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I am a reporter with a unique beat. I use my understanding of planetary cycles to provide advance notice and analysis on the Zeitgeist of the day. If you have ever wondered “why is this happening now,” my insights will transform your experience of the headlines, adding new meaning and understanding. Call it Astrology for News Junkies. If you’re curious to know why the Impossible Burger is trending…or why the outcome of the 2019 Israeli elections was likely to be a shocker …or why “Woodrow Wilson, Stud Muffin” was a New York Times headline in December 2013, you will find it here, in over a decade’s worth of historical research and reporting.
Note that I do use astrological jargon in The Forecast in my effort to show how the planetary patterns are reflected in mundane events. I explain what the jargon symbolizes, so that all who want to understand the connections between astrology and the news may do so. However, I do not use astrological jargon in personal consultations, just plain English.
Astro-logical Forecast for Tuesday 6/5/2012: Transit of Venus & the Walker Recall Election
/in The ForecastA combative spirit rules the week — for better or for worse. Choose your battles carefully. I say this because aggressive Mars is challenging Venus (social expression) and the Sun (life force) You may find yourself making a strong case for what you love — or what you believe in.
Typing this just as the Moon is leaving opinionated Sagittarius, where it had been drifting (void of course since 1:08AM ET). As of 8:31AM ET it is firmly engaged — just like the clutch of a car — in “make it happen” Capricorn. Time to turn yesterday’s philosophical debates into something ambitious and practical — and it may have a flavor of the soulful or fanatical, as Moon makes an easy connection to nebulous Neptune at 1:38PM ET. Look for a revelation, an upset or some other shock to the system as we get closer to 9:31PM ET, when Moon is challenged by rebel Uranus and later, at 10:54PM ET, by ruthless Pluto.
Also in the stars today: a rare transit of Venus across the path of the Sun. These transits occur every 105-121 years, in two parts. The first part of this cycle happened in June of 2004; the second occurs today. A transit of Venus won’t happen again until 2117, so if you want to see one in your lifetime, do it now.
What does a transit of Venus suggest, in the language of astrology? I am not certain, since it is so rare. Two things I do know: transits of Venus were invaluable to early astronomers as they mapped out our place in the unknown Universe. How intriguing to rely on Venus — which in astrology generally refers to what we love and/or value, and how we love — to determine where we are. So whatever you love, that’s where you are…or, as they say in New Orleans, “Where you at!”
The transit of Venus is happening in Gemini (as they always do — which is also intriguing, frankly). Gemini refers to communication, information and transportation. On its highest level, I’d like to believe that this transit of Venus suggests a new level of understanding and communication of the power of Love to define our place in the world. On another level I believe this may signal the beginning of a shift in collective values. The Sabian Symbol for the transit is “a woman suffragist orating”, suggesting, as Blaine Bovee writes, “sensing the right time to have one’s words heard and believed…feeling one has to shout to have an equal say; a tendency to led by the loudest social voice”. Well that is certainly in line with these revolutionary times.
Meanwhile, in Wisconsin, Scott Walker — whose horoscope has been written about in this forecast since early 2011 — faces voters today in a brutal battle to keep his job. Will he succeed? I don’t know. I do not have birth times for Walker or his challenger, Tom Barrett. I would like to believe that Walker will be recalled, especially since Venus was retrograde when he was elected to office in November of 2010. This suggests voters would soon find themselves in a coyote date situation.
The chart for 7AM today in Madison, Wisconsin shows Moon void of course — which could suggest an event of no consequence — or present an opportunity for an unexpected twist. Pluto and Mars are on the angles of the chart, suggesting a major battle for power. Other patterns in the chart suggest an upset and consolidation of power, especially when the polls close at 8PM.
Great forces are active in Walker’s horoscope. He has Sun and Moon in Scorpio — and thus is driven by a need for power and control (11/2/1967 in Colorado Springs, CO). A militant square between Mars in Capricorn and Saturn in Aries in his chart is directly impacted by the Mother of All Planetary Patterns — the current Uranus-Pluto square. This suggests total destruction or empowerment. Which way will it go?
Barrett is a Sagittarius with Moon in Capricorn (12/8/1953 in Milwaukee, WI). He is driven to make things happen. His Sun is exactly opposed by today’s rare transit of Venus, suggesting – perhaps – an increase in popularity. It is true he has been gaining in the polls — but will it be enough? His Capricorn Moon might be directly impacted by Uranus and Pluto, if he was born in the early morning. This could bring prominence and/or empowerment. His Mercury (mindset) is square Pluto, suggesting he can be an effective strategist — perhaps as ruthless as Walker. I am encouraged by two strong measurements between Jupiter and Mars…and Jupiter and Uranus…which suggest success and windfall opportunities. On the other hand, I must acknowledge two other measurements involving “wet blanket” Saturn that may limit the influence of Barrett’s natural charisma. Pass the popcorn, as I sit on the edge of my seat…
Astro-logical Forecast for Monday 6/4/2012: Full Moon and Eclipse in Sagittarius
/in The ForecastToday’s Full Moon is exact at 7:12AM ET — and it is also a lunar eclipse. Remember that eclipses act as bottlenecks of energy, and wherever it falls in your horoscope is where you may have an illuminating experience, once the bottleneck is released. An old wives’ tale recommends eating potatoes during a lunar eclipse as a way to keep you grounded. Planetary patterns do suggest that passions may run high today, and a little earth could keep you from being swept up in the mind trip of another — or becoming engaged in a highly charged, yet fruitless debate.
If you’re a regular reader of this forecast, you know that Full Moons shine a spotlight on the agenda that was set at the New Moon (in this case, on May 20th — click on the link to review it). Notice that the challenge was to create visionary and revolutionary ways of thinking and communicating. With Venus retrograde, a special attention to graciousness and courtesy in our social interactions was also required, overriding any rude, inconsiderate — or even worse, base and/or degenerate — urges we might have. An extreme example of an Epic Fail in this area would be the five truly creepy reports of cannibalism that have allegedly made headlines recently — and you couldn’t pay me to actually read these articles — or even link them here. But these reports do send a clear message of the collective need for greater respect and care in our dealings with others, wouldn’t you say? What’s going on in your life right now that reflects that challenge?
The Full Moon falls at 15 degrees of Gemini-Sagittarius. If you’ve got a major point or planet on either of those degrees — or at 15 Virgo-Pisces, you’ll be feeling the pull of this eclipse more than the rest of us. The Sabian Symbols for these degrees also refer to communication and understanding. First, for 15 Gemini: “two Dutch children talking”, which suggests a need for clarification and being mindful of coded language or other doublespeak. Second, for 15 Sagittarius, “the groundhog looking for its shadow”, which suggests a need for reassurance in one’s understanding of whatever is being said. From Blain Bovee’s most excellent treatise on Sabian Symbols we note that the groundhog may represent looking for a sign of things to come. The sign — whatever it is — will reassure us that we are on the right path and we will all feel so much better.
Well guess what? On this day with this 15 Gemini-Sagittarius degree prominent, Neptune, which refers to intuition (among other things) turns retrograde until November 10. Retrograde planets suggest we become more introspective in whatever area of life they rule. So this is a good time to turn inwards for all those signs we’re seeking. And if you’re not sure of the path you’re on, or if you just need some support because you’ve hit a bumpy stretch in the road, give me a call and we’ll schedule a session that is both clarifying and reassuring.
Astro-logical Forecast for Sunday 6/3/2012: “Bustin’ Out All Over”
/in The ForecastFeel like taking a gamble or a gambol? Got a philosophical viewpoint that just has to be expressed? In the mood for an escape that broadens your horizons? Moon moved into opinionated Sagittarius at 8:32AM ET, potentially lifting spirit (s) in a big way and suggesting an urge for deeper understanding. What/where are you rambling about today? Dare to get outside your usual box; as the Moon waxes full, it offers the potential for much illumination.
As evening falls, that Big Picture-thinking Moon makes an easy connection with unconventional Uranus (exact at 9:09PM ET), suggesting an innovative experience that could rock your world with a surprising practicality. Why practical? Because Mercury (thoughts, communication, travel) makes a smooth connection to Saturn (discipline, structure) at 10:38PM ET, adding gravitas to the gumbo. Sounds like an excellent mix for my ramble outside the box — all the way to Brooklyn — where I will be addressing the question, “Who Knows What Will Happen Next?” as a guest on Talk Show with Ellen Reeves.
Don’t know who Ellen Reeves is? She is the author of the most excellent book, “Can I Wear My Nose Ring To the Interview?“ Such an unconventional title…yet the book is filled with practical information — another perfect reflection of planetary patterns. Amazing!
Coming up next: thoughts on Monday’s super busy day. We’ve got a Full Moon and lunar eclipse (exact at 7:12AM ET), Neptune turning retrograde (5:05PM ET) and a super-charged challenge between Mars (masculine) and Venus (feminine) at 8:29PM ET. As for how the latter might be reflected in the headlines, here’s a front page piece about a major lawsuit alleging sex discrimination.
As the song goes, “June is bustin’ out all over…” (take it away, Rodgers & Hammerstein).
Astro-logical Forecast for Friday 6/1/2012: Summer When It Sizzles
/in The ForecastOMG, June is finally here and there is so much on deck this month that I don’t even know where to start. Neptune goes retrograde on a full moon/lunar eclipse on the 5th. Jupiter moves into Gemini for a year’s stay on the 11th. The New Moon on the 19th and the Summer Solstice on the 20th are just days away from the Mother of All Planetary Patterns — a challenge between rebel Uranus and ruthless Pluto. On the 24th, these two heavies will square off for the first time since the early ’30s — remember those days? They’ll continue to bump into each other for a total of seven times over the next three years. If you’re someone who thrives on change, you’ll love it. Think positively!
What does all this action have to do with you? If you’re in Brooklyn on Sunday night, I’ll be talking about this jam-packed month on Ellen Reeves’ fantabulous TALK SHOW — stop by, tell your friends and alert the media. If you’re not in Brooklyn but you know a little bit about your horoscope, you’ll find helpful information on how this Uranus-Pluto square may impact your own personal world in this article I wrote for a local astrology newsletter back in March.
Stay tuned to this channel for continuing updates…and now for the today’s whether forecast: Moon heading into Scorpio at 8:31AM ET demands depth and control, fueled by soulful inspiration…or delusion. Remember how idealism — the need to see things in the best possible light — is one of this week’s themes, courtesy of a hookup between mental Mercury and social Venus? Here’s a headline that fits this planetary pattern perfectly: George W. Bush — like him or not — was at the White House yesterday, where his Official Presidential Portrait was unveiled. From the videos of this event that have been posted on YouTube, everyone was having a marvelous time.
Another theme that will become more apparent as we move into the weekend and the Moon waxes full (exact Monday at 7:12AM ET), is the passion — frustrated or highly charged — that is suggested by a challenge between Venus (the feminine, the receptive) and Mars (masculine, aggressive) that will also be exact on Monday. Anyone have a big date planned?
Remember that Venus — which relates to our aesthetic sense and our relationships — is still retrograde. Tempting as that hot new thing may be, be advised that you may feel quite differently about said thing once Venus turns direct on June 27th. On the other hand, it could be argued that some of the most sizzling passions can be experienced during a Venus retrograde. Hmmmm…..well…if you do indulge, seriously think twice before running off to Vegas to tie the knot. And whether you’re in a relationship or not, set your intentions for a positive outlet for your passions.
I’ll post another forecast for Sunday later. Anon…
Astro-logical Forecast for Thursday 5/31/2012: Mercury Conjunct Venus in Gemini
/in The ForecastTrying to see things in the best possible light and using clever, intense yet charming reasoning to make a case are two themes that will likely pull focus over the next couple of days, as mental Mercury and loving Venus join forces in glib Gemini (exact on Friday). Idealism tends to run high when Mercury and Venus make contact. What are those folks wearing rose-colored glasses reluctant to face, I wonder…
In contrast to yesterday, there are no potentially explosive aspects to the peace-seeking Libra Moon today, which should quell most urges to bicker and snipe. A serious focus on ambition and emotional issues rolls in as the evening progresses, courtesy of an exact hook-up between Moon and stern Saturn at 9:31PM ET. Let it percolate, as the Moon will then be void until 8:31AM ET on Friday.