May 2015

by Mac McLaughlin | May 1, 2015 | Weekly Forecasts

What are we going to do when the big one hits? No, not the earthquake; we know that will happen someday and we have no say in the matter. I’m talking about the big oil spill that is inevitable, foreseeable and preventable. Our mini spill was a true wake-up call and although it was just a drill and not a big spill, we’re able to witness the Tweedledee and Tweedledum effect of our local and federal agencies, ministers and other officials pointing the finger and passing the buck with a whole lot of weak excuses about their unpreparedness. It is sickening, but rather than whine and cry the blues we should be motivated to truly do something about it. The stars are in very good position for this type of action and protestation. The past we cannot change and the future hasn’t come, but the present is in our grasp and it is up to us to make a difference regarding how the future unfolds.

Can we really call ourselves ‘green’ when we have a bunch of steel tanks full of very toxic material sitting very close to our shores and we’re inviting giant tankers to move up and down our coast? It’s just insanity, greed and short-sightedness and one day we will pay the price for it. The planet Uranus is moving through Aries for the next few years and then through Taurus for several more years bringing us up to 2026. Uranus is the planet of invention, revolution, innovation and ingenuity and he is moving through Aries, the sign of new starts, fresh beginnings and pioneering action. I don’t profess to be a scientist at all, but don’t we have the technology to implement solar and wind energy, thermal heating and many more technologies that will protect us from serious environmental hazards?

When Uranus moves through Taurus from 2019 to 2026, it may be harder to make changes and the changes we don’t make consciously will happen suddenly, without warning and probably with disastrous results. We can nip this in the bud if we get a move on and act now. It is a time of awakening and a time of striving for better ways. The planets are offering their help, but will we take heed and pay attention? Or will we just slumber and one day hold our collective head in our hands as we weep at the loss of our very precious resources and pristine natural environment? We are the guardians and we must think and act before it is too late.

It’s time to take stock and an inventory of where you’re at. You were born at a time signifying that the gift for pioneering is in your blood and spirit. Revolutionary Uranus visits Aries until 2019 and won’t return for 84 years. Now’s the time to make your move and do what you were born to do.

Although you might be snug and comfy with all your earthly possessions, it won’t always be that way. A few years from now when Uranus moves through Taurus, it’s likely big changes will take place. It’s not necessarily a negative thing, though, especially if you are willing to accommodate changes when they come your way.

Mercury and Mars visit Gemini bringing all kinds of energy and activity your way. They’re not the best of friends and when they meet up there is always some sort of controversy that needs to be sorted out. Truth and honour, honesty and valour get you through nicely while anger and impatience bring more concerns.

Venus pays a visit for most of the month providing a perfect setting for reunions and gatherings of all sorts. Time spent with loved ones fills the bill nicely or a special love manifesting may be the case. Cancer loves antiquity and antiques and it’s probable you will come into possession of something quite valuable.

Jordan Speith is the 2015 Masters champion. The golf world is agog with this 21-year-old Leo’s dominance of the field. He smashed just about every record out there. He’s one example of how Jupiter can bring his blessings and abundance. Jupiter is all about competition and he’s moving through Leo now. Hint, hint.

Mercury and Mars are moving across the top of your solar chart. It means you should be busy, very busy. So busy that you might overdo it or ignore important details of a job etc., which really isn’t Virgo’s way. Pay attention and go slowly or you may have to redo what you’ve just done.

Journeys might be on your mind. It is likely you will make important decisions regarding relationships. The truth is revealed or exposed offering you an opportunity to set the scales aright once again. A move to a new place of residence or a job change might be in the wind. Go with the flow.

The full Moon on May 3 brings revelations and realizations your way. Jupiter has a hand in the play and it might be wise to say less, otherwise, you may rue the fact you overreacted and said way too much. Then again, you probably will see the true facts and might state them no matter what.

Mercury and Mars travel opposite to your sign and it might be a sign of some type of clash or crash. Possibly, a clashing of ideals will manifest. “A soft answer turns away wrath” is a good mantra to keep at hand. Sagittarius is known for releasing thunderbolts of truth from time to time.

It might be time to re-evaluate what is important and what is real or not. The stars are aligning in such a way that some people may go away or you may move away from situations that are no longer viable or sustainable. Children and youth in general are topics for consideration.

The earth may shake beneath your feet as the full Moon takes place on May 3. The shaking may not be literal, but more psychological as you come across some realizations of certain realities. While this sounds ominous, it may not be that way at all. Epiphanies come that help you decide how to go.

The month of May has its challenges that must be dealt with. Certain frustrations and limitations hold sway and it will take some hard thinking to sort it all out. Confusion and distortion could be in the play, but once the air is cleared, you may feel some relief. Honesty is the best policy.

April 2015

by Mac McLaughlin | Apr 6, 2015 | Weekly Forecasts

Western tropical astrology is solar based – in whichever of the 12 signs of the zodiac are featured. Eastern Vedic astrology is lunar based and much of it is derived from the Moon’s monthly motion through the 27 lunar mansions, also called nakshatras. Each nakshatra has a ruling planet and ruling deity and the ancients have been culling a great amount of information, knowledge and wisdom from the nakshatras for several thousand years. The material is very revealing – almost shocking – in its descriptive details regarding some of the personality traits and activities that unfold regarding the nakshatras. We can use the nakshatras to plan auspicious events such as marriages, travel, investments and at the start of a particular activity.

As an example, when we knew that game seven of the Stanley Cup finals was to take place on June 15, 2011, I looked up the positions of the planets and the nakshatra the Moon was travelling through. It was a full Moon, which always brings our emotions to their peak and the Moon was in the nakshatra called Mula. I became very alarmed and told everyone that would listen there would be a riot downtown and it would be wise to stay away from the core of the city on that evening. If you look up the meaning for Mula, you will find the deity is Nirrti, the goddess of destruction, calamity, violence, upheaval, cruelty, ego and anger.

Many of us were scratching our heads and wondering how seemingly good and decent people could stoop to such destructive, mindless acts. It was a potent mix of full Moon, large, angry mobs fuelled by alcohol and Mula’s influence driven by the goddess Nirrti, ruler of destruction and upheaval. Logically, it would be wise to plan all major events according to the auspicious or inauspiciousness of the Moon’s position in the nakshatras and you can bank on it that the ancients used this powerful tool in planning their major events. I’m pretty sure that Vancouver’s retiring Chief Constable Jim Chu would not have been receptive to this loony information from an old hippy astrologer. He probably would have had me carted off to the loony bin. Of course, loony bin and lunatic are derivatives of luna, which is another name for the moon. The gist of this article is not fear mongering, but to help us become aware there is a great amount of knowledge in the stars that we could put to good use in our everyday lives.

(March 21 – April 19)You wrote the script for your present life activities long ago so you need not worry as to what it is you will do; if you don’t know what to do, keep eliminating those things you don’t like to do. This activity will make room for all forms of creative energy to manifest.

(April 20 – May 21)Mars dominates the scene throughout April. You’re fired up about something or a lot of things. He gives a great boost of energy and enthusiasm. It’s a good time to start any type of project especially ones that require a lot of effort. Mars also represents anger and frustration so measure twice and cut once.

(May 22 – June 20)Spring has sprung and in true Gemini fashion you will have much to do and very much to think about. It’s a dual-pronged process in which you will be in a highly creative mode – living, loving and laughing – while, at the same time, some sadness creeps in and some things will have to go.

Home and career activities dominate the calendar. Throw in a surprise or two and we have the recipe for a demanding and very active spring season. Friends feature strongly and health matters as well. Be pro-active, stay original and give your love and support to those that need it most. Love is in the air.

Jupiter brings his blessings to your table. Throughout April, those born from August 3 to 7 will receive the strongest play from this giant among the planets. Jupiter brings lessons of the heart and of the spirit. Any losses are followed by abundant gains. Travel, spirituality, expansion and general good fortune are in the works.

Virgo is all about the fine details of any given thing. Of course, this is the blessing you have to offer. But it might be wise to strive to look at the big picture as your life is about to expand in all kinds of ways. Plan for the long term. Roll up your sleeves and have at it.

The lunar eclipse on April 4 takes place in your sign. Those born from October 6-10 will glean the most from this lunation. You will have to do some fancy dancing and figuring in order to accommodate the new realities that have come into your life recently.

Your ruler, Mars, moves through your opposite sign Taurus all month and indicates the probability of some sort of clash or confrontation. It doesn’t have to be a negative thing at all. It might be you are confronting yourself and pushing yourself to new limits and higher standards. Finding the balance in all things is important, though.

Expansion and contraction are the two keywords to pay attention to now. On one level, there will be all kinds of opportunities to do quite well; on another level, there are areas you will have to cut back on. It doesn’t make sense to me, but it should make sense to you.

What you resist persists and what you assist desists. Life is going to be like that and you might as well get into the groove and go along with the cosmic plan. Cappy loves to keep things stable and steady, but that’s not the game right now. ‘Transplant, regenerate and transform’ is the mantra now.

The stars are leaning in your favour especially in the area of relationships. Partnerships and alliances are featured. You could win a long-standing dispute or court case. ‘Steady-on’ is the advice of the times. A move or renovation could be in the works. Of course, an internal renovation is desired as well.

Personal earning capacity along with probable inheritances might be on your mind. But you have bigger fish to fry. Oops, sorry, I forgot you’re from the fish family. You may feel a bit rudderless these days, but have no fear, you are on a journey to a cosmic destination. Be at peace with it all.

March 2015

by Mac McLaughlin | Mar 1, 2015 | Weekly Forecasts

The spring equinox takes place on March 20 at 3:45 PM Pacific Daylight Savings Time (PDST). It is an auspicious astrological event and many cultures in ancient times used the spring equinox chart as their cosmic indicator as to how the year would go. I set the chart for Vancouver and the indications are excellent. Maybe “excellent” is a little over the top, but in the language of the stars, the equinox chart is radiating very positive and harmonious qualities. I wouldn’t expect lollipops to be falling out of the sky, but if we lean into the tasks that lie before us, we stand a very good chance of doing rather well.

Just before I lull you into passivity with dreams of sugarplums and mega-dollar projects unfolding, know that life will be hot, dramatic and intense, as it should be when you dwell in a metropolis the size of Vancouver. Thirteen hours before the equinox, a solar eclipse takes place and it will cast its astrological shadow throughout the rest of 2015. Eclipses are associated with karma and in addition to personal karma, we have collective karma as well. On March 21, the Moon eclipses Mars and Uranus and we can expect some type of fireworks to manifest in the form of fires, earthquakes, accidents and violent incidents. It doesn’t necessarily mean these events will take place, but the stars are showing the potential for some type of calamity to manifest. It could come about as gang activity, political turmoil and other sorts of mayhem. No new news here. It’s the same old story.

Let’s get back to the sugarplums. As I was saying, the stars are indicating a fruitful year ­– a year of abundance and growth – and that we need to be a bit more revolutionary and bold in our approach to our concerns. We are truly blessed and live in the land of plenty, with a beautiful culture and geography, peopled by a vast assortment of souls from every corner of the globe. We must strive to join hands and form a giant circle that includes the benefit of all for we are only as strong as the weakest link in the chain. We can be the role model for other cultures to follow, as even with all of our problems and blemishes, Vancouver is still the greatest place on the planet in which to live. She protects and nurtures us; in turn, we need to nurture and protect our sacred land and waters. We must count our blessings, knowing we are the caretakers of this beautiful land.

It’s your time to shine; it’s an epoch time in which many new beginnings are taking root. Find your direction and head off into a most adventurous year. 2015 is your year to pioneer. Don’t know what to do? Start by eliminating what you know is not worthy, real or true and proceed from there.

The past comes into play and it is now time to pay it forward as you clear up old accounts and various forms of indebtedness. The action begins mid-month and continues throughout March and April. All kinds of excitement await thee. Love and adventure, along with other forms of dynamic creativity, manifest now.

You are a dual sign and can handle multiple tasks at the same time. You will need that skill as 2015 unfolds. One part abundance and one part scarcity; one part gathering and one part letting go takes place. Embrace it all and fear not letting go of anything; new energy fills the void.

Your career status is on an upward trajectory and you should assist this energy enthusiastically. Social circles expand as well, probably in proportion to your career activities. Muster your courage, don’t look back and know the energy is right and ready to help you in achieving your objectives. Meet all challenges head on.

You can groove along in a mellow way and do okay or you can roar like a lion and make yourself heard and be loved and respected for the various talents you can bring to the table. In other words, you’re hot, even more so if you believe in yourself and have no shame in your game.

The full Moon on March 5 will illuminate the pathway ahead for you. It will become obvious as to which way you should go and what you should do. It may not be a cakewalk and clarity will be needed to sort through the confusion mid-month. Do one thing at a time.

A time of contrast and controversy has arrived and you will have to use that super bio computer sitting on your shoulders to sort through the myriad complexities that will arise. It’s really not a big deal unless you make it so. No sense turning molehills into mountains. All kinds of exciting challenges manifest.

You may feel a little weathered by the events of the last two years or so and now you just have a bit more to go before you can really rest and let down. You are gifted with great resilience and recuperative powers. Don’t give up or let up, but keep moving towards your goals.

It’s time to weigh up what is real and what is true. Use your archery skills to pinpoint the target and concentrate before you let loose your arrows. There’s great planetary support going on and you have even more luck than usual. Count on that luck to see you through the times when you cannot see clearly.

Play the long game by giving yourself a few years to see the realities coming your way for certainly they’re coming. Life is changing at a rapid pace and it’s hard to know just what to do. Fear not; your karma has you covered. Poverty, wealth or whatever is destined is already written.

Beat the drum a little louder in the first 10 days of March, as you are likely to be heard then. The planets are lending great support and any effort on your part will not go unnoticed. Plus Jupiter the great benefactor is casting his glance your way indicating that your timing is right.

Communications become enhanced this month. It would be to your benefit to first hammer out your words and what you want to say and then say it, portray it and wing it if you have to. Pay attention to your dreams and psychic impressions around March 18. Your psyche speaks rather loudly at that time.

February 2015

by Mac McLaughlin | Feb 2, 2015 | Weekly Forecasts

“Star light, star bright, the first star I see tonight; I wish I may, I wish I might, have the wish I wish tonight.” If ever there were a star to wish upon, it will rise just after sunset on February 3. In western tropical astrology, the Moon conjoins with Jupiter in Leo just hours after the full Moon on February 3. Full moons are auspicious and Jupiter is known to grant wishes.

It gets even more interesting when we switch over to the sidereal Vedic system of astrology. Instead of the Moon being in Leo, it drops back to Cancer, which is the Moon’s own sign; it is also the sign of Jupiter’s exaltation in which it has much more freedom of expression to wield its power and influence. If I were to make a wish, I would certainly pay attention to this lovely conjunction of the Moon and Jupiter.

Let’s go a little deeper into it. The ancients created the nakshatras or Moon mansions. They are the star groups that the Moon travels through each day. The ancients realized that certain phenomena happened as the Moon visited the 27 different nakshatras. It just so happens the Moon will be visiting the nakshatra called Ashlesha when she joins up with King of the Gods Jupiter, granter of boons, prayers and wishes. The Vedic astrologers teach us that Ashlesha connects us to our dharma, which is the impetus to do good and benefit others. Ashlesha carries mystical and magical powers and there is nothing more powerful than the power of prayer, especially when done sincerely from the heart. If you miss the boat or the opportunity to make your wish, you will have another chance on March 2 – especially at 08:52 PM (PST) when the Moon and Jupiter embrace once again in the southeastern sky.

Those among us who are more spiritually inclined might get a strong charge out of this powerful conjunction, as Ashlesha also grants spiritual enlightenment. Venus and Mars, the traditional planets associated with love, attraction and desire, are moving through Pisces and it is another harbinger of affection, attraction and love. Karma drives the wheel and we only get to go with the people with whom we have strong karmic bonds. On a broader level, we might want to pray for world peace and for Lord Jupiter to grant some compassionate love and care for souls that are suffering. Our compassionate father cannot resist our cries for help and like the mother with her baby, must come and soothe and feed her little one.

On Saint Valentine’s Day on February 14, we make our declarations of love. But wait! There are better days to make this display of love. February 20 and 21 are special days as Venus, Mars and the Moon align in Aries creating a cosmic mix of powerful, magical and mystical energy especially designed for lovers.

King Solomon said there was nothing new under the Sun. It’s highly likely the new love that shows up in your life this month is a very old connection from the hoary past. People from the past are destined to come back into your life now, lovers or not. Career and social activities are featured now.

“Fools rush in where angels fear to tread” is probably a good line to start the forecast. Take your time searching for that special partner. He/she is likely to show up now especially while traveling or in the work place. All the more reason to walk, don’t run. An exciting month unfolds its potential.

An inheritance might be in the wind and you might be in the wind as well. Travel is highlighted this month, as is spirituality. An inheritance is what is warranted to come one’s way from past life associations. The time has come this year to move closer or away from someone close to you.

Read the introduction regarding the Leo full Moon on February 3. It’s your time to wish upon a star. It is also your time to truly move towards your goals, dreams and whatever else you aspire towards. Nurture and nature are key ingredients to your success; without them, you cannot go very far.

Van Morrison’s Moondance fits the mood for the February skies as Venus and Mars cast their magical energy into your sign. “Well, it’s a marvelous night for a Moondance with the stars up above in your eyes…” But if romance is not in sight, use this energy to brighten and beautify your life however you can.

The last 10 days of February and early March heat up as Venus, Mars and Uranus move closer together in your opposite sign Aries, promising action, attraction, fire and desire. Changes come quickly, surprises as well, and you might not mind. Creativity is at a peak. You might be restless and excited.

Saturn has stepped away, probably to your relief. He’s moved into Sagittarius and will be back for his final visit in mid-June until mid-September. No doubt, he has brought some powerful lessons regarding discipline and frugalness. He demands we live with less. You can breathe easy now and enjoy some light, laughter and love.

Saturn is not the planet that Sagittarius enjoys all that much. He’s such a party pooper with his stern and stringent ways. You may have to put the party gear away for a while whilst you figure how to go and what to do. Career, health and relationship topics will need some serious attention now.

The Moon visits Capricorn on Saint Valentine’s Day placing you in your lunar high of the month. You might be flying high as the course of events from February 14 to 16 could have you in a spin. You can expect things to not go as planned as the stars are indicating a surprise or two.

The Full Moon on February 3 will illuminate the areas of your life that have needed clarity. Mercury is retrograding in Aquarius until February 12 and will need several more days to get up to speed again. Use this time to reconsider and rethink the plan. Patience and persistence and more patience are needed.

Venus and Mars spice things up nicely until February 20. Venus brings creativity, attraction and love. Mars brings excitement and action. The Pisces New Moon on February18 signals a new start in a new direction. Pay attention to your dreams, as they will be loaded with important symbolism that will help you see the play.

January 2015

by Mac McLaughlin | Jan 4, 2015 | Weekly Forecasts

We start the month with some pretty stormy weather. Last month, we talked about the Uranus/Pluto square that is in play until 2019. Uranus/Pluto combinations represent upheaval, revolution and major transformation. Here in the homeland, we worry about the terrorists and their far-flung machinations. We’ve got the pipeline blues, addictions, crime and all kinds of protestations going on. In the US, the people are upset with the policing policies around shooting kids with BB guns and choking people whose crime was selling cigarettes on the street corner. Here, we shot a man to death for wielding a two-by-four and hardly a whimper was heard. Robert Dziekanski died because he was frustrated and upset and did not know or understand our language. There must be a more compassionate way to handle people that are in distress or psychosis.

Now, back to the January stormy weather. That Uranus/Pluto square is pretty much exact in January and the full Moon on January 4 is in alignment with it. It’s a very potent mix and it indicates some type of rough astrological weather, be it in the form of rain, wind, snow, sleet or tears, anger, frustration, aggression and other intense concerns. “What to do?” you might ask? No sense shaking in our boots and wringing our hands with great worry. What we can and must do is strive to find ways to help those who are in distress.

Protesting and demonstrating for what you believe in is a good thing and also healthy for society and the ecology of the planet. But if we throw violence into the mix, we have learned nothing and have gotten nowhere except to create more resentment and barriers to be overcome in the future. The Aquarius new Moon on January 20 heralds excellent opportunities to bring people together in a humane way, in which we can work out a plan that brings benefits to all concerned. We are one people on one planet and we have more likeness than differences, regardless of colour, race or creed.

When my beautiful Master Param Sant Kirpal Singh Ji Maharaj visited Vancouver in 1972, he had just cleared customs and when he came out to greet the crowd, many people were crying. A woman approached him and asked, “Why are these people crying”? He responded with one word, “Love.” She burst into tears. Love has that effect on all of us and what we need now is love and only love and by the by, our wounds will heal.

Your solar career house is hot and if you’re restless for change, now is the time to make your move. Actually, you might be moved anyway as the stars are indicating a time of shift, shock, change and rearrangement. Know that you will land exactly where you are supposed to land as fate and destiny lend a hand.

Travel and career sectors are very active throughout the month. Plus Saturn has moved out of your opposite sign Scorpio, easing the pressure you have been experiencing over the last two years. You can rebuild and re-establish yourself once again. The Sun’s a bit brighter and your spark has returned.

Life might be a tad confusing as Saturn and Neptune cast their energies into your sign. Those born between May 21 and 30 will experience the effects of this planetary combination. The gist of the matter is within making ends meet on the monetary level while establishing some type of spiritual discipline as well.

The full moon on January 4 will illuminate the areas of your life that need the most attention. There might be quite a bit of tension and a series of shifts will likely occur. It doesn’t have to be all that ominous, but changes are in the wind and you must accommodate them.

Mars and Jupiter oppose each other in the first 10 days of the month. This is a dynamic event as Jupiter is in Leo and Mars is in the opposite sign Aquarius. The sparks fly and the competition heats up significantly. You might be psyched up and ready to do battle. Watch for overcompensation.

You might be feeling lethargic as the New Year begins. You get over the hump and break the slump by the middle of the month. At that time, you might be feeling agitated, which will prompt you into action and high gear. Jupiter brings his great blessings and abundance from August 2015 to September 2016.

The full Moon on January 4 brings a strong effect to the cardinal signs Libra, Capricorn, Aries and Cancer. It brings some type of dynamic energy to the important areas of our lives such as home, family, career and relationships. Those topics will figure strongly as you head into the New Year. Excitement rules the days.

Matters related to home and family become significant in the last half of the month. Land and real estate figure in as well. You could become obsessed with family politics. Emotional battles are likely if you push things too far. Career potential is very strong and you might be on the move and feeling aggressive.

Saturn is not the best friend to Sagittarius. He puts a damper on your enthusiasm and confidence. He’s going to be around for a while so it’s probably best to find a way to get on with him. He helps us streamline and correct any type of inefficiency. Career and health topics feature prominently.

The full Moon on January 4 brings all types of revelations your way. Just as the king tides bring the water level to the high mark, this full Moon will do the same by bringing important issues to the fore that must be dealt with. Be willing to make changes wherever and whenever.

It’s time for some behind the scenes work to take place as The new Moon on January 20 heralds a new start. Pay attention to the events that come to pass at this time, as there is the likelihood of good to great opportunities possibly manifesting. You might have to rethink the plan and rewrite the script or just plain wait it out until mid-February.

Mid-January might have its frustrations and limitations that you must bear with. Use it as a time to alleviate negative circumstances. February looks much brighter and you might be thankful for what came to pass in January. Let go of the past and the future will take care of itself. Love is in the air.

December 2014

by Mac McLaughlin | Dec 1, 2014 | Weekly Forecasts

Astrology is a symbolic language in which the symbols for the planets and signs, and the aspects that the planets form, relate reams of information. The greatest stories ever told lie within the pages of the ephemeris. The ephemeris is a book of numbers and symbols that informs us of the planetary positions throughout any given year. The stories are limited by our intuition, imagination and background experience regarding the potential power of the planets. Just as an example, written in the shorthand of the starry language, Uranus is in square with Pluto. The stargazers stroke their beards in recognition of the implications that this very dynamic planetary aspect signifies. “Say what?” you say! “What the hay are they talking about anyway?”

Let’s break it down. Uranus formed a square with Pluto in the spring of 2010 continuing to the spring of 2019. The majority of this square aspect takes place while Uranus moves through Aries and Pluto journeys through Capricorn. A square aspect is formed when the planets come within 90 degrees of each other. I give an approximate eight-degree orb of influence. In the old astrological textbooks, the square aspect is noted as evil and when the planets are in square, they create all kinds of havoc, unrest and discord. In my own take on the subject, a square is about as evil as an intersection. If you approach the intersection and use caution and care, you get through safely; if you insist on blasting through, we know it’s just a matter of time before you meet tragedy, injury or death. Is the intersection evil? I think not, but how we handle it makes all the difference in the world.

You can use this Uranus square Pluto as an overlay and pin it on the tensions in Ukraine, Africa, the Middle East and everywhere else where huge problems exist and where the cost of human life is very high and counting. Uranus in Aries spells out revolution and rebellion in which people strive to overcome repression with aggression and violence. Pluto in Capricorn symbolizes the birth and death of nations and all forms of power, be it street gangs, religious fanaticism or political power plays within all governments.

It all adds up to the same thing in which great turmoil and upheaval takes place. The forces of darkness and light clash and man continues to add more karmic indebtedness to the cosmic pile. Certainly, we need more love, more peace, more prayer and more help in solving the issues that have plagued humankind throughout the Iron Age.

Read the introduction regarding Uranus in Aries. You’re not done; you’ve only just begun and you must learn to lay down your gun. You’re the first-born and must lead the way into the future. Commence your ascent of the internal mountain of peace, light and love. Lead with the torch of surrender, compassion and truth.

If Taurus had its way, everything would remain the same, just the way Taureans like it. Like it or not, the only constant is change within itself. In the big picture, you have about five years to truly weigh up the pros and cons of all things. After that, changes come with or without your consent.

You’re the word merchant par excellence and teacher and storyteller. Now’s the time to inspire the young minds and teach them the ways in which we can heal our planet and make the world a better place to live in. You’ve got the gift and certainly the spirit to inspire and ignite that fire.

Rest a while and take some time to delve deeply into what it is you must do in order to nurture and protect our planet, youth and all living creatures. We are your family and we need your help and protection. No sense waiting too long, as time and tide waits for no man.

Yes, you are the king or queen ­– of what, though? A pile of money, some big mansion, somewhere south? You can sit there and gloat about your empty attainments or you can use that kingly power you have been given and spread your light, warmth and love to all who are hungry, needy and suffering.

Virgo needs to be needed, useful and a significant part of what is going on. Well, we need you now, more than ever. You are capable, competent and none can work harder, longer and more devotedly than you. Plus, you care on a deep level and have great gifts of discernment, modesty and honesty.

Rahu, the north node of the Moon, is travelling in the middle of Libra. The lunar nodes have much to do with our personal karma. Rahu seeks to acquire anything and everything, but he can never be satisfied nor satiated. Use this energy to attain higher knowledge and spiritual wisdom. Seek and you shall find.

It’s karmic payoff time, big-time. Now is the best time to settle all accounts to the best of your ability. Truly, there is nothing else to do anyway. Once the burden falls from your shoulders, you will feel a great sense of relief. It is also a time to start anew, to start fresh.

Read Scorpio for soon it will be your time to set things right and get yourself on the right track or pay off some type of karmic burden from the past. If it sounds a tad ominous, it is not that way. It’s exactly the other way, meaning freedom, happiness and harmony. 2015 tells the tale.

The winter solstice and the Capricorn new Moon take place on December 21. It indicates a time in which you can make a new start and truly reinvent yourself. Venus and Pluto conjunct close to the solstice giving you the opportunity to reassess matters of the heart. A powerful dying and birthing process takes hold.

It’s time for some behind the scenes work to take place as you make preparations for some type of dynamic action as the New Year begins. You may feel emboldened and alive; the old spark is rekindled. It’s time to clear out the old and bring in the new – body, mind and soul-wise.

The Moon transits through Pisces December 26 and 27 creating a series of good planetary aspects that bring joy, peace and happiness your way. Keep in mind that Neptune, co-ruler of Pisces, will visit your sign for 10 more years. Within that time, your spirituality will develop in a most dynamic way.

November 2014

by Mac McLaughlin | Nov 1, 2014 | Weekly Forecasts

Every child is precious and special – and, of course, my child is the most precious, cute, smart and beautiful of all. That’s how we all feel – and should feel – about our offspring. You might ask, “What makes a child special and by what power are they gifted with special talents and abilities?”

The stars incline and compel us towards our destiny throughout our lifetimes. If your child is destined to become a musician and you project your will onto the young one and insist they become a scientist or a doctor, you are not helping the child’s destiny. If anything, you are hindering it. If your child is destined to be a doctor and you hand him a violin, again, you are hindering and blocking his/her natural abilities. In this same train of thought, if your child has musical and artistic gifts and you feed that by giving her those toys and objects that relate to her gifts, she will grow and flower at an exceptional rate of speed.

We carry our gifts and talents with us throughout our incarnations and they form our predilections in our present lifetime. My guru taught us that every king wants his son to be a king, not a minister, and we all want the best for our beloved children. The reason for my rambling is that a very special time has just passed, in which the planets held very strong and powerful positions. The Jyotish (Vedic astrology) teaches that if a person is born with three planets in their own signs – or signs of exaltation – they will do well and will hold good positions in their families. A planet is exalted in the zodiac sign in which it can do its best and wield its power freely. A person born with four planets in their own signs or exaltation signs will become very powerful and wealthy. A person with five planets in their own signs becomes equal to a king and will be wealthy and a leader.

In order for a person to truly reap the power that the planets in their own signs or exaltation signs offer up, there are all kinds of rules and varied stipulations to the above qualifications. If your child was born between August 17 to September 20, 2014, they will have either three, four or five planets in special positions; you might want to check into it because little Mozart, Einstein, Shakespeare, Mother Teresa or Joan of Arc might be sitting in front of you, right now.

Lord Mars spends the month at the top of your solar chart. It’s an indication you should get a move on and strive towards your goals. You are very capable and ofttimes will only do things to prove to yourself you can do them. Well, let’s see what you can do.

It’s time to nurture the inner self. Taurus works very hard in order to bring security and abundance its way. Now you must put in the same effort in order to achieve inner harmony and wealth. The full Moon on November 6 helps in illuminating your circumstances, especially regarding relationships and finances. Trim away the excess.

Lord Mercury joins up with Saturn as they traverse your solar sixth house ruling such topics as health, debts, enemies and those that can help you in overcoming your problems. It’s time to go long and to think deep about what needs to be done in order to bring health, harmony and happiness your way.

You can expect some fireworks in the first half of the month and possibly some resistance to your ideas and plans. You might not mind though; you might be in the mood to get it on and get things done. Romance could be in the works as good times are indicated. Find the balance. It’s important.

Win some, lose some, win some more, lose some more – that seems to fit the rhythm of the times for dear Leo. Things lighten up a bit after November 22 and you might be relieved once November passes by. It’s all about checks and balances and not going overboard with any particular thing.

Money, name and fame won’t get you where you want to be. Man cannot live by bread alone for his spirit needs to be nurtured as well. Now is the time to do exactly that. The full Moon on November 6 lights up your solar ninth house ruling such topics as spirituality, philosophy and travel.

Communications and negotiations work well in the first week of November. Words come easily and your thoughts are put together nicely. Libra does possess the gift of grace when it comes to solving concerns and problems. November 3, 4 and 18 are days in which your patience may wear thin and sparks may fly.

It’s all the way or no way – never half-way as far as Scorpio is concerned. You are learning things on a deep level and most likely gaining some wisdom through the powerful experiences of late. Looking to the future and clearing out the past is the work at hand now.

The new Moon on November 22 heralds a new start. You may have grown tired of the status quo and are restless for change. Accommodate the changes best that you can and do what you can while you can. Powers beyond your control are looming on the horizon. All the more reason to make your moves now.

Power plays and powerful days will manifest on November 4 and 10. It is best to be perceived as a team player and not a power tripper. Any abuse of power is likely to backlash strongly on these days. If you display fairness and integrity in a leadership role, you will gain power, respect and influence.

News pertaining to career objectives comes in on November 6. The relationship area is hot. Partnerships and alliances are formed and a win is likely regarding legal matters. Home, land and real estate concerns are dealt with now. A gathering or family reunion is likely. The last week of this month is more to your liking.

The November stars are hinting at travel, publishing, writing and education. Career interests spike towards the end of the month and into December. Many Pisces people are spiritual and now the stars are bringing more of an interest in spiritual and philosophic matters. It is also a time to work on health and dietary issues.

October 2014

by Mac McLaughlin | Oct 1, 2014 | Weekly Forecasts

In 1996 and 1997, I had been studying the Royal Family’s charts. Actually, I became quite obsessed with them. Our horoscope is the star map that helps us understand the karma that comes our way throughout our lifetime. We are all experiencing karma every second of our existence. Karma is the law of action and reaction, the positive and negative indebtedness which must be paid in full, in the due course of time. As the mystics teach, there are chains of iron and chains of gold; they are both chains, nevertheless. Negative deeds and thoughts forge the chains of iron while positive deeds and thoughts form the chains of gold. We have individual karma, family karma and national karma. Keep in mind that karma represents everything: love, babies, wealth, health, name, fame and everything in between.

The important point in studying the Royals is that they have accurate and documented birth times. I noticed that many of the Royal Family members were experiencing intense planetary energy in 1997. In February of that year, I gave a talk to a group of local astrologers in Victoria, BC and gave out my prognostications regarding the royals. My premiss was that if only one person was experiencing intense planetary energy, it would get me to pay close attention, but if your whole family was experiencing intense planetary energy, I would know that something was up big-time and I would attempt to address it.

One of my predictions was that Princess Diana would experience some danger while travelling in a foreign country in August and September of 1997. I had started to write a letter to her to warn her about travelling at that time. Unfortunately, I tore up the letter and threw it away, thinking she would neither receive it nor heed it. Tragically, she died in a terrible car crash on August 31 of that year.

My point in writing all of this is that the fates are strongly built up again within the Royal Family. Two eclipses take place in October and they both affect the members of this family, dynamically and intensely. Things are about to change for them in these next 12 months. A great emphasis is on Prince William and Harry’s charts while Prince Charles, the Queen, Prince Philip and Lady Camilla’s charts are all resonating big changes. Let’s hope and pray they all stay safe, healthy and happy. These October eclipses also affect Vladimir Putin’s chart strongly as well and Stephen Harper will be involved in a huge controversial fight for power and control.

The lunar eclipse on October 8 will bring more than a few jolts of inspiration that will help you figure out what must be done in order to attain peace, harmony and happiness. A new love or a new new path to follow could be the case. Creativity and innovation are running high.

Pay attention to the energy that prevails on October 8, 9 and 10. You might be in the mood to bring on some important changes in your life. It is time to reevaluate what is most important to you. The last 10 days of the month will also help you in deciding just what to do.

Relationships and friendships – maybe a little of both – will be on the menu for your consideration throughout the month. Sometimes, it is best to just remain friends and not complicate things too much. On the other hand, sometimes friendships deepen and mature into loving relationships. Then again, sometimes relationships sink ships.

The lunar eclipse on October 8 will impact you. Cancer is ruled by the Moon and whenever she is full, the Cancer types always resonate, react and respond to the energy that is unfolding. Now a time has come in which you might reevaluate your career and relationship status. You might be restless for change.

Think big and act accordingly. A grand triangle involving Mars, Jupiter and Uranus is taking place at the time of the full Moon on October 8. It tells us that your confidence and timing are good and others pick up on it. Travel, publishing, writing and spiritual matters come to the fore. It’s your time to shine.

Resources, money and earning potential are featured throughout the month. Lord Mercury retrogrades from October 5 to 26 and spends the rest of the month getting up to speed again. It means you might be in a time of having to rework and rethink the plan or create a new plan of attack.

The lunar eclipse on October 8 will have a strong effect on your sign. You may surprise yourself with some of the things you do at this time. A change of scene is likely. It is also time to take a long, hard look at your true values regarding matters of the heart.

The fates are active now, especially with a solar eclipse taking place on October 23. Venus accompanies the eclipse, indicating you will be looking deeply into all aspects of your life. The urge to make significant and deeply meaningful changes comes up now. The events of the last few weeks urge you towards transformation.

Mighty Mars visits Sagittarius until October 26. He brings strength, confidence and enthusiasm your way. Jupiter and Uranus also cast fine energy into your sign bringing luck, good timing and innovation into play. Pay attention to what you are doing as the likelihood of mishaps is strong as well. A battle of some sort takes place.

Home and career sectors are hot, especially in the first 10 days of October. The lunar eclipse on October 8 may be significant for you as it will be a time of reassessment and reevaluation regarding finances and matters of the heart. Long kept secrets are revealed and emotions kept in check are finally expressed.

You were born with a firm resolve and an ability to get things done when things need to get done. Now that time has arrived in which you might be considering career changes or, at the least, you might have to reevaluate your present status. Connect and relate and share your knowledge and ability with others now.

Many Pisces are natural mystics and psychics. Now your inner world is about to open up as your curiosity increases regarding the deeper meanings of life. Inheritances and shared monies might also be topics that come up at this time. Health, harmony and balance are big keys and must be worked towards with diligence.

September 2014

by Mac McLaughlin | Sep 2, 2014 | Weekly Forecasts

Event-predictive, fatalistic astrology is very much on the way out and a new age of astrology is birthing. It will grow in consciousness as we move ever closer to the Golden Age. According to the true mystics, our grandchildren and their descendants will be the first to witness the advent of the golden age, in which truth and love will be the common commodities people live by. Presently, this does not seem probable or even possible given the state of the human condition with wars and hatred dominating the news every day. Yet the great saints and sages of India have made this prediction and when illuminated souls like Sant Sawan Singh Ji Maharaj and Param Sant Kirpal Singh Ji Maharaj make these statements, you better believe they are the truth. These saints were not common men by any measure; they were saints of the highest order.

We can teach our children that the stars and planets can assist greatly in helping us to understand our behaviour. We currently look at Mars as a planet of war, anger and aggression. The modern day astrologers council that it is okay to get angry and that it will feel good to seek revenge, if only in thought. This is very misguided information and if we teach our children to fight and lash out, we will not get anywhere except further into karmic debt and bondage. We can teach them that Mars offers the opportunity to show true valour by acts of chivalry, kindness and forgiveness. To forgive one’s enemies and to love them takes great courage and bravery and it is the only cure for our ills. Acts of aggression and anger just ferment more action/reaction situations ad infinitum. When we begin to show some true humility and compassion, our world begins to change and kindness and compassion grows within our enemies.

Venus is the traditional planet of love, creativity, artistic expression and all matters of sensuality and sexuality. Unfortunately, we have taken the sacred act of procreation and turned it into recreation and all that it has brought us is a mountain of suffering and disease. When we look at Venus through the lens of spirituality, a unique picture comes into focus. When we’re through courting and child-making, we can transform that love into a higher form of loving devotion to the principles of service, kindness and caring for all of God’s creation and all living creatures. When we do this, our world will change into something quite beautiful as it was initially destined to be.

You are the first born of the zodiac, endowed with gifts of innovativeness and originality. Now, more than ever, it is the time to stay original. Don’t give in to conformity or tradition. You will be guided and like Jason and the Argonauts, you will eventually find the golden fleece. Stay true to yourself.

Mars and Saturn are moving though your opposite sign Scorpio. These two are known to cause grief and suffering, malice and avarice. On the other hand, these planets can teach you the opposite energies of kindness and generosity if you choose to work with them from a spiritual perspective. The energy lightens up mid-month.

The full Moon on September 8 will help illuminate home and career perspectives. Activity and effort increase mid-month and onwards as all kinds of challenges and opportunities materialize. Relationships of all sorts become the dominant feature as you head towards October. You won’t be lost for words and creativity levels are at their best.

Change is the name of the game and it will be that way for quite a while. Family is always a big thing for Cancer types and now the meaning of love, family and devotion increases and deepens. Your earning potential is very good. Venture out there and see what you can stir up.

Travel opportunities materialize to your surprise. A time has arrived in which you can grow in many ways. Your timing is good and others respect your integrity and honesty. You may be challenged and tempted in all kinds of ways and it will serve you well to do the right thing and show some true leadership.

The full Moon on September 8 will bring home all kinds of revelations. Pay attention to your dreams at this time as they may carry a high degree of creativity. Love is a strong factor now and make sure that you have your facts straight regarding other people’s motives as you could be misled.

The Libra new Moon on September 23 heralds a new start in a new direction. All of September will be a busy and demanding time and you may not mind. Excitement and action rule the days and it will be that way throughout October as well. Mix and mingle and share with your family and friends.

Mars and Saturn combine their powerful energies in your sign bringing strength, courage and the determination to get things done and move towards your goals. Saturn teaches you to live with less and Mars gives you the courage to do so. Sometimes less is more and I’m sure that you will figure this riddle out.

Home, family and career topics are the focus now. Lord Jupiter casts fine energy and may bring an increase in travel and a yearning for a more meaningful spiritual existence. Mars has an influence starting mid-month and he ups the ante and brings on the heat and competition, which you may relish and enjoy.

Capricorn, ruled by Saturn, always brings on a devotional and serious demeanour. You may be feeling the urge to delve deeper and deeper into the mysteries of spirituality and the higher realms of consciousness. Inheritances and joint monies figure into the play over the next several months. A spiritual inheritance possibly manifests now.

Jupiter casts a fine glance from your solar house of relationships and partnerships. It may be time to think more seriously regarding this matter. Your career opportunities and objectives are shifting and you might be uncomfortable. Keep eliminating what is unnecessary and outdated. Present-day frustrations and limitations help lead you to emancipation and freedom.

The full Moon on September 8 brings illumination to your situation. Love and creativity are strong features now. Your career sector is heating up and soon you may be in demand and possibly very busy. Wisdom is slowly carved into your soul and will serve you well for the rest of your days.

August 2014

by Mac McLaughlin | Aug 2, 2014 | Weekly Forecasts

August starts off with a bang as the fiery brothers Mars and Jupiter square off. This planetary influence is in effect for the first 10 days of the month and we won’t be in the mood to take any guff so things could get rough. Mars is known to have a feisty temper whilst Jupiter has a tendency to overstate the facts and blow things out of proportion. The antidote to this potent planetary mix is to try not to overreact when others display insensitivity or carelessness. As an example, if you’re on the highway and a testosterone junkie nearly blows you off the road, let him go by knowing you passed the test of not letting your ego put you in danger. The poor fellow will most likely meet his destiny one day anyway. We don’t have to wish him any bad luck as he is creating is own karma and, as we know, all karma must be paid in full.

The full Moon on August 10 carries quite a bit of intensity with it as well. Saturn squares off with the lights (Sun and Moon) while Mercury is in square with Saturn. It means we will be pondering or worrying about some type of development concerning negotiations, contracts and travel. For two days before and after the full Moon date, we will feel its effects. Uranus is in a harmonious pattern with the full Moon and it is an indication of possible good news, breakthroughs and accord.

Venus and Jupiter meet up in the third week of August. Known as the lesser and greater beneficent planets, when they join up, we receive the gifts of their benevolence, generosity and love. The Sun enters Virgo on August 22 bringing the instinct to prepare for the fall season which is just around the corner. It’s time to get the kids ready for school and hopefully the teachers and the government will have resolved their differences so we can get on with the program. The Virgo new Moon on August 25 represents a new start and with Mars and Saturn conjunct on that day, it tells us we will have a firm resolve to get things right, with all wheels greased and ready to roll. We will be feeling the instinct to get on with our plans for the fall season and we won’t be in the mood for blocks or foot dragging.

The full Moon on August 10 lands in your fifth and 11th solar houses indicating romance, entertainment, enjoyment and children as feature topics. Venus casts good energy into your sign bringing good times and happy memories to be cherished in the future. Create and innovate is the mantra of the month. You can reinvent yourself now.

We’ve all heard of the dog days of summer. August might feel like the dog days in which people are cranky, touchy and testy. Generally, Taurus is tolerant and slow to anger and you might have to use those gifts throughout the month. Let your hair down and don’t let others get you down.

Health and home are the two topics that will be on your mind. You have fine artistic gifts and an eye for beauty. Your creative energy is strong in the first half of the month. Life takes a more serious turn towards month’s end as you figure out what to do and how to go.

It’s a gathering time. Your instincts will prompt you to put things together, such as your home life and career objectives. A lot has been dredged up recently and it’s time to bury the past and move into the future. Your creativity is strong now as is the potential for love to manifest.

It’s your time to shine. There’s a big build-up of planetary energy affecting your sign now and life might not be a cakewalk. There may even be some strong resistance to your plans especially around the full Moon on August 18. There’s a lot of cosmic support, however, and you should move steadily towards your goals.

There’s a Virgo new Moon just after sunrise on August 25. Lord Mercury is rising as well. This is your kick-off date in which you flip the switch and move into high gear. It is definitely your time to get serious and apply yourself toward whatever it is you would like to accomplish.

Libra is the sign of relationships. Now is the time to form new friendships and visit with old friends and family members. Nothing remains settled as Uranus and Pluto continue to stir the pot bringing changes and challenges as you strive for harmony and balance. Helping those that need help is on the to-do list.

You will have to wend your way carefully as there are all kinds of pitfalls, snags and snares as you move through the month. Limitation and frustration build up and test your patience and humility. Kindness, caring, hard work and persistence bring success. A career boost may manifest.

Career and travel are the features of the month. An interest in spirituality captures your attention. Some limitations could hold you back, however, such as health matters and possible legalities. Old karma rears its head and must be dealt with honourably and honestly in order to clear the pathway towards the future.

Hidden matters, secrets and issues related to inheritances and joint monies come up now. We have no control over poverty or riches, good health or illness or life or death. Our concern is to do our best and leave the rest to the Lord. A rebirth is in the stars and quite the transformation is taking place.

The full Moon on August 10 brings a cornucopia of information. No one likes the taste of castor oil, but it does provide a healing effect. The things you learn this month represent the castor oil – bitter, but healing you in many ways. A break with the past takes place and a new pathway emerges.

It’s time to get yourself together in all kinds of ways – health-wise first, for without good health not much matters. Relationship interests come up towards the end of the month and into September. Clear out the old and make ready for the new. That’s the mantra of the times for your sign.