strayed from basic fundamentals of life:  care and compassion for each other and our Mother Earth. “Better get your act together kids,” she wags a cosmic finger.

Two days later on November 3^rd, Messenger Mercury turns direct motion in Libra aligned to the lunar North Node in communicative Gemini.  It is no accident that this is election day in the United States. When any planet stations, or stands still before turning direct or retrograde, it sends extra strong energy.  In this case, Mercury sends a crystal clear, irrefutable message.  The clarity and power of the election message is strengthened the next day when the Moon conjoins the North Node.  Dispute the results all you want but a New Order is imminent.  Politically yes, but in the macro we begin the shift from 3D to 5D existence.

We are living history now.  What a time to be alive. Bear witness one and all.

The routine of our lives sits amidst the upheaval and dust stirred up between October 30 and November 4^th.  Fortunately, Venus in her own sign of Libra aligns to the North Node from November 9 to the 15^th.  We need all the relationship help we can get now as Venus, planet of love, money and relationships graces our lines of communication and smooths over the rough edges of our lives, partnerships and ventures.  As she challenges Jupiter-Pluto (conjoined for the final time for the next 12 years), she fosters much needed discussions about the balance of power.  Have face to face, in person conversations rather than from behind a screen, Venus reminds us.  She refines the way and opens the door graciously for her counterpart Mars as he turns direct motion on Saturday, November 14^th.

For a lonnnnng two months, since September 9^th, Motivating Mars has been reverse gear in its own sign of Aries.  The planet of action and initiative in its own fiery sign is especially out of its depth in passive, retrograde, reflective mode.  Ordinarily, Mars spends two months in a sign,  Due to its retrograde cycle, it spends six months in Aries, from late June 2020 to early January 2021.  Much of that time, Mars dueled with the Capricorn trio Pluto, Jupiter and Saturn, prodding us to change old established patterns.  Much of the discomfort we have felt in 2020 has resulted from this clash.

Now, on Saturday, November 14^th, Mars finally revs its fiery engine and kicks into overdrive.  As Mars shifts forward motion, it is unaspected, meaning tremendously emphasized.  Think of the Indy 500:  Gentlemen, Start Your Engines, or the Apollo rocket at blast off.  Such is this moment.  The forward thrust is IMMENSE.  Do not squander this energy.   Especially as guess what?  The very next day is the New Moon in Scorpio!  Divine timing is perfect, sending a laser focused message and affording ripe opportunity.  If ever there were a time to write your intentions and sow what you desire to manifest, the New Moon on November 15^th IS IT!  This is one New Moon that is raring to go out of the gate. 

With both Mars and Mercury now direct, proceed with ALL large purchases, signing contracts and deals, launching initiatives.   Harness the raw power at hand now, grab it and hold on for dear life.  If you think it’s been a wild ride so far, just wait.

Mid November is not for the faint of heart or mild and meek.  Again:  control your immediate environment as best you can and release the rest to Source and Spirit.  Flow is the key word now, especially as Neptune in Pisces prepares to turn direct on November 29^th.  Watch for the unexpected, surprise and yes, perhaps shocking on November 17^th and 18^th as Messenger Mercury opposes change agent Uranus in Scorpio-Taurus for the final time this season. 

The first time these two dueled, President Trump was diagnosed with Covid.  Revelations, blessings as well as curve balls out of left field will unfold now. KARMA, Scorpio’s signature, is playing bigtime this week. The mysterious is unveiled and revealed increasingly through the weekend of November 21-22 as Mercury hits a bell-ringing degree of Scorpio while Venus and the Sun change signs.  Venus joins mercury in Scorpio easing our financial and psychological burdens while the Sun rolls into Sagittarius.  The Scorpio duo turns up and over what must be seen while the Sun in Sagittarius demands truth, honesty and yes, justice.

Watch for a frenzy of activity as the Moon joins Mars on Wednesday, November 25^th the day before Thanksgiving.  Mind your mouth and guard your tongue carefully with considered replies to others, particularly family members on Wednesday as this day is a minefield of angry triggers.  Put your listening hat on and cue up your ears instead:  you never regret the things you do not say.  The final stretch of the month is super charged as we head into a Full Moon Eclipse in Gemini, on Monday, November 30^th.  Gemini IS communication, which we often forget is a two way street: talking and thinking as well as listening and hearing.  If ever there were a time to heed the lyrics of the musical Hamilton, this Thanksgiving and kick off the holiday season is it:   Talk less, smile more.

OF SPECIAL NOTE:  Hard to believe, but the holidays are upon us!  Looking for a distinctive gift for that hard-to-buy-for someone?  Consider the gift of a personal astrology session.  Gift certificates are available via my website:  www.hilaryharley.com

How Do You Need to Heal?

October opens smack bang with a Full Moon in fiery Aries on the 1^st.  Joined to healer Chiron, possibilities for emotional release and all manner of healing grace us.  How do you need to heal?  Opposite the Sun in Libra, this Full Moon says it is up to us to balance and bring order where our lives are off kilter and uneven, especially in proportion to how much we give to ourselves versus others.  In Aries, this Full Moon illuminates all new healing modalities and strategies:  whether getting your household or finances in order, trying a new exercise practice or alternative healer. 

Libra’s superpower is bringing order from chaos.  We all can use more order, grace and consideration.  In the words of Ruth Bader Ginsburg, “Reacting in anger or annoyance will not advance one’s ability to persuade.  You can disagree without being disagreeable.”

Mind, you don’t have to be an astrologer to know that there is immense pent-up rage right now.  It seeks an outlet.  With this feisty Full Moon, watch your words, especially in response to those who are not careful of theirs.  Words once spoken cannot be retrieved.  Think peace; be peace.  Extend a helping hand.  Ask:  are you part of the solution or adding to the problem?

The next day, October 2^nd, Libra’s planetary ruler Venus shifts into practical Virgo.  Here, the planet of love, money and relationships focuses on how to be of utmost service.  How can you be of use to resolve a problem?  Over the next weeks, Venus aligns with the heavy hitters, Jupiter-Pluto-Saturn in Capricorn to manifest our material needs and goals.  Boosting this alliance, transformer Pluto turns direct motion on October 3^rd.

Since late April, Pluto’s retrograde had us reviewing our desires.  With the Capricorn trio now moving forward again, we use our assessment to build what we aim to achieve, grow and expand.  Pluto is tightly sandwiched between the titans Jupiter and Saturn (expansion and integrity).  As Pluto rules power, this packed troika in Capricorn means business.  Veils of pretense are ripped off, exposing anything hidden and overhauling any ingrained, established customs and traditions, or junking them entirely.

Honor, dignity and integrity are October’s watchwords.  Act Responsibly.  Do the right thing.  Not because you should; but rather, because you know better.  Your higher self is calling.  Pay attention.  Be responsible out of respect for yourself, others and our Earth.

Wednesday, October 7^th may prove to be full of surprises as Messenger Mercury opposes Radical Uranus.  Buried secrets, long term mysteries and stubborn problems are uncovered and solved.  The pieces of the puzzle come together.  Watch for Ah-Hah and Eureka moments.  Remember, “What you seek is seeking you,” – Rumi.

Over the next week, Messenger Mercury begins to slow down for its final retrograde cycle of 2020.  Tuesday, October 13^th, the Communication planet stops to reverse gear and retrace ground in intense Scorpio.  As we approach the last 2 weeks of October, a time when the veil between Heaven and Earth is thinnest, Mercury pours forth revelations.  Anything swept under the rug crawls out and makes itself known – especially secrets having to do with sex, money, taxes and power.  Past abuse or misuse of these will resurface, come knocking, seeking redress between October 14 and November 3^rd, Election Day.  If guilty, pay the piper.  Scorpio rules karma and it is here to collect.  With both Mercury and Mars now retrograde for the next three weeks, it is especially important to do the RE words:  reflect, review, renovate, revisit, renew, etc.  Life may really feel like an uphill battle through the end of the month.

Two days later, the New Moon in Libra occurs on Friday, October 16^th.  In an uneasy year, this is an unsettled New Moon.  Catalytic, yes.  More like:  KABOOM!  Moon-Sun (our emotions and will) clash with the Capricorn trio Jupiter-Pluto-Saturn and oppose Mars, still retrograde in Aries.  The Libra Moon-Sun seek peaceful resolution, grace and harmony.  There may be none to be had as the Capricorn Heavy Hitters and Mars are locked in a tug of war between old ways and new ones.  Each wants the final word.  The open end of this dynamic rests in Cancer the Crab:  our nation, homeland, country and how we care for it, as well as how we care for ourselves, our families, children and elders. 

The planetary void in Cancer holds the answers to the riddle of the New Moon:  If we are to find new ways (mars in Aries) for peace (Moon-Sun Libra) with honor and integrity (Capricorn), we must nurture each other with compassion (Cancer the Crab).  It is infinitely easier to be kind than exert wasteful angry energy.

A week later, the Sun turns into powerful Scorpio on October 23^rd, joining Messenger Mercury.  Our will and our thoughts plumb the depths; we feel ALL of the feels.  Psychotherapy, shadow work, financial management and deep research are the best use of this energy.  The caution with Scorpio is addiction, power games or power struggles, and money/resource misuse.  Helping us tow the line, Venus now aligns with Jupiter-Pluto-Saturn, all in earth signs, providing material gain, opportunity and outlets to lift us toward our goals.  If we only look, we find the answers.  Ask and you shall receive.

October ends on a gracious note with Venus rolling into its own sign of Libra on Tuesday, October 27^th.  Here she smooths ruffled feathers and inclines us toward harmony, the arts, beauty and calm.  Libran Venus graces us with balance and peace.  In these truly cataclysmic times, she says Give Peace a Chance.

Of Special Note:

Coming SOON!!   Mark your calendars for Friday-Sunday, October 2-4:  Soni Masur’s Big Fall Show!  Come browse truly beautiful work by artisans at the Winsmith Mill Commerce Center, 61 Endicott Street, Norwood, MA.  Once again, I will be offering 20 minute mini readings at the special show rate of $30.  Please stop by and see all the artwork including paintings, ceramics and pottery, handbags,  bouquets and succulents, shell creations, candles and more.  To book a mini reading with me, please contact:  Sonyamasur@gmail.com.  This is a socially distanced with masks event.  Vendors will be widely spaced apart with plenty of hand sanitizer and masks provided.

 

Entering the Cosmic Birth Canal

 Don’t let the title of this month’s blog scare you.  It aptly describes the momentous shift occurring now.

An oozy, bluesy Full Moon greets us on September 2^nd.  Conjoined to dreamy Neptune in Pisces, the Full Moon opposes the Sun in practical Virgo, continuing the theme of sorting fact from fiction and truth from illusion.  There are those who still adamantly refuse to remove their rose-colored glasses, trapped in a web of nostalgia for days gone by and defiantly resisting changes here to stay; for others, the rose colored glasses were ripped off by stark reality of circumstance; then there are those who chose to take off the glasses and see with pristine clarity the facts of what is actually happening.

Let’s be clear:  the way of life we knew before March 2020 is gone. 

The blessing of this Neptunian Full Moon is gentle encouragement to accept what is, so helpful in these divisive times.  The Moon-Neptune in Pisces (feelings, inspiration and compassion) align with Generous Jupiter in Capricorn and Uranus in Taurus (reality based goals and values).  It spotlights what is truly valuable in our lives, what works vs. what most decidedly what does not work.  For some, opportunity abounds.  For all of us, the Sun in reality based Virgo helps us stay as grounded and centered as possible to gain perspective. 

Notice that the pace of life is decidedly slower now.  There is good reason:  Five planets are retrograde at the onset of September along with Motivating Mars crawling to a halt soon enough.  It will become harder to gain traction on any project or relationship.  We are now fully in the midst of a collective re-set.  The Old is rapidly deconstructing to make way for the New.  This process has been underway for some time. We are now entering the final stage with the onset of cosmic labor pains about to be in full swing as September is rife with planetary gear shifts.

The preamble to these occur on Sunday, September 6^th as Messenger Mercury shifts into Libra and Venus into Leo.  Our mind and communication (mercury) and relationships and values (venus) have been working collaboratively for much of August.  This dovetail continues into September, yielding creative partnerships, pursuits and messaging.  A good thing, too, as we can use all the help we can get as Motivating Mars turns retrograde on Wednesday September 9^th for the next two months!

In its own fiery sign of Aries, Mars the Great Initiator will push our buttons as it rewinds.  Mars and Aries are all about the forward thrust, getting on with it and moving ahead.  To say as humans we are supremely uncomfortable with Mars’ reverse motion is an understatement.  This period is notoriously rife with frustration.  So let’s take a look how to best manage this passage by remembering Mars retrograde Dos and Don’ts:

Between September 9 and November 14^th, AVOID:

Purchasing anything mechanical, with an engine or motor:  appliances, cars, laptops, cell phones, electronics such as TVs, etc. 

Wait until after November 14^th to launch a project, product or relationship. 

Mars and Aries are all about new beginnings, the BIG LAUNCH…so if you do try to push forward with an endeavor between 9/9-11/14, you may find yourself spinning your wheels and stuck in cosmic mud.

The Dos of Mars retrograde include the RE words:  Review, Research, Reflect, Relax, Renovate, Restore, Renew, Repair, etc.  Mars and Aries are all about ACTION so apply your energy toward all that needs a solid gut job – whether reviewing and getting a handle on your finances, clearing out a neglected space and refreshing it, revisiting a relationship or possession and repairing it.

A major cautionary note with this Mars Retrograde in Aries:  the red planet has been challenging the three heavy hitters Pluto-Saturn-Jupiter in Capricorn in August and now with its reverse gear, will continue to butt heads with the trio for the rest of 2020.  This, along with the extraordinary number of planetary transits, has sparked upheaval this year.

Ordinarily, Mars moves through a sign in 6-8 weeks; being 2020 of course, Mars will linger in Aries for six months, from June 2020 to January 2021, due to its retrograde cycle.  Its back and forth motion boxing with the big gun trio results in the New (mars in Aries) clashing with the Old (Jupiter-Saturn-Pluto in Capricorn).  In every possible way, any established tradition, custom, mindset, way of life is challenged by Mars in Aries, representing brand new energy.  The current period of history is akin to the early 20^th century when agrarian way of life gave way to modern industrialization and monarchies collapsed like dominoes into rule by and for the people via democracy and communism.

We are not just witnessing history; we are each living history.  2020 marks the Great Shift when the old is disassembled to birth the new.  Mars retrograde from September 9^th to November 14^th marks the arrival of the train in the station.  You have just over two months to decide if you will climb aboard.  Some who long for the old ways will refuse to get on the train.  But the Train of Change is here and you can either get on and ride into the future or you can stay stomping your feet on the station platform.  Will you let life pass you by or will you venture into the unknown, uncertain yet promising?

A few days later, the first of the two titans turns direct motion.  Generous Jupiter  moves forward in Capricorn and gradually rejoins Pluto and Saturn through the rest of the fall season.  Over the next week, September 13-18, the Virgo Sun aligns with the three heavy hitters, all in earthy, practical energy.  The potency and power of this week abounds.  Planning and preparation (Virgo) team up with the goal and results driven Capricorn trio.  It is incredibly industrious, focused and realistic, boots on the ground energy.  Anything you are working on:  keep your eyes on the prize.  Do not let Messenger Mercury in Libra distract or second guess you from your purpose as it challenges the Power troika.  Especially, as in the midst of this week, the New Moon in Virgo occurs on the 17^th.

This is one healthy, vibrant work horse of a New Moon. Both the Sun (our will and Self) and Moon (emotions) in humble, down-to-earth, responsible Virgo collaborate beautifully with the heavy hitters in Capricorn.  Wow.  This is a CAN DO New Moon; a feeling of there is nothing we cannot do.  Six out of ten planets are in pragmatic earth energy.  It is time to gather yourself together, get a handle on your resources, make a plan…more like a business plan, for your hopes, dreams, your life.  Prepare action steps.  If you ever asked yourself exactly how you were going to get from point A to point Z, this New Moon spells it out for you.  Again:  it is a matter of focusing on your outcome.  Think streamlining.  Eliminate the unnecessary and unwanted and stock up on what will move you closer to the finish line. On the 17^th or 18^th, hand write 3-5 intentions and plant them in the ground. 

The following week the Sun rolls into Lovely Libra.  Art, beauty, collaboration draw our attention as well as what is fair and just for everyone involved.  Libra seeks balance in all she does:  work/life balance, relationship peace and harmony.  So remember your own self-care and well-being in equal measure to your devotion to others.  Messenger Mercury in Libra opposes Mars in Aries and both challenge the Power Trio in Capricorn…resulting in a slow burn.  Resentment can build if you forget to pencil yourself into your own life.  Better to save a slice of cake for YOU or walk around the block to step away from a heated situation.  Fresh air breathes new life, ideas and momentum into tricky relationships and helps to pivot discussions.

The final week of September, Messenger Mercury shifts into Scorpio and opposes Radical Uranus in Taurus on September 27^th.  VALUES anyone?  What are yours?  Who and what do we value in ourselves and others?  What is the right use of money, power, our skills and talents.  Mercury and elder sibling Uranus raise our consciousness about how we earn a living and spend or share our time, energy and resources. 

The next day, Saturn turns direct motion.  Within two weeks, both cosmic titans Jupiter and Saturn, have shifted gears.  In achievement-oriented Capricorn, the giants crack the whip as they challenge Mars.  We feel the weight of Responsibility, very much with a capital R.  Watch your frustration,  It may surface as others grind your gears…provoking, antagonizing, triggering.  These are Cosmic Labor Pains birthing a new consciousness.  How will you respond?  With the same old, same old replies or…new tactics?

Hard as it may be to do so, step back and step away.  Let nature take its course.  We are full on inside the Cosmic Birth Canal now.  Prepare for individual and collection change, emergence, elevation.  Remember:  out of chaos comes creation.  Out of chaos comes order.  But first: the mess, the dark and the dissent.

 

Of special note:  I am now offering coaching for those clients who seek on-going counseling.  My rate for this is $75/hour.  In addition, I am pleased to now offer mentoring services to those exploring Lightwork.  To learn more about Lightwork or whether you are already a Lightworker, you may book a 30-minute free discovery call.  Last, I want to highlight a special service I offer:  if you have a quick question or imminent decision to make and don’t need a full astrology session, I am available for short-term readings.  The rate for this is $2/minute for a minimum 20 minute session.  You may explore all of these new offerings on my updated website:  www.hilaryharley.com.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Burning Down the House

A feisty full Moon on Monday, August 3^rd opens the final month of summer.  It certainly sets the tone for the weeks to come.  In avant garde Aquarius, the Moon opposes the Sun in Leo and both challenge Radical Uranus.  If used well, this troika affords incredibly creative energy; however it may also highlight how stuck and stubborn many of us really are.  All three of these planets at the Full Moon are in fixed signs, meaning, we can be very dug in, entrenched and resistant to change, not budging from the particular opinions and beliefs we hold. 

Yet, this is precisely what we are called to do this month.

Engrained programming and conditioning that we have inherited, passed down through the ages, or reflexively adopted to which we may cling are being questioned and tested now.  In response, its best to ask:  what are you holding so fast to that needs to be shifted or released altogether?  As Einstein said, the definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again, expecting a different result.  We know what does not work.  It is time to try something else to see if that works. 

If you face a dilemma or decision, ask:  are you using your beliefs as a litmus test for others?  Are you sacrificing family and friends for your unbending opinions?  Or as a wise man once asked:  Is this the hill you want to die on? Or is it something you can let go of?  One thing is for sure, anger, discord and conflict are not going anywhere.  Fiery emotions will be with us through early 2021, yes, for the next six months, due to Motivating Mars extended tour through Aries.  So check yourself and monitor your responses.  Words and actions are not easily retracted or rarely forgotten.

As with all Full Moons, the energy leading into it increases the week prior to culmination.  In this case, during the final days of July and through the first weekend of August.  At hand, we have wildly inventive and ingenious energy built into this Full Moon…if we can move past ourselves and try new solutions. Be open minded and willing to listen to others.  We may be surprised how similar we are to our fellow man and how easily problems are solved when working together.

Groups are at play with this Full Moon in Aquarius as it challenges Uranus, the ruler of Aquarius; expect radical, rebellious, shocking and surprise events.  And DRAMA…with the Sun in “Look at ME Leo”, lots of drama.  This exponentially increases two days later when Messenger Mercury enters Leo.  While our minds overflow creatively, really keep an eye out for ego-based maneuvers…your own and others.  Know your motives.  Are you trying to make a splash and call attention to yourself?  The higher use of the Sun-Mercury in Leo is generosity, bravery and creativity.  Discern the difference between making drama and behaving with dignity.

At the end of the first week in August, on the 7^th, Venus enters Cancer the Crab for the rest of the month.  Our love of family, home and nation shines with this placement, helping to sort out what is best for our welfare in the wake of the pandemic. What is best for our children, parents and teachers (who also have families) as the school year approaches?  How do we govern with care and compassion for the greatest benefit of our nation?  Remembering our own self-care, Venus in Cancer helps us factor our personal needs into the equation.

A week later, on August 14^th, Uranus turns retrograde.  This is a big deal and requires a warning label especially with all of the national discord now.  Uranus’ reverse gear occurs at the same time Mars challenges its elder sibling Pluto.  By itself, this angle provokes and instigates.   The window of August 14^th-17^th is particularly dicey.  Take extra care with your words and actions.  If you need to launch a project, idea, collaboration or event, aim to do it before August 14^th or after the 17^th.  Over that weekend, expect surprises, the unpredictable and unexpected.  Move and drive slowly, with deliberation; use caution as these planetary shifts occur during the darkest phase of the Moon cycle.  You may not know what hit you.  Know that you may be caught completely off guard or flat-footed. In hindsight, you will realize you never saw it coming.  You aren’t supposed to with these cosmic coordinates.  Think lightning from a clear blue sky…  It may be a game-changing few days.

Life eases up with the New Moon in Leo on Tuesday, the 18^th.  Conjoined to Messenger Mercury and helpfully aligned to Mars in Aries, this is one powerful New Moon.  You will feel energized and ablaze with ideas.  Set your intentions.  Hand write 3-5 goals, prayers or wishes you seek to accomplish in the next month or season.  Alight these in a fire pit, set adrift in water with an outlet or plant in the ground to grow.

A few days later the energy noticeably shifts as the Sun and Messenger Mercury both move into Virgo.  From fire to earth, feel your energy, mind and thoughts turn toward the practical, healthy and useful. The Sun-Mercury gradually align with Uranus in Taurus and heavy hitters Pluto-Saturn-Jupiter in Capricorn over the remainder of August.  Avail yourself of realistic solutions and pragmatic opportunities arising from this earth energy alliance.

For all of the difficulties 2020 has presented, calling upon us to re-prioritize our lives and our values, the final ten days of August bears invaluable ingenuity.  Grab hold of what comes to you now and take advantage.  Because when September rolls in, the final quarter of 2020 will not be so kind.

Getting Our House in Order

We spend the balance of July recovering from the cosmic whiplash of the past two months or more.  There is notably less planetary activity this month giving us a chance to take a breath, catch up, and take stock.  We are still mid journey through these tremendous energetic shifts, learning how to navigate the new terrain.  Like being a visitor to a foreign city, it will take us a while to get the lay of the land, our sea legs if you will, and figure out what is where.  Above all, be patient and gentle with yourself and others.  One thing we can all agree upon:  this is an extraordinary and unprecedented time in our lives.

As July opens, we are in the home stretch of eclipse season.  This past month has been a really tough time.  A particularly rough patch in a very difficult year.  And while we are not done yet, or rather 2020 is not yet done with us, July and August do offer a bit of a reprieve. 

First, we must pass through the final eclipse of the summer series.  A lunar eclipse, the Full Moon bears culmination, fruition and endings.  It occurs on July 4-5^th depending on your locale.  It is indeed significant for this eclipse to occur on the birthday of the USA, our Sun.  We are closing chapters on our history that are better left for the record books.  Done and gone but not forgotten.  In no nonsense Capricorn, this is one tough love Full Moon as it joins Jupiter, Pluto and Saturn in tight formation.  Opposite the Sun and Messenger Mercury in Cancer the Crab, we are pushed to get our house in order. 

A repeating, notable theme pervades July:  we are being shown exactly who we are in no uncertain terms.   The question is:  will we respond to what we see?  If so, how?

For many, this is a time of restructuring Cancerian domain:  your home, family unit, our nation, how we feed ourselves – literally, both individually and on the whole.  With our identity and will, the Sun, and our mind and thoughts, Mercury, in Cancer, we focus on everything related to how we nurture.  Opposite the planetary heavy hitters, our awareness rises:  do we nurture?   How exactly do we take care of our bodies, minds, spirits, each other?

This Lunar Full Moon Eclipse puts front and center the level of our care, compassion and concern for loved ones, our country or Mother Earth herself.  It shows with unmistakable clarity what must be addressed.  The heavy weights Jupiter-Pluto-Saturn demand we get back to basics, fundamentals and the rudimentary structures of our lives.  For the second time this year, Gigantic Jupiter joins Transformer Pluto while Saturn has returned to its home sign for one last pass.  Opposite the eclipse, the trio mandate deconstruction of old systems that no longer function and rebuilding from the rubble what will work well going forward.

If you know your astrological chart, you can see how this lunar eclipse impacts you by the house, or life sector, in which it occurs.  Remember:  eclipses are neither good nor bad, but draw into focus what demands our immediate attention.

In the days that follow, Motivating Mars joins healer Chiron in Aries, aligning to Venus in Gemini.  The troika invites us to heal our deepest wounds, including those we have carried for generations, in brand new ways.  You may opt for a brand new therapist, become involved in community activism for the first time, try alternative healing modalities such as acupuncture or Reiki.  This urge to experiment, at least one time, what you thought you never might, is exactly what we are called to do now.  In the wake of three eclipses, we cross through gateways and thresholds to new ideas, people, opportunities.  In a year of utter upheaval, this aspect affords us one of the most helpful and useful to find our way with clarity and to heal.

Then Sunday, July 12^th, what we have ALL been waiting for:  Messenger Mercury turns direct motion.  Hooray!  Anything you have put on the back burner is cosmically blessed to proceed.  Sign the documents; make the big purchases; commit to the deal, relationship or pursuit.  For the next two months, a period of clear cosmic energy graces us.  Take advantage.  If you have key decisions to make, the second half of July and all of August afford calm to move forward, claim opportunity.  These summer months are a time to invest in ourselves and all we deem worthwhile.

The days leading into the New Moon on the 20^th highlights a continuing theme of the summer eclipses.  The Sun still opposes the planetary big guns, Jupiter-Pluto-Saturn in Capricorn, testing our will, even our identity (…who we are or, who are we?) within the context of our family, profession, home, our nation.

How do we want to structure our lives, beginning with basics of self-care, such as the food we eat, the quality and type of nourishment, how often we eat…overindulgence or not enough?  Our care ripples outward – to the residence we live in, or not, as some are homeless or on the verge.  What kind of home do we live in or want to live in someday?  Our psychological roots – consider your conditioning from childhood:  can you let go of outdated belief systems or shape them to more a more relevant framework that suits you current life?  As well as stewardship for our country and Earth:  how do we revise and restructure our care for, or lack of, both of these essential homes?

The New Moon on Monday, July 20, 2020, is the second New Moon this year in Cancer the Crab.  This is highly unusual, particularly in the same sign.  Along with Messenger Mercury’s extra-long tour through this sign, Cancer dominates the early summer landscape.  In the final degrees of the water sign, the Moon, our emotions, the very essence of Cancer, pairs with the Sun, our identity as an individual and global whole; while Mars-Chiron challenging Mercury catalyzes us to heal our deepest wounds, feelings and psyche.

Cancer is ruled by the Moon, a gigantic planetary mirror reflecting the Sun’s light.  The prevalence of this water energy gives us a prolonged reflection, shown in pristine clarity exactly who we are.  As Maya Angelou said, “when people show you who they are, pay attention.”  Will you pay attention to what you see in the cosmic mirror?  Do you like what you see?  If not, will you do anything to change the image?   Jupiter-Pluto-Saturn opposing this second New Moon in Cancer gives us yet another chance to deconstruct, purge and re-order what is outdated, dysfunctional and in need of overhaul.  Beginning with our SELF.

With each of the interior planets now in direct motion through Labor Day, Venus-Mercury-Mars, take small steps toward building what you most want to be in this world, how you choose to live from day to day.  Be the change you want to see in the world – Mahatma Ghandi taught.  The rest will flow from there. 

Two days later on July 22^nd, the Sun enters festive Leo firing up our creative energy.  The Sun gradually aligns to Mars-Chiron in Aries during the remaining days of the month.  Our motivation to source new methods of healing overflow.  We may even create our own healing modalities from scratch through art, movement, sound, and more, from skills and talents we discover or recover.  Necessity is the mother of invention indeed.  What will you create?