Harvest Moon: Fruits of Our Labors

Movement  on the Horizon                                                                          Catherine Al-Meten
Alderbrook                                                                                                                                  2012

Shine on Harvest Moon, September 29, 2012 Full Moon in Aries! Also called the Hunter’s Moon. At 8:29 P.M. PDT, the Full Moon peaks this month. (For those who may have read this earlier, of course this article refers to the September not the July Full Moon. Tells you where my brain was traveling. Thanks Michelle Guthrie for catching the error of my ways!).The Full Harvest Moon will shine from dawn until dusk for several nights before and after the 29th. You see that the Full Moon will appear to be larger and rounder than usual. Normally, a full moon rises about 50 minutes later each day, but due to the position of the Earth and the Moon’s orbital path, the Moon will rise 30 minutes earlier each night for several days prior to and following its peak on Saturday/Sunday nights.  

According to EarthSky, “the orange color of a moon near the horizon is a true physical effect. It stems from the fact that – when you look toward the horizon – you are looking through a greater thickness of Earth’s atmosphere than when you gaze up and overhead. The atmosphere scatters blue light – that’s why the sky looks blue. The greater thickness of atmosphere in the direction of a horizon scatters blue light most effectively, but it lets red light pass through to your eyes. So a moon near the horizon takes on a yellow or orange or reddish hue.,,,The bigger-than-usual size of a moon seen near the horizon is something else entirely. It’s a trick that your eyes are playing – an illusion – called the Moon Illusion. You can lengthy explanations of the Moon Illusion by googling those words yourself.”

Inspired by the work of Welsh seer, John Thomas with astrological symbols in the late 1800s, Mark Jones and Elsie Wheeler designed the Sabian Symbols. Used to describe each of the 360 degrees of the astrological cycles, the Sabian Symbols were inspired by Elsie Wheelers spiritual visions. Over a period of three decades, Mark Jones developed the Sabian Symbols to be  “a fascinating, powerful and useful set of images for  astrologers and non-astrologers alike."

The Sabian Symbol for Full Moon in 7 degree of Aries describes  “A woman’s hat with streamers blown by the east wind”. The East Wind is the archetype of the Divine bringing in change, sweeping across the plains, or in the case of where I am, down the river valley to the sea. The Full Moon also comes during and highlights the shadow period for Saturn’s final days in Libra. This is a time when we still have the opportunity to make straight the paths of love, come to greater wholeness within, and clarifying and defining how it is we choose to enter into relationships, partnerships, and marriages. 

Whatever we choose now, will be with us for the foreseeable future, so it is imperative that we choose wisely, acting out of truth and intention based on our true desires. With the Full Moon in Aries and Uranus in 6 degrees of Aries as well, the Sabian Symbol for 6 degrees, “a man succeeds in expressing himself simultaneously in two realms,” both symbols indicate an exchange of messages, communication, inspiration, and sweeping changes, sure to stimulate the transformational nature of this time. 

In the last days of Saturn’s foray through Libra, we are reminded of the inner and outer conflicts that come about when we are in need of both awareness of the ambiguities and polarities that remain in place in and around us, and practices that help us cope and intentionally focus ourselves on change that is required for harmony. Any aspect of our life that still requires awareness, adjustments, or coming to peace with what choices we have made, now shakes us up.

This Harvest Moon, in the sign of Aries, is at 7 degrees at its peak. The Moon activates the Uranus (also in early degrees of Aries) and Pluto (Capricorn). The Libra Sun in opposition to the Moon in Aries,  indicates a time of fulfillment, culmination, and completion. Much has been made about the nature of this very potent and energetic Full Moon with its striking aspects to Uranus, Pluto, and Saturn. Because of some of the dire warnings that I’ve read lately about this Full Moon, I feel compelled  encourage  readers to remember that astrological energy, aspects, trends, and movement simply provide the backdrop for how we choose to respond to life. We are in no way destined by the stars, planets, or other heavenly bodies to do,  be, or experience anything. 

Astrology  offers a framework and some guideposts for navigating through certain areas and stages of our lives and development.  You know what needs tending in your garden. It’s just more difficult to ignore it now. Expecting disaster to strike is a misuse of the opportunities inherent in using the energy of this power lunar and these planetary transits to work a little magic in our lives. We discover we can slay our own dragons and claim the power of our own being to meet challenges, face fears, and act boldly for o ur highest good and well being. 

What is probably most off-putting about this particular Full Moon energy is its  fiery and unpredictable nature. Whatever we have hesitated to address and whatever areas require change, alterations, or breaking of old habits, now could potentially  jolt us out of complacency or avoidance.  Whatever subconscious messages have been  too-long unheeded, whatever wounds have been too-long untended, whatever needs healing in ourselves or our relationships,  need to be faced now. If you or someone you love is still lashing out at “fate,” you, or others as a response to the inequity or pain of life, will now have the opportunity and indeed, the direct experience of coming up against the inner challenges, struggles, growing edges of growth, or pain.  Whatever remains suppressed, hidden, or allowed to fester, will manifest now. 

The Uranus square to Pluto is hitting the planets that connect us to our sexual energy: Venus and Mars, and if you recall those times in childhood and early adolescence when unexpressed sexual energy came out in some pretty unusual ways (girls chasing boys into bathrooms, and vice versa, pulling someone’s hair or acting out in inappropriate ways). We’re reminded that repressed energy of any kind, tends to make its appearance in shocking and sometimes unhealthy and aggressive ways.  Keep this in mind when experiencing and observing the behavior of some of those around you. Notice where the source of your own discomfort may be coming from, and use your spiritual and religious practices to direct your energy more intentionally into some form of creative or helpful activity or action. This is called sublimation: put that energy to work on something constructive, or channel the energy into a different direction if it’s aimed at you, deflecting it into more useful, less abrasive channels.

The Sabian symbol for this Full Moon is “A woman’s hat with streamers blown by the east wind”. The east wind is the archetypal messenger of Divinely mandated change, sweeping into our lives and catching us up in the momentum needed to bring about movement and direction. There is a need to adapt to outside forces and shifts of attitudes may be needed. So let spirit guide you and allow these profound Uranus square Pluto changes allow you to discover your ability to bend, become more flexible, and receptive to living more mindfully. Stand with an awareness of of the shifting patterns, movement, and changes, grounded yet able to ride out the storms.  Any attitude, belief, pattern of behavior, or focus that is based in rigid judgement or intolerance, will not stand now. Having awakened to your deepest desires, be receptive to how your dreams, prayers, and intentions now manifest.  Once you know have set your intentions, based on a true and honest understanding of what you desire, be then ready to receive answers, opportunities, gifts, and direction as they appear, not as you think they should appear or be.  This whole last few months has been full of movement, energy, and awakenings that have prepared us for the deeper development and changes ahead. This is the time to rest in motion; being ever mindful and present to how your life is reflecting and revealing the path before you. 

This Full Moon is in direct alignment with the Sun at 7 degrees of Aries, and with the Uranus in 6 degrees. Uranus the archetype of change and sudden insights and transformation, the Sun and the Moon, are all in cardinal signs, and are all aspecting Pluto, the Great Transformer, signaling, without a doubt, initiations and new beginnings. The message indicates  that change will now be the result of whatever is ready to explode through the surface, from the subconscious or unconscious (unknown, unaddressed, and suppressed energy). Depending upon where  the Pluto/Uranus square is happening, the Moon and Sun are transiting, and Saturn is completing its journey, are the areas of your life that will now be most activated. This should be clear to you already; it’s not a surprise where it is happening. What might be a surprise, is how new opportunities will open, how old issues will be resolved, and how surprising it may be to see the fruits of the hard work we have been involved in.  The best advice I can give anyone, is spend the next week or two living in mindful presence, surrendering your will to being receptive to Divine order unfolding in every area  of your life. Be aware of the voices speaking now and the movements taking place.  

Standing at the Gateway: Equinox and Saturn's Final Days in Libra

Between the Voyages                                                                                    Catherine Al-Meten        
                                                                                                       Astoria, Oregon 2012

Moments of great transformation are times when we find ourselves at points of passage, or thresholds. Not yet quite ready to enter into the fullness of a new journey or life, we wait by the gateway preparing, pondering, and wondering what awaits us, what should we be doing to better prepare, or any number of "what ifs..."  This period of time, between late September and early October, 2012, is just such a time.  

When the earth seems to be shifting beneath our feet, or when we are waiting for changes that we feel need to come to happen, we may find ourselves in a holding pattern. Not yet released from the past, not yet moving forward, and more and more arising that challenges us to either release and let go. The challenge of threshold times is knowing what to do during the waiting stages. These are times when our dreams and lives might mirror one another more closely...calling us to awaken to the intuitive knowledge we possess, if only we pay attention and consider how our lives are like the archetypal images that arise in our dreams.  At times, our bodies might speak loudly, signaling through dis-ease, stress, pain, or weakness. Our memories might bring to mind that which needs healing or releasing. In any event, whatever our present circumstances, we are in the middle of completing some major cycles of transformation and we are already in the process of some new ones.  Such in our experience as humans living through the lifecycle. The need we have, to find connection, meaning, and purpose, is one thing we share with one another, and is one of the gifts we have for supporting ourselves and others in living more fulfilling lives. Wherever we are on a journey, there are some points where we all move together through experiences, times, events, and stages---developing and creating life together in the ongoing process of Creation. What we create together will be determined by our individual intentions and actions, and those of all.  We have the choice. Now is the time to seek clarity, understanding, and wisdom.

The third week of September has been a power-packed week astrologically. Last Saturday’s New Moon in Virgo, followed by Pluto’s direct station in Capricorn, have made for some heavy, earth-centered energy.  On September 20 Mercury in Libra opposes Uranus in Aries and squares Pluto.  As we in the Northern Hemisphere watch the Sun appear to move further and further south each day, while in the Southern Hemisphere, the opposite is happening. We are all riding the waves of change, and with Saturn’s passage through the final degrees of Libra (due to leave Oct. 5-6), it may feel as if our ambitions, dreams, goals, and changes require still more clearing, purifying, and refining. Whatever we have set into motion with our intentions, are well on their way to starting to manifest.  The choices we make now must be rooted in beliefs, experiences, goals, and relationships that support, affirm, and emerge from the truth of our own being and our connection with the Divine. Defining for ourselves, what is true, right, and in alignment with our soul call, is crucial.  Rest in assurance that whatever you have been learning, gleaning, creating, and refining in your life are preparing you for the future. Remain receptive and flexible, but do not doubt that you know better than anyone else, what you truly desire and what is good for you or not.

The Earth in its  orbit around the Sun tilts on its axis by 23 1/2  degrees. The Earth’s Northern and Southern Hemispheres trade places twice a year at the Vernal/Spring and Autumnal equinoxes. On those days, the earth receives nearly equal hours of daylight and night everywhere on the planet. On the equinox, “the Earth’s axis and orbit align in such a way that the axis is pointing neither away nor toward the Sun.”

This September 23, 2012, the Autumnal Equinox brings us to the time of the year when cultures worldwide have historically celebrated the end of Summer and the start of Autumn. A time when gratitude is given for the harvests and blessings of the year, and a time when we seek to rebalance and harmonize our personal energies, the Equinox marks the passage of the Sun into the constellation of Libra. At 2:49 P.M UTC on Saturday, September 22, 2012 (7:49 A.M. PDT), the September Equinox takes place.

The passage of the Sun through Libra marks a time when we are seeking harmony within ourselves and within our relationships. We want to be aware that appearances may be deceiving, and as the Sun in Libra comes into alignment next week with the Uranus/Pluto square, we are best prepared if we understand and commit to knowing how to make compromises, to come to decisions by consensus, and by conducting ourselves with the utmost in poise, aplomb, and tact.  “We catch more flies with honey than we do with vinegar,” so the expression goes, and regardless how “right” we are, we need to be respectful and diplomatic in all our dealings.

For the remaining two and a half weeks as Saturn completes its last days in Libra, continue preparing for the new leg of the journey. Imagine you are going on a long trip or moving to a new home. Get ready! 

Clear out space in your life. Let go of whatever you no longer need or use. Continue clearing out closets, drawers, rooms, purses, cars, and any space that is still full of clutter. Recycle and release whatever is no longer serving a purpose or filling a need in your life. Create some new habits for taking better care of yourself. Spend 5-10 minutes a day in meditation and prayer, take a walk with the intention of making it part of your routine, and replace one negative habit with one positive one (for example, stop the Taco Bell stops and head for the Farmer’s Market instead). Take a nap or go to bed a bit earlier. Imagine that the shifts of consciousness and energy is like a marathon race, giving birth, or completing the final leg of a long hike or climb up a mountain.  Conserve your strength, nourish and hydrate your body, breathe and relax into the movement, and continue to release and let go on all levels of your being. Practice mindfulness and presence, dealing with life where you are right now. 

Between now and October 6, continue to be receptive. Release negative thoughts that block your receiving your good. Get out of your own way, and receive, on all levels of your being, that which will support your highest good, excellent health and happiness. Receive your good, practice forgiveness (of yourself and others) and gratitude. Live in the constant state of letting life unfold with the perfect trust that you being you is good enough, and that you are perfect where you are right now. Practice allowing life to flow, in and out, without your pushing the tide and trying so hard to make things happen.  Observe what is flowing in  and flowing out, what is surrounding you and what is creating space and room for you to breathe and be.  

When sailors are at sea on stormy waters, there comes a time when after all the hatches have been battened down, the sails rigged, and all that can be done has been done, the sailor has to trust that the boat is seaworthy enough to weather the storm. At that point, the sailor seeks shelter and waits out the storm. In the time of waiting, be at peace with yourself and the world. Trust that the storms will pass, the seas will calm, and the clouds will clear for another day, another journey, another opportunity to live, give, and receive the bounty life has to offer. 

Pluto Turns Direct in Capricorn: Transformation Moving Forward

Path Less Taken                                                                                                                Catherine Al-Meten
                                                                                                                                                Alderbrook, 2012        

Since November, 2008 Pluto, the Great Transformer, has been working its way through the early degrees of Capricorn (0-8). During this time, Pluto has reversed motion several times, forcing us to rethink, reevaluate, or restructure some area of our lives.  On September 17, Pluto turns direct once again.  Pluto has been awakening us areas of our lives that need to be changed, and have stripped us of whatever is keeping us from making those changes. It’s been, “Change or be changed,” as we can see on the world’s stage, and as we have been experiencing in our personal lives.  Much of the change that has taken place is internal...the awakening process that creates inner urges, discomfort, dreams, emotional, mental, and physical upset of one kind or another, all calling our attention to what must change in our perceptions, actions, and choices.  

Once Pluto moves direct, and almost immediately forms a square with Uranus in Aries later this week, the change we have been working towards or resisting (as the case may be), will manifest in the world around us---as events, conditions, activities, or movement reflect the movement that has been set into motion.  

Pluto rules the unconscious, suppressed emotions, transformative movement, and deep-seated desires. During the retrograde phase, most of the discomfort and churning has taken place internally, on the unconscious and subconscious levels of our being. With Pluto direct, much of the pressure is released, allowing us clearer perception and the ability to articulate what it is we need, desire, and want to change and transform. 

We are challenged at this time, to transform the way we express and cope with the intense upheaval caused by the massive changes taking place. The square aspect with Uranus in Aries has been manifesting as outbursts of anger, violence, and ongoing anxiety and edginess that keeps us individually and collectively feeling uneasy, unsettled, and on the edge of our seats. Without really understanding or being able to articulate what it is that is really bothering us, we have tended to either react by acting out or striking out at others or by responding to the inner need we have to grow, change, and adapt to life using new skills and inner wisdom.

Pluto’s transformative nature may be understood as the shadow part of our nature...the unexplored, untested, suppressed, hidden, and undeveloped parts of our subconscious and unconscious. Pluto’s real message calls for spiritual growth, maturity, and evolution. By understanding and facing the shadow aspects of ourselves, we are able to truly make progress in our soul development.

Pluto’s journey through Capricorn, lasts for at least 10 more years. During this time, we have the power within us to face our fears, accept our gifts,  become aware of our shadow, and take action to change our negative beliefs and addictive patterns of behavior. Whatever area of your life Pluto’s transit is working its way through, has already been stripped of some of what had become stagnant, turned into deep-seated issues  requiring attention, or had disappeared as aspects of immediate importance and attention in our lives (jobs lost or left, people leaving our lives, loss of relationships and/or major transformations within any relationship, drama around areas that need change thereby forcing the issue into the open). However Pluto has been and will be affecting our lives, this is a generational influence that affects everyone for an extended period of time. Whatever we undertake individually and together, will have long-lasting effects and repercussions. 

Pluto rules institutions, government and organizational structure, the handling of economies and resources, and all that links us together.  Any corruption, dishonesty, toxic waste, or hidden agendas that harm the good of all for the sake of a few, will continue to come under the scrutiny and attack. What is crucial at this point, the initial stages of this transformation, is how we go about making necessary changes, adjustments, and reform as well as how and what we choose to help build new ways of managing, governing, structuring, and living in the world.  During times of great transformation, there are different ideas about how change should take place.  It is not so much a matter of who has it right and who has it wrong, as it is a matter of very different ways of envisioning what is best for humankind, the Earth, and the good of all. Too much self interest will be destructive regardless of what your view is.  Too little concern for what is needed by all members of each society, will also result in disruptive and chaotic break down.  Pluto is slow-moving, and in our times of rapid communication and fast action on every front, seems to run counter to how decisions are currently being made. 

We seem to be reacting to events after problems have “left the barn.”  We fight fire with fire, rather than looking for alternative ways of dealing with crises, problems, and events. What Pluto asks us to do as we move through transformation is to increase the use of  reflective thought, critical evaluation (not criticism but honest and clear appraisal), listening and actually making an effort to understand differing views and opinions, and working together to find  mutually-workable solutions to major problems and issues.  We can no longer afford to view the world as “Us vs. Them.”  That does not mean we all agree or even like one another, but we’re all in this life together, and we must continue to find ways of coming to consensus so that we can preserve, heal, solve, cure, and build better ways of life for the generations to come. 

If facing the world and the crises we are in is a bit too much for a Monday morning for you, consider your own life. How have you been meeting the transformative changes that have been taking place in your life since 2008? What has been going on in your life, and what are you being forced to pay attention to at this time in your life? What is crying out for healing, help, or adjustment? What has been working? What has not been working?  If your health is breaking down, your finances are falling apart, your relationships are disappearing or ending, what are you learning about yourself in the process? We can embrace the benefits of change in our lives if we recognize them as part of soul growth and spiritual development. As human beings we are spiritual beings taking a physical journey, and that means we have to be able to deal with the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual dimensions of our growth and maturity. 

The use of astrological information is useful if we use what we learn to appreciate the changes as part of our development. What are the gifts in the rubble of transformation? The gifts are building material for a new life, a new path, a new way of walking your journey and of meeting the challenges and opportunities that lay before you.  We often move through life as if all that happens depends on what we do, think, or have. 

Pluto's main transformative lesson may be just this. We are part of the ongoing creation of life, continually manifesting, transforming, building, and recreating. We each have unique gifts, talents, skills, and purpose. Pluto is calling us, on some deep soul level to allow ourselves to live out that purpose, and to rely on the guidance, support, affirmation, and wisdom of the Divine as well as depending upon the limited knowledge of our own minds and lives.  We see but a small part of the whole; allow yourself to be divinely guided in the way you live your life. Remain receptive to what gifts are coming your way through the divinely inspired transformation taking place within you, within your life, and within the lives of all. We are part of the ongoing creative process that is evident in the power, majesty, and beauty of the Universe. 

Virgo New Moon: Tending the Temple of Our Being

September’s New Moon in Virgo, in exact conjunction with the Sun in Virgo at 23 degrees and in close conjunction with Mercury in Virgo (20 degrees), reaches its peak on September 15-16 (11:11 P.M.PDT 9/15;2:11 A.M. EDT 9/16).  With the New Moon in Virgo nearing the completion of this year’s Virgo cycle, the impact of this new moon awakens the critic within and calls into play the critical eye of the observer. We find the flies in the ointment and set forth to find remedies and cures for whatever needs to be eliminated in order to bring goals, projects, creations, and all manner of activities and relationships to the fullness of perfection.  

Coming as it does during the time when Saturn is making its way through the final degrees of Libra (a four and a half year journey), this new moon is not only an excellent time to set intentions for new  and/or improved directions and pathways, but also for doing the final clearing of anything that stands in the way of progress in whatever journey you have begun or are considering. 

Virgo, the archetype of the Vestal Virgin represents that aspect of ourselves that stands as the guardian of our own temple (body, mind, spirit, soul) and readies us on all levels for the Divine calling that is constantly awakening and calling us on.   It’s a time for improving our skills, redefining our paths, enhancing our health, organizing our lives, clearing out the clutter that blocks our way. It is a time to cultivate a healthy and balanced way of living, of increasing our ability to live with intention, and of expressing more beauty and creative expression in all areas of our lives. The old expression, “It’s not what you say but the way that you say it,” speaks volumes for Virgo who demand a standard of beauty, intention, and truth to anything they value. For each of us, Virgo rules a different area of our lives, so this New Moon, Sun, and Mercury conjunction in the latter degrees of this house (wherever it lands in your life) will vibrate strongly with a demand for exquisite care and attention to the details and expression, both of themselves and of others.  Attention to detail, demand for congruity between what you say and what you do, and developing the highest level of skill, knowledge, and artistic expression are what is called for in some area of your life.  Notice where Virgo is, and you will have a clearer understanding of how you might be using this energy to shape and support your life and the relationships in which you are involved. 

Virgo represents the power of the feminine within/Divine Feminine/Shekhinah, the Divine Face of God.  The Divine Feminine is the feminine aspect of the Creative Spirit, who along with the Divine Masculine, form balance, wholeness, and unity within us and within the world. When the balance is off, as it appears to be in the World today, the acting out by the too-heavily weighted energy of the overdeveloped masculine, erupts into the most explosive and destructive forms of expression. Whenever there is disharmony on nature, we find a split, rupture, and falling away of structures that can no longer support life. Human relationships also become too heavily weighted on one side or another, and can no longer support balanced life. Rather than reacting to the violence with violence, anger, fear, or hatred, we must allow the Divine Feminine, the Shekhinah, the spirit of the Divine to well up from within us and to counter the negative expressions with loving kindness, healing prayers and energy, understanding and a steadfast observance of the principles of Divine Love. Love is reflected in Love. 

Much healing needs to take place in our lives. To heal and to find how our healing is to come, we look to the  North Node in Scorpio, Juno’s (asteroid) position  in Scorpio, Uranus in Aries (early degrees) all signaling the beginning of a major life journey and a new way of living. We find ourselves at the shifting point where we need to see  and experience a deep shift in our attitudes about supporting, uniting, and caring for others. 

Virgo, the feminine archetype of purity, calls us to examine our motives and intentions, and act from a pure heart. We purify our hearts as a result of purifying our bodies, minds, emotions, and minds. As part of our New Moon intentions, we might include practices that enhance, help harmonize, and deepen our body, mind, spirit connections and health/balance. 

As this new moon in Virgo, conjoins Mercury and  the Sun  in Virgo., we are getting a heavy dose of energy pushing us to examine, modify, and develop whatever tools we will need personally to deal with what is to come.  Over this weekend, the effects of the new moon, Sun, and Mercury in Virgo are reaching their peak. Pay attention to whatever comes about, either rising from the subconscious, from dreams, from communication or lack of it, and in relationships and the signs from the world about you. 

By September 20, Mercury moves into Libra, calling us to envision new ways to meet challenges. Mercury will oppose Uranus in Aries, challenging us to combine both logic and intuition with insight of ideas outside the realm of the familiar. We need to work on raising our vibrations, personally, and by sending our prayers, chants, meditations, intentions, and visualizing peace and love in all the situations, conditions, and people who need support, healing, and love. Through our actions, service, choices, and decisions, we help in the ongoing creation of the world we live in. We cannot fix anything if we have not worked on purifying, refining, and developing a deep, authentic, and honest sense of ourselves, our limits, boundaries, gifts, desires, and needs.  We cannot afford a sense of false modesty, for all that we are, all that we have to give, is needed now for healing--of ourselves and of others, of conditions and challenges, and for the protection and conservation of our planet and her resources. We do this for the generations to come, and we do this together.

Understanding the planetary conditions and the astrological aspects and trends, are tools we have to help ourselves meet the challenges of our lives, personally and together. What is required is that we consciously, intentionally take responsibility for our own evolutionary development as  human beings.  As we become more active participants in the collective development of our social consciousness, we also grow individually. For those who have poured themselves into caring for others, now is the time to regenerate, nourish, and restore a sense of wholeness within so that we have something more to give. When we are depleted, we have nothing to offer.   We are responsible for building and creating the world in which we live.  Before the Sun leaves Virgo, we will experience the answer as to whether we are going to ride the wave developing and surging forward, or be swept away by it.  Before the end of the weekend, the Moon will enter Libra, followed by Mercury, and then later in the week, the Sun. We are faced with the challenges, and we are also nourished and supported by strength, abundance, and gifts that can carry us through even the most difficult times. 

On September 17,  Pluto turns direct in Capricorn, increasing its impact and force. September 19 the second of seven exact squares with Uranus creates another in a series of  turning points and crises that will  challenge us to change or be changed. Questions we need to ask about our individual and collective destiny, have to do with deciding how to move forward into the unfamiliar. We are heading out on a path that has no precedent in the lives we have lived, many of the beliefs we have held dear, and most of the institutions, structures, and societal expectations we have grown up and older in.  This goes for people everywhere on the planet.  There is a grassroots uprising taking place that is in direct response to the failing and ineffectual systems that have brought us to our knees economically, morally, ethically, socially, and spiritually.  Our actions from this point on must be made with an understanding that a warlike stance against anyone, any group, or any ideal will no longer benefit us as a whole or as individuals. We are part of the One Divine, and unity comes in that knowledge and in living as if we understood, believed, and had faith in ourselves to live from pure and just motives, regardless of what appearances may represent. We must not be swayed by false images, dishonest claims and representation that are meant to motivate by fear, ignorance, or anger.  

This is truly the time to plant seeds, both literally and figuratively, in the rich soil of our times as a means of insuring we have contributed to healthy, healing, love-based actions, thoughts, and intentions.

The Sabian symbol for the New Moon at 24 degrees (because the moon is in the later part of 23, we round up to 24) of Virgo is “Mary has a little lamb.”  Mary is the aspect of the Divine Feminine, the essential purity of human nature that radiates light, love, and truth from the Divine Essence of All Being, Creator Spirit.  The New Moon and Sun in the center of Virgo at 23/53 degrees, reminds us of the symbolic  Vestal Virgins who guarded the Temple’s Eternal Flame. This represents our inner essence and truth, that we guard through living intentionally, with a pure heart, and honest motive.  Vesta, the asteroid that is at 21 degrees of Gemini,  squares the Sun and the Moon indicating that we act instinctively and intentionally, as we seek to maintain freedom. Those who guard the Temple’s flame, however, are held by a sense of duty and obligation, to live out their soul purpose in order to ensure the freedom of others.

As usual, Uranus, the planet of sudden, unexpected, and enlightening acts, information, and insight, provide the energy and awakening through sudden, shocking, and powerful new ways of perceiving and experiencing the light of the world--knowledge, truth, and love. Clinging to only what our minds can understand, we are being tempered like gold in fire, to experience deeper knowledge and understanding. Wherever we are, whatever we are doing, we are being called to become more mindful to who we are, what gifts, talents, and skills we have, and what is being called to be attended to right where we are.  

Saturn at 27 degrees of Libra trines Ceres at 27 degrees of Gemini, like the archetypal universal parents, call us to build peace, ordering our world like  wind sweeping across a desert, carrying anything that is not grounded and connected away.  When Mercury (representing the mind, beliefs, communication) reaches 28 degrees of Virgo, anything we have clung to or not found based in reality or Divine truth, will be discarded, ground to dust, and used to create new forms.

According to Stephanie Azaria, of the Cosmic Path, 

“MercuryAt 23 degrees Virgo is the galactic cluster known as Coma Berenices. Berenice was Queen of Egypt and in 243 B.C. wagered her long locks with the gods in order to preserve her dear husband during a time of war. He survived and the locks were shorn and placed in a temple to honor the gods and their favor. The locks became symbolic of this cluster of stars that previously had been the tuft of the Lion’s tail. The lion is associated with pride and the attachment we have to our hair is also considered to be prideful partiality. Implied in the conjunction of this star cluster to this New Moon is a diminishing of our pride or ego. We do not need to concern our selves with how this will happen. After all with any of this there is no effort required. But if you find yourself suddenly less aware of those things that you were once attached to such as what other people think of you or how you look, do not start searching for it. It is not something you will miss.”

This morning, as I walked out to the river, I saw that the tide was out, pulling the waters of the river, by the force of the nearby ocean way out beyond the shore. The energy of the gravitational moon exerts a definite force on us and affects our lives, our health, and our sense of balance and harmony. Anyone who has ever lived near a tidal river or on the ocean knows better than to go walking along the beach without first checking to see when the tides go in and out. Sailors and fishermen/women chart their courses keeping in mind the rhythms of the sea, the placement of the planets and stars, and the phase of the moon.  

We are affected by the energy and momentum of Galaxy and Universe in which we live. We can use the tools that teach us about trends and movement, and we can allow them to be like maps to help guide us around obstacles, through challenging stages, and into open seas and smooth sailing. We can make choices, and develop our capacity to respond to the rhythms of life, or we can stubbornly cling to ego-driven beliefs that limit our thinking, understanding, and perceptions of the world we are co-creating with our Divine Creator. We are light energy, each reflections of that Divine Spark, and we are called to express ourselves on the path we walk, loving, serving, and creating. Set your compass tonight, and breathe in the gift of life with awareness for how fortunate we are to be here together, at this time. Let us build peace, act from love, and create beauty in our lives and the lives of others. 

Dark of the Moon, Completing a Lunar Month

On Saturday, September 8, we experienced the Last Quarter Lunar Square to the Sun in Virgo (ouch I felt it!). Last Quarter Square signals some kind of crisis. Pay attention to what is screaming at you (body, mind, spirit) from the mundane to the sacred, to see what you ought not  be missing. The Moon was  in Gemini (20/19)  this weekend, and will be moving through Cancer and Leo before the New Moon in Virgo next weekend. The square on Saturday, September 8 hit between 14-18 degrees of all mutable sings (Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius and Pisces). Notice what section of your chart/life these points hit, and you’ll have some idea of what issues may be triggered.

The Sun’s passage through  Virgo finds us shifting gears between summer and autumn, and turning our attention to more practical and pressing matters. With attention turning to detail-oriented matters, we may find the final 10-11 days of this passage a busier time than usual. I’ve noticed friends, family, and neighbors alike in the process of cleaning out closets, garages, basements, and storage bins. Among my friends, there has been a constant recycling of clothes, books, and other good. Around the house, office, car, barn, or storefront, now may be a good time for seasonal cleaning, clearing, and reorganizing.   Emphasis is on organization, communication, and attention to details as we lay out plans and consider how we would like to set our intentions for the future.  

Again, with the Sun’s trine to Pluto’s ( ongoing transit through Capricorn, now retrograde until September 18) we seem to be more focused on noticing matters that still need to be adjusted to make our transformation, in whatever area of our lives Pluto is working its way through.  We may find ourselves making adjustments, maintaining  our awareness, and learning to live with the constant upheaval (be it in our subconscious lives, daily lives, or in the shifting societal tides of change). On September 18th, Pluto goes direct 1:06 AM. This ends its transformative revisit to unearth those issues we have yet to address, refine those we have begun to alter or adapt, and affirm the need to work with the substance and gifts we have been given to use. 

As we enter the days leading up to the  New Moon, in 23/37 Virgo 11:12 P.M PDT on September 15/16 (depending upon your time zone). This New Moon is called the Cazimi Moon. An Arabian astronomical term used to describe the center of the Sun. Whenever any planet is located within a 17degree orb of the Sun’s center, it is described as being in the heart of the sun. This position, according to some astronomers/astrologers is said to be Zamimium, a position of great strength. Though there is some disagreement, most astrologers believe the Cazimi New Moon is auspicious, “wondrous strong,” according to William Lilly, “like a man who purifies himself and so lacks strength, but will regain health afterwards," according to Abu Ma’shar and  is like a cosmic protective hand, bestowing great protection on whatever planet/orb it is in aspect with, according to astrologer, Nina Holy. The beneficence of this aspect, as Abu Ma’shar implies, depends upon how we handle the cleansing, releasing, purifying of our thoughts, beliefs, patterns of behavior, habits, as well as how responsive we are and have been to the lessons seeking to make themselves to the surface of our consciousness over the past period of time (lunar month, season, year, whatever phase of life and stage of transition/transformation  of which you have become more mindful.) In other words, an auspicious alignment of this new moon is only as powerful as we are willing to be honest with ourselves about what really needs to change, learned, understood, accepted, or acted upon. 

Mercury in Virgo through September 16, and with the Moon, Mercury moves into Libra. Mercury’s presence in Virgo enhances our desire and focus on being more precise and clear in thought, word, intention, and actions. Mercury rules Virgo, supporting the tendency to pay close attention to details (don’t, however, get caught up in the minutia), analyzing and weighing options, choices, and alternatives. Additionally, Mercury transiting Virgo focuses on “the facts, ma’am, just the facts,” so you might want to be aware of how you are expressing yourself so as not to seem completely devoid of compassion, affection, or understanding.  With both the Sun and Mercury in Virgo, what may seem obvious and clear to you, may nevertheless touch someone else on a much deeper level than you can imagine, so cushion your communication with tenderness and loving kindness. Don’t expect everyone to like, accept, or digest what your choices may signal.  Just because you believe you are making the right choices, stating the obvious, or acting for the good of the whole, don’t expect everyone to readily agree, understand, or accept what communicate. What matters when Mercury is in Virgo, is that you are clear and honest with yourself about what matters most, so you avoid acting out of your shadow, unconscious, or unhealed hurts by projecting or attacking others.  What we cannot face and heal within ourselves, becomes the target on our loved ones, neighbors, friends, and strangers...separating us from any possibility of resolving, healing, or creating peace. The keywords for this period: diplomacy, tact, and an honest self appraisal. This includes, examining our own motives and intentions before trying to fix anyone else.

Venus  in Leo as of September 6. Just warming up with Leo’s fiery energy that will be with us until October 3 (just before Saturn’s entry into Scorpion on Oct. 6). Venus in Leo finds us seeking to connect more, express our affections, and put our love out for others to see, feel, and receive. It’s a rather grandiose time when we feel more like expressing our feelings, generosity, and adoration of those we love and care about. In Leo, love is often “done for dramatic effect,” and comes from a deep-seated need to be acknowledged, adored, and affirmed in all areas of love. We particularly need to make sure we shower some of this adoration on ourselves (those of us who tend to define ourselves through how we show others our love). Leo can be proud, passionate, and prone to drama. When expressed in creative, artistic, and productive ways, this can be the source of great motivation to serve and help heal. When expressed from the shadow side (unmet needs, unexplored needs and desires, unexpressed and unacknowledged feelings) it can present as arrogance, haughtiness, and self-consuming, boring standoffishness. 

Our ego needs are tested during Venus’ passage through Leo.  Not only are we likely to be more aware of what we need (what’s lacking) and what we want (what we desire to do, be, have), but also we are more likely to act out of unhealed places if we are not consciously making some effort to be honest with ourselves as we continue to grow into more fully functioning, mature, healthy, and happy people. Ego needs show up in the form of all these negative ways of expressing ourselves, and when Venus is in Leo, we might be surprised by how those aspects of ourselves and others show up and connect with our soft and vulnerable places. Spend time connecting to the Divine Beloved within, understanding that our ability to discover our wholeness and divine nature within, allows us to love from a more direct, healed, and honest place. We see ourselves as we are, others as they are, and we are then both willing and able to give and receive love. If we simply seek fulfillment in others, we fail to fulfill our destiny to be a fully gifted and defined reflection of Divine Love. This is a great time to seek that connection through our practices of prayer, meditation, as well as other practices in which we seek to create daily ways to harmonize and love ourselves so that we can serve and love one another. 

Mars has been in Scorpio since August 23, and on October 6, along with Saturn, Mars changes signs. We have been going through a period of time when we have been delving deep into the emotional depths of our being...looking to see where in your life/chart Mars transits, will probably remind you (if you needed to be reminded) what issues, areas of life, and emotionally-charged matters are most experiencing this transit.  Opposite Mars, is Jupiter in Taurus and Saturn in Libra (both signs ruled by Venus) exerting considerable influence on one another.  Jupiter, the planet of benevolence and good fortune, in Taurus rules the practical application of Venus--expressed through devotion, creativity, beauty, and material expression of love.  Saturn in Libra, seeks expression through movement and expression of idealistic ways of expressing ourselves through social, artistic, and philanthropic ways. These aspects, by the way, remain strong into January, 2013, giving us a great deal of time to bring some pretty amazing ideas, ideals, projects, and creations into fruition and fulfillment.

Saturn in Libra, tends to slow us down in some ways.  With Saturn in Libra since 2009, we have been weighing our lives, in what may seem at times, like a journey in a tiny boat sailing through the high seas.  Saturn’s passage through Libra has helped us learn about limitations, boundaries, restraints, accountability, and responsibility. As Saturn is completing its transit through Libra (due to end Oct. 6), we may be feeling the weight of this transit. I have noticed any time now that my life is in any way running counter to what I have been learning through this transit, I feel the weight of that directly in my body. It manifests in pain signaling overextension or soreness and exhaustion from pushing my limits. It’s almost as if this final chapter of Saturn’s stay in Libra is being metasiticized in my physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual makeup.  The lessons are working their way into every layer of my being. You might remember your Saturn returns (around the ages between 28-30, and then again 58-61).  If you are in the least reflective you might recall a similar process taking place during those periods when you were called to pay attention to the growing edges of your life, make adjustments, before you set sail into the next stage of life.  When we fail to heed the warnings, by trying to cling to worn out beliefs, behavior, habits, patterns of action, and expectations (ourselves and those of others), we carry those unresolved aspects of ourselves forward.  

In cognitive development terms, when we fail to master a learning skill at some point in our early life, it travels with us manifesting as the “missing piece/link” in our understanding, say of understanding a formula in mathematics or of mastering analogies. Those skills can be learned, and indeed must be learned, if we are to be able to fully grasp the skill and subject matter.  When we apply this concept to our life journey, we can view the Saturn transits (and other major, long-term transits like Progressed Sun, Pluto, Neptune, ie.) as similar times when we need to “fish or cut bait,” or find ourselves sitting in the boat trying to leave the dock while still firmly anchored to the pier. 

With the two slowest-moving planets in Venus’s ruling signs, Venus has a powerful impact on the success of our allowing these transits to help us fully transform our lives. Today the Moon has just entered Cancer, making this a time when you might receive an emotional boost when the Moon aspects the 10th degree of Saturn in Libra...said to be a time of great insight. Coupled with Venus’ transit in Leo, this can be a time when we are not only more clearly reminded what is working and what is not, but also more gently supported and in touch with our heart’s desire and the truth about who we really are. Listen with your heart, pay attention to your dreams, observe the signals, signs, and messages of your body, the world around you, and of the Voice of the Divine Beloved who keeps wanting you to understand how deeply you are loved, and how surely you are a reflection of God’s love.  Treat yourself with loving care and kindness. Then it becomes a habit you and others can live with. 

September 10-11, Venus forms a semi square to Mercury, creating an air of superficiality and discomfort between yourself and those you love. This may manifest in keeping things light or expressing a lightness and superficial attitude in relationships. Pluto forms a quinqunx to Venus on September 12, bringing conflicts and disagreements to a head. This aspect pertains to the closest relationships we have, and force issues over power, control, and manipulation over our social lives, involvements,  and acquaintances. On the same day, Venus forms a quinqunx to Chiron (the Wounded Healer). This might manifest as an inner discomfort and distress over unsatisfactory relationships, security issues (jobs, money, finances in general), or material goods. We may feel a bit insecure and have trouble voicing our needs, desires, or concerns. Whatever is lying dormant within us, will surely be awakened by the Venus transit and the different aspects this month. By mid-week, Venus forms a trine with Uranus, making us much more likely to take action on whatever has been creating internal discomfort and dread.  Change will happen, whether or not we want or accept it. The question we face, day to day, is “Am I going to allow myself to be guided by my fears or by my trust in Divine Goodness?” When we live in fear, we act out of the fears, and our lives are shaped and colored by that.  When we are receptive to the good that awaits us when we are courageous and act out of a belief that we have a Divine right to receive the graces of Goodness, then we are more likely to perceive good and receive it into our lives. 

This is a time when we are prime to surrender our own ego. and put ourselves in readiness to receive our good. A time when, through practices of gratitude and loving kindness, we come to appreciate the gifts that fill our lives.  Being present to who we are right where we are, allows us to live with a sense of deep fulfillment...not grasping to memories of the past nor holding ourselves in visions of the future, but fully present to the wonder of the gift of our lives now. Life unfolds as it will; we can fight that, or flow in the direction it is taking. When we are stalled, uncertain, or confused, we are receiving a divine signal that we need to go within to listen to what our hearts are speaking for us, and to seek the wisdom of the Divine voice right where we are, now. “Seek, and ye shall find”, the scriptures read. The imperative is to seek. Can’t find if you don’t take the first step. 

Later in the month, other aspects of Venus will come into play, but for now, this week is full of stimulating and energizing aspects to ponder and observe as you take time during the Dark of the Moon to reflect on where you are in your journey. 

The North Node, gateway into the future, is also in Taurus, making the aspects of Mars, Saturn, and Jupiter extra potent for new beginnings when projects, relationships, ideas, and goals are launched slowly, methodically, and over the period of the transits and major shifts that are taking place now through the first of 2013. Again, there are always shifts and transits taking place, so we don’t arrive to shore with the journey ended. Our journey continues to change, shift, plateau, stall, reform, and then kick into high gear, time and time again, throughout our lives. Understanding something about the major trends and tendencies (that can be found, though not exclusively, through an understanding of astrological movement), can help us guide our boats through the seas of life.

Jupiter and Saturn occupy Venus’ sign the entire month of September

Jupiter continues the early part of her transit through Gemini (June 11, 2011-June, 2013).

Uranus entered Aries on March 11, 2012, and has just begun her 14-year journey through the sign of the Ram. The urge to break free, the need to purge and merge our energies into the most productive, fulfilling, and nourishing ways, has sent a signal throughout the world, that we are moving into a new time and are adapting to the awesome number of changes that have taken place over the last century. We are propelling forward at an amazing rate of speed, it seems, and each of us is feeling, in some way, the need to prepare for a new journey that will stretch over and beyond the next 14 years.  Fueled by the fiery energy of Aries, Uranus, the planet of sudden and unexpected changes, stirs our lives in surprising ways, triggering change whether we are ready or not. 

Hold onto your hats, in case you hadn’t noticed, the trip is already underway, and this is just the beginning.  Dragging your feet, or stalling only distracts you from the inevitable.  Aries burns through the refuse and leaves the ground free of undergrowth; the path becomes clear right before our eyes. 

Developing practices that ground you in motion, will help you create a center for peace within. Teaching meditation, I am well aware of the need for stress reduction and calming, peaceful practices to soothe us. At the same time, we cannot live in the world as it is today without finding inner peace in motion. Allow yourself to readjust your lives, schedules, expectations, needs, and lifestyles to meet the growing need to find meaning and connection, purpose and outlets for service and creativity, and to live a divinely-inspired life. 

Neptune is in the 1st degree of Pisces, in retrograde motion, sending us into the underground of our psyches and emotional wellspring to ponder the hidden and subconscious messages we have been distracted from.  Depending upon where Neptune’s passage is in your life/chart, some area of your life is being more heavily affected by what may be just beneath the surface of your awareness. Dreams now may shed much light of this. Avoid dismissing dreams simply because they “make no sense.” Dreams are messages to us, and come in ways to strike through the surface of our consciousness to get us to pay attention. As Albert Einstein said, “ You can believe one of two things. Everything in life is a miracle or nothing is.” He and other great ones, believed life is a miracle. Get past the ego voice that says to dismiss your dreams, to dismiss your intuitive hunches, to dismiss your ideas and imagination, to dismiss the signs that are happening all around you, and look to see if perhaps, there is something hidden in the messages that surround you right now. Pay closer attention. Study the symbols, archetypes, and dreams, and honor the gifts of Neptune in Pisces that remove many of the shields, masks, and limitations that have blocked our growth as divinely-spirited human beings. There’s too much to tend to to get lost any longer in the ego trip of the science v. spirituality debate. All is One...get on with the journey.

Chiron is at 6/52 of Pisces, also continues to signal to us that our healing comes from within. As long as we look outside ourselves to blame or seek meaning, purpose, or direction, we prolong our struggle for healing and wholeness.  Take the aspects of this week, the time during the dark of the moon, and the time leading up to the New Moon to reflect, refine, and refresh ourselves in the pool of knowledge and peace that lies within us. Take better care of yourself. Make nutrition and meals a sacred ritual to nourish your body, mind, and spirit.  Allow yourself time, seclusion, inner peace, and rest enough to refresh and regenerate your body. Rest from the heavy loads you have carried, laying your burdens down, reassessing what you need for the next leg of the journey, and eliminating whatever is not necessary for a healthy, whole life. 

Next weekend, we’ll look at the New Moon, and the aspects for the remainder of September. We have expended a great deal of energy lately, and we are all, collectively and individually in need of some time to ponder, allow thoughts, feelings, experiences, and decisions to settle and take form.  Mercury and the Sun will be changing signs, Pluto will be stationing direct, and we’re coming up to a power-packed Full Moon experience on September 29 when Uranus squares Pluto once again.