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Astrology provides a great tool to help us understand why and how good things and bad happen to us as individuals and as a collective. Enjoy my free astrology column, and feel free to contact me to purchase your own personalized chart and reading. Or visit my site at http://www.lesliehale-astrology.com/

Saturday, May 14, 2011

Uranus, Pluto and Neptune- Money, Terrorists and Religion



Religious and Political Ideologies Carried to Extremes and a Humanitarian Crisis of Epic Proportions

With every major transit comes the potential of the good and the bad. We can expect a particular reaction from certain planetary transits but within the power of that planetary energy comes the magic of our ability to become alchemists and transform the outcome of the transit to a more fortunate situation in the present or the future, opting to alter the potential the transit holds to our own and others highest good in time. You can count on the fact it will never be an easy or uncomplicated road.

Herein lies the question of potential future outcomes of Neptune in Pisces for the next 15 years, along with Uranus entering Aries again (as it once did in 1928, and before that 1844, and prior to that 1760-Uranus takes 84 years to go through the 12 signs).

Uranus square Pluto and the World Point

Uranus will Square-or form- a 90 degree angle to Pluto peaking June-August. The square is considered to be a planetary energy that lends itself toward explosive situations of an unpredictable nature (such as civil war sweeping the Middle East) which became obvious this winter-spring, bursting into our living rooms just hours before Uranus entered Aires at the degree known as the “World Point.” The World Point is where events take on an energy lending itself toward issues that concern the world and mankind as a whole. Civil war in the Middle East was followed by the earthquake in Japan and subsequent Tsunami that wrecked havoc and damaged nuclear reactors which dispersed radioactive substances into the ocean the results of which are still unknown.

The Most Confusing Planet

                                                                      Neptune
Uranus’s dramatic entrance into Aries was followed about a month later by Neptune entering Pisces, the natural ruler of the planet that rules water, oceans and religions of all types, along with drugs, alcohol, pharmaceuticals, pornography, human misery and degradation of all kinds, addictions, lies and absolute deception complete with all the smoke and mirrors, trickery and manipulation known to man. It also rules actors, the stage, fantasy, fog and Disney Land. On the other hand, Neptune in Pisces relates to compassion, faith, metaphysics, and universal love and understanding and inspiration, along with a oneness with the infinite most individuals eventually seek at some point. The problem is finding the balance, separating fact from fiction and discovering what is real, and what is manmade illusion and manipulation. This is our quest.

Put this all together in the real world and you have a scenario where advocates of certain religions or political ideologies can appeal to the masses through lies and deceit, twisting of facts to suit individuals who wish to be in control of others. Does anyone remember Tammy Faye and Jim Baker? Tammy herself was a Pisces, born March 7, 1972. This is neither a surprise nor coincidence. Osama Bin Laden was a Pisces-ruled by Neptune. A master manipulator capable of leading numerous men to their death based on a religious ideology as they flew American planes into the World Trade center killing thousands more. He had been wanted by the US government for years but no one really knew the depths of insanity his extreme religious and political obsessions and ideologies could go until it was too late.

US Congress itself, is subject to manipulation and attempted manipulation of American’s as politicians lose focus of what is important to America, focusing instead on individual religious and political/party ideologies that are not geared toward helping the middle class. Threatening to shut down the government over funding to Planned Parenthood, depriving women of cancer screenings and birth control, not what the majority elected politicians to do. Think of a ‘fun house,’ where images are twisted and contorted to look like something else and you have a clear picture of what Neptune in Pisces can create.

Neptune conjuncts Chiron

Add to this the fact that Neptune has been- and is within a few degrees of being conjunct Chiron-the asteroid known as the wounded healer- giving us an exaggerated view of just how wounded the world we live in actually is.

Religious Extremism (of many types)

The extreme Muslim sects that advocate violence toward those who do not follow their teachings have inspired a battle between Eastern and Western religious values and practices that began after the World Trade Center bombing, and Al Qaida is expected to appoint another leader in their fight and hatred against Western countries according to published reports. The Middle East is in flames as individuals (Uranus in Aries) in Syria, Libya, Tunisia, Egypt, Jordan and other areas protest the cruel repression of dictators and seek to change their governments and way of life. In Syria and Libya, in particular, government forces fight back massacring hundreds of civilians and committing crimes against humanity as we watch it pay out on our TV screens in the West.

Ramifications over the death of Osama Bin Laden are yet unknown. Pakistan is calling the death ‘murder in cold blood,’ and there is controversy over President Obama’s decision not to release death pictures of the World’s Most wanted Terrorist. Today, (May 13, 2011) there are news reports that 80 people have been killed in Pakistan, in revenge for Osama Bin Laden’s death. 850 people are being reported dead in Syria, killed by government forces on Friday 13. Can it become any more apparent how wounded the world really is?

America Was Born on Religious-Political Ideologies

Then again, the original idea that became America was based on political-religious ideologies in the beginning. A land where all lived freely to worship and build as he (not she) chose. The freedom to worship, congregate, exchange ideas and information, and chose leaders based on the vote. (Men only. In 1870 the 15th amendment passed giving black men the vote, and women achieved the right to vote only in 1920)

Neptune takes 165 years to travel around the zodiac, staying in each sign for approximately 15 years. Neptune was in Pisces in the 1840-50’s and prior to that the 1680’s. What dreams the American colonists must have had for the future! Neptune in Pisces shaped some of those dreams, including those of religious freedom without repercussions. The concept of the separation of church and state is credited to English write/philosopher John Locke who lived 1631-1704 during the transit of Neptune in Pisces.

The US Natal Chart
The US chart itself has a Mars-Neptune square. This is a configuration found in those to whom religious ideas/philosophies can take on magnified importance. Neptune is the planet of illusion confusion, and delusion. Or, it can alternatively soar to the highest of highs reaching for the attainment of spiritual perfection. Part of America is stuck on the idea of a religious battle with Islam; then again, America is a country of great compassion as evidenced by the foreign aid it has provided those less fortunate. Astrologer Arthur Gianfermo writes, “the US chart has Mars at 21 degrees of Gemini with a 90 degree square to Neptune at 22 Virgo which leads to vulnerability in our collective consciousness. We are still stuck on the myth of the military hero-the John Wayne General riding into battles ready to nuke the ‘Native villains’.”

Looking for Meaning in the Darkness

It is within these murky borders that we must find meaning spiritually as well as practically. We must recognize smoke and mirrors, manipulation and religious/political ideologies that serve human masters and not the people at this time. While some astrologers believe Pisces in Neptune will usher in nirvana, it is more certain that if we learn to coexist and not kill one another we are reaching the highest potential of Neptune in Pisces. If not love, then peace and co existence.

During this 15 year sojourn we will be asked as a world to what degree we will all honor and respect one another and no longer tolerate abuse, repression, murder and lies that often dictate humanity. Is it any wonder civil war is sweeping the Middle East? Uranus in Aries could be an end of the the dictator, as he is known today-those individuals who have repressed and tortured populations for decades. The status quo powers that be (Pluto) will be challenged (Uranus) by the humans that live on the earth. The humans cry out for compassion (Neptune) and freedom (Uranus) and their desire to live in harmony (Neptune) as opposed to restriction and abuse (Pluto)

The US Chart-Spring-Summer

In the US Chart, the Uranus-Pluto square falls directly on Jupiter and Venus at 4 and 5 degrees of Capricorn. Venus and Jupiter are the financial planets and Jupiter represents religion as well as the government itself and there will be unexpected and unprecedented changes in these areas summer of 2011. We can also expect changes abroad as well as with US ‘partners.”

It is a contorted and twisted path we must walk in this world as the Big 3-Uranus, Pluto and Neptune- weave their magic and beg the question: How much compassion will we show ourselves and others? Destruction or Freedom? We choose. Think carefully.



Friday, April 29, 2011

Kate Middleton-The Woman Who Will be Queen-Update



UK’s Prince William married longtime companion Kate Middleton on Friday, April 29, and the wedding was the most celebrated since Princess Di married William’s father, Prince Charles 30 years ago with an estimated 750 million viewers worldwide.

Born on January 9, 1982, Kate has a 17 degree Capricorn Sun, with a moon in Cancer. On the outside she may appear practical, sensible and tough, but on the inside she is super sensitive to the comments and actions of others. Slight this woman and you may be forgiven on the outside, but the slight will never be forgotten by her. Home, family and a partner are of primary concern to Kate, and it is in these areas she is destined to focus her attention.

With her Cancer moon, Kate probably feels an intuitive rapport with the Prince’s deceased Mother, Diana. In interviews she spoke of having wished she could have met her. Had the two actually met, I have no doubt they would have bonded and loved each other. In death, Princess Diana will likely serve as a role model for Kate, and someone she will often think about.

Kate’s Jupiter is trine her moon and sextile her Sun. This combination gives her an element of luck in marriage, with a generally positive outlook, a planetary combination she shares with her soon to be husband, Prince William. Jupiter in Scorpio is lucky for money and means she is capable of keeping secrets.

Venus and Mercury in Aquarius square her Jupiter meaning Kate has the ability to socialize and communicate with people from all walks of life, and can be very charming when the occasion arises.

Life has not always been a bed of roses for Kate, and she has some more difficult transits in her birth chart, as well. Her Mars, Saturn and Pluto in Libra square her moon. This is a powerful combination shared by Prince William due to proximity of birth. The moon represents the home and early familial conditioning and in some senses it must have been difficult, bleak, and disciplined. An undercurrent of tension and control would have been present, and she must have butted heads with authority figures more than average during her growing up years. Through these tense times she would have experienced depression, setbacks and frustration. She is prone to depression, and will always be torn between her heart and her head. (Since the time this post was written Kate has revealed through interviews she was the subject of much bullying at school). Individuals with heavy Pluto/Mars/Saturn combinations often suffer cruelty, even abuse during their lives.

During her childhood Kate learned to control through manipulation, or be controlled. Pluto-Moon individuals can be very intense, controlling and obsessive in achieving their goals. This lady is no wallflower and when married she will make her wants and desires known. When Mars and Pluto are prominent in a chart the individual often arouses antagonism from those around him/her and usually ends up in some major power struggles. Mars/Moon individuals are easily ‘stirred up,’ and can often have emotional disruptions, quarrels in the home and the home can sometimes become a battleground. Saturn in Libra however will curb these tendencies, and place a great deal of focus on responsibility and duty. This combination is shared by her husband to be, and the two should have a great deal of understanding toward one another, and toward each other’s moods and mood swings. On some core levels her growing up years were not dissimilar to William’s.

Kate’s chart is similar to William’s, being born less than six months apart. They both have a Cancer moon, which gives them an intuitive rapport with each other. With William’s moon lying in her seventh house, along with his one degree Cancer Sun, the two were destined to be together. With Saturn squaring both of their moons, they are able to suppress their feelings and focus on duty and responsibility. Sometimes Saturn- Moon combinations mean the relationship is focused too much upon responsibility, and too little on love, or the love feelings will never be fully expressed with one another. But, to a large degree, royal marriages have always been about responsibility. Their chart similarities are both good and bad. In a positive sense they have an emotional connection many people would envy. On the other hand, their moods will fluctuate at the same time and if one is experiencing a difficult time emotionally, the other will be going through a similarly difficult period as well.

William’s Moon squares Kate’s Mars and this can be a volatile combination between two people, and cause a great deal of friction. The moon is an emotional indicator and Mars is the God of War and when the two planets form a pattern like this there is destined to be a certain amount of friction. The combination could leave William feeling overwhelmed.

Both Kate and Prince William are entering their first Saturn return period. During this time Saturn returns to the place it occupies in the birth chart. This time marks a period of transformation and maturation through hardships and obstacles. It often becomes a period of ‘forced maturity, and the individual wishes to be acknowledged as a mature entity and take his/her place in society. This is the transit that separates those over 30 from those under 30, and is a major turning point in life. The Saturn return period will continue into 2012.

It has not been an easy path to the wedding alter. The two will be under a great deal of pressure after they are married. They have recently come through Uranus square Neptune, a transit that often creates a lack of focus, lack of clarity and would break up a less committed couple.

May-July the couple will both have Saturn conjunct Mars, a transit that confers determination and the ability to work long and hard to achieve their goals. It is has the potential to create harshness in personal relationships. It is called the accidental transit,’ and can be indicative of mishaps, and often feelings of enmity arise. Saturn-Mars is a combination that can involve police or military, and it was a heavily guarded wedding surrounded by police. The couple is expected to take a ‘Royal tour,’ of Canada in July and the schedule will be grueling and difficult, as represented by this planetary combination.

When Uranus entered Aries in March of 2011 it squared William’s Sun at 0 degrees of Cancer, and by June it is squaring his moon. Individuals under this influence often undergo a change of lifestyle, and can become erratic in their behavior. Uranus/moon can bring about a domestic change of objectives along with pregnancy, at times. A man undergoing Uranus’ square to his moon will often go through emotional ups and downs and indecisions, and sometimes his wife/fiancĂ©e will do unusual things. It is an aspect of unexpected events and instability, and difficult situations relating to women and female family members.

Both William and Kate will face many unexpected difficulties and ups and downs as Uranus in Aries will oppose their Mars, Saturn and Pluto over the next seven years. Their union will be tested many times over. Pluto in Capricorn will square the same planets over the course of the next few years creating frustrating circumstances, many of which will be beyond their control. They will have to work hard to maintain the marriage. 2012 will be an especially harsh period as Pluto squares the Mars of both parties at 10 degrees of Libra. This is a transit of personal power struggles and confrontations, and with Mars in Libra it is likely the struggles will be with each other.

Jupiter enters Aries and Taurus in June. While transiting through Aries throughout May it travels through William’s fifth house of children and when it enters Taurus in June it will transit Kate’s fifth house of children. It would not surprise me if another royal announcement was forthcoming this year: the birth of a new Prince or Princess!    



Thursday, March 24, 2011

The lanet of Communication Steps Back-Mercury Goes Retrograde

The planet of communication goes retrograde on March 30, 2010 at 24 degrees of Aries. It retrogrades in the natural first house of the zodiac representing the ego and the self. Aries ruler is Mars, the ‘God of War, and the planet of action,’ thus we will certainly be aware of it’s effects in this cardinal sign where energy and events happen quickly and Mercury in Aries will make it’s energy felt, especially in those born under the sign of the Ram, and other Cardinal signs: Cancer, Capricorn and Libra.



This is generally a thrice yearly occurrence that sends communication, travel and mail into the land of glitches and delays. During this three week period expect delays in projects, communication mishaps and glitches that can affect just about any area of your life. And expect anything that is broken (including relationships), machinery, cars and electronic equipment to go on the blink. Sometimes our mind even slows down and it can become difficult to think clearly, as it can affect our ability to process and disseminate information. This is all the realm of retrograde Mercury and it is generally best to prepare and be aware.

What to Avoid

Retrograde Mercury is the wrong time to start new projects, get married, or buy high ticket items as in the end, you may not be happy with your decision. I have tested this theory many times over, and if you start any of the above you do so at your own peril. The exception seems to be those who were born with retrograde Mercury, but many of the people you will deal with were not born with Mercury retrograde in their natal chart. It is a period of correction. This is part of the natural cycle of life and my advice is not to sweat the small stuff!

Best Use of retrograde Mercury Energy

A retrograde Mercury is, in fact a time for re-doing, re-thinking and re-working projects and issues. In a perfect world we would rest, rethink, and re-evaluate. Of course, the world is not perfect and we generally have to keep moving, but if you can view it as a period of re-doing and re-evaluating your life and situations as opposed to starting new projects you are using the energy in the best possible way. We become more reflective, thus thinking can become deeper.

Fated Events and Situations


Retrograde planets often coincide with events that seem fated: that is events or situations occur that seem to be thrust on us or out of our sphere of ability to control. Business deals and projects fall through, people break up or get back together and we have seem to have no power over what is happening. Issues that have not been previously resolved come back to haunt is. Retrograde Mercury relates to the past and sometimes we reconnect with those from our past.

Retrograde Mercury is a Cycle Not a Date


While Mercury officially goes retrograde March 30-April 23, it is actually a much longer cycle and events and energy will be altered at different levels during this cycle. The shadow period is when Mercurial energy actually starts to change and we become more retrospective. This period began March 17. The stationary retrograde period begin occurs March 28-April 1. Mercury reaches 23 degrees of Aries, at which point it ceases moving forward and prepares to retrograde back through the previous degrees, retracing it’s previous steps. The stationary retrograde period is usually when events and situations occur, letting us know the ‘communicator, and the trickster,’ is preparing to weave it’s magic and we are going into a period of altered mercurial energy that will play out for the next number of weeks. The stationary retrograde period will be especially significant if it is transiting a personal planet in your chart. Astrologer/Author Carol Rushman writes, “when Mercury stations in Aries or the First house, verbal assertion is assertive and occasionally combatant, because the mental energy is fast and aggressive in Aries. Decisions are made without due diligence and regretted at a later date. While new concepts are quickly grasped they can be easily abandoned.’

Mercury starts it’s three week retrograde backward April 2-17, going stationary direct at 12 degrees on April 22-April 24. The stationary direct period is important, and like the stationary retrograde period we become more aware of the potent energy of Mercury in the sign of the Ram, especially if it is hitting a significant point in your chart. It will not move forward at a normal rate until May 10 when it reaches the degree at which it retrograded, thus the cycle will in totality last until this date. This is the period to move ahead and start new projects.

Other important dates to be aware of are March 15 when Mercury first opposed Saturn at 15 degrees of Aries. It opposes Saturn again in it’s retrograde on April 15, and a third time on April 22-25 at 12 degrees of Aries-Libra. This is a negative, tiring transit, indicative of negative news and situations, and it is restrictive in nature. World events will play out and if you had a significant event occur on March 15, it is likely you will have related situations and events occur on the other two dates.

















Monday, March 14, 2011

Uranus in Aries/ Supermoon in Virgo/Neptune in Aquarius-Pisces -Dramatic Actions and Events/March 2011

Uranus made a dramatic entrance into the sign Aries March 11, as earthquakes and a tsunami wrecked havoc on Japan and Hawaii, leaving thousands homeless and dead. Uranus entered Aries officially March 11 at 7:52PM EST. Uranus acts swiftly; squaring Pluto, the planet ruling nuclear weapons and facilities, as well as oil. The planet is at risk of nuclear incidents as well as weapons and several nuclear power plants have been damaged by the earthquake in Japan. This (Pluto-Uranus) energy will continue all year, reaching a peak June-August, as the two planets are within a one degree orb of each other. But, planets do not have to be exact to cause events. Uranus and Pluto will actually continue to square each other until 2016. Thus, we are at risk for many years to come of unexpected events and explosions around the world, wars, nuclear incidents and events, and catastrophic earth related disasters that will include water. The world is about to change is some very big ways, and it will simply take another powerful planetary line up to set it off (Pluto/Uranus square) again.

Uranus is at the 0 degree known as the Aries point. This much awaited event in the astrological world has more than lived up to it’s name thus far. Celeste Teal published the most widly quoted explanation of Uranus in Aries at the Aries point, also known as the ‘world point.’ ’A sudden outpouring of energies, indicative of involvement with the world at large.’



The energy of the upcoming full moon in Virgo has played a role in Japan’s tragedy, as well. This full moon has been described as an ‘extreme supermoon' because on March 19 the moon will swing more closely to the earth than it has in the past 18 years. March’s full moon occurs on Saturday March 19th at 2:10 P.M. EST at 28 degrees Virgo 48 minutes. Full moon energy can be felt before the peak occurs as well as after. The 29th degree is a significant one and every full moon since October has been at that significant degree. The 29th degree is about change. This full moon causes conflicts with several planets, including Uranus, the planet/agent of disruption. As the full moon approaches we will see more events fitting this description.



Neptune, known as the water-bearer is currently in the 29th degree of Aquarius. Author/Astrologer Helen Adams Garrett, wrote about the 29th degree of Neptune in Aquarius, ’World Peace will be sought and those born with this degree will be active in the process, by agreement or by opposition to the cause May be caught in the batter and become a victim.’



The ground is littered with victims in the Middle East. As the victim toll in Japan reaches 10,000 at the time of this publication, all eyes are off Libya where a crazed dictator cleans up the streets and tells the world he never massacred civilians while the UN debates the legalities of intervention. The Arab League ministers voted to ask the UN to impose a no fly zone over Libya, but to the civilians under siege in that civil war torn country this may seem to be too little, too late. Author Celeste Teal states the 29th degree is the weakest point of the sign it is occupying and often complicates decision making matters.

On March 18-19, Mercury opposes Saturn. This is a transit indicative of arguments, power struggles in the world, and accidents. It is oriented toward very serious issues and we will see this play out on a world level with debates, arguments and more negative news. We will hear news from governments around the world.

As the full moon peaks on the 19th it opposes Uranus within one degree. This will create sudden, unexpected situations that may involve weather and water related occurrences. Mercury-Saturn plays into the picture as well, creating dangerous situations around the world that occur at the last minute. March 21-22 the Sun conjuncts Uranus, a transit indicative of sudden, explosive situations, accidents and explosions that could involve fire. At the 0 degree Aries point, events will likely involve the world in a big way, with certain individuals or entities that will make their desires known. No doubt, the tragedy in Japan will play a big part of this full moon, and we will continue to hear disturbing reports. But it is not limited to the news from Japan. This is a complex full moon, and indeed is a ‘supermoon,’ for many reasons. We can expect the unexpected with this one.

March 28-29 the Sun squares Pluto. Pluto is a ruthless planet and describes the ‘status quo, as well as oil. Pluto also rules nuclear weapons and substances. We will hear more at this time about Japan’s nuclear plant crisis, and oil. Prices may go up, and oil will become a major issue throughout 2011. Sun/Pluto is explosive and relates to power struggles of all types, as well as struggles against the current power structure. Pluto rules the media as well, and no doubt reporters will be at the forefront during this time.

Jupiter opposes Saturn the last two weeks of March. This transit is indicative of restriction, delays, obstacles, negative movement in financial markets and gridlock among governments, especially the US. Decisions will be difficult to make and movement may come to a virtual standstill.


As Mercury retrogrades in Aries on March 30, it does so in the sign ruling the individual (as well as collective) ego. At this time, we will have an opportunity to re-evaluate the actions of the recent past. Actions will be slowed, but in positive light decisions can be rethought. On the other hand, hasty decisions can be made without thought of consequences, and thinking may not be clear.


On a Personal Level


On March 19 will will experience  a volatile full moon and to some degree we will all feel the influence for a few hours or days, but for some it will be more intense than others, depending what it is aspecting in your chart. Those most affected during the few days before and after the full moon will be born June 19-21, December 19-25, March 16-21, and September 20-25. It will be significant if you were born April 6-8, July 8-10, October 9-11, or January 6-8. You may feel edgy, discouraged and negative or prone to an argument. Let the energy pass, and by mid-week if not sooner, energies-situations will lighten up.





Wednesday, March 9, 2011

(Countdown to) The Degree that Will Change the World



March 13, Uranus enters Aries at 0 degrees, known as the Aries point, or the world point. Uranus at 0 degree of Aries is significant, and Author, Astrologer Celeste Teal writes, “Sometimes it represents a "spectacular out rush of energies... and involvement with the world at large"


In recent days we have seen spectacular acts of bravery as citizens throughout the Middle East, in particular Tunisia, Egypt and Libya, fight for their freedom against long standing dictators and oppressive regimes. This is fueled by the energy of Uranus on the brink of entering the sign of the individual and the individual ego which must assert itself in creative change one way or another.

Uranus entering Aires relates to the self, and will pertain to the will of the individual both on a personal basis and on the world stage. Collectively, groups and organizations will make their will known in the world. As Uranus moves forward in Aries it will square Pluto, the planet which represents ‘the powers that be,’ that include oil producers/governments, and individuals/entities in business such as banks and large corporations.

June/July 2011 Uranus will be part of a ‘Cardinal grand square/cross,’ involving 2 major outer planets: Pluto and Saturn. The Cardinal square first occurred summer of 2010, at which time it was exact (the planets were within 3 degrees of each other. This time they are within 6 degrees of each other, -planets do not have to be exact to create events) and we saw many changes in the world, and tension began to escalate. As a result of the reoccurrence of this square we can expect to see many changes in the world involving politics, business, oil, the financial markets and tensions and explosions will occur in the hotspots around the globe and we are at risk of natural and manmade disasters. Many of these events will be unexpected.

New York Astrologer/Author Mitch Lewis writes, “With the Sun, Mercury, Jupiter, and Uranus in Aries this month there will be a lot of aggressiveness in the world. The Middle East revolution will continue and a shift of power that began when Saturn opposed Uranus will change the world forever. This is a period of assertive transition, and the balance of power is up for grabs. The Saturn – Uranus opposition that we experienced the past 18 months always results in a reversal of influence throughout the world. The last time we had this was 1965-7, and that era certainly saw a major change in influence. Now that that opposition has passed we will be dealing with Uranus in square to Pluto for the next few years, which will further erode the stability of the status quo and open us up to more unusual and unexpected power struggles. Within our country we have already seen this energy begin its influence on the political front. The Tea Party is an example of Uranus’ unexpected events, coupled with Pluto’s desire for raw power. As this square comes closer to completion we will see many more examples of its force. Although it doesn’t exactly complete until June 2012, these two planets will be dancing together all year. Uranus rules things that are revolutionary and explosive. Pluto rules power struggles, hidden agendas, and plutonium. They will be in orb until 2016. That’s a long time to hold our breath.



This month will see the beginning of a new 84 year cycle as Uranus enters Aries. It briefly poked its head in this sign last year only to retrograde back into Pisces, now it is completing its entry. This is a very important event in human history. It represents innovation in technological things, and lord knows we have seen more than our share of that lately. But it also represents a shift in direction in collective consciousness. Aries is self-involved and doesn’t always see the other guy. Our society is on the verge of turning its back on many things that have been implemented to aid the collective in the past 80 years. With Uranus entering Aries and the recent deplanetization of Pluto we will continue to see an assault on our group activities.”



I will soon be putting out a piece about the deplanetization of Pluto and what that means to our society. The assault on the unions is only the beginning. We can expect more pensions to be raided, attacks on social security, unemployment benefits and anything held jointly by the collective. Humanity is devolving at the same time that our innovations and inventions are evolving.”--Mitch Lewis







Friday, February 25, 2011

Uranus: Last dance in Pisces-The Planet of Revolution and Change Enters the Sign of the Individual Ego



We are on the precipice of major planetary change as Uranus transits through the final degrees of Pisces. Uranus is the planet of sudden, unexpected change, upheaval and revolution. Uranus is a slow moving planet, taking seven years to transit each sign. It entered Pisces, the last sign of the zodiac on March 11, 2003, and it moves into Aries on March 13, 2011 where it will remain until March 7, 2019.

The sign Pisces often creates a ‘fog,’ between reality and the mystical world, which can become blurred to the extent it is hard to distinguish reality from non-reality. Uranus rules the internet, and nowhere has this blurred vision become more apparent than the explosion of Facebook and other social media, internet games, and even dating sites whereby individuals and players take on a persona different from his or her real life and often become consumed in a internet life of non-reality that over time becomes blurred with reality, or becomes the reality for the individual involved. This is truly a manifestation of Uranus in Pisces.



The 29th Degree

Some degrees are more significant than others and when Uranus reaches the 29th degree it is considered the Anaretic degree. Pisces is represented by the two fish and is considered the sign of devotion as well as self undoing. The 29th degree of Pisces concerns the mysteries of life as well as miracles that may not be recognized as such. Believes strongly in mind over matter and sees the mysteries of life manifested-Helen Adams Garrett. The 29th degree of Pisces represents endings, in preparation for new beginnings with Uranus entering Aries.



World Events and Changes

When Uranus enters Aries at 0 degrees on March 13, it is at the Aries Point or the ‘world point,’ the 0 degree mark that is the beginning of all things. Uranus moves from mystical Pisces and inner manifestation to outer manifestation in the world. It is considered the point at which world events can occur involving us all in collective change. Uranus in Aries moves quickly, and will advance science, technology and medicine at a rapid pace. By the time Uranus leaves Aries medicine will have changed considerably and we can only imagine the advances in technology.



Many world events occurred late May-mid August 2010 when Uranus was at the Aries point for the first time, and this was only a preview of this planet’s seven year stay when it enters the first house of the zodiac for the next seven years. We saw a meltdown in the economy of numerous European countries and the BP oil spill was an event that garnered international attention. We saw travel problems with a huge volcanic ash cloud over Europe, China had an oil spill and numerous other events occurred, as we saw news of developments in medicine.

We will be at greater risk of explosive situations and catastrophic conditions around the world as the planet of revolution conjuncts the Aries point. Aries is the ruler of the first house of self, and individual egos and ideas will make themselves known in the world. Individuals and entities will become more aggressive, war like and inclined to manifest their desires outwardly. We are already seeing this energy play out in the number of protests and civil war in Libya and the Middle East.

The last time Uranus was in Aries was 1927-1935. Among the greatest inventions of that time was television. The US Stock Market crashed in October 1929. (The stock market could not crash like it did in 1929 because of the institution of trading collars ( http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trading_collar ) that would shut the market down. In 1929 the stock market lost 23% of its value over 2 days. It could only lose this type of value over days/weeks/months of sustained loss. 1933 saw Hitler's party come into power. The world changed, and during the next seven years and it will change again.



Personal Changes

As Uranus enters the first sign, changes will occur in the world and changes will occur on a very personal level for us individually. When Uranus changes signs this is a very big deal where planets are concerned. As Uranus enters Aries you will feel driven to move forward and accomplish things you may have been dreaming of for years. Aries does not wait around, but rather moves forward at the fastest pace of any sign. As Aries transits through your chart you may experience many changes in your personal life depending upon which personal planets Aries is affecting. Those most affected by Uranus’ entrance into Aries will be individuals born in the early degrees of the Cardinal signs: Aries, Libra, Cancer and Capricorn. You will experience change and possibly disruption, or a change of direction if you were born March 21-28, June 22-29, September 24-30, or December 23-29. If you were born on any of these dates looks for changes of direction on a personal level, and with partners, (Aries/Libra) and in the home and career areas if you are Cancer/Capricorn.



Uranus/Saturn/Pluto- The Status Quo versus the Individual-A Return of the Cardinal Square


During Spring/Summer of 2010 we experienced the Cardinal Grand Square that brought turmoil and chaos to the world and brought to light numerous situations that call for change. As Uranus advances in the sign Aries it will create another Cardinal square between Saturn, Uranus and Pluto. This ‘grand square,’ of these three major planets will generate tension that will reach a point where change has no option but to occur, and situations cannot continue as usual.

In 2010 the square became almost exact between these three planets June- August. Planets do not have to be exact to cause events and in 2011 the Cardinal Square will reach a peak in June with Saturn retrograde at 10 degrees of Libra, Pluto at 6 degrees of Capricorn and Uranus at 4 degrees of Aries. These planets are well within orb of each other and will create turmoil, chaos and anger that will lead to change in the world and change and regeneration in our personal lives.

As Saturn (the taskmaster and status quo) goes direct and moves forward in July, Uranus in Aries will continue to square Pluto throughout the year. Thus, the ‘will of the individual,’ will continue to be pitted against the ‘status quo,’ throughout 2011.

It will be a year of violent and unexpected explosions and explosive situations, both at home and abroad. Pluto also rules oil, and with the turmoil in the Middle East it is more than possible we will see problems with the flow of oil through the Middle East, and escalations in price, throughout 2011.

This explosive energy is obvious in the Middle East. The charts of many countries including Libya, Israel, Jordan, Iran and Iraq to name just a few are absolutely on the brink of change/civil war and will not go through this period and remain the same. Uranus will actually continue to square Pluto within it’s orb of influence until 2017. Eighty years ago Uranus entered Aries and changed the world. It will do so again.

What are the Changes About?

Saturn in Libra relates to law, governments and relationships of all kinds, both personal and personal, as well as relationships with the government. Marriage will come under scrutiny and we will hear more about same-sex marriage. Uranus in Aries relates to the ego of the individual and the collective will being expressed in the outer world. Aries is ruled by Mars the ‘God of War,’ and planet of action. Pluto in Capricorn relates to business and the ‘powers that be.’ This includes governments, banks, business, and underworld types of groups. It is in these areas we will see changes occur on the world stage. There will be questions about the US tax base and we are at risk of food shortages.

Governments and business as usual will be disrupted and the individual will make his/her voice known. All people have a desire to live in peace and with a certain amount of personal security. When change occurs it will be a result of the needs of the individual not being met by governments and entities. It will be in the abovementioned areas that clashes occur, ultimately resulting in change. The world is going to be an angry place to live for a while.

There are also ego driven and misguided individuals who will make their voices heard. These individuals do not have to be spiritually motivated but egotistical, or driven by reasons of personal ideology. As Neptune enters Pisces, another wild card comes into the mix, relating to religion, spirituality and idealism as well as fanaticism. It will be thin line humanity must walk in 2011.



Neptune Enters the Sign of Spirituality and Confusion

Neptune is the most misunderstood of signs, and the planet ruling religion and spirituality. It enters the twelfth sign of the zodiac on April 5 changing the mix even further. The twelfth house relates to the unseen world, the unconscious mind, the supernatural, and things and realms that are secret and hidden. It is the house of endings and clearing the deck before new beginnings. Neptune will be in Pisces until 2026.

While on one hand, the world in some ways and places may become more aware of the need for spirituality and a connection with the infinite, Pisces also rules fanatics, and extremists. Pisces rules drugs, the ocean, illusion, delusion, confusion, lies and deceit, drug dealers, ministers, the seamy side of life, painting, beauty, and the cinema and drunks. It is the most multidimensional of planets and therein lies the difficulty in understanding it. But where you have Neptune, you generally have confusion. Neptune can soar to the highest of highs and sink to the lowest of lows. And it rules water.



Natural and Man Made Catastrophes

The upcoming Grand Square and subsequent Uranus-Pluto square can relate to both natural and manmade disasters. Pisces rules water and Pluto rules oil, and Uranus in Aries brings sudden, unexpected situations and events. Pluto in Capricorn also relates to the earth, and we are in a period where the dictates of the planet must be taken into consideration. During the grand square of 2010 we saw volcanic eruptions, an ash cloud, earthquakes, flooding, and the contamination of the Gulf by British Petroleum. More such incidents will occur, and Neptune in Pisces speaks of water: flooding, melting ice caps, contamination, shortages-all of these are possible.



The Big Picture

We can only imagine the technological advances that will occur over the next seven years. How would one describe television to someone who had never heard of the concept at the turn of the 20th century? How many lives will be saved as medical science unlocks the secrets to regenerating the body, perhaps even preventing aging. Stem cell research holds the key to more than we can imagine. We are on the brink of breathtaking cures, answers and solutions.

And yet the world is in turmoil. The age of revolt and revolution is upon us. Not only in the Middle East, but in the US and the Western world. The old guard is on it’s way out everywhere. Situations and answers that served as patchwork that have not met the needs of real human beings will no longer suffice. Governments that only serve only a few will topple, whether they be Western or Eastern. It will not be an easy path, it never is. Nor will it be a crystal clear path. Confusion will abound.

This is the time of the individual. Not to become absorbed in the self to the exclusion of all else, but rather to search our common humanity for what we can attain and what we share in common with others.

It is a time for humanity to bond with the earth and search for issues that will preserve our planet for the future and respect the boundaries of what Planet Earth will tolerate before it becomes toxic. Our world depends upon it. Welcome to the revolution. It will be televised.

Saturday, February 19, 2011

No Full Moon for Wallflowers


February’s Full Moon occurs Friday, February 18, at 3:36 AM, EST, at 29 degrees of Leo- Leo is the natural ruler of the fifth house of love affairs, as well as friendships and children. There is nothing mundane about Leo as it is the most dramatic of signs, and represents the showman.



We will all feel a bit like taking the spotlight, which holds a dual potential. Everyone can enjoy the being the center of attention, but the other side of the coin is that situations can become overblown and overly dramatic, and reach a boiling point with no one really understanding what is going on.



The 29th degree of Leo is called the Anaretic degree. Author Helen Adams Garrett writes, The 29th degree is in the Aries decan, prompting great egotism and self-sufficiency which may repel cooperation of other people. This is the dwad of Cancer supplying great sensitivity and some insecurities.”



The full moon opposes Neptune creating a lack of clarity. Neptune is the planet of illusion, delusion, lack of clarity and lies and deception. Believe only half of what you see, let alone what you hear. Thinking and communication may not be clear. This is an excellent time for any spiritual activity, creativity, or interest in metaphysics, and this path or creativity is the highest use of the energy. This is not the time to make long range decisions that have consequences.



This will be an intense full moon, full of drama that may carry over for the next few days, especially if a personal planet in your chart is being affected by 25-29 degrees of Leo. Those most affected will be Leo and Aquarius born during the latter part of the sign as well as those born during the late period of Scorpio or Taurus. There may be a tendency to over drink or overindulge, especially among those who have that tendency.



The energy of this full moon is extra intense because three planets will form a conjunction immediately afterwards-Neptune, Mars and Mercury. These three planets will all be contributing their energy that will manifest situations in our lives. Neptune is the planet of illusion, delusion, and confusion. Mars is the “God of War,” and the planet of action and Mercury is the planet of communication. In Aquarius they are all ruled by Uranus which creates sudden and unpredictable situations, and events



On Sunday, February 20, Mercury, the planet of communication conjuncts Neptune and Mars at 28 degrees of Aquarius, and this follows on the heels of a very intense full moon, creating a major impact. With Neptune, the potential exists to soar to the highest of highs, or alternatively the lowest of lows. It is time to dream, set your imagination free, but be careful voicing your thoughts. While this transit may hold the potential to soar in terms of spiritual, empathic and creative thoughts, it also holds the potential for aggressive, speech that is not based upon fact, but rather fantasy and false information. Watch out for conditions that may make driving and travel dangerous, and remember your thinking may not be clear, nor your communication with or from others. This transit always holds the potential for deception and lies.



Also on Sunday, February 20, Mercury crosses the Mars/Neptune conjunction and enters the sign Pisces. Thus, the first of the three planets in this major conjunction of Neptune-Mars-Mercury will cross over, giving a little more clarity of thought and action. Mercury will be the second planet this month to enter Pisces, creating a further shift in energy, and a positive planetary placement for water and earth signs. Pisces represents the twelfth house, and is associated with Neptune, the planet of dreams and spirituality.



The Sun enters Pisces on February 20, changing up the energy from the past 30 days with the Sun in Pisces. Pisces is the natural ruler of the twelfth house of the zodiac associated with endings and the subconscious mind. It’s ruler is Neptune, the planet of dreams, spirituality, and assorted other topics. The energy will be calmer and less intense in this water Sign.



Monday, February 22, Mars and Neptune remain together in a conjunction Mars-Neptune can work for all creative types who may reach a peak in their particular art form, and the highest use of the energy is in serving others, and the world. Prayer, meditation, and other consciousness raising activities are favored, as Neptune is planet without an ego. The two do not generally work well together as Mars is ego driven and oriented toward action, while Neptune is selfless and about sacrifice, therein lies the inherent problem. Aquarius is ruled by Uranus (and Saturn) and some will feel a desire to set themselves free of oppressive situations that have held back growth. For many it will be a tiring transit, prone to low energy or depression. It is not a time for confrontation or making major decisions. Aquarius is the natural ruler of the eleventh house of friends, hopes and wishes and at this time you could feel incredibly discouraged and that it is back to the drawing board. In all probability it is not, but rather a time of inward reflection as to your place in the larger picture of the universe. Daydreaming, wasting time and energy is a common manifestation and intense dreams are a possibility.



In the World and News



Weather conditions that involve water will dominate parts of the country and the world, making travel in some places difficult. We may hear news of accidents. Aquarius is the sign of revolution and the revolutionary, and there may be further attempts for those in some countries in the Middle east to hope for revolution, but this is a confused transit and subject to discouragement, lies and deception. Propaganda will abound and lies will dominate the truth. There is a lack of clarity and direction during this time. Those who talk the talk may not walk the walk, and idealistic or fanatical viewpoints will be espoused. There could be news that involve chemicals, germs or gasses. There may also be news relating to gay individuals, or gay rights and situations that involve sex.