by Mac McLaughlin | Sep 2, 2013 | Weekly Forecasts
“To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven.” (Ecclesiastes chapter 3.)
Astrology is God’s handwriting through the stars. The movement of the planets decrees when certain events are destined to manifest in our lives according to the karma indicated in the birth chart itself. The astrologer’s work is within deciphering what the stars are indicating and presenting that information in a positive and constructive manner. In traditional Western astrology, Saturn is known as a malefic energy bringing grief and suffering, while Jupiter brings joy and abundance. Mars represents anger and aggression, while Venus represents love and affection. Obviously, it would be nice to have Venus and Jupiter prominent in our birth charts. Moving along the same line of reasoning, it would seemingly be beneficial that Mars and Saturn had back seats and small parts to play in the unfolding of karmic energy designed by our past life thoughts and actions.
In Vedic Eastern astrology we find that, according to the positions and condition of the planets at our birth, Venus or Jupiter can become malefic energies, bringing their own form of grief and suffering. Saturn and Mars can become benefic forces that bring very dynamic and profound results when their time to shine arrives. To everything there is a season and a reason as to why we are compelled throughout our cosmic, karmic journey through time.
Timing is everything. As an example, Prime Minister Stephen Harper’s birth chart is indicating a most difficult and potentially dangerous time. The full moon on September 19 will bring it all to light. The possibility of attacks is strong and his enemies will come out now. Keep in mind he is a man, a father and a husband and just as vulnerable as the rest of us. Changes in his personal life and relationships are indicated and health may be a concern. The above commentary is based on the birth time of 3:00AM. Even without the birth time, the prime minister will face a very trying time for the next two years, in which his popularity and leadership will be tested strongly. September is a busy and demanding month.
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Change is the only constant while Uranus transits Aries. You can’t beat it so you might as well get with it. “Get with what,” you might ask? Get with the universal plan that is unfolding at an astonishing rate of speed. September offers up all kinds of creative opportunities for love and happiness to manifest.
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The Virgo new Moon on September 5 energizes your solar fifth house, which rules over topics such as love, romance, children and enterprise. The fifth house is a good karma house. It brings good returns when activated. This September is a time of striving and possibly struggling with conditions that are changing in dynamic fashion.
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Family and home activities are featured. Land and real estate deals may come into play. Health is the key ingredient to happiness and success in the future. Now is the time to find the balance in all things. Resources increase, as do opportunities to expand in some way. Time with friends and family is indicated.
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Step up, step forward and have no shame in your game. Beneficent Lord Jupiter casts his fine blessings your way throughout the year. You can gain significantly or lose majorly, in the sense of wasting your time and energy on frivolous pursuits. Do your best and the universe will respond in kind. Travel opportunities come up.
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Mars, fiery brother of the Sun, makes his way through Leo until mid October. He brings energy and strength your way. Anger, accidents and fires are some of the typical Mars-type energies that come up when he’s around. September could be intense, as Mars and Saturn square off affecting your Leo planets.
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The Virgo new Moon on September 5 signals a fresh start as you experience your solar and lunar high of the year. The stars are lending excellent support and you can move easily towards your goals and objectives. Hard work and effort pay off and the sense of satisfaction that things are coming together brings contentment.
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The new Moon on September 5 takes place in your solar twelfth house. You may be in a compassionate mood, reaching out to those that need your love and support. A busy September flies by in a blink of the eye. Seek a healthy lifestyle and find the balance in all things.
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The full Moon on September 19 will have special significance for you. At the time of the full Moon, Venus, Saturn and Rahu (one of the navagrahas – nine planets – in Vedic astrology) conjoin in your sign. It is a time in which certain aspects of your life come to an end. You must weigh up what is real, what is true and what is of true value.
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Let’s see if we can get a handle on the types of energy you might experience in September. Topics such as inheritances and shared monies come into play. Career, education and travel sectors are hot and strongly activated. Home and career activities dominate throughout the month. A longing for something deeper manifests.
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Your solar house of travel is strongly activated throughout September. Matters related to the higher mind, law, philosophy, education, publishing, religion and politics may be prominent. Jupiter casts his glance your way bringing opportunities for growth and advancement. There are opportunities for big mistakes to take place as well so be careful in your choices.
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A career change could be in the works, as you grow increasingly frustrated with how things have been going. On another level, some Aquarians will reach a peak in their career status and will be honoured for their work and service. Do your best and leave the rest; it’s the right mantra for the times.
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The full Moon on September 19 takes place in your sign. Revelations and realizations come flooding in and you see the way to go. Concerns that you have been worried about come to a head. It’s time to map out a new plan and the stars are lending a hand.
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by Mac McLaughlin | Aug 5, 2013 | Weekly Forecasts
Tick tock, tick tock. Time marches on and “time and tide wait for no man.” We might want to stop for a moment and consider where we’re at, personally, spiritually and collectively. The stars are positioned in such a way that we have an opportunity to weigh-up what is real and what is false, what is valuable and what is unworthy. We are at a crossroad and it is imperative we choose the right pathway for the future. According to the true mystics, we have been around for a very long time and cultures and societies have come and gone long beyond the memory of man. All along the way we have accumulated karma – storehouses full of the stuff. It’s all tucked away in the cosmic computer called the akashic records, in which all thoughts and actions are recorded.
Now, Jupiter, Uranus and Pluto are the notable planets worthy of discussion in the sense that they have formed a Cardinal T-Square that will be in effect for the next 10 months. Mars joins in with them beginning this December, bringing up some very dynamic energy that will manifest in the winter to spring of 2014. In essence, we have opportunities to alleviate some very old, stale karma that trails us like our shadow. When Jupiter makes a hard aspect to Uranus, it brings up revolutions and all kinds of social upheaval. Throw Pluto into the mix and you have a very volatile cocktail that can be used beneficially or destructively. It’s up to us how we will act or react to the energies coming on board.
Canada is in the midst of a huge transformation. We are experiencing a Pluto transit and it is bringing many secret and hidden factors into the light. Politicians are falling left and right and many more are destined to follow. Changes are in the wind and we have a chance to get it right or make much more karma that must be paid for in the future. Jupiter represents ideologies and all forms of religious beliefs. Uranus constantly seeks to overcome the restrictive and repressive ways of the past. As the great spiritual master Param Sant Kirpal Singh Ji Maharaj once said, “You cannot wash away blood with blood, but only with the waters of forgiveness.” You might want to ask yourself if you are happy and content with your lot. If not, why not? We wrote the script long ago and our present day status is designed to evolve us into beings of light, beyond the cloak of our human existence.
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August starts off with a bang as your ruling planet Mars squares off with volatile Uranus. Accidents and incidents manifest rapidly under this combination. “Measure twice, cut once” is the mantra of the times. High adventure and high times are indicated as well. Enjoy the days, but don’t lose your head along the way.
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Home, health and family considerations come up now. Family reunions take place and all kinds of internal politics get settled, or not. The art of the compromise would serve you well as maintaining a rigid position can only cause more resentment and resistance. Will any of it matter 10 years from now? Forgive and forget.
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It’s your time to fly. Mercury is on the move and so shall you be. Your solar money house is strongly activated. You can increase and expand. Social functions take place and you will be in your element as you work the crowd winking, nodding and sharing all kinds of tidbits of news and information.
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The two fiery brothers, Mars and Jupiter, continue their visit in your sign. It’s your time to shine. Jupiter brings good luck and good fortune and he does well in Cancer. Mars can be problematic, though, as he stirs up some heated emotions that can lead to accidents and incidents if you are not careful. Play safe.
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The Leo new moon on August 6 signals a new start. Making changes is not an easy thing for Leo, but you might very well be in the mood to make some important changes and the stars are backing it up. The full moon on August 20 will help clarify what it’s all about.
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Venus spends the first half of August in your sign. Venus is associated with love, beauty and harmony. It’s time for that makeover, new duds or whatever. The Sun enters Virgo on August 22 bringing you into your solar high of the year. A busy time is indicated. Make the best use of it.
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Venus spends the last half of August in your sign bringing good times with family and friends. Career opportunities are strong and you may be restless and seeking change. Changes may come anyway regardless of how we feel about them. Big energies are unfolding and the cardinal signs Aries, Cancer, Libra and Capricorn are most affected.
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The new moon on August 6 lights up your solar tenth house related to career activities and professional status. Mars and Jupiter cast positive energy as a counter balance to the restrictions and limitations that have shown up with Saturn moving through Scorpio. Hard work, dedication and devotion get you through. A dawning spirituality awakens thee.
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Most Sagittarians I have met would travel anywhere in a heartbeat. The love of discovery, high adventure and unique cultures attract them like bees to honey. A time has now arrived with more opportunities to set sail. Matters connected to wills and shared monies may become of interest now.
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You have entered this time in which constant change, challenge and unrest take place. It may not be a negative thing, but the stars are indicating quite the dynamic ride over the next couple of years. The next 10 months will reveal what it’s all about. A great transition or rebirth takes place.
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The new moon on August 6 takes place in your opposite sign Leo. It signals a time to rest and recoup. Relationship considerations come up now. People that support you or oppose you show up. The full moon on August 20 in your sign signals a lively time and heightened emotions. Awareness keeps you up late.
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The moon will be very bright as she passes through Pisces August 21 and 22. A busy time is indicated and you may be in the mood to brighten up your home or purchase something of beauty. Mars and Jupiter cast good energy all month bringing energy and enthusiasm your way. Enjoy the days.
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by Mac McLaughlin | Jul 1, 2013 | Weekly Forecasts
At a 30-year reunion of a group of old friends, one of them remarked, “Mac thinks he learned astrology through the books.” Well of course I have studied deeply was my defense. But my dear friend reminded me and the group of the many times that I had known someone’s birth sign and sometimes the date and year of a person’s birth, long before I got to the books. He was right. That is how astrology came into play in my life.
Astrologers are a rare breed, and must be wired right in order to decipher God’s handwriting through the stars. You can learn astrology through the books and if you are intuitively gifted then you will have some very powerful tools that can be used to help all those that are destined to come your way. Here’s an example of how it works for me. I’m on a ferry coming from Seattle to Victoria years ago. I find a seat across from a middle aged couple and an elderly gent on my right. After a round of introductions and some light chit chat, the woman across from me asked what type of work was I doing? When I mentioned astrology, the three of them got busy reading their books. I was relieved because now I could at least enjoy my book as well. But of course, I couldn’t help myself. When a pickpocket meets someone, all they see is their pockets. When an astrologer meets someone they see their planets and signs through their mannerisms, body form and personalities etc. I was pretty sure that the lady across from me was a Pisces or a Scorpio. I wrote down two dates that might be her birthday. I put the piece of paper in my pocket. When the conversation resumed, I asked her if she was a Pisces. “No, I’m an Aquarius, I guess you will have to go back to your studies” she said teasingly. The old guy next to me said, “Hold on a minute, I’m a Pisces”. At that point I had a good idea of what had happened. I asked them to please not say anything for a moment. I asked her husband what his date of birth was. He replied November 5. I asked the Pisces for his date and he said March 6. I showed them the dates that I had written down. They were shocked and surprised to see their correct birthdays. Well so much for the peaceful, quite ride home. We had a great and animated conversation about the magic of the stars. The stars don’t lie.
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Big changes are in the wind. You may not be clear as to the direction that you want to travel in. Ride with this feeling for a while. You’re in the midst of some deep and profound changes in your search for freedom, love and understanding. The higher powers will guide you towards your destiny.
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There are a lot of considerations to mull over this month. Finance and romance top the list. You may have to take a deep look at both topics. The last ten days of July are important and will reveal what stays and what goes, and what must be done in order to achieve harmony.
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New friendships are forming and you may find yourself amidst a very unique circle of people. Your solar second house is strongly activated and matters related to money, family and health take precedence throughout the month. It may prove to be a very busy and demanding time, which you may not mind. Pace yourself accordingly.
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Mercury is backing into your Uranus! Doesn’t sound very comfortable does it? Let me rephrase that. Mercury and Uranus are in square aspect throughout the month and you can expect to be super busy. It’s your time to shine. Do your best as Jupiter casts very favourable energy your way bringing success and good fortune.
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The Sun enters Leo on July 22 two hours before a full Moon. You start your solar high of the year with a bang as all kinds of exciting scenarios unfold. July 27 is an intense day and you will have to wend your way carefully. It is time to clear up old business.
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Although you may be busier than you want to be, you may enjoy the times and the challenges that come up this month. Mercury, Lord of Virgo and ruler of communications, negotiations, trade and business is in square with Uranus indicating a time of intense output and high energy. Throw yourself in and enjoy the swim.
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Your solar career sector is hot. Although there may be challenges and tensions throughout the month, you stand a good chance of doing well. Maybe you won’t get everything that you wish or work for, but you are making headway. July is intense for all signs, but more so for Libra, Capricorn, Cancer and Aries.
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Saturn is practically standing still in your sign throughout the month. He brings you into deep contemplation and consideration of your limitations and fears. He helps us come to decisions of what must be done in order to obtain your objectives. It’s a time of letting go of what is no longer useful or worthy.
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Life’s mysteries deepen and although you must deal with the mundane, your spirit may long for a deeper and more meaningful existence. Travel opportunities come up. Love is in the works as well. Hmmm, love and travel, maybe both. Someone from the past and from afar shows up on your radar. High times are indicated.
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Keep those cloven hooves sharpened as many a slippery slope is to be encountered in July. Astrologers can see the energy of the planets, and from what I’m seeing, July and August will be challenging and dynamic months. Do the Capricorn thing and take your time and do one thing at a time.
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The Aquarius full Moon on July 22 will bring forth some pretty strong revelations and realizations of what is what in your world. July promises to be hot for all signs and I don’t mean weather wise. July 27 is another significant day in which important events and considerations take place. Health concerns are foremost.
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Your solar fifth house is strongly activated bringing opportunities for increased social activities. The fifth house represents children, entertainment, business and romance. Venus also casts her glance from across the skies in late July and early August. It is another harbinger of good times spent with loved ones. Enjoy the last, hazy days of summer.
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by Mac McLaughlin | Jun 6, 2013 | Weekly Forecasts
Every once in a while it would be nice to catch a break and have a good run. My clients squirm in their seats when I bring up Saturn and his grinding and binding effects. But they begin to relax and become much more hopeful when Jupiter’s very favourable influences are discussed. Now, a time of abundance has come for Canada as Jupiter casts his special energies our way over the next 12 months. We have individual karma and collective karma. Our national karma can be read and explained by the position and condition of the planets on the day we became a nation. Jupiter figured strongly in the birth chart of Canada. Jupiter is king of the gods and he represents the higher and broader range of our intellect and understanding. Topics such as law, philosophy, medicine, education and politics are just a few of the subjects that come under his domain. Jupiter and Saturn represent the good cop-bad cop phenomenon, in which the bad cop roughs you up a bit and scares the heck out of you. Then the good cop comes in and soothes you and makes you feel way better.
Saturn represents the letter of the law while Jupiter rules the spirit of the law. Jupiter holds a prominent position in the birth chart of Canada. He was in Pisces, which is his own sign. Jupiter is a benevolent and uplifting energy and Pisces is the most compassionate sign of the zodiac. It means that we as a people will be kind and benevolent in our ways and carry a great dignity among the nations. Our laws are known to be fair, possible way too fair, but it is unmistakable that the silent majority and the overall Canadian identity carries this humane dignity and peaceful demeanour. It cannot be taught and it cannot be bought, but it can be caught in the Canadian spirit of the people that inhabit this most blessed country.
Something big is in the wind. Jupiter rules all sporting events and any type of competition. In the fall of 2013 and spring of 2014, Jupiter will be at its peak influence in our lives. This would be the right time astrologically to rewrite the laws of the land to bring them in line with present-day realities. It is our time to step up to the plate and continue to make our nation the showcase nation that she is. It is time to take pride and give thanks for the privilege and opportunity to exist in this wonderful land we call Canada.
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The Sun, Mars and Jupiter cast good energy your way throughout the month. The three fiery brothers bring confidence, strength and energy that you can use to your advantage. You may be heading into uncharted waters as the planet Uranus continues to bring surprises and changes that come out of the blue. Enjoy the times.
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It’s all about resources or the lack of them; that’s what will determine how the month will go. There’s quite a list of things that need to be accomplished or acquired in order to make it all work. A time of correcting and adjusting to the realities that are presenting themselves at this time is needed.
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It’s your solar high of the year as the Sun continues his journey through your sign. He’s accompanied by Mars and Jupiter, his two fiery brothers. The trio may make you feel like one of the three musketeers. Set about to make things right and put up the good fight and your timing is right.
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Your ship is either coming in or heading out with you on board. A very promising time approaches as the Sun enters Cancer on June 20 placing you in your solar high of the year, followed by benevolent Jupiter on June 25. He brings opportunities for growth and expansion over the next 12 months.
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Your solar eleventh house is very active throughout the month. It is time to meet and greet and enjoy the social activities that come up now. You can hold court as you expound on your favourite topics. You may be longing for the good old days and you might return to your roots this year.
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TYour solar career sector is hot and you should make good use of it. You may find yourself connected to some very influential people that like your style and manner. It is time to bring people closer and enjoy the camaraderie that true friendships can bring. The heat is on and so is the competition.
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The June planets favour you strongly. Opportunities for travel present themselves. Publishing, education, promotional activities and spiritual matters are just a few of the topics you may be keen on presently. Embrace it all and feed that hungry mind and soul. Career potential is very strong and it is time to reach for the brass ring.
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Saturn is moving through Scorpio and generally he’s not too much fun. He is about hard work and responsibility. However, if we’re living a balanced life with a healthy diet and good work scene, we don’t need or feel his disciplining measures as keenly as those that are out of balance and needing correction.
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It’s time to take it easy and let off the gas pedal a bit. Then again Mars and Jupiter, along with the Sun, are casting energy into your sign throughout the month. It is more likely you will have the pedal to the metal as you move through a very demanding time. Go easy.
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You may want to wend your way carefully throughout the month as there is the likelihood of conflict and resistance. And don’t promise more than you can deliver because the potential for misreading or not understanding a situation is strong. Truth, honour and valour get you through; you might be the victor or hero.
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Love and marriage, baby and carriage could be the case for many Aquarians as your solar fifth house of past life karma is lit up. The fifth house rules love, attraction and children. For those mortified by the idea of marriage and babies, the stars are offering opportunities to enjoy the things that you love.
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Family, home, land and real estate are the feature topics for Pisces throughout June. Romantic energies may manifest and a promising summer unfolds. Certainly, it is time to enjoy life to its fullest. It might be time for a family reunion or gathering of old friends. Misunderstandings can come up suddenly so go slow.
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by Mac McLaughlin | May 2, 2013 | Weekly Forecasts
The karma gods are up to their antics and we can expect to witness some very dramatic events coming to pass in the month of May. We have a classic battle brewing as Scorpio Christy Clark and Taurus Adrian Dix square off for the leadership of British Columbia. They are exact opposites. Taurus and Scorpio are fixed signs and they are often coined as immovable and resistant to change. Soon, we will have a complete Taurus line of leadership, from Queen Elizabeth to Prime Minister Stephen Harper and Premier Adrian Dix, if he wins. We know that Stephen Harper runs a very tightly controlled ship. He is a Taurus that brooks no interference at all. We can probably expect the same of Dix, if he gets his hands on the helm of BC. But it might not be a bad thing to have an earthy, solid and steady type of leadership rather than a rudderless ship.
Taurus instinctively knows the value of any particular thing, be it a loaf of bread or ships bearing oil – pipelines too. Scorpio never does anything halfway; it’s either all the way or no way. They have great passion and devotion. Often, they hold the greatest of ideals for their people and the environment. Shadows of doubt and fear may manifest as the lunar eclipse on April 25 falls across the Sun in both Clark and Dix’s horoscopes. It means all the stops will be pulled out and a full-out battle ensues. The knives are out and they will not spare each other in this gritty fight for the right of power.
This writing is taking place on April 3. While we’re fixated on sorting out who we’re going to ride with for the next few years, our concerns may be overshadowed by major world events, as the threat of war is real and the stars are backing it up. The trouble spots on the globe will heat up and conflict will manifest. We have to hand it to the brave hearts such as Clark and Dix for whoever attains the leadership may find they have the toughest and most difficult road ahead. It is imperative they listen to and abide by the will of the people. We’re approaching a major crossroad as to the direction we must move in. The stakes are high and I wouldn’t want to be in the shoes of those that carry this hefty weight of decisions that will affect our lives and the lives of our children and grandchildren.
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You were shot out of a cannon and will hit the net in a couple of years. That’s the phrase I use when describing the effects of the planet Uranus as it passes over your Aries planets. Embrace change and dance with the energy and events that manifest now. You are on a great learning curve.
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Saturn casts his glance from across the sky as the solar eclipse on May 9 brings home the realities of what must be done in order to attain your goals. A time of great striving has arrived and no doubt you will lower your horns in order to meet the tasks ahead.
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You may be inspired and happy as Venus brings her special energy your way from May 9 to June 2. She rules all things beautiful. She brings love, abundance, taste and style. Good to great news arrives. Make your presentation and submit your application, as the last 10 days of May are potent and magical.
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Get your motor running. Well, at least get it started. Now is the time of behind-the-scenes activity as you prepare to meet the demands on your time and energy that are sure to manifest starting in June. Get ready now as what you want is just over the horizon, time-wise.
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We marvel at the accomplishments of others and wonder how they became successful. The answer, of course, is hard work, blood, sweat, tears, dedication and devotion. This is what is needed now, as it is likely you will be tested strongly this month. You may even relish the challenges and thrive on them.
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Travel and work sectors in your solar chart are hot this month. You may be in demand and busy as a bee. You might want to amp things up career-wise as opportunities are there for the picking. Education, publishing, advertising and all promotional activities are highlighted. Tend to matters of the spirit; it needs nurturing too.
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Although we’re in the middle of the spring season and you would rather be gardening, you probably will be working on taxes, joint monies, inheritances and other such lovely topics. Travel opportunities are coming up as well. It is time to get your house in order. Get your work done and then go and play.
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You may feel limited and somewhat frustrated with the amount of work and obligations on your platter this month. You may have to economize and cut back on expenditures and frivolous spending, etc. Contentious issues must be dealt with. It’s all about streamlining and finding the balance in all things.
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Generally, Sagittarius is concerned with the big picture and overview of any situation. Now a time has arrived in which you may have to focus on the details and fine print in order to achieve success. Health, relationships and partnerships become focal points throughout May and June. The lunar eclipse on May 24 will bring important epiphanies.
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Imagine that you are successful, rich and famous. Now that you have attained status and wealth, why would you be feeling empty and dissatisfied? Lack of spiritual nourishment would be the answer. You may be in a phase of breaking it all down or building it all up; just don’t forget yourself along the way.
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Laughter and tears, joy and fear and pleasure and pain seem to be the steady diet we dine on daily. It will be that way for a while, with more laughter than tears as the month progresses. Life’s pace picks up nicely and some very interesting people start showing up on your radar.
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You may be in a very creative phase. Purchasing, moving, renovating and other matters regarding home, family and real estate come up. You may be longing for light, love, peace and divinity. You are changing in ways you might not understand. Your values are shifting and you are morphing into something higher, much higher.
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by Mac McLaughlin | Apr 1, 2013 | Weekly Forecasts
All of life’s activities are synchronized with the movement of the Moon and planets. Each month, we experience a new and full Moon. The new Moon signals the start of any new activity. It’s sort of like a seedling bursting forth from its shell, reaching towards its potential. The full Moon indicates a time of great activity, excitement, fulfilment and completion. Any planet connected to the new or full Moon will show its effects throughout the month and especially at the new and full Moon times. Interestingly, Mars sits close to the new Moon on April 10. This is an indicator of vigorous spring activity. Mars represents effort, action and aggression. This dynamic new Moon takes place in the fourth house, which represents land and real estate and where we live. The fourth house also has to do with family life, homes, parents, education and according to the Vedic scriptures, vehicles as well. Maybe it’s time to purchase that new car or home.
My bet is that we’re going to be very busy with our spring tasks and I wouldn’t be surprised if there was a strong spike in the real estate markets. We can expect a fair amount of jousting and fighting when the competition heats up as the power types seek their destiny. Fires, incidents and accidents are on the menu, as Mars has the propensity to stir things up. On the positive side of the coin, Mars invigorates, inspires and fuels us with passion, energy and strength. Venus is very close to Mars at the time of the new Moon and is another indicator that we will be full into whatever captures our attention and interests.
Love is in the air and life here in La-La land hums on nicely. It’s especially nice in the sense that Venus and Mars are the traditional planets of love, romance and passion. The full Moon lunar eclipse on April 25 also has Mars strongly in the picture, Saturn too. It’s not pretty when Mars and Saturn are involved with a lunar eclipse. We’re faced with limitations and frustrations and the pickings are not easy. Heads will roll and some of the power types will step aside as controversy and conflict hit the front pages throughout the month. The last 10 days of April are especially fraught with great tension and concern. But while somewhat painful, the process is necessary. Mid-May, when the dust settles and the air clears, we will see who is still standing. It’s time to roll up our collective sleeves and get to work.
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You are intuitive and instinctive and now you must use those gifts in order to get where you’re going. The Aries new Moon on April 10 signals a new start and fresh opportunities. Action and attraction and love and romance, along with some high adventure, are on the cosmic menu. Destiny is heading your way.
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By the light of the silvery moon on April 25, many realities coalesce. Your inner psyche becomes illuminated and you see the pathway ahead. Powerful and profound lessons are on-board and you gain great wisdom. Gains and losses are in the play. It’s time to let go of what is no longer worthy or useful.
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The new Moon on April 10 takes place in your solar eleventh house, which is the house of friendships, groups and societies. A whirlwind of events, gatherings and other social commitments keep you hopping throughout the month. Jupiter continues to pour on the abundance, bringing precious gifts into your life. Embrace it all.
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You can expect a busy and demanding time throughout April. You may not mind and might actually enjoy it. The pace mellows after the Sun enters Taurus on April 19. The last half of the month is more to your liking and good times are indicated. Mix and mingle, wheel and deal, as opportunities for advancement come up.
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When we put the boat in the water at high tide, the task is easy. At low tide, we struggle, strain, cuss and wrestle with the task. The first half of April is your high tide time while in the second half of the month, it will be tougher to get things done.
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Life becomes more meaningful and its mysteries deepen. You may be in wonderment about it all and the urge to seek understanding, knowledge and wisdom will be very strong. Go with it; go into it. Seek and you shall discover. Your solar career sector is hot and you should apply yourself accordingly. Your timing is good.
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The Aries new Moon on April 10 has Venus and Mars involved and they cast their energies your way. Love and adventure, action, excitement and attraction are on the cosmic menu. Set a pace that you can handle, as the demands on your time will be amped to the max. Clashes may occur.
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The full Moon lunar eclipse on April 25 takes place in your sign. It is an important time. The two heavyweights, Mars and Saturn, are involved, indicating an intense turn of events that will need your full attention. Your inner psyche is illuminated and you see the reality of your situation. Late April tells the tale.
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Your solar fifth house is lit up like a Christmas tree. Topics that rule the fifth house are children, romance, business, enterprise, gambling and entertainment. Lord Jupiter casts his benevolent glance your way as well, indicating that your timing is good. Partnership potential is strong, romantic or business-wise. Watch for overstating the facts, though.
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It’s time for some work around the house and some in-house work as well. The instinct to put it all together is strong. It is also a time for some deep inner reflection and re-evaluation of your values. Keep an open-hand policy and don’t be afraid to let things go, if they must go.
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You may be at an impasse, a crossroad or a fork in the road; serious decisions must be made in order for you to release the burdens you have been carrying in that urn on your shoulder for many years now. The April stars are aligned in a way that will help you to see the way.
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April starts off with a bang. Possibly, you bang heads with someone and unkind works are exchanged. The first half of the month has its challenges. Late April is more to your liking. Finances may be on your mind. Home, family and real estate activities are indicated. Diet and health considerations come up.
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by Mac McLaughlin | Feb 28, 2013 | Weekly Forecasts
The spring equinox takes place on March 20. The position of the planets at the equinox is believed to hold the keys as to how the whole year will go; many ancient cultures held this belief. I compared the planetary positions in the equinox chart to Canada and Prime Minister Stephen Harper’s birth charts and it tells quite the tale. Strap on your seat belts and make ready for a wild ride through time. Pluto holds a prominent position throughout the year indicating a time of transformation and regeneration. It is time for a makeover and a rebirthing of our values and our country’s principles. There may be a great rift and division among the people and strife, conflict and resistance will be evident. This is how we go and this is how we grow; we voice our opinions and we put up the vote and abide by the will of the people.
Mars and Uranus are conjunct at the time of the equinox and in square with our Moon. It is another indicator we will experience some choppy waters, unrest and all kinds of movement and protestations. No sense hiding under your bed, but it does make sense to throw in your two cents and contribute to helping solve the concerns on-board at this time. We will get nowhere by avoidance and we must help sort out the concerns of the day. Saturn is in very good aspect to the Sun and Moon this year and it is a very good harbinger that we are on the right track. We will sort through what must be done in order to find the balance.
Jupiter is waiting in the wings and in the midst of our labour he comes along and rewards us in a most plentiful way, as he transits over our Sun, Moon and Uranus in July and August this year and in the first four months of 2014. He is King of the Gods, bringing abundance, wealth, success and happiness. We are heading into a most exciting time. Rejoice and contribute however you can.
I wouldn’t want to be in Stephen Harper’s shoes, as the stars are indicating that a battle is brewing; 2013 could prove to be the most challenging and controversial time for his administration. Some loss is indicated and he will have to fight to keep his ship intact. He seems plenty capable and although we may not like his astringency measures, they may be necessary in order to trim the fat and cut back on waste and expenditures.
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The mystics teach us that we have 25% free will and 75% karmic indebtedness. The karma flows in its own way at the appropriate times in our lives. It’s time to use that allotment of 25% free will. 2013 is the year that it all changes. Seek the truth, as it will set you free.
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You may be feeling a little tired and it may be time to let up and relax for a while. The March planets offer up a time in which you can be flexible and possibly take a bit of time off. Then again you can resist and persist at your own risk. Enjoy the days.
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It’s your time to fly high and kiss the sky as Jupiter continues his visit until the end of June. Make good use of this energy. Join up with a group or society that reflects your values and interests. New friends come into the picture. Travel looms big and big things happen while travelling.
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It’s time to prepare for the future. The March planets indicate possible travel and dealing with education and publishing. Keep your foot on the gas and use that big pincer to hold on to your convictions and beliefs. Life gets notched up in the summer time. Opportunity knocks and doors fly open that were previously shut tight.
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Your long-held beliefs might be evaporating. No worries. They will be replaced by astonishing, new revelations. Some Leo types are deeply mystical and if you are one of them, you have reached a time in which a deep understanding and awareness prevails.
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You will have to be extra vigilant throughout the month of March, as the likelihood of misunderstandings and confusion is strong. You may need to take your time and set a pace you can live with. Read the fine print before signing on the dotted line. Measure twice, cut once, sounds about right. Avoid sloppy thinking and taking too many shortcuts. Work smart.
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Make ready for a very exciting springtime. Romance and adventure may be the case. Activities heat up towards the end of the month as the Libra full Moon on March 27 illuminates your inner psyche. Be aware with all that you do, as there is a danger of mishaps or accidents taking place.
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You may be working harder than ever, but the results may be slow coming in. You may find the power types are not receptive to your plans presently. Keep perfecting and polishing your skills, eliminating what you know is not worthy or useful. Health is the first consideration and all else stems from there.
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Home and family are the main features now. Land and real estate may figure in somehow. You may be ambiguous and possibly conflicted as to what to do or how to go regarding your present circumstances. You may have more direction towards the end of the month and things may go in your favour.
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Keep an eye out for potential accidents and mishaps around the home. There’s nothing to fear, except the stars are indicating potential concerns in that area. Projects regarding land and real estate could come up. Those born at the end of December and early January are in the midst of a great transformative process throughout 2013.
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Some of you are going to reach your peak professionally this year or the next. Others of you may leave a long-time profession or experience a fall from grace. It may not be the case; much depends on how you got to the top in the first place. Honourable actions are applauded while misdeeds come to light.
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March is your month and it should prove to be an exciting time. Love, romance, creativity and all kinds of activity keep you on the move. There may be some doubt and confusion, as misunderstandings are likely. Travel could be delayed and it is important to keep your documents together.
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by Mac McLaughlin | Feb 4, 2013 | Weekly Forecasts
February is supposed to be the coldest month of the winter season, but my bet is it’s going to be hot. The Aquarius new Moon on February 9 carries the seedlings of what will spring forth from Pandora’s box over the next lunation cycle. Saturn plays a strong part in what takes place throughout the month, as he is the traditional lord of Aquarius. He rises in the east at new Moon time, with a strong status, sort of like visiting dignitaries from other lands. The main objective with Saturn is within our efforts to bring order, harmony, fairness, justice, health and wholesomeness to the land and people. The spirit of Aquarius manifests through acts of humanitarian love. Imagine the day when we finally figure out we are one people on one planet and that each one of us is most precious and deserving of love and forgiveness. Sorry, got a little carried away for a moment.
Groups and gatherings, marches and protestations are in the works and oh boy; there will be some fireworks! Saturn is moving through Scorpio, which is a sign very connected to the environment and its health. Start counting the heads involved in any serious movement that has to do with the protection of the environment and my bet is that dear old Scorpio will come to the top of the list. At the time of the new Moon, Venus squares off with Saturn prompting us to do some soul searching in order to find what will bring contentment and peace of mind. Mercury, Mars and Jupiter make a strong connection and the combination is going to cause or allow people to vent, argue, contest and protest, with the dirt ending up on the front pages of our local papers. It’s not as bad as it seems. Actually, we may be in the mood to move forward and digest the hard-earned and hard-learned lessons we have been dining on over the last several years.
The full Moon on February 25 brings life’s activities to a peak. Jupiter forms a square with the full Moon while Mercury and Mars are conjunct. This is quite the planetary mix and we can expect some very stormy weather, inside and outside of the house. “Slow down” is the mantra I would choose in order to accommodate the intense energy on-board at this time. Mercury and Mars stay in close proximity to one another throughout February and early March. What it all means is that we’re going to be on about the important issues of the day. Choose your favourite hobby horse, be it the environment, the government, the police, well, you name it – oh, and of course, the politicians and their machinations near and far. The battle to save the environment is on. Not that I want to drone on about the negative, but this full Moon and the last several days of February indicate some type of unstable weather phenomena, such as big winds and probable calamities on the high seas or in the mountains. According to the Vedic Chart, at the time of the new Moon on February 9, our collective mindset will be in a cautionary mode and our collective jaw may be set and determined to truly strive to adhere to the most stringent measures possible to safeguard the land and seas. There might be a move on in higher places to winnow the Neanderthals and get up to speed with taking care of business.
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You’re on the verge of some important discoveries that will come your way throughout the spring. In the meantime, you can expand your social contacts by joining with groups and societies that have similar interests. This is a good time to mix and mingle.
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Work and relationships are the main focus throughout February. Heart-to-heart talks may help in clearing any resentments or grudges. Conditions change for the better towards the end of the month. The key ingredient is communication.
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Travel plans materialize. Opportunities to write, publish and study emerge. Expect a demanding month. Pace yourself and watch you don’t get embroiled in a conflict. The energy is intense and highly charged. Diplomacy, patience and kind words are needed to get you through successfully.
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Your interests take a turn towards the deeper and more mysterious subjects like reincarnation and other eastern beliefs. Travel could be in the works. Academia, publishing and matters of the higher mind come into play. A transformative process is in the works.
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There may be some tough hurdles to overcome regarding personal or joint monies. Land and real estate may figure in as well. This is your solar low of the year and a time in which you should take it easy.
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You might need another body in order to handle all that is on your platter throughout February. The key is to set a pace and try to stay within it. Fights, accidents and misunderstandings could manifest. Kindness and patience will get you through safely.
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A busy time unfolds as you focus on organizing yourself. Health considerations are at the forefront. You may weigh up the pros and cons regarding family politics. It’s time for some soul searching in order to find the balance.
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Matters regarding the home and family come up. Saturn is having an important influence over Scorpio now. He asks you to live with less and let go of the things that are no longer useful. Economize, cut away and trim back where you can.
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Ducking controversy is out of the question. It’s too late for that. Now is the time to make a stand for what you believe in. Oh, there will be fights and possible tears, but the air clears and you are able to move forward again.
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Saturn, lord of Capricorn and Aquarius, features strongly throughout the days of February. Of course, you are naturally connected to this planet and what others whine about, you do without complaint. Continue your ascent up the mountain and remain open to change.
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The Aquarius new Moon on February 9 signals a new start. In addition, Venus visits all month and her influence inspires us towards higher and refined living conditions. It’s time to apply your super will power to the tasks at hand.
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Mercury and Mars visit in February, making it a very busy, exciting and challenging time. Set a pace you can handle and refuse to rush. Arguments and incidents could arise. Otherwise, you can expect some excitement as a series of unique developments occur.
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by Mac McLaughlin | Jan 7, 2013 | Weekly Forecasts
Happy New Year! Out with the old and in with the new is a mantra we’re all familiar with. Now, we are determined to stick to our New Year’s resolutions, which, of course, are generally totally forgotten by early February. Things may be a little different this year, though. The Sun and Pluto conjoin on December 30, 2012, just on the heels of a full Moon to boot. Your vow of commitment and determination to stick to the plan stands a better chance of becoming a reality if we use this planetary aspect as our fulcrum and pole in order to attain our goals. Our emotions are heightened at full Moon time and it probably isn’t the best time to make a vow or promise that we may not be able to keep.
Neptune will visit Pisces for over a decade. It’s a very interesting combination as Neptune is strongly affiliated with Pisces. Neptune represents our connection to the astral world and if this planet is prominent in our birth charts, we will be inclined to work along Neptunian lines. Neptune and Pisces are all about spirituality, devotion, compassion, illusion, film, music, acting and art. Positive Neptune types are inclined to work with the sick and disadvantaged in the world. When Neptune is weak or challenged in a birth chart, we find our con man, drug addict, fake evangelist and other wolves in sheep’s clothing. The oceans and seas are Neptune / Pisces ruled as are all liquids such as oil. I pray it never happens because just one massive oil spill on the coast will change our lives for decades, if not longer. We live in the wild west and it’s probably going to get a lot wilder before any true or lasting peace comes our way. Let’s make peace wherever and however we can. The planet needs a healing.
It is our individual and collective duty to extend love and help to all souls on our precious planet. We must count our sameness and commonalities and shame on the bunch of us if we don’t. The cosmic intent of this Neptune /Pisces energy is to divert us away from the glitter, glitz and gold and to turn us towards higher aspirations such as service, love and devotion. Those born at this time will exhibit an unusual spiritual or psychic quality. Visionaries are needed and they will manifest at this time. We have two ways to go. We can move further into the tangled web of karmic indebtedness or we can learn to love one another and forgive each other. We are one people on one planet and we must learn to get along together.
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Your solar tenth house is strongly activated throughout January amping up your professional status. Move towards your goals. Your world is changing and you are changing as never before. Fate and destiny lead the way. You’re on a learning curve and what you learn these days will serve you well, far into the future. Stay original.
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Journeys, short and long, may take place this month. You may stay home and still cover a lot of distance internally. You may be longing for changes on a deep spiritual level. Watch what you’re doing on January 7 and 8, as there is potential for mishaps to take place. Patience and kindness work wonders.
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The last half of January will be a big improvement compared with the first half of the month. If you have anything of importance to handle or if there is something special you would like to achieve, make your moves on January 21 and 22 for the best possible results.
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The Cancer full Moon on December 28, 2012, had Pluto connected to it and it may have brought important changes in your life. The new Moon on January 11 in your opposite sign Capricorn may prompt you to make certain changes in your relationships. Those that support or oppose show up now. Prepare for a brighter future.
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You must set a workable pace, as the tempo is sure to speed up as this month moves along. Mars and Saturn lock horns as they both either square or oppose Leo. Most of this intensity will be experienced on January 7and 8. The whole month will have a certain edge of excitement to it.
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Your solar fifth house is strongly activated throughout January. The fifth house topics are children, romance, entertainment, investments and gambling. One or more of these topics should be activated now. Jupiter sits at the top of your solar chart enhancing professional and career interests. Your prospects for advancement are strong. Promotional strategies play out well.
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Matters related to home, family and real estate take up your time in the first few weeks of January. It would be a good time to conduct any type of research on the family tree. Heady topics such as law, philosophy, spirituality and politics will be on the menu. Travel plans are in the works.
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Saturn slows down in January, becoming retrograde mid-February in your sign. Most people do not like the heavy influences of Saturn while others thrive and even excel under this planet’s guidance. Striving for a degree, studying hard while others are partying and generally sacrificing and living carefully is what this Saturn transit is all about.
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Jupiter is a planet associated with abundance and good luck. There’s another side to Jupiter when it is not well situated in a birth chart that can indicate waste and carelessness. Jupiter becomes stationary in your opposite sign Gemini at the end of the month. This is an important time of decisions regarding relationships.
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The late December 2012 full Moon may have provided you with a glimpse into the hidden works of a situation. It is not a light, airy-fairy time period. The Capricorn new Moon on January 11 bodes very well and will bring on a new phase of internal transformation, growth and development in your life.
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Dynamic and feisty Mars moves through Aquarius this month bringing enthusiasm and action your way. Mars tangles with Saturn as they square off January 6 to 8. Difficult circumstances may develop and tempers could flare as frustrations boil over. My hint is to stay chill and if given lemons, make lemonade.
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It’s a blessing in this lifetime to experience Neptune’s visit to Pisces. Magical, mystical, mysterious scenarios come and go like clouds. Dive into the pool of dreams and diversions, adventure and excitement. You may feel strongly motivated to serve, help and heal wherever you can. Artists and musicians will probably receive inspiration from on high.
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by Mac McLaughlin | Dec 4, 2012 | Weekly Forecasts
We start the month off with a Sun / Jupiter opposition on December 2. The Sun and Jupiter are friends and fiery brothers in the planetary scheme. Jupiter’s influence brings good luck, abundance and good timing into play. The spirit of good will, trust and honour manifests at these times. If you are born within a few days of this date or around June 1, the Sun and Jupiter’s effects will be experienced strongly in the form of opportunities for expansion, growth and development. You are in the right place at the right time. The downside of this planetary exchange is that of waste, overconfidence and over expenditures. Going out on the proverbial limb is a classic description of this planetary aspect. Matters related to law and politics come strongly into play.
I don’t know if anyone has noticed, but a big storm is brewing and it is all about the proposed pipeline and threats to our pristine waters and land. Some of us think it is a done deal while others are thinking no way for any amount of dollars. The line is drawn in the sand and whether pro or con, our futures and the futures of our children and grandchildren are at stake. The Sun / Jupiter opposition is a prime type of planetary aspect that puts these types of questions to all of us and we must soon decide what is best for the future. Mercury the trickster and Neptune the magician square off on December 11. I’m not sure what you might do about it, but I personally would not sign anything important as mistakes and distortions may very well cloud the picture.
Misunderstandings and confusion, along with lies and deceit, are on the cosmic menu for a few days surrounding December 11. The Sagittarius new Moon on December 13 indicates a new start and probable new round of negotiations, meetings, judgements and rulings, etc. The spirit of Sagittarius connects us to higher consciousness, competitiveness, fairness, freedom and education for everyone. The Sagittarius new Moon prompts us to look at the big picture and the long view. It is time to weigh up how we’re really doing and truly make the changes that need to be made in order to find the balance. “Charity begins at home” was a favourite expression of my guru. He meant that we must forgive ourselves and extend love, forgiveness, kindness, charity and compassion to all living souls. We’re God’s children and God resides in each and every one of us. Let’s find a common ground and work towards equanimity, peace and harmony.
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You are a diamond in the rough, multifaceted, multitalented and just needing polish. Complications, delays and endless details bore you to death. You are basically intuitive and instinctive. Now, you must call upon your natural gifts to get you through the next several years. Fate and destiny play a big hand.
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You cannot live off of the fat, all of the time. Now is the time to economize, trim down and rid yourself of any waste. It is also time to take a long look at the relationships in your life. The meaning and value of life deepens as the days pass. It’s a time of marriage or divorce.
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Jupiter, king of the Gods, continues his Gemini visit until late June 2013. He offers up an opportunity to expand your awareness. There is an intrinsic spirituality and angelic quality that many Geminis possess. You can reflect on the past and all that has happened in your life. Now, the urge for freedom becomes very strong.
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Moon-ruled, you are emotional, sensitive and very attached to your family. You are also very strong minded and tenacious. With Mars and Pluto moving through your opposite sign Capricorn, it may be wise to take it easy and avoid confrontation. A soft reply turns away wrath. It is time to get your house in order.
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It’s time to do what you do best, which is to razzle-dazzle, mix and mingle, glad-hand, back-slap and wink and nod, tell a joke or two as you work the crowd. New and old friends come into the mix and it is time for you to play and travel.
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Your solar fourth and tenth houses are activated. These houses represent your home and career activities. A busy time is indicated as you work towards expanding your career interests. Land and real estate may come into the play. Partnership potential is very strong. Keep perfecting your skills. Opportunities for advancement and growth are close at hand.
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You can never really satiate Libra’s dynamic sense of intellectual curiosity. Now, an opportune time has arrived in which you can satisfy your hunger to learn and explore. December offers up opportunities for travel. Matters related to writing, education and publishing come strongly into play. Social, political and legal topics are on the agenda.
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A loving parent’s instinct is to protect and nurture their offspring. When the little one doesn’t want to wash behind his ears, rest assured, mom or dad will do it for him. Saturn is a stern taskmaster. He visits Scorpio for the next two years. His instinct and objective are to keep you safe and clean.
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The Sagittarius new Moon on December 13 signals a fresh start. It’s time to review and renew your perspective. Take your time, as the picture may not be clear until late December. Interesting and important news arrives around December 17 and matters of the heart take precedence on December 22. Christmas brings powerful revelations and realizations.
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The winter solstice on December 21 heralds your solar high of the year. It may not feel too high as you weather a few dynamic planetary aspects, though. December 25 can be a day of surprises and possible shocks. The full Moon on December 28 may precipitate important decisions and changes in your life.
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Knowledge without incorporating wisdom is likened to a donkey with a load of books on his back. They’re not doing him any good. It’s not what you know, but what you do with what you know that is of importance. The old soundtrack has been wiped clean. It’s time to go in a new direction.
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Nothing is real and everything is surreal with Neptune visiting Pisces. Neptune connects us to higher consciousness and to realities beyond our intellectual scope. Your desire to help those less fortunate is stronger than ever. Artists, actors, musicians, healers, dreamers and dancers will receive the higher influences of Neptune. The angelic, saintly ones will manifest now.
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