The Sun — the fire of your Personality — can cause communication disruptions with solar flares during a Mercury Retrograde period (which we are now in)

Welcome to Friday — a powerful day. Not just because tomorrow is the weekend, and you can feel it coming on. Celestially, the Sun (Personality) is working with with the Moon (Emotions) to bring a feeling of balance. And the Moon is also working well with Mars (Initiative) to bring a certain potency to your work and relationships. That’s good — it’s been a trying week. Remember to focus carefully on how you communicate during this Mercury Retrograde period.

“Sometimes just learning something new — the learning curve — holds people back. Don’t let it.”

Did you feel like you just couldn’t find the right words in conversations, and also when writing emails this week? This happens from time to time, and there are a couple of celestial reasons why. On Thursday, the Moon (Emotions) squared off with Mercury (Communications), and we are also in a Mercury Retrograde period which throws some sand into our communication processes. Just remember that such things are often opportunities in disguise. How so? Well, editing your writing, and gathering your thoughts before speaking can really be a big help. You’ll look a lot more professional at work that way, and appear thoughtful in your personal relationships.

Remember that in a Mercury Retrograde period and you need to check and double-check your communications. Good listening skills are in order. Double-check that you have heard both your boss, and your loved ones correctly. Then use the energy you feel to make a reasoned and cautious move. Despite your perceived urgency, do not be hasty.

And on Listening Skills remember that Communications experts have found that there are always four different messages for each single communication: What the speaker intends to say, what they actually say, what you think you heard, and what you think it means. So the speaker could fail to get the point across, and you could misunderstand it. What’s the best thing to do? Check that you understood what a person wrote or said to you by asking if you heard correctly. It’s that simple.

Looking to the weekend, the celestial forecast shows the Moon (Emotions) squaring off with Jupiter (Growth), so don’t be surprised to find yourself hanging back from things that might bring growth. Ever heard of “growing pains?” Your opportunity is not to fear taking a needed step to get ahead, even if it seems like there might be some momentary aches. Sometimes just learning something new — the learning curve — holds people back. Don’t let it. The Moon is also working well today with Neptune (Spirituality) which can give you that needed boost to forge ahead. Keep it practical, though, and don’t bite off more than you can chew.

We honor those who stand for all we value.

Here’s to the blessings for, and the blessings we count as a result of all the brave men and women in our armed forces. It’s a powerful Memorial Day, celestially speaking, with a Mercury Retrograde and Neptune Retrograde kicking off your holiday. Mercury (Communication) in Retrograde makes for mischief and mistakes in correspondence, negotiations, and even face-to-face relationships. Meanwhile, Neptune (Spirituality) has a Retrograde which makes for a challenge in your belief systems. Just remember that challenges also bring opportunities. In a Mercury Retrograde the opportunity is to put off important business transactions until everything is right and double-checked — due diligence is in order. And Spiritual challenges are what builds character.

“Why block emotions? It’s human to avoid strong feelings. But only after raising them and dealing with what comes (let them teach you what you need to know)…”

Monday also sees Saturn (Practicality) squaring off with Venus (Romance) so your love vibes may have to be put on hold in favor of more pressing matters. That’s priorities for you. But you know, if there’s one thing military people understand… it’s priorities, so we can take a que from them and get things in order. And just as the pull and gravities of the great celestial planets are quite powerful, so are times and tides of our people on Earth. Memorial Day was first observed after the Civil War to honor the dead in that epic struggle.

We have two retrograde planets today, where retrograde means that they reverse their usual motion accross our sky (as it appears to us). This signal is interpreted as a period of caution when the planetary energy is in a stressful position. Reversals. Stress. Squaring off. Such is life, and such is how our lives and relationship orbits echo the forces above. And of course the harmonic periods are also ours to enjoy.

On Tuesday, the Moon (Emotion) squares off with both the Sun (Personality), and Venus (Romance), so your challenge will be to deal with your emotions which may be holding you back, or blocking where you need to go in your relationships. Why block emotions? It’s human to avoid strong feelings. But only after raising them and dealing with what comes (let them teach you what you need to know), can you get to the next phase of your life. Feel, heal, deal. And, it’s a great feeling when you make that happen.

Our Nations were formed in the heat of many battles. And our soldiers know how to stand tough, when to laugh, when to cry, and when to celebrate. We thank and pray for them, as we continue to live and grow through the tides in our own lives.

From a painting of Aquarius circa 1782

The Moon today is full of good energy for new beginnings, this has a lot to do with the New Moon that occurred earlier last week. You can really “bring it” this month. What new projects do you have to start? Is it time to take a new course of action in your career — in a relationship? There was a Solar Eclipse last week too, and that is another opportunity for you to look at things anew — as they are revealed again after being hidden during the eclipse. What will you see in a new light this week?

“February is a month to get things done, use this to get in tune with those around you so that your “team” can forge ahead.”

February looks like a busy month — a time when you can get things done… even on the weekends. How do you juggle multiple projects, deadlines, and manage to keep track of it all? Does your computer help you manage your tasks, or do you simply write a list and cross things off as they are completed? This is a good time to have a system so you can double-check — it’s a bit hectic, and communications can go awry because of the Mercury Retrograde. Just make sure you communicate with yourself well — use a daytimer, journal, or simple note system.

The Sun in Aquarius (thru. the 19th) brings a thirst for learning that can translate into innovation and creativity. You should be able to take a good look at your life, home, and surroundings and see what’s ready for a little change. On Monday (Feb. 11th), the Moon and Sun favor each other in such a way that you will feel confidence in your abilities. In fact, the Moon (emotions) also works with Mars (assertion) to boost confidence — just don’t take it too far. There’s a fine line between self confidence and an ego that’s a “legend in your own mind.” You can use this influence for strength of character as you “step up” to lead at work and home.

On Tuesday (Feb. 12th), the Moon (Emotion) forms a trine with both Saturn (Practicality), and Neptune (Compassion). This brings you down to earth as you approach business matters, and makes you open to understanding and empathy with others. Since February is a month to get things done, use this to get in tune with those around you so that your “team” can forge ahead.

This image shows the Sun as viewed by the Soft X-Ray Telescope (SXT) onboard the orbiting Yohkoh satellite.

Just in time for Super-Bowl Sunday, the Moon formed a “semi-square” position with the Sun, and this means that you could have felt one way (New York should win), and think quite another (it looks like New England will win). Looks like the emotions took that one — New York made the “upset” (an emotional term?). The same push-pull could be in affect early this week with regards to your relationships — you think everything is all right, but you’re feeling alittle uneasy about it. Remember to be careful in how you communicate, and in how you assess what you hear from others (ask questions for clarification) — it’s still a Mercury Retrograde time (until mid-February).

“Today, the Moon (emotions) is working with Uranus (Individuality) which again can move you to seek self expression, learning, and growth.”

On Monday, an interesting celestial influence is the Sun (Personality) working in conjunction with Venus (Love) to make for some good vibes and feelings — as you settle up at the office on those Bowl bets. Or maybe it has to do with a lunch with a new love interest. This is a good time to be honest about your feelings. Remember, Valentine’s Day is coming up.

The celestial influences are particularly potent this week, so expect a lot of activity (Happy Mardi Gras). Both the Sun and Mercury are in Aquarius, which makes us open to new experiences and is good for thinking outside the box. Today, the Moon (emotions) is working with Uranus (Individuality) which again can move you to seek self expression, learning, and growth. This is a good time to look into that training workshop you’ve been wanting to attend.

So emotions are high, and energy is active. Be careful how you communicate, and double check what others say to you. Use your emotions for “emotional intelligence”, but don’t let them over power you.

Mercury, captured from Mariner 7, shows a pock-marked surface, similar to our Moon.

On Monday, January 28th, Mercury went Retrograde in Libra. This is a most beautiful diplomatic placement for Retrograde because as most of you know, “Retro” means to Red-Do, or ReVisit — and for this particular Retrograde negotiations are quite favored next week. What this means for everyone is to be sure to ask for what you want, and be direct about it. You will be well respected for knowing exactly what you want, so get busy thinking about exactly what that is.

“…the eyes are known as the windows to the soul – the same soul that feels the pull of earth and of the heavens.”

Mercury Retrograde affects communications, so it’s good to remember that experts on the subject say that there are four messages given each time we communicate. What we mean to say. What we actually say. What the receiver hears us say. What the receiver (the other person in the communication) thinks it means. The last part can have a lot to do with our body language and the emotions and intonations that go along with spoken communication. And remember that Mercury in Retrograde disrupts communications, so pay special attention to the four messages, and how you can sort them out. How? Check to see if you’ve understood correctly by asking if what you think the communication means, is actually what the person speaking meant to say.

And on Wednesday, Jan. 30th, the Mars goes Direct adding its fiery passion to the mix of influences here on earth. You need to sharpen your focus on written and verbal communication in your career and personal life. What about subliminal communication? Every watch someone’s eyes carefully? They can tell you a lot. According to communication experts, blinking fast usually means a person is nervous — and peoples’ passions could be up this week. Eye contact regulates conversations, shows interest or involvement, and establishes a connection with others — in our culture. Dilated pupils indicate greater affection or attraction, while constricted pupils send a colder signal — usually a signal that your brain picks up subliminally. But you can tune in consciously and use what you see to help you understand what is being communicated. And of course, the eyes are known as the windows to the soul – the same soul that feels the pull of earth and of the heavens.

Mars coming back to “Direct” (it visually proceeds forward in its path through the skies), puts its fierce passions at work this week, and along with the Last Quarter Moon (Weds. Jan. 30th), this combination makes for a time to learn about what you truely care about. Give it some time — sleep on it. Then proceed with careful, clear communication — Mercury (Communication) in Retrograde now, means that you need to double-check the messages you are putting out. Get in touch with your feelings, get yourself together, and go forward like a skilled negotiator, to seek your opportunities.

Above, precession of the equinoxes as seen from ‘outside’ the celestial dome. Illustration by Tauʻolunga.

Did you know that the word “Astrology” is derived from two Greek words, roughly translated as “Star” and “Speak”? Well, the Stars (and Planets) do speak quite a lot about events on good old earth. Astronomers (Astronomy and Astrology used to be one field of study), look to the Stars to learn about history, geology, and make mathematical predictions about celestial events. Astrologers have developed a number of Psychological interpretations for the influence of heavenly bodies. Both believe that all things are connected. So often people turn to Astrology to learn about their own connections — relationships. And, as a framework for understanding the personality, Astrology can tell you quite a lot about yourself… and your partner.

“Your opportunities during this period are to relax, plan things out, and enjoy practices (like Yoga and Tai Chi) that build spiritual energy.”

On Nov. 15th, Mars went into retrograde — yes, Mars. Most people are used to Mercury Retrograde and know that during those times it is best to be cautious about your communications and negotiations. So what does Mars Retrograde mean? The long answer is that it means different things for different signs. A simpler way to understand it, though, is to remember that during a Retrograde things slow down, and Mars is the planet of feisty energy. Put those two things together and a lot of energy that goes into projects in general will now move slower. Moods, desires, and ambition all function on a lower level during this time (Nov. 15th thru Jan. 30th). Your opportunities during this period are to relax, plan things out, and enjoy practices (like Yoga and Tai Chi) that build spiritual energy.

Do you feel a slight depletion of energy today? That can be because Mars Retrograde — Mars is a very energetic planet. Of course there are other planetary influences at work too — Mercury is active and can bring you some stamina this weekend. Speaking of the weekend, it is a good time to relax and take it a bit slow. Do some spiritual and physical exercises. The week ahead is a busy one. Thanksgiving is ahead, and there is lots to be thankful about. Remember not to be over extravagant this week — fit things into a good plan. And, enjoy the conversations with family and friends — they are the roots in your life.

Most Astrologers, as do I, believe in a kind of Divine Government for our World, and a Map of it can be seen in the Stars. When we look at your horoscope, we see how the Stars speak about you as an individual. In the larger scheme of things, God, leads quite a celestial orchestra whose music will indeed inform you — when you listen.

From a mid-17th century Icelandic manuscript showing the 12 Houses in Astrology.

Are your days becoming more interesting? It’s the time of year when everyone is busy. The planets are in some interesting configurations — Mercury coming out of Retrograde, while Mars is showing and preparing to go into Retrograde. This means it’s still good to proceed with caution on important negotiations. Remember during this busy season to look at things with logic and take the time to get at deeper meanings in your communication.

“…we look in your “Fourth House,” to learn about your home and family influences, we look in your “Tenth House,” to see where your ambition might lead…”

How are your relationships going? One revealing area of Astrology lies in the interpretation of your “houses”, and those of your loved ones. If you’ve ever looked at an actual horoscope chart, you may have noticed it is divided up into 12 sections of a large circle. These section are your “houses”, and each one relates to a different part of your life. And what planets fall in a particular house determines how you are influenced in that area. For example, a planet, or planets, in your 7th House will have a major influence on your relationships, marriage, and business partnerships.

Most folks seem to know about their Sun Sign, since it’s pretty easy to determine based on the date you were born. But there are some things that are even more important than Sun Signs, and those aspects depend on your time and place of birth. For example, we look in your “Fourth House,” to learn about your home and family influences, we look in your “Tenth House,” to see where your ambition might lead, and we look in your “Third House” to get an idea of how you communicate with those around you. This can be helpful for introspection, and also to learn more about what makes loved ones “tick.” There are 12 houses each pertaining to a different aspect of the personality. These can be helpful in understanding your own questions about yourself, and questions you have about others.

The houses are determined by dividing the path the Sun takes at your time and place of birth, across the sky, into 12 segments. They are numbered counter-clockwise from the eastern horizon. There are actually different systems to determine “Houses” used by Astrologers around the world. In the West, most use that which was brought out by the Babylonians.

Below is a simple list of the 12 houses of Western Astrology with their Latin name, Ruling Sign, and a brief statement of their influence.

1. 1st House- Vita (Aries) : The self, ego, beginnings.
2. 2nd House – Lucrum (Taurus) : Money, values, priorities.
3. 3rd House – Fratres (Gemini): Communications, siblings, neighbors.
4. 4th House – Genitor (Cancer): Family, caring, imagination.
5. 5th House – Nati (Leo): Leisure, holidays, creativity.
6. 6th House – Valentudo (Virgo): Employer, work, duties.
7. 7th House – Uxor (Libra): Marriage, partnerships. negotiations.
8. 8th House Mors – (Scorpio): Birth, death, relationships, self-transformation.
9. 9th House – Iter (Sagittarus): Religion, education, freedom.
10. 10th House – Regnum (Capricorn): Status, ambition, celebrity.
11. 11th House – Benefacta (Aquarius): Friendships, clubs and societies.
12. 12th House – Carcer (Pisces): Retreat, reflection, sacrifice.

NOTE: Remember, that in your horoscope, the planet(s) falling in each house also impact the meaning — making your horoscope as unique as your own individuality.

Welcome to November — it should be an energetic month. Mercury will come back “direct” next week… but go slow now, and double-check your communications until that time. Mars is active this month, and should bring some welcome energy this first weekend — get some chores done… the holidays are coming. That’s because about mid-month, peppy Mars will go retrograde… and that would be a good time to take a “time out,” before Thanksgiving. We’re also under the influence of Scorpio — a sign that looks into life issues for deep meanings. Don’t be afraid of that — life is enjoyable on the surface… and also when you plumb its mysteries.

“When all around you seems chaotic, your advantage will be the ability to sort things out.”

The first weekend of november is full of energy and fun — enjoy it. In the next week ahead (beginning Nov. 5), Venus interacting with Pluto brings an opportunity to examine any difficulties there are in our relationships. We are also under a Scorpio influence, and that means you can enrich your relationship by going beyond the surface concerns to address deeper feelings. When all around you seems chaotic, your advantage will be the ability to sort things out. If you step back and think a bit, you can always apply some logic to bring order to your life, and a richer understanding of your important relationships.

Life is about choices. In Astrology, we believe that the tug and pull of the planets can influence your choices, just as the Moon determines the tides of the ocean. Albeit the ebb and flow of the ocean tides may be determined by the phases of the moon, there is a lot more going on out there in the ocean than what is determined by the moon, independent of the moon’s influence. So, it’s important to note that I do not mean that your choices in life are controlled, or predetermined. It’s amazing to me how many times I get a client who calls, believing that I will predict your future, or that Astrology will tell you whom you’re going to go out with on Saturday nite! Only GOD knows for sure, exactly what is going to happen tomorrow, and the day after that, and two years down the road. And nothing else in this universe, not me, not Astrology, nor anything else here on this planet, no other form of divination, etc., is going to get in the way of Human free will—- YOUR DECISION or CHOICE TO ACT—- Okay! Of course, GOD can, of course. But then again, should He choose to do so, then He would be honoring His word of giving us FREE WILL, now would He? And GOD always tells the truth, and honors His Word.

Now this is what I can do and what Astrology does offer. We, as Astrology counselors, because Astrology was our first psychology, look at patterns of a ‘whole person’ in their birth chart based on a 12 house system. It’s an esoteric blueprint of their personality, a picture of the sky taken at their birth, and this picture can give an overall metaphoric view of who they are and what challenges they may face emotionally, as they grow. Just like psychologists look at patterns of behavior in a human and charts that behavior over a period of time for consistency and/or inconsistency, we astrologers look at energies, influences, and patterns in a person’s natal chart.

We are able to chart their life, lifestyle, relationships, and the like thru the chart, figuratively. Then using calculations, and process of elimination, using independent, specific & global research, offer advice on a given particular subject matter, whether it’s relationship, finance, career, family, health, personal, education, etc.

Just remember folks, that your choices and decisions are always your own, and the chart doesn’t ‘RULE YOU’… you RULE your chart! The chart can be a guide, if you will, to help you identify where you can see a potential burden or conflict or challenge, therefore, allowing you to ‘free yourself’ and more on to more solid, stable, safe, and prosperous ground!~

What’s Merc. Retrograde All About?

Mercury from NASA Mariner 10 Mission.

We’re in a Mercury Retrograde period, right now (Oct. 12 – Nov. 1) and most followers of Astrology know what to look out for — communication errors, hold off on the big decisions, don’t sign important papers, etc. But are there some things that are GOOD to do during this time? Of course. Interesting enough, just like “Retrograde” begins with an “R”, many of the things that are good to do during Merc. Retrograde begin with an “R”: re-doing, revising, rehearsal, reflection. This is also a good time to reconnect with people from your past.

“Just remember to take time and slow down, and recheck your communication and your thinking in important matters.”

Since Mercury is influential right now (it’s in “Retrograde” — the perceived backward motion of the planet), we can take a look at what it means in our lives. Have you received any important messages recently? Mercury in mythology was the messenger of the Gods, and during retrograde it’s important to remember that messages can get mixed up. So while it’s possible you’ve received an important communication — proceed with caution. Mercury also governs thinking patterns, reasoning, and principles of communication. Pay attention to those at this time. One possibility for you is that now can be a good time to examine continuing education — formally with schooling, or perhaps just a trip to a bookstore to read up on your favorite subjects.

Have you had any personal misunderstandings with loved ones, or work associates lately? That can be another affect of the Mercury Retrograde (Oct. 12th – Nov. 17th). Of course Mercury affects different people differently, since it appears in different places in their charts. Just remember to take time and slow down, and recheck your communication and your thinking in important matters. Sleep on the matter, and you will find that given reflection, you can turn your misunderstandings into positive growth.