Astrology by Lauren

August 10th ~ August 17th

This week we are visited by some of that astro weather, in which many people are coming to realize that what they had been putting up with until now, is no longer tolerable.  That is because it surrounds the Uranus/Pluto square which continues through the Summer and into the Fall.  This aspect is a societal indicator of the necessity for unified change.  Through a series of events, we are coming to see that things are not what we had previously assumed.  That there are underlying chinks in the fabric and infrastructure of our society... and that these need to be adjusted, repaired or rebuilt from the ground up.  To try to sweep problems under the rug, or pretend that they do not exist, will only make the problem worse than it already is.

Uranus is traveling in Aries, the sign of Mars.  And Pluto is currently in Capricorn, the sign of Saturn.  This week Mars and Saturn will conjoin in Libra, the sign of Venus, while Venus creates a t-square from Cancer, with... Uranus and Pluto.  Sounds complicated?  What this means is that Uranus and Pluto are coming to call in our everyday lives, in our own backyards, through the auspices of Venus, Mars and Saturn.  It is no longer just society’s problem.  It is our problem too.

At the same time, the Sun in its own sign of Leo, will create a picture, also with Uranus and Pluto, called Thor’s Hammer.  With just Mars and Saturn alone, we are being made aware on the one hand, of where aggression and anger have been given too much leeway, perhaps resulting in uncontrolled violence.  On the other hand, we are being shown how suppression and oppression take away people’s rights.  Due to the lack of gun control in the US, as well as the escalation of hate groups, and the ubquitous gangs in the inner cities...  what we are experiencing is aggression and violence, that really does need to be curtailed.   Across the globe we have voter suppression, oppressive circumstances, people, regimes that are unjustly preventing people from exercising their rights.  In the US this creates a strange dichotomy.  For instance, where does the right to bear arms end, and the right of citizens not to have to fear being shot, begin?  Where one side feels their rights to bear arms are being threatened, the other side feels that their right to life and safety is being threatened due to easy access to weapons that kill people.

Thor’s Hammer will expose states of oppression that we have been putting up with, and may not even be consciously aware that we are putting up with... until they become so painful that they can no longer be ignored.  They have been existing as a state of underlying angst or discomfort, which we chose to deal with either out of fear, or simply because we became accustomed to them.  Or, we have been led to believe that it’s easier to live with a familiar lie, (for instance that our 'gun rights' are more important than another person's life), than it is with an uncomfortable truth.  That is, until Thor’s Hammer comes to call.  

“We need tried and true soldiers,” said Hazel Dukes, the N.Y. Conference President of the NACCP. “We don’t need a whole lot of talk. We need you to take your corner.”

In Harlem, last week in New York City, a group of citizens came together, saying they were “Mad as Hell, and they weren’t going to take it any more.”  They were referring to a recent wave of gun violence and intimidation by gangs in their neighborhood and within the public housing buildings.  Elders were too afraid to go out.  Children were getting shot playing in the playgrounds, as they were being caught in the cross fire of rival gangs that have virtually taken over.  The citizens decided to create a neighborhood watch group that will occupy designated street corners in the middle of the night, to send people up to no good on their way, talk with neighbors, and show the gang members that they were taking back the streets.  This is Thor’s Hammer in action.  

This week is also about Venus in Cancer, where people are seeking to protect their own, to defend their families, their businesses, their culture and their people from potential harm, as Venus comes up against what feel like anarchists, rebels and criminals, who thoughtlessly loot, pillage and steal, rending the coffers empty.  It reminds me of water buffalo.  When attacked by predators, the buffalo create a protective defensive circle, with the young and the weakest at the center, while the strong bulls stand at the perimeter with their long horns lowered.  

All of these converge on the 15th of August, and point back to where the chinks are.  Those weaknesses in the fabric of our society, in our infrastructure.. in what we had previously been led to believe were stable and secure.  Platitudes will not suffice this week.  The wagons are circling.

For the week of August 10th thru August 17th, be sure to read your rising sign as well:

Aries

That ouch feeling could be literal or figurative.  It’s as if all of that angst, and tension in the world is being channeled into your very being this week.  Respect your limits, as well as others, and don’t push beyond them, or you will regret it.  Which is kind of hard to tell an Aries to do.  They just keep on going, no matter what obstacles stand in their way.  And of course that’s what gets them into trouble!  There was a recent study in Canada in which they categorized all the people by sun sign who were arrested in this particular city over a period of time.  Aries won hands down as the most arrestable.  Try to avoid becoming frustrated or lashing out at partners and loved ones.  They really can’t help it.  Patience is your key word and mantra this week.

Taurus

News that you receive, or something that you read or learn, makes you realize that it’s time for some sort of drastic action, on the ‘street corners’ of your own neighborhood perhaps.  But one must control the urge to think that it’s all or nothing.  Some sort of adjustment or change of perspective is indeed called for that could have some radical effects on your sense of security, making you want to hold on even tighter.  This is probably not the best time to be making radical decisions, but do consider all the possibilities.  And then when the dust settles, make a commitment to a plan that you can live with.

Gemini

As the hangover of the previous week wears off, you find that clarity resumes.  Even if it does incline you to want to go back and hide again.  For as the dust settles and the fog rolls out, and you can see clearly again.. it’s eventually going to become pretty clear that something is reaching a point of crisis, and can no longer be avoided or ignored.  This does not necessarily directly concern you, but by proxy you are being drawn in.  Someone you may know, perhaps a neighbor or relative, is going through an impending critical life change.

Cancer

Could be seriously feeling like you need to defend yourself, your home, your family, your heritage, everything that you hold and care most about... as it seems like you are being threatened by forces beyond your control.  And that appear to also be insurmountable.  You are being drawn in several directions at once this week.  And could be feeling manipulated or controlled by others or outside forces.  Perhaps some sort of change does indeed need to be made in order to retreat to a place of safety once again.  Whatever you do, do not engage in the power plays and games of manipulation.  Step back, rally round and observe.  But do not get pulled in.  

Leo

If you get dragged into an untenable situation, whether that be a health problem, issues at work, or an overt crisis in ideology or politics, look for solutions.  The problem is not going to go away by just ignoring it.  In fact it is more likely to only get worse.  The placid lion is getting ready to roar.  It’s almost as if you didn’t realize the problem was as bad as it was, until you started to pay attention to it.  The good news, is that there are solutions coming in the wake of the New Moon in Leo next week.  One thing becomes evident, through patience, respect of your own and others’ limitations, and controlled and concentrated activity, you can heal all wounds.

Virgo

You may not fully realize it this weekend, but Mercury did station direct last week. Yet you can’t quite shake that state of disorientation that came with this station.  That’s all right.  There’s so much going on in the world this week, it’s just as well to allow yourself to take some time out.  Some you time.  Away somewhere.  Or undisturbed.  This will help to keep you out of trouble or from being seduced into doing something you will later regret.  Hold your own.  Don’t allow yourself to be manipulated.

Libra

You are going to have to use some of those incredible powers of diplomacy that Libra is so well known for, in order to navigate some choppy weather this week.  It feels like you are coming up against all sorts of forces that are pulling you in various directions, and some how, some how, you got the job of fixing it all.  Be prepared to deal with uncooperative rebels, authoritarian neo-Luddites and manipulative wise guys trying to lead you down the garden path, and who are simply not willing to meet you half way.  Good luck.  This is also a week requiring incredible powers of patience as well as determination.  Remember, when you have right and justice on your side, you can move even mountains.  

Scorpio

You’re coming to realize that this is the end of an era.  Number one, you have to consider your health and well being.  Any stress that you have been putting up with, will no longer be tolerable.  This could be channeled either through an illness, or a painful injury or inflammation.  Or a seething sense of frustration when you realize that a change needs to be made but you feel like your hands are tied.  Use the energy to create a plan.  You may not be able to implement it right away, but your attention to detail and focus will leave no stone unturned.  Then use the New Moon next week to set your intention to follow through.

Sagittarius

Now that Mercury is direct again, you can use the light and clarity that comes over the course of the week to look to the future, and start making plans again.  It will also help to ameliorate any problems or misunderstandings with friends or partners.  You are ready and open for new experiences over the next few weeks.  Whether traveling, studying, or seeking a new adventure... your world is going to be opening up in a really good way.  In the mean time this week, you may have some financial issues to iron out with others.  

Capricorn

This is a time to rely only on yourself and your own resources, gather in your scattered forces and concentrate on your own work.  If people are difficult, don’t engage in the negativity.  Break the karmic tie.  There is a traditional prayer in the South Pacific islands that recognizes our ownership and relationship to the experiences that come to us in our lives.  Both negative and positive, they are yours.  It is the Ho’oponopono prayer: “I am sorry, Please forgive me, I love you and  I Thank you.”  When you chant this prayer it is said to have a profound effect on the cycle of karmic events, disarming them and rendering them impotent.  A karmic cleansing if you will.  With the astro weather this week, this could come in quite handy.

Aquarius

Symbolically the Mars/Saturn conjunction is channeling a lot of the accumulated frustration of the ages.  We could be going back lifetimes here.  But what becomes apparent is that the world has changed dramatically, and a lot of the structures that you had previously come to rely on, are feeling threatened.  So you stand at this juncture, trying to decide if you should stand and fight?  Or should you concede defeat, and realize that it’s time to create a new and better plan.  You may not be able to implement it right away due to circumstances, however commitment to a goal is the first step.

Pisces

Now that Mercury is finally direct again, you can start creating a schedule, get organized, and feel like you have some control over your daily activities and your environment.  Those things that were piling up at home and work can now be tackled.  And that feeling of being just this side of the ether?  Go with it for the first few days over the weekend.  It’s kind of like when you wake up in the morning and you still have the sleep in your eyes.  It’s a hangover from the previous week... as it recedes clarity will resume.

Due to an obscure configuration (with Venus and Neptune) known as Thor’s Hammer, this Full Moon on the 6th brings our innermost fantasies and delusion out into the light of day.  People are not who or what you thought they were; the image that you are trying to promote to the world proves to be unsustainable and unrealistic.  This is a mummer’s play, and it’s time to take off the mask, and stop the role playing, whether it’s as Don Juan, the seductress, the con artist or the victim... look at where you have not been fully honest with yourself or others, or where you have allowed yourself to be seduced into complacency.

If you’ve been tolerating a fairy tale, or promoting some sort of fantasy of your own, you will no longer be able to ignore the deception, or keep up the farce, as the masks fall away.  If you feel deceived, perhaps your expectations were just a little too unrealistic and off base.  Or it was something that you simply preferred not to look at.  A comfortable lie is easier than an uncomfortable truth.  Now it’s time to remove the rose colored lenses, and wake up to the reality of the situation.  And it may not be what you thought it was.

Delusions of grandeur make me feel a lot better about myself. ~ Jane Wagner

If you’ve been the one trying to create an illusion based on smoke and mirrors, then you will no longer be able to keep up the pretense.  Even if you think that you’ve been doing so for a good reason, or for the good of all concerned, it will be difficult to maintain the subterfuge under the rays of the Full Moon in Libra.  

This Libra (partnership, Harmonia) Full Moon falls in the wake of a Venus/Neptune square, within the signs of Gemini (communications, agreements, gossip, news) and Pisces (delusion, masks, illusion, deception, disappointment, disillusion and loss).   It’s easy to want to believe the fantasy under Venus/Neptune, because this is the weather of glamour, romance, fairy tales, and the over-willingness to sacrifice what you wish to be true, for something that you really really want to be true, even at the expense of common sense, and perhaps your wallet as well.  

Fishing is a delusion entirely surrounded by liars in old clothes. ~ Don Marquis

The artist's concept above shows the Pluto system from the surface of one of the candidate moons. The other members of the Pluto system are just above the moon's surface. Pluto is the large disk at center, right. Charon, the system's only confirmed moon, is the smaller disk to the right of Pluto. The other candidate moon is the bright dot on Pluto's far left.~ Nasa.gov

Next Tuesday, Pluto will station retrograde in Capricorn, readdressing our need to face our inner doubts, fears, weaknesses, old festering wounds... those things that are undermining our strength and stability.  It will become evident that some things may need to be fixed, or rehabilitated, in the area of your chart that Pluto is turning.  Doing this important work, will allow you to grow and become more powerful.  More stable.  This needs watching this year, for shortly after Pluto will station direct again next September, Saturn, the ruler of Capricorn, enters Pluto’s sign of Scorpio, creating a mutual reception (traveling in each other’s signs).  This will just fortify, make it more possible, create the circumstances that will lead to rehabilitation, rebuilding and rebirthing.  There is a lot of work ahead of us over the next few years.  But first we need to identify what those weaknesses are, and see what we can do about them.  

For the week of April 6th thru April 13th, be sure to read your Rising Sign as well:

Aries

The Full Moon can bring to light some old injury, an illness, weakness that distracts you and keeps you from being able to fully enjoy the pleasure of Venus’ recent transit into Gemini... at least at first.  It’s kind of hard to dance with gout, or enjoy luncheon with friends when the ‘gastric intolerances‘ rear their heads.  Thank goodness Mars stations direct on the 14th!  In the mean time, next week could bring a change in the routine or schedule that proves to be quite fun.  Say yes, even if your knees are acting up.   As Pluto turns, and over the next several months, you are being given the opportunity to explore and pursue what it is, who it is, that you truly wish to be, and what role you want to play... and also what it is that is standing in the way of your being able to accomplish all that.

Taurus

As Venus moved into Gemini, your first reaction is that all is doom and gloom in the financial department, or that someone is trying to take advantage of you, as you try to figure out how the hell you’re going to make ends meet.  This very well could be, but it might also be that you are not fully grasping the whole situation.  A sudden shift in circumstances could change your whole outlook by next week, so don’t dwell too long on what you have lost... look for creative solutions  and possibility instead.  As for Pluto, look for ways in which your beliefs, or your world view, prevent you from being open to other possibilities.  You may not think of yourself as being overly conventional, or prejudiced in any way, but circumstances may arise to reflect how your fixed view of people or the world, is limiting you in some way. Pay attention.  You may have some revising to do.

Gemini

Venus being in your sign is truly going to be awesome.  Especially now that Mercury is finally direct again.  Phew!  However, you are going to have to get past the initial ‘disappointment’, or dread that comes to light with the Full Moon.  The Mars/Neptune energy which is being triggered at the Full Moon can be like the art of T’ai chi, which is defined as an internal martial arts.  It’s about finding ways to master yourself internally, so that when things do occur, you have the deftness and ability to move and go with the flow, instead of succumbing to circumstances.  Pluto is a symbol of death, and as such has a strong association with the idea of impermanence.  This is something for Gemini to meditate on over the next several months.  As Christmas Humphries said: “Life is a bridge, therefore build no house on it.”  It is also the planet of rebirth.  As such, you are going to come to terms with what needs to be let go of, what needs to be purged, in order to be reborn anew.

Cancer

Letting go of the past is not an easy thing for Cancer to do.  But clinging to the past, or dwelling on what could have or should have been are just so many pipe dreams.  Lovely as they may have been.  It will be hard for you to fully take advantage of the wonderful creative opportunities that are presenting themselves to you now, if you are still living in your last great hey day.  It’s time to look forward, not back!  Take those talents, what you have learned, and apply them to your present circumstances.  In a new light.  And if this means change... embrace it.  The interesting thing about Pluto stationing in Capricorn, for Cancer, has to do with your relationship with power and powerful people and how much influence they have in your life.  Sometimes the easiest way to take the fangs out of others is by taking the focus off of them and back on to yourself.   As J. K. Rowling said, “When you have seen as much of life as I have, you will not underestimate the power of obsessive love.”  Or obsessive anything for that matter.

Leo

When you fall in love with a person from another culture, place, or belief system, you have to ask yourself what it is that you are falling in love with?  Is it the individual, or the mysterious exotic nature of their language, culture and viewpoint?  One morning you wake up, and you realize that Didier is just Bob in nicely tailored wrappings.  We can be just as infatuated with ideas as we are with people. And then we wake up to the bad breath, bed hair and pillow creases in our cheeks, of the illusion that once was.  Looking ahead in the Pluto scheme of things, look at ways that you can rebuild or rehabilitate your health over the year ahead.  Whether that means changing your diet, addressing debilitating habits, facing the ways that you psychologically undermine yourself, or embarking on an exercise regimen, it’s about literally facing what needs to be fixed, and fixing it.

Virgo

This Full Moon is really about acceptance.  It’s about knowing those things that you do have control over, and accepting those things that you simply don’t, and letting them go.  This is about the serenity prayer: God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the Wisdom to know the difference.  If this were a perfect world then wishes could come true, and fairies would tell you their secrets.  But alas...  the only one or thing you can actually control is yourself, your own thoughts and your own motives.  As Pluto stations retrograde in Capricorn it’s time to honestly face old wounds and obsessions, and where you are creating frustrating blocks, by an inability to simply let go.  It’s time to knead out the scar tissue, in order to allow the creative juices to flow again.  A painful process, but well worth it in the end.  

Libra

For those Librans who are traveling this weekend, don’t drink the water, and pay attention to what you are eating... then go out and enjoy yourself!  Venus in Gemini weather is a time for Libra to shine, despite feeling a little miffed over the Full Moon. This will soon pass.  As for Pluto’s work?  There is an old saying: “It is easier to build up a child than it is to repair an adult.”  Don’t you wish someone told that to your parents when you were born?  Well, the ball is in your court now, and whatever inhibitions, whatever wounds inflicted on you in your youth need to be honestly explored.  Look to see what doubts and fears are undermining your effectiveness in the world and see what you can do to heal those old wounds.  It really comes down to believing in yourself.  Think of this as your new mantra for the next several months: “I can do this!”

Scorpio

If things are not working out as well as you had hoped, perhaps you had raised the bar just a little too high.  Pay attention at this Full Moon tide as to where you had mis-judged, or allowed yourself to be misled by your own fantasies and hopes.  Your ruler Mars will be dancing with illusory Neptune all month, and perhaps the best way to manage this weather is found through the discipline of T’ai Chi, the art of internal martial arts.  Focusing the mind on the movements of the T’ai chi forms helps to bring about a state of mental calm and clarity, and opens the various circulatory channels.  So you can achieve a similar result through skillful, focused movement.  Your co-ruler, Pluto, stations in Capricorn this week, showing you where you need to go deeper mentally and psychologically.  Healing, revelation, and a whole new perspective arises through deep, concentrated mental work, that addresses even the most taboo and/or occult subjects.  Leave no stone unturned in your quest.

Sagittarius

Partnerships really will improve and grow with Venus now in Gemini, although at first it certainly won’t feel like it.  Especially if the Full Moon does its work.  If you are feeling disappointed in others, perhaps even betrayed or confused... the key is to realize that your partner, your loved ones, simply want to be happy.  And though at first it may seem that their happiness is canceling yours out, or is based on some fantasy... take a moment just to walk in the other person’s shoes... and let things be.  Don’t dwell there.  Gears are shifting this week.  A change of scene will bring excitement and fun.  Therefore, look forward to the week ahead and focus on that!  As for Pluto, the next several months are an opportunity to honestly explore your financial circumstances, and coming to terms with the fact that things are not what they used to be.  There’s a new paradigm emerging, with a whole new set of rules.  See what you need to do to accept that and/or adjust.

Capricorn

If anyone is going to be feeling Pluto rolling around in his lair this week, it will be Capricorn.  Especially those Capricorns born between December 27th and January 2nd, (approx. 7-11° of Capricorn rising), although I dare say you will all be feeling the shift.  Capricorn is very resistant to change, however Pluto is about necessity.  It’s an evolutionary process that unfolds from within, and can’t be avoided.  Like puberty.  And at some point Capricorn comes to realize that they have outgrown their current circumstances in some way.  They have outgrown their shell, and need to find a better fit, a better healthier body, lifestyle, environment, life.  But in order to do so, you first have to be willing to let go of the old shell, the old habits, those things that you have become accustomed to, and are familiar with, but no longer fit, and like too-small, or worn out shoes are causing a hell of a lot of blisters.  

Aquarius

What at first comes as a profound sense of confusion and disillusionment in the wake of the Full Moon, evolves into a week of unexpected fun, and dare I say, laughter?  So don’t dwell on the negative news, whatever deceptions may be revealed, or disappointments... these will soon be so negligible in the general scheme of things this week.  You are going to be reminded of what is truly important in life, what makes your heart sing... the key to joy and happiness.  And that just trumps everything.  Could even be some good news this coming week.  As for the Pluto work to come, with Pluto in the previous sign to Aquarius, this is like the weakest place to have any transiting planet.. because it’s where we seem to have the least control, in the subconscious mind.  What this is about is being willing to face those tendencies, habits and aspects of your inner makeup that are holding you back, undermining you, and preventing you from growing.  Secrets, wounds, pain, compulsions, all have to be faced within the labyrinth, a difficult process, but an important one, in order to unburden yourself of unwanted and crippling psychic baggage.  

Pisces

It may feel like you are losing control, or that the fabric of your life is becoming loosely undone.  You cannot blame yourself entirely for not seeing that one coming, whatever that thing is... perhaps you weren’t as vigilant as you should have been, but things are not quite as bad as they initially seem.  And the world not quite as harsh.  As the month ensues, you will come to appreciate the concept of T’ai chi, or the art of internal martial artistry.  Like dance movements, this is about finding healing and serenity through the skillful focus and concentration on the T’ai chi forms.  If you can achieve this inner calm, even the most earth shattering of events can be negotiated.  As for Pluto, look in the area of your friendships and associations over the next year... which are working and helping you to grow, and which are undermining you in some way through power plays or jealousy.... and how you can grow your network, your influence, without having to compromise your integrity.  

Earthquakes, revolutions, famines, hurricanes...batten down the hatches!  Flexibility is key this week, as Mercury stations Direct today, while carrying the light back and forth between Uranus and Pluto.  These planets together are harbingers of revolution and all sorts of upheaval.  What with unexpected earthquakes, hurricanes crawling up the east coast of the US, Libyan rebels getting a toe-hold in Tripoli... the next thing you know Godzilla will be re-emerging from the nuclear polluted depths of the sea.  At the least, what we can expect are a few changes in plans due to ‘forces’ beyond our control.  

Today I went out for a walk and discovered this:

I live on a block made up of 19th century brownstones and tenements, built like sturdy warehouses to house the waves of immigrants pouring in from Europe at the time.  Living in these bastions of stone and masonry, one has an illusion of grounded protection.. but alas, even these old structures are not immune to the hazards of the random unexpected earthquake that rattled us out of the doldrums this week.

The Godzilla movie of the 1950’s, was an allegory based on the nightmarish post-nuclear aftermath of World War II which wreaked destruction in Hiroshima and Nagasaki.  But what this movie is also addressing is what comes after the initial shock of disaster and change.. and that is the process of coping and rebuilding.. the reconstruction.  As Susan Napier (Professor of Japanese literature at Tufts) pointed out when referring to the Godzilla movies, is that “One of the things the Japanese are very good at is talking about the aftermath of the disaster.. the poignancy, the mourning.”  Even good changes carry an element of remorse and regret for what once was.

In my childhood, and even my older children’s childhoods, the stoop of the building was the most used part of the building.  Unable to afford the electricity required to run an air conditioner, people sought relief on the steps outside, where children played stoop ball, jumprope and scully, while the adults gossiped and shared iced drinks.  Luckily for the building above, the denizens of the stoops are now merely ghosts from a nostalgic past... and no one was hurt.

With the New Moon in Virgo, we’re right on target with the dust pans, mops, and cleaning utensils at arms reach, and the hammer in the other hand.  Clean up, repair, revitalize, renew.  New Moons are excellent times for planting seeds, making plans and sowing intentions.. and thanks to a Grand Trine in the Earth signs (Virgo, Taurus and Capricorn), this is a powerful New Moon on the 28th-29th, with a lot of potential and support behind it to renovate, rebuild and rehabilitate.  Plans and initiatives that are formed at this time, even if you don’t get to implement them right away.. have a lot of potential for success.  

As if there isn’t enough astro weather this week, Jupiter is stationing Retrograde on the 30th.  And whenever Jupiter stations, it’s accompanied by this sudden burst of enthusiasm.... only then to realize that things are not actually going to be able to be worked out quite yet, possibly not even until Jupiter goes direct again in December.  It’s like you’ve got this really great idea, but everyone has decided to go on vacation, and you’ll have to wait till they get back.  Jupiter is taking a sabbatical.  But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t hold on to that great idea... do hold on to it...  Check it for ethical soundness and stability.  Make sure you have the necessary resources... and then when the time is right, go forth with confidence.  

For the week of Aug 26th thru Sept 1st.. be sure to read your rising sign as well if you know it:

Aries

Just as you were getting at the end of your tether, and losing patience... the obstructions you have been facing will seem to move away.  But not without tossing a few more stones in your path as a parting gesture.  It’s times like these that we are reminded to focus on the things we can do something about, and accept the things we can’t.  The New Moon on Sunday(Monday) falls in Virgo, the sign of work, health and daily routine.  Look at those areas of your life that need reorganization, rehabilitation.  Perhaps a change in diet?  Or a new exercise regimen?  Or perhaps re-tooling your daily schedule to allow a more healthful lifestyle, and that also allows you to pursue your goal of achieving a stronger and more stable presence.

Taurus

Despite some minor inconveniences and changes in plans, this should prove to be an excellent week for Taurus who gracefully finds herself the recipient of attention and adoration.  Everything will also be colored with a greater intensity... more colors, more meaning, more depth: in your relationships, your art, your desire.  Your opinion of the world is gradually shifting as it becomes evident that analogies and correspondences can be made everywhere you look, and within the limitless confines of your burgeoning soul.  

Gemini

Despite the fact that your ruler, Mercury, is stationing direct again, and one would normally be celebrating with much glee and enthusiasm... there are still a few inconveniences to reckon with before Mercury emerges from its ‘shadow’ period which won’t be over until after the 9th of September.  This week will be about needing to be flexible and to allow room for unexpected changes in plans, due to forces beyond your control.  There is also a need to be flexible when dealing with getting messages across, as wires could get crossed in the process.  Lucky for Gemini, they are skillfully adept at jumping through hoops and juggling many things, with a grace that most of us are only envious of.

Cancer

Knowing you can always count on me... that’s what friends are for..

Leo

Set your intentions this New Moon towards achieving financial stability.  Seeds planted now are going to find fertile soil in which to grow large and strong.  But there’s something to be said for self-worth, confidence, and attitude as well.  Think about your strengths... what makes you special, valuable as well as necessary.  What are your talents and what are you capable of giving back to the world... what is your legacy?  And yes, you can share the video this week with Cancer.

Virgo

This New Moon is in your sign this month, investing Virgo with a surge of energy, determination and conviction.  Things may not work out or plan out exactly as you thought they would this week, and you may need to use a little fancy footwork to leap over some hurdles... but after adjusting to a few unexpected changes.. use this energy to work on that project that’s been languishing on your nightstand just waiting for you to add those necessary finishing touches.  It’s time.

Libra

So long as you continue to do the right thing... leave all regrets and resentments behind.  Pull out the yoga mat.  Assume the position and ground your energy.  The sanskrit word for mountain is tada.  The tada-asana, or mountain pose, is the pose used to regain your composure, your grounding between other poses in yoga.  This pose is also known as samasthiti-asana, or standing upright, firmly and grounded, without moving, and maintaining your equilibrium.  When you have a solid base such as this even the fiercest winds or storms will not faze you.  You are the mountain this week.

Scorpio

The New Moon in Virgo is Scorpio’s wish fulfillment Moon, and never is this more so than now.  Yes there are still going to be some minor and awkward head-butting moments... that throw a few flies in the ointment... but the strength of the earthy Grand Trine this week brings strength, and a sense of hope for future plans and stability.  Whatever difficulties may exist are grandly overshadowed by a strong support system of friends and fans, who just think you are the cat’s pajamas.

Sagittarius

As your ruler, Jupiter, stations retrograde this week, this marks a time when you need to put more attention on your inner needs and goals.  You still will be mediating with the outside world, which frankly loves you and showers you with gifts and accolades.  But Jupiter Retrograde periods are about exploring those things that are truly meaningful and important to you.  Over the next few months you’ll be considering issues related to morals and ethics... and what is right.. and what is simply wrong.

Capricorn

The good news is that after this weekend a lot of aggravation that you’ve been putting up with will be less of a concern.  The New Moon brings opportunities to make substantial progress in your life with personal goals and triumphs.  However, there’s still these issues about a lagging sense of insecurity, and esteem drain.  Do not value yourself by what you do or do not have.  Value yourself through your achievements and reputation.

Aquarius

Just when one aggravation is dispensed with, another arrives.  Aquarius is a fixed sign and gets easily perturbed by sudden and unexpected changes in plans.  But the real issues that leave you floundering and trying to find safe purchase in which to ground yourself are somewhat insidious and hard to put a finger on.  Neither dwell on past regrets, nor worry about what the future may bring.  For now, focus on the present and remain in the now.  There is enough right in front of you that needs tending to.  The present moment is always small in the sense that it is always simple, but concealed within it lies the greatest power.” - Eckhart Tolle

Pisces

As your ruler, Jupiter, stations retrograde this week, it’s time to look within and pay attention to those things that are truly meaningful and worthwhile to you.  It’s about setting priorities: relationships, values, ethics.  And it’s also about recognizing yourself as part of a greater whole.  Through your everyday encounters with people that you meet, your neighbors, the people in the store, where you buy your coffee, through conversations and interactions with people you normally wouldn’t even pay attention to.. you are opened up to new ways of viewing the world, and thinking.

In Margaret Atwood’s novel, The Handmaid’s Tale, the lead character, Offred, recalls her mother saying in the times before Gilead, when the United States was yet to be overthrown by religious zealots:

“...it is truly amazing, what people can get used to, as long as there are a few compensations.”

When Margaret Atwood wrote this novel Ronald Reagan had been methodically dismantling social programs in the name of smaller government and bolstering corporate elitism, often at the expense of the environment, workers, and the beleaguered middle class.  Margaret Thatcher also took the conservative mantle in Great Britain at about the same time.  And lurking in the background was this swelling growth of religious ideology riding the Neptune in Sagittarius wave, seemingly hell bent on undermining many of the social advances made during the 60’s and 70’s.  By the time Pluto entered Sagittarius in the 90’s, politicians had to prove just how religious they were.. what religion they were, and how often they went to church!  The separation of church and state had become so toxically blurred, that Republican candidates in the US cannot even admit to believing in evolution.

Offred is a Handmaid in the Republic of Gilead, a totalitarian and theocratic state that has since replaced the United States of America.  Offred’s freedom, like the freedom of all women in this futuristic society, is completely restricted. She can leave the house only on shopping trips, the door to her room cannot be completely shut, and the “Eyes”, Gilead’s secret police force, watch her every public move. Even her name, Of-fred, is a title, indicating that she ‘belongs’ to Fred.  In a totalitarian state, Atwood suggests, people will endure oppression willingly as long as they receive some slight amount of power or freedom.  The women of Gilead even contribute to their own oppression by willingly participating in it, and even promoting it as active agents of the totalitarian state.

This is kind of the way that sesquiquadrates operate.  They expose states of oppression that we put up with... and may not even be consciously aware that we are putting up with... until they are pointed out.  Rather, they exist as a state of underlying angst or discomfort.  Either we put up with these out of fear.  Or because we have become accustomed to the state, and choose familiarity.  Or because we are led to believe that it’s easier to live with a familiar lie, a persistent backache, than it is with an uncomfortable truth.  That is, until Thor’s Hammer comes to call.

I would like to believe this is a story I’m telling. I need to believe it. I must believe it. Those who can believe that such stories are only stories have a better chance. If it’s a story I’m telling, then I have control over the ending. Then there will be an ending, to the story, and real life will come after it. I can pick up where I left off.~ Margaret Atwood (A Handmaid’s Tale)

Thor’s Hammer is a name given to a configuration of at least 3 planets that form what looks like a spear, with two planets in a square aspect, both making sesquiquadrates to a third planet.  So what had previously been an irritation, becomes suddenly quite powerful, quite obvious, and can no longer be denied.  We have two Thor’s Hammer configurations coming up this week.  The first involving Saturn (reality), Neptune (ideology), and Mars (anger, action).  The second, later in the week, but lingering longer, involving Mercury (communication), Uranus (alternative, independent) and Pluto (transformation, change, revolution).  On top of this, Venus and the Sun are entering Virgo and inadvertently also ticking off the Mars, Saturn, Neptune Hammer in the process through the auspices of health care, workers, unions, jobs, and environmental issues.  And Handmaids as well.  

One gets the sense of the worm turning... the woebegone, the oppressed Handmaids, picking up Thor’s Hammer, and even in the face of what feels like insurmountable odds and apathy, saying... “I’m mad as hell, and I don’t want to put up with this any more.”  They will no longer fall for the lies, the platitudes, or the delusions being propagated under the guise of ideology, which under the stress of Thor’s Hammer, can not hold up to the face of reality.

For the week of August 19-25th, please read your rising sign as well if you know it:

Aries

Wanting to defend and protect and fight the good fight... courage vies with fear, as you face what appears to be an insurmountable foe. Granted you feel more comfortable in an arena with boxing gloves... but there are times when these will prove fruitless..., and without your familiar weapons you feel compromised.  However, do not allow over-bearing individuals to make you feel inadequate or inhibited, and prevent you from being able to do your own thing!  Look at ways in which you may have been giving your power away, and reclaim it.  But find a way to do so without the gloves.

Taurus

Be assured that your ruler, Venus, is moving into more comfortable territory this week... but before she does so, she takes a detour through the land of delusion and disenchantment.  Alas!  Poor Yorick, may indeed lack the luster of his former self, as deceptions are uncovered, or utopias have their ugly clay feet exposed.  As the rose colored glasses are removed from your eyes, and Venus moves into Virgo, loss or disillusionment can lead even the Handmaid to rise and take hold of Thor’s Hammer this week.  

Gemini

Your ruler, Mercury, will be slowing down this week before he station’s Direct again, on the 27th.  But as he does so, he is going to re-hash a lot of stuff that was left off from the middle of July.  Up till now you’ve been able to document and observe the revolution from afar... but it just may be that you find yourself being drawn into some sort of alternative revolutionary-type conversations this week that have uncharacteristically tweaked your attention.  And maybe, just perhaps, maybe you really can make a difference.

Cancer

You want to get everyone energized, but you have to make sure that the people you are trying to energize want to be.  Or else you could very well find it extremely frustrating when they seem so complacent and willing to go along with all of these injustices, while you’re getting your knickers all tied in a knot.  Since you’re not necessarily going to be getting the back up that you need, it might be best to just point out exactly what it is that you find so oppressive.  Even if you can’t do anything about it right now.  Sometimes just being willing to name exactly what the problem is, makes all the difference in the world.  

Leo

You may have thought yourself immune... but this week as you step off into the realm of what feels like unreality and mummery, you’re going to be asking yourself... which is right, which is real, and which is actually the illusion.  Sometimes it takes what feels like an atmosphere of oppression, in which you cannot speak your own mind, to speak your own truth, to realize that something is terribly uncomfortable.  And needs to be addressed.  False prophets and ideologues sometimes need to be called out on the carpet... and although you can’t be all things to all people.. you’ve got to rebuild your confidence in yourself... and part of that rests on accepting the truth, no matter what.

Virgo

We are entering Virgo season this week, and you may find yourself unwittingly brandishing Thor’s Hammer in the process.  Truths that were left unspoken, remain as a nagging sense of agitation in the background, as it amazes you that others simply cannot perceive the obvious.  The hard part is knowing what to say when... and that sometimes more is said by saying nothing.. for sometimes truth, although true, can cause more harm and chaos.  Be careful.

When you have eliminated the impossible, whatever remains, however improbable, must be the truth. ~Sir Arthur Conan Doyle (Sherlock Holmes)

Libra

If you are prevented from being effective in the outside world, due to circumstances beyond your control... sometimes it is wise to retreat to working from behind the scenes.  Especially if being in the limelight appears to cause too much agitation and aggravation.  Maintain your composure through moments of escape and meditation... although at times this week will feel both draining and oppressive... to the point where you’re just about to give up... focusing on tranquility and peace lead to rebuilding strength and confidence in the long run.  Do not give up.

Scorpio

Both Scorpio rulers, Mars and Pluto, are involved in these Thor’s Hammers this week, leaving you feeling somewhat obsessed with an idea or argument that leaves you both frustrated and feeling oppressed and inhibited.  You will find that people do not necessarily agree with your views or ideas, and this leaves you listless and unwilling to assert yourself in the way that you normally would.  Fear comes up against courage, as you come to realize that some battles are simply not worth fighting, if they’re only going to leave you feeling inadequate and undermined.  Allow the air to be cleared in its own time, in its own way.

Sagittarius

Both Sun and Venus are entering the sign you associate with career and self-promotion this week.  For the next month you’ll be focusing on your future, trying to establish some sort of plan.  Although things may be a little confusing and disillusioning in the beginning of the week... start paying attention to your goals, your reputation, and your career.  By the end of the week you will begin to feel more organized again.  Things are looking up for Sag.

Capricorn

It becomes evident that you could get a lot more accomplished if you could get the cooperation of others... but for whatever reasons, you can’t get where they’re coming from, nor understand their anger and frustration.  Without the support of others, you feel weakened and ineffective.  It is important for you to maintain the ideals of fairness and equality in this weather, but just remember that not everyone will be willing to cooperate or meet you half way.  Eventually it will become evident a shift in perspective may be necessary.

Aquarius

If you find that your ideas are greeted with resistance, maybe even a little anger... look at ways in which you may have been a little judgmental.  A lot of the ideas that you may be holding on to are going to be tested this week for veracity... or at least for fairness.  If it is a sound idea, a truly legitimate point of view.. then it will stand up to even the most persuasive of arguments.  It is also important to be patient and willing to accept people from where they are.  You’re not going to be able to convince people of anything if you’re speaking completely different languages.

Pisces

When things turn out to not be what you thought they would be.  When the real world encroaches and makes it difficult to maintain your equilibrium, try to apply some inner understanding of what is going on in this age of discontent.  Look at life with a certain element of detachment if you are able, and maintain a sense of calm, even when things seem so embattled and frustrating, that even your life savings seems to be put in jeopardy.  If you can manage even in times of crisis... to keep to the center... this sense of composure will serve you well, both now, and into the future. 

The above illustration of the Handmaid, is by Erin McGuire

The above print, "Thor Destroys the Giant Thrym" in which Thor gets his hammer back and uses it to kill the giants, is by Viktor Rydberg (1906) from Teutonic Mythology Vol. II