by Mac McLaughlin | Oct 31, 2012 | Weekly Forecasts
“First a tear drop, then a trickle and then a torrent of tears as you realize that you have destroyed the very thing that you wanted most.” I wrote that in another column several years ago. A Scorpio woman called and asked, nearly in disbelief, how and why I wrote those words. I told her that one of the negative traits of Scorpio is a form of self-destruction or destruction of what they fear. She had met a fellow that she really liked and they seemed to truly hit it off. He lived in a different city. She grew impatient as the days went by and became angry that he didn’t even have the decency to keep his word and call her. Well, she called him and left a message telling him what she thought of him for his callous, cad-like behaviour. Soon after, she got a call from a friend saying the fellow had lost his phone book and had been trying to reach her for days. She got a hold of him, but the air was chilly and it was the end of the story, thus the torrent of tears.
Scorpio does signal a time of endings and new beginnings. Pluto is the co-ruler of Scorpio. When Pluto makes an aspect with a planet, or sensitive point in our horoscopes, we go through some type of regeneration experienced as a breaking down and renewal of that planet’s significations. Here’s an example. Let’s say that Pluto contacts your Venus and you discover your mate is having an affair. Or maybe you’re having an affair. Whatever the case, there is pain involved as we evolve through the process of breaking apart and mending our hearts. Later on, wisdom gained, we plod forth towards new ventures with a new set of values, hard earned and stained with our tears of experience. As the Sun passes through Scorpio, we are provided with an opportunity to go deep within ourselves. We have two eclipses in November, heightening the intensity of the times all the more. Look within, find out what you truly want, or do not want any longer and resolve to rise above to the highest of your standards and values. Not to harp on the negative, I must say that Scorpio is the most deeply devoted and loyal sign when it comes to family and loved ones. “Till death do us part” must have been penned by a Scorpio. Eagles mate for life and so does Scorpio. Oh, they can break up with you, but they can never really let you go.
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An eclipse takes place in your solar eighth house on November 13. The affairs of the eighth house will be in play for several months. Joint monies, inheritances, taxes, secrets, wills and legacies may be dealt with. Profound psychic experiences and dreams may occur and you might become deeply interested in metaphysics or spirituality.
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There’s a big focus on your house of relationships. It’s all about how you get along with others, or not. Generally, you are able to get your own way, but now you may find that others are willing to put up a fight with quite a bit of resistance. It is time to reconsider your position.
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You start the month off in high gear, as there are many demands to be met and little time to put it all together. It’s great to be busy and you may not mind the challenges, but you will have to watch your overall health. Month’s end is intense and dynamic, with relationships being featured.
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A time in which you consider a new enterprise or the start-up of a new business has arrived. You may be yearning for some excitement and there is a hint of intensified relationships that may be in the works. Take it easy at the end of the month as battles may be brewing.
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You must dig deep within yourself to come up with the proper course of action that will fulfill your yearning and burning desire for freedom and happiness. Home and family, along with matters of real estate, may come into play throughout November. December looks brighter. Plan on times with friends and family. New social circles are developing.
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The natural instinct for Virgo is to get everything in order and in their proper places. Once those tasks are completed, you can delve deeper into your favourite topics, passions and hobbies. November is the perfect time for you to get things in their place. Home, family and career activities feature strongly in November.
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Venus visits Libra until November 21, bringing her essence of love, grace, beauty, fairness and resources your way. Jupiter also casts his good influences as well and one cannot complain too much when the lesser and greater benific planets give us their blessings. Find the balance in all things and certainly share your love.
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The solar eclipse on November 13 heralds an important time of changes for those born close to that date. Mercury retrogrades in Scorpio indicating an opportunity to rethink the plan or to rework any problems. Saturn spends the next couple of years moving through Scorpio helping you to structure, order and harmonize your life.
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The lunar eclipse on November 28 casts some light on the concerns that have been developing in your life. Lord Jupiter casts his blessings via the eclipse as the Moon conjuncts Jupiter several hours after the eclipse. Revelations come your way and you may be excited regarding a breakthrough or a lucky break. Now you can move forward.
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Mars and Pluto meet up in Capricorn on November 27, just hours before a lunar eclipse takes place. The general consensus would be to avoid danger and any form of angry confrontation. If the air needs to be cleared, this will be the time to do it. My hint is to not make more karma that must inevitably be repaid.
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Your career house is lit up like a Christmas tree. It’s time to attain your goals. It’s a time in which you’re acknowledged for your accomplishments. For some, it is a time of honour and recognition; for others, it may indicate a fall from a high place.
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Travel and career sectors are hot throughout November and December. You may be longing for something higher and more rewarding as your solar ninth house is activated this month. You might want to check out the deeper aspects of religion and mysticism. You could get the job that you have always dreamed of. Make it a reality.
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by Mac McLaughlin | Sep 30, 2012 | Weekly Forecasts
A blindfolded Goddess with a sword in one hand and scales in the other rules over the sign Libra. She represents impartial justice, balance, order and harmony. The Sun transits Libra until October 22. Libra is a Cardinal/Air sign bringing intellectual and artistic gifts to those born in this sign. The Sun forms a triangle with Jupiter in the first half of October, bringing opportunities to set things right. The Sun-Jupiter triangle brings hope, faith, trust and a cooperative spirit into the mix. The point of the drill is in using planetary awareness (astrology) to help assist us in dealing with the myriad complicated social and political concerns of the day. When we come across a giant boulder that needs to be moved, we know our human strength will not get it to budge one inch. If we apply a long enough pole and fulcrum, we can move the boulder easily. The planetary aspects, such as the Sun trine Jupiter, are our fulcrum and pole and when used wisely we can literally move mountains. Yes, there is magic in the stars. It is God’s handiwork.
In Ecclesiastes, it is written we have a time to weep and a time to laugh. A time to mourn and a time to dance, a time to love and a time to hate, a time for war and a time for peace. Astrology is the cosmic clock and timekeeper for all terrestrial activities and events. Speaking of events, we have the US presidential elections taking place on November 6. After a lengthy study of Barack Obama and Mitt Romney’s horoscopes, I have come to the conclusion Obama will win. But hold on a minute. Remember the Bush/Gore race? It took place on November 7, 2000. Mercury, the planet ruling communications, was standing still, which is an indicator that things could go wrong and they certainly did. Well, guess what folks? Yep, good old Mercury retrograde takes place on November 6 and Mercury is standing still again as he prepares to back up along the ecliptic for a few weeks.
We know Mercury retrograde phenomena is strongly linked to all types of communication and transportation concerns. It may be a concern if Romney does get elected, as he is hawkish and willing to fight. Let’s keep an eye on this one and see where the world gets to, post November 6. Saturn will be in Scorpio starting on October 5 and this combination will bring its secrets, plans, plots and machinations to the surface over the next couple of years.
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Your Sun is in Aries and the Sun moves through through Libra for the first three weeks of October. It’s your solar low of the year. It is time for some introspection, reflection and possible redirection of your energies and efforts to find the balance in all things. You may hunger for something deeper.
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Saturn casts his stern glance from your opposite sign Scorpio over the next couple of years. It’s all about time and how you use it. Taurus, being a fixed sign, has its blessings and curses. The blessing is steadfastness, the curse, obstinacy and stubbornness. You may want to comply and concur rather than oppose and suffer.
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I wish I were a Gemini in order to take advantage of the opportunities that Jupiter is bringing while he visits Gemini. He brings warmth, confidence, good luck and good timing. It’s highly likely that life’s activities are going to get ramped up as Mars casts his energy your way along with Jupiter in October and November.
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It is time to prepare for the future. By your birthday next year, Jupiter will have entered your sign bringing untold blessings and opportunities for growth and advancement. Don’t wait, don’t hesitate, but start now. Move towards your goals, study and work hard and it will pay in its own way and day.
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Mars and Jupiter throw good energies your way throughout the month. The Sun assists as well, Uranus too. All combined, the equation is that you are able to relate and communicate with all kinds of people from all aspects of life. Your timing is good and your resolve is strong and others pick up on it.
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Lovely Venus pays a visit for most of the month. Well, she’s lovely most of the time; at other times, Venus helps us to reflect on how we’re really doing and some of the material may not be comfortable. There’s nothing like a good catharsis to re-align our values, principals, goals and ideals.
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It’s your time to shine as the Sun moves through your sign. Saturn moves out of Libra in early October. The stern taskmaster has left some powerful impressions and deep lessons that may have carved some wisdom into your soul. A whirlwind fall season speeds by in a blink of an eye. Enjoy and rejoice.
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Scorpios are old souls. In this incarnation, Scorpio is inclined to truly help mankind as they themselves have garnered a deep wisdom from the hoary past. The events destined to come to pass in the next two years will set your course for many years to come. Now is a time of correction and redirection.
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Talk about intense. This is it. Mars visits Sagittarius throughout the month bringing an injection of energy, excitement, action and competition. Plus lord Jupiter casts his energy your way as well, bringing luck and fortune into the play. Mars and Jupiter oppose in the last days of October ramping up everything. Think twice, cut once.
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Your career sector is hot. You learn a lot from secret sources throughout the month. No one can really outwork you or put in the same devotion to any subject at hand. Your instinct is to go deep and you should; think long-term while you’re at it. Shed the past and move forward.
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Seize the day, seize the month and if you don’t, no big deal, but a very precious window of time has arrived, especially in the first half of October. If you want to get somewhere with your life, use the stars as your fulcrum and pole and make leverage now. Read the introduction.
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Mercury and Saturn cast their energy into your sign bringing helpful news and information throughout the month. Now that Neptune has settled into Pisces for a very long visit, you can utilize Neptune’s energy to align yourself with your higher principals of compassion, love and service to all those who are suffering. New realities are dawning.
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by Mac McLaughlin | Sep 5, 2012 | Weekly Forecasts
We start and finish the month with full Moon energy. The blue Moon on August 31 carries its effects into early September. The Moon is bright. The combination of being full and in Pisces is bound to bring up some strong emotional energy. People tend to talk about their problems, fears, hopes and dreams under the Pisces Moon. We open up and let it all out.
It may be wise to keep careful watch over alcohol and drug consumption, as things can get crazy in a heartbeat with this dynamic energy unfolding. The end of the Month has similar vibes as we experience the harvest Moon on September 29. This full Moon is loaded and potently mixed with some strong planetary aspects throughout the day and it won’t take much to spark all kinds of action/reaction scenarios. The whole point of the drill is within the understanding that fore-knowledge of planetary situations can help us objectify energy and work with it, rather than against it. On a day such as September 29, it would be very wise to behave with restraint and caution. Not fearfully so, but in the sense that we can work towards positive resolution rather than adding more indebtedness karma-wise.
Although we’re having fun lying on the beach or hovering over the barbie, our minds are elsewhere – we’re thinking about school, the kids, work, career and myriad other things we know we must get to, tend to, soon. The summer is coming to an end and we can feel it. The fall equinox takes place on September 22. The instinct, Virgo instinct that is, is to organize and prepare for the coming colder seasons, thusly we have the harvest along with the impetus to order up, clean up, prepare and repair before winter sets in. Organize and systemize is the Virgo vibe. It’s back to the books; well, at least it used to be books. Now it’s some tiny, handheld device created by the Virgo nerds themselves, no doubt. He he, just kidding, sort of. Virgo is all about the details of any particular thing. They say that Virgo cannot see the forest for the trees, but Virgo will probably know everything about that tree and its environment and its needs and requirements to keep it healthy. What would we do without our Virgos to guide us along the proper path, err, correct path, right path? Anyway, dear Virgo often has the right answers. Virgo gone wrong is another story. Let’s save that one for another day and roll up our sleeves and get at it.
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Lead the way! How, you ask? Stay true to yourself, honest and original. Aries types make excellent leaders because they are able to cut through the red tape and get directly to the point. Remain open and alert, as this is a time of great revelations and internal revolutions. Fate and destiny guide the way.
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You will have to play nice as Mars spends the month in your opposite sign Scorpio. Contention, tension, competition, attraction and aggression are just a few keywords that describe the September vibes. All kinds of mini battles and disputes may arise. Home, family and real estate activities are featured. Excitement and good times go into the mix.
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Home, family and career activities dominate the calendar. Expansive Jupiter is practically standing still in the middle of Gemini throughout September and October bringing Jupiter’s blessings of abundance and good fortune. You can enjoy the good times, but you would be wise to go for the gusto and attain your goals and dreams.
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You will have some important decisions to make as September kicks into gear. Financial, professional and personal hurdles must be overcome. Once that is settled, whatever it is, you will be able to concentrate on making the best use of your time and energy. Opportunities for advancement are in place. Stay keen and alert.
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Venus pays a visit for most of the month bringing her special energy on board. Resources may get a boost and so too will your personal magnetism. Mars squares off with Venus indicating all kinds of intense attractions and reactions. If you love the spotlight, which most Leos do, then this is your time to shine.
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You’re in your solar high of the year, plus you start the month off with a bright full Moon bringing all kinds of revelations and realizations into your awareness. The Virgo new Moon on September 15 hints at a new start and a new leaf turned over. Opportunity awaits thee. Move forward with confidence.
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The Sun enters Libra on September 22, bringing you into your solar high of the year. You may be adjusting to the change of circumstances in your life that has taken place over the last 30 months. The full Moon on September 29 brings important revelations your way and a few surprises to boot.
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Mars moves through Scorpio throughout the month bringing courage and stamina. Mars also stirs things up and heated battles may come into play. Think long-term as Saturn visits Scorpio for the next two years and it may be wise to learn to live with less, especially less stress. Now is truly the time to make some changes.
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Jupiter casts his blessings in the form of opportunities for advancement and spiritual growth. Travel, education, publishing and gambling are featured. Politics and law are topics that may flourish while this transit is going on. September offers hurdles and some tension that must be overcome. Career and family are feature topics throughout the month.
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Travel, law, along with writing, publishing and education are featured. You may long for a deep drink of spirituality to slake your thirst for something higher, something transcendent. No matter what you acquire, you’ll only want more. It never ends and we are never satisfied. What to do? Let go and let God run the show.
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Jupiter and Saturn cast their blessings, Uranus and Venus too. Jupiter brings good luck and good fortune. Saturn brings harmony, balance, rhythm, wisdom and sobriety. Uranus brings a form of originality and creative fluidity. Venus brings love and affection, resources and a whole lot of creativity. All we need now – is you!
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The full Moon on August 31 takes place in Pisces. It will bring an understanding of how things are and how things will be. Pay attention to your dreams, as the symbolism in them may offer significant clues to your daily concerns. You may have to work a bit harder to accomplish your goals in September.
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by Mac McLaughlin | Aug 1, 2012 | Weekly Forecasts
It’s hot out there and I’m not talking about the weather. The Dog Days have arrived. Good old Mercury retrograde is in play and although Mercury goes direct motion on August 8, it will take several more days to get up to normal speed again. Related to us, it means communications will be hampered in some way. Delays and snafus, concerns regarding business, travel and transportation are the general fare when Mercury is dragging his feet and moving slowly. We all have our Mercury retrograde stories to share.
Mercury is moving through Leo, which is a fixed sign, meaning that attitudes and egos may clash and nobody wants to budge. In itself, this planetary energy would be plenty to deal with and we have dealt with it before. We can almost hear the collective yawn, as in, “So what? It’s not a big deal.” Along with the Mercury energy, we have a Mars/Saturn conjunction in Libra that will be in effect for the first three weeks of August making it a big deal indeed. Libra is a dynamic Cardinal sign indicating action and movement. Libra is the sign of peace or war and it doesn’t take a rocket scientist to see which way the energy is going in our society and in every society on the planet. Choose your topic and apply the above logic, or astro-logic, and we get a look into human behaviour at its best and worst.
The pictograph for Libra is a blindfolded goddess with a sword in one hand and a set of scales in the other, meaning impartial justice. Obviously, there are myriad imbalances throughout the land and many things to consider: politics, law, the environment, poverty, the pipeline; the list is long. It is time to step up and contribute however you can. Battles will rage and outrageous acts will take place. Accidents, violence, incidents, fires and weather phenomena will dominate the news. No sense hiding under the bed, as the energy won’t go away and must be worked with. The remedy is to slow down and strive to be less judgemental and reactive. Help out where you can and be courteous and respectful to one and all. If you have a chip on your shoulder, certainly someone will knock it off for you. It is a time of confrontation as we strive to right the wrongs and bring freedom and justice to all. In the meantime, it’s summer and time to enjoy nature in its bounteous glory.
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Aries is a very individualistic sign. They want to do things their way and when they want. Generally, the urge to be free and nonconformist is strong and, at present, it is intense. You may become frustrated if you have too many limitations. There are lots of opportunities to find the balance in all things.
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Taurus Prime Minister Stephen Harper has been described as coming in with elbows extended. Taurus can be bull headed. It may be wise to let up a bit and allow others to have their way and say once in a while. August is a test of your ability to get others on-side with you.
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Communications, business and travel are indicated. The stars are leaning in your favour. The general tenor of the stars is stressful, but for the most part they may benefit you. Your goodwill, along with some good luck, goes into the mix. Your ability to assess a situation quickly and act on it pays off nicely.
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Venus brings her lovely energy to your sign throughout the last three weeks of August. Social events are attended and good times are experienced. Strong romantic attractions may take place and it may be hard to avoid temptation. Family gatherings are featured. Old issues with those closest to us may come up for review.
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The full Moon on August 1 brings revelations. Issues come up and communications may be bogged down. It may take until mid-month to work through the complications. Life intensifies and you may experience some type of delay or problem with phones, computers, etc. The Leo new Moon on August 17 signals a new start.
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It is time to rest and repair. The planets are not demanding a whole lot out of you this month so you can let down and enjoy life a bit. It’s a good time to rediscover yourself and what it is that truly makes you happy. It is time to nurture the spirit and attain internal peace.
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Life can be trying at times, especially when Saturn is around. You have to tow the line and it can get tiresome. Now, Mars has joined up with Saturn until late August, bringing a series of frustrating circumstances into play. Accidents and incidents are probable and you will have to go easy, safe and slow.
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Career activities are featured as the Sun moves through your solar tenth house. Mercury happens to be retrograding in that area as well and it may bring some type of delay or concern regarding negotiations until mid-month. Mars visits Scorpio late August and September bringing a surge of energy and confidence your way.
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Jupiter’s passage through your opposite sign Gemini until next June will serve you well. He cast his light and influence into his own sign, bringing opportunities for growth and advancement financially, morally and spiritually. It can also be a time of waste and overindulgence if you are not careful. Relationships may flourish and bonds deepen as well.
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You may be in the mood to make some important decisions especially regarding relationships. It is time to re-evaluate your position. What do you really want? What brings you peace of mind. It is time to settle accounts with yourself and others and move to the high ground. Intense career activity is on board as well.
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The full Moon on August 1 takes place in your sign bringing intense energy and activity your way. You may be worked up about something and with Mercury retrograding in your opposite sign Leo, there may be conflict issues unfolding. Much depends on how you handle the situations that materialize in early August.
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Venus traverses your solar fifth house which rules topics such as entertainment, children, investments and gambling. You may be in the mood to seek some enjoyment, be it good times with family and friends or attending a series of social events etc. You may be in a very creative space be it at work or home.
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by Mac McLaughlin | Jul 3, 2012 | Weekly Forecasts
We are not living in peaceful times, nor have we ever. Hold on a minute. That’s not true. We lived in peaceful times during the Golden Age. According to the mystics, souls pass through great cycles of time on their journey back to the source of pure light and love. They speak of a time in which men spoke only the truth and peace reigned on Earth.
The problem that eventually manifested for the souls living in the Golden Age was they were not motivated to rise above body consciousness and traverse the higher planes. They became satiated, secure and satisfied with their Earthly existence. It really doesn’t sound so bad to me. Wouldn’t it be great to experience a few hundred thousand years of peace, light and love? The saints teach us that this is the ultimate destiny for all embodied souls – that we will merge into the ocean of consciousness and experience eternal and divine love. Before we get to that though, we have a little work to do.
Although we may not understand it all, ignorance will not get us anywhere; neither will war, hatred, anger and retribution. Our modern day wars, clashes and conflicts, big and small, have their origins in the long forgotten past. If astrology has any practical use, it would be within its capacity to help us understand the karma of the times. Our clients want to know the truth and they want to know how to deal with whatever is on board, karma-wise. The one big problem astrologers experience is in the area of helping the souls understand the karma that manifests at different times throughout our lives. There is one law that overrides karmic law and that is the law of God’s mercy and grace. But in the meantime we have work to do and that work is learning to live non-violently.
There will always be hard and stressful planetary aspects going on. Uranus and Pluto were conjunct in the late sixties and it was a time of great unrest and protest. Uranus and Pluto are locked into a square aspect for the next two years churning up the seas and creating high stress and contention. Are animosity, distrust, hatred and resentment out there? I think so, but we have a chance to strive to still the waters that have been churned up into a great whirlwind of anxiety, fear and suffering. As the great mystics have taught us, you cannot wash away blood with blood, but only with the waters of forgiveness.
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Mars types are generally fearless. Sometimes they are reckless and will do things that can be dangerous or thrilling. If this sounds like you, you might want to ‘go easy’ mid-month as the planetary aspects are loaded, potent and dangerous. If you are a thrill seeker, the time is right for high adventure.
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Taurus knows the essential value of everything. July is a month in which you will weigh up what is real and what must go. It’s a time of soul searching, as you reach for the highest values available or sustainable. An influx of wealth may begin to flow your way. Peace is attainable.
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The VIPs are coming for a visit this month. They’re already here. Venus and Jupiter arrive, bringing gifts of abundance, love and good fortune. If it is not so, know that it is time to make it so. Do not waste this opportune time fooling around and partying, but strive to make something of yourself.
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An intense month unfolds. The full Moon on July 3 brings home the reality of your situation. A series of powerful planetary aspects heightens the pace, especially mid-month. July 16 to 18 are action packed days in which you will have to wend your way carefully. Excitement, drama and danger are in the mix.
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It’s all about communication – or the lack of it – that tells the tale throughout July. The planets are leaning in your favour as a series of positive aspects unfold. You may have to re-think or rework your position, as Mercury turns retrograde in your sign on July 15. Strive for clarity, honesty and fairness.
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Mars livens up your money house while Venus and Jupiter light up your solar tenth house of career status and your public image. You may be working hard and in the groove, possibly in the right place at the right time. In the midst of the flurry, you must take time for yourself.
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It’s rock and roll time and hopefully it happens on the dance floor. I know it’s cryptic, but the planetary aspects are a bit hairy and need to be handled with caution. Excitement, romance, adventure and good times are indicated, but you must keep it together and stay focused on what you’re doing, especially mid-month.
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Your intuition is strong and helps to motivate you. Now is the time when you must rely on your deep inner self for guidance. You may be contemplating big changes or sense that changes are in the wind, and they are. A time of redirection looms this fall. Behind- the-scenes work takes place now.
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Your solar house of partnerships is lit up like a Christmas tree. Lord Jupiter and lovely Venus cast their energies your way bringing opportunities for successful relationships, be they personal or professional. You may have a change of plans or a change of heart mid-month. Joint monies, investments and inheritances may be active topics now.
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The full Moon on July 3 takes place in your sign bringing revelations and realizations your way. The whole month is power packed for action, excitement and change. There is some danger involved. Take it easy and let up on the pedal a bit. Staying clean and letting your works be seen is best.
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Mercury retrogrades in your opposite sign Leo mid-month, and there are some intense aspects going on as well. You might do well, as the planets are basically in tune with Aquarius. It’s all about communications and agreements. Check thrice, cut once. Read the fine print before you agree to any deal that comes up now.
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The Moon transits Pisces from July 6 to 9. Take some time to let down and enjoy life on that weekend. You may be in a pensive mood and engaging in some deep soul searching. Health considerations or work related concerns may need attention. Your dreams may be vivid and chock-full of important information.
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by Mac McLaughlin | Jun 6, 2012 | Weekly Forecasts
The full Moon illuminates the night sky and also illuminates our inner sky if it aligns with sensitive points in our horoscopes. We experience the full Moon every month and most of the time not much comes to pass; it’s just not a big deal. Then all hell breaks loose and you have a heated falling out with your partner, co-worker, boss or kid and even the cat looks at you funny. When the dust settles and you wipe the tears away and look up, sure enough, there’s the full Moon staring you in the face.
The scenarios described above indicate the full Moon probably connected with Mars in your horoscope bringing intense emotions to the surface. Unsolvable problems, snags and seemingly immovable situations get built up under the tension of the waxing full Moon phase. At the height of the lunation, epiphanies come as our internal drummer, the sum total of who we are, points us in the proper direction. When we’re not sure of what we should do in a given situation, we can throw our inner drummer our problem. When the time is right, the answers come winging back and we know exactly what to do and how to go. The truly sensitive, watery, receptive types among us need no explanation of the Moon’s antics. They know full well what can happen.
Being born in the sign of Cancer or having one’s Moon in Cancer, Pisces or Scorpio are just a few factors that make one more receptive to the influences of the Moon. We’re all receptive to her influences in varying degrees. We react to circumstances the best we can and hope for a good outcome, but forewarned is forearmed. Let’s say you have no idea of an upcoming full Moon aligning with your Mars. Sure enough, all kinds of drama unfold and the fur is flying. Being aware of an upcoming full Moon aligning with your Mars, you are able to avoid or at least minimize your involvement in any situation. Being extra cautious in traffic and not mixing it up with the hot-heads, blowhards, braggarts and swaggerers will get you through the day unscathed. The upcoming lunar eclipse on June 4 has Mars involved with it and we will receive the opportunities to utilize our wisdom as life gets heated and contentious issues arise. Mercury and Saturn are in triangle at the time of the full Moon offering solid, reasonable suggestions to the concerns at hand. The time for honest negotiations has arrived.
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Short and long journeys are indicated as well as an expansion along the lines of communication and education. Regardless of your age, you are moving through a time in which it may be hard to stick to any type of plan. Stay open and remain original and honest. Pay attention to your intuition.
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Your ruling planet Venus joins up with Jupiter as they travel through your solar second house throughout the last half of June. You may gain monetarily, but the best benefit is within, weighing what is of true value and what truly gives you peace of mind. Work at eliminating stress in the home. Pay attention to dietary concerns.
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Your ship just came in and you’re in the win. Creative energy and good timing bring success. Travel plans congeal. You can enjoy the hazy, crazy days of summer and live off the fat or you can strive to truly make something of yourself. In true Gemini style, do it all.
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It’s not the time for the big splash on Broadway, but it is time to do your homework; study, train and research. Take some time to reflect on what makes you happy or not. It is time to pay off old debts and serve those that need assistance. You may be compelled to help out.
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It’s time to mix and mingle and enjoy the coming summer season. Your solar house of friendships is strongly activated. Meet with others that share your passions and interests. The full Moon on June 4 lights up your solar fifth house of business and pleasure. Others pick up on your sense of humour and style.
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The full Moon on June 4 is pretty dynamic and will have an effect on your solar fourth and tenth houses. These are the areas related to career and home activities. Mars is in Virgo and closely tied to the full Moon energy, meaning the waters can get choppy and tensions could run high.
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Mercury, lord of the lunar eclipse on June 4, forms a triangle with Saturn in Libra. This will serve you well. Your ability to weigh up what is fair and what is right is strong now. Having gathered a humbling wisdom in the past two years, you can put it to good use now.
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Into the mystic you go. The June skies represent a time in which you are gathering information that is hidden. Your hunger for knowledge and seeking wisdom is stronger than ever. It might be time to deal with wills, legacies, joint monies and secret agreements. “A stitch in time saves nine” reflects the times.
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The lunar eclipse on June 4 takes place in your sign. Answers come along with more questions. A powerful series of events come to pass that changes your direction. Mid- month, lord Jupiter enters your opposite sign Gemini enhancing life all the way around. Take care and nurture yourself as exciting times are approaching.
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The summer solstice on June 20 heralds your solar low of the year. It’s time to take a break, relax, repair and take stock. The new and full Moon this month take place in your solar sixth house relating to one’s attitude and values concerning health. It is time to organize and harmonize your life.
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A lively time comes about as your solar fifth house is lit up like a Christmas tree. This house relates to romantic and creative energies, children, entertainment and business. You’ve got your thinking cap on and you’re connecting the dots, as your ability to reason and intuit is very strong. Throw a party, dance and rejoice.
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The first half of June can be somewhat distressful, especially near the full Moon date on June 4 and until June 10. Intense encounters take place and you may have to defend yourself. Challenges at work may be the case. Whatever it is, you will have lots of opportunities to forgive those that trespass.
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by Mac McLaughlin | May 2, 2012 | Weekly Forecasts
Life’s activities intensify dynamically and dramatically around full Moon time. The effects of the full Moon can be felt two days before and two days after its actual date. The full Moon on May 5 will bring things sharply into perspective. Mercury and Saturn form an opposition just a couple of hours before the full Moon, bringing some type of serious situation to light. Mercury/Saturn oppositions speak of delay and breakdowns regarding communications, misunderstandings and negotiations. Conflicted emotions such as jealousy, rage, anger and envy arise, especially with a Scorpio full Moon. It should be a hot night in the clubs, as the spring mating ritual takes hold. Venus rules this full Moon and she is moving very slowly throughout the month. Venus forms a triangle with Saturn, which helps to bring balance and harmony. My hint for the best possible behaviour in this highly charged time is to keep your cards close to the vest; say less, if anything at all. Mainly, live by the creed that martial artist Chuck Norris devised. He said the best defence is not to offend.
We have a solar eclipse on May 20 in the first degree of Gemini, which is the sign of communication and commerce. Mercury, lord of Gemini, is sitting close to Jupiter, which is an excellent indicator of possible agreements, positive negotiations, trust and cooperation. We have an opportunity to explore productive and reasonable solutions to our problems. Venus and Saturn are in a powerful triangle and whatever seeds we plant at the time of this eclipse will bear positive fruit for several months to come. On another level, the solar eclipse falls right onto a very sensitive point in Mahmoud Ahmadinejad’s horoscope and the eclipse has a strong effect on the chart of Benjamin Netanyahu as well.
The eclipse could herald the start of a serious re-ignition or continuation of very old karma. It seems it is the way of the world in the Kali Yuga. If there is a blessing for the times, it will be in the form of the softening and rendering of the hearts of men, once we have dined long enough on the steady diet of war and violence or the threat of it; certainly, it is what we have known since recorded history. It is not doomsday although it sounds that way. It’s a new day and a new way that will get us through to the next chapter in the eternal book of life. The outer planets Uranus, Neptune and Pluto are having a major effect. Uranus transits Aries until 2018, shaking everything up and bringing a most rebellious time of it, planetary-wise. New inroads and new ways and means of living will develop, as anything that has outlived its useful purpose will most likely meet its demise or, at the least, experience a new birth. Neptune visits his own sign Pisces for the next 14 years, bringing us into a time in which we will seek a deeper meaning and a deeper value to our existence.
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It’s time to put it all together. Stay original and go for what you want. Even if you don’t get what you want, you most likely will end up in unique and interesting circumstances. The full Moon on May 5 illuminates the road ahead.
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What Taurus wants, Taurus gets. Watch for what you want, as you will probably get it. The full Moon on May 5 will bring revelations. May 21 and 22 are opportune days to connect and communicate. Heart-to-heart talks may move mountains.
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The Gemini solar eclipse on May 20 indicates a new start. Do some soul searching. Love, values, family and career objectives get a makeover. Life heats up as the Spring progresses. The summer is even better, as travel and fun times are indicated.
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The full Moon on April 6 will illuminate your inner sky, and Most Cancer people are a bit wide-eyed and wild-eyed during the full Moon phase. Sleepless nights and creative flights, fuelled by a vivid imagination have you pacing the floor on May 5. Decisions are made that allow you to move forward.
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Career and home sectors are affected by the full Moon on May 5. News from afar may change your course in some way. With any serious effort, you can attain your objectives. It is your time to shine. Stay open, original and flexible.
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A busy month unfolds. You’re in demand and possibly in command. Travel, education and spirituality can attract you now. It is a time of wielding influence and power. Lucky breaks and good news arrive on May 21 and 22. Move forward with confidence.
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Your ruling planet Venus forms a triangle with Saturn that lasts throughout the month. While Saturn is the stern taskmaster bringing sobering realities, Venus is about wisdom, beauty, grace and love. The combination restores balance and harmony and brings peace and happiness.
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The Scorpio full Moon on May 5 brings important revelations. It’s a time of deep reflection and introspection. Jupiter and Mars cast good energy, bringing confidence and strength. It is also a time of rest and repair. Relationships get a boost May 21 and 22.
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You are known to be lucky and luck favours those that are prepared, organized and together. The full Moon on May 5 helps you to see which areas need attention and care, such as health and work demands. A good summer approaches.
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The Sun and Jupiter cast good energy your way as they light up your solar fifth house. This house rules over topics such as children, creativity, romance, gambling, business and entertainment. It is also a good karma house. Make good use of your time.
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Home and career sectors are stimulated by the full Moon on May 5. If you want to make important changes, wait until the end of the month, as the picture brightens sharply and your opportunities will increase. Creative energy flows abundantly then.
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Moves, renovations, family obligations and other machinations keep you hopping throughout the month. Creative energy is high and you might need it in order to maneuver through the thorny issues that are at hand. Kindness, caring and consideration are the Pisces way.
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by Mac McLaughlin | Apr 1, 2012 | Weekly Forecasts
Round and round we go and where we stop nobody knows. Children never tire of the merry go round and seemingly neither do we. The countless suns, moons, stars, galaxies, universes and various planes of existence also circle round a pole that nobody knows. The ancients had the night sky to observe and came to realize that the planting, harvesting and hunting seasons could be predicted by the Sun’s return to a particular point in the sky each year. They noted that certain phenomena would prevail when the wandering stars (planets) moved through particular sectors of the sky. This is how astrology came into existence. Now let’s take a look and see what the planets and stars decree.
The one planet that has caught my eye is Uranus. This planet speaks about revolution, innovation and transformation. Shift, shock, change and rearrange are the types of activities we experience when this planet comes a knockin’. Uranus takes approximately 84 years to circle the Sun. Presently he is moving through the sign Aries which is a very potent combination of planet in sign. Revolutionary Uranus seeks to overthrow the status quo. Seemingly a law breaker, he is just as much a law maker when the dust settles. Freedom from tyranny and injustice comes along in the wake of powerful urainian transits. The last time that Uranus visited volatile Aries we experienced the 1929 stock market crash and the onset of the great depression. Millions of souls were displaced as many people roamed east and west seeking any type of help or employment. Those that survived the dirty thirties certainly had revolutionized their lives. The previous cycle before the stock market crash brought us the French revolution in 1848 that certainly changed the way of life throughout all of Europe.
Well here we are again. We have a nine ball juggling act going on and all the balls are up in the air. Uranus visits Aries from March 12, 2011 to May 15, 2018. We know that it’s going to be hot and it already is. The Middle East is nearing its boiling point and the Arab Spring uprisings are right on time. Uranus happens to rule over all things electronic and atomic. The nuclear chess game continues and the stakes go higher and so will the oil prices and everything else.We know that nuclear power is of great assistance to mankind or that it can destroy all life on the planet. Spin the dial in any direction and we can see what needs correction, direction and renewal. The mood is restless. It is a time of revolution. I’m not talking anarchy and violence, although wars will come within and without. What we need is a revolution in consciousness and a re-evaluation of what is true, real and necessary. Uranus creates a charged atmosphere of rebellion and upheaval and while traveling through fiery Aries we will have to be creative and innovative in order to cope and deal with what is on our platter in our ever increasingly busy and dynamic lives. If you were to attain all that you have dreamed about and longed for, do you think that you would be happy and content? The answer is no. You would not be happy nor content but restless and seeking higher heights and quests. Everyone lives up to their neck. The rich, the poor and everyone else lives to the limit of their means. While all this is going on the clock is ticking and the spirit within dwindles and withers weakly away. One people, one planet, one love.
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The full Moon on April 6 will bring more than a few revelations your way. You are a walking lightning rod, drawing down highly charged creative and innovative currents from above. Cut away from the past and move into the future.
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You are on a roll and you must make the best of it. Jupiter casts his blessings in the form of excellent timing and strong contacts within the circles that you move. The Taurus new Moon on April 21 signals a new start.
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Venus visits Gemini for the next four months bringing high times, creativity, love and resources. Venus represents beautification, socialization and internal values. You may have to make some uncomfortable decisions in order to attain harmony, balance and peace of mind. It’s your time to shine.
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The full Moon on April 6 will illuminate your inner sky and answers regarding career and home concerns will manifest. You’re in the midst of a big makeover, so big that you may only be marginally aware of it at this point.
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Career and travel sectors are hot. Opportunities present themselves in which you can use your creative genius to its full extent. You have a free roll which means that you can carve out your own pathway the way you want it to be.
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You hit the street running as plans congeal and you have to get real in order to handle all that is on your platter. Make sure you don’t hit the street literally as accidents and incidents can arise easily at this time.
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The Libra full Moon on April 6 brings home all kinds of important and useful information. You are in a time of redirection, correction and elimination of whatever has held you back in the past. Endings and beginnings take place.
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A time of internal perusal has arrived. Jupiter casts his good energy your way bringing hope, faith, luck and opportunity. The long view tells the tale of correction, discipline and hard work. To do the work and correction now is the best bet, and the future gets easier.
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Someone left the gate open, and you can run free. With that sense of freedom, your vision of the overall picture becomes enhanced. Love and all kinds of enriched relationships of many forms are heading your way. Can you see it?
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The big planetary wheels are in motion. The outer planets are having their say as to what is unfolding in your life. It is an exceptionally dynamic and truly cosmic time in which the Goat has reached the pinnacle. Now what?
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Your brain is on fire. Well actually that might be a normal thing for the average Aquarius. The point is that high energy is coming in creative blasts. All intellectual avenues such as education and communication get a boost. Internal spring cleaning takes precedence.
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Mars moves slowly through your opposite sign Virgo throughout the month bringing up contentious issues and all types of contrasts. You might be in a truly creative mood as you sense the excitement that is unfolding. You are braver than you imagined.
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by Mac McLaughlin | Mar 15, 2012 | Weekly Forecasts
Our great nation came into existence on July 1, 1867. The planetary positions on that day portray what we’re all about. Our strengths and weaknesses stand out clearly and our national or collective karma can be read by those that have learned the language of the stars. Obviously, we have a good horoscope as witnessed by the comfortable lifestyles of most Canadians. Yes, we have our flaws, but mainly we have it made. We are a benign, humanitarian people, for the most part tolerant and permissive, with a tendency to treat others fairly.
On the surface, most would agree with this assessment, but when we dig a little deeper the story sadly changes. I was born in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, or as the locals called it, “Pa took it.” Pa took this land from its aboriginal people and according to the annals of history, they have no intention of giving it back or sharing it in a fair and equitable way. Now, we’re talking pipelines across the land and oil tankers in our pristine waters and we know the inevitable results.
Presently, the planet Pluto is having a major effect on our collective birth chart and will continue to bring massive changes in the next few years. Pluto is not a light, airy-fairy planet and it rules the underworld in all of its variegated colours, shapes and forms. We’ve heard the term ‘Plutocrat,’ referring to the powerful and wealthy movers and shakers in our midst. Pluto rules all those interested in controlling our lives. Big business, governments, all policing agencies and the underworld are areas where you are most likely to encounter Plutonian types.
Transiting Pluto opposes the sun, moon and Uranus in our collective birth chart for the next couple of years. Pluto brings destruction, decay, deterioration and all things on the dark side. He is another form of Lord Shiva the destroyer in the Hindu belief system. Yes, Pluto destroys, but it destroys for the sake of renewal and rebirth. Our legal system is in tatters and our medical and educational systems are burdened with the weight of their concerns.
Now, our prime minister is tampering with our Old Age Security benefits as he hints at bumping up the date of eligibility from 65 to 67. I wonder if he knows the ramifications of messing with the up-and-coming baby boomers’ pensions. This could be his Waterloo. Pluto passes over his Saturn throughout 2012 and Saturn rules the elderly and their security. The combination of planetary forces could very well spell the demise of Harper’s leadership. The fat cat politicians’ pensions are golden and ridiculously high. Harper might want to review his plans lest he awaken the sleeping giant. There will be many battles fought in order to bring justice and fairness our way.
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It’s a new day and new way as the Aries new moon takes hold on March 22. Significant changes and challenges are taking shape. Epiphanies, revelations and a few surprises keep you on your toes. Cast away fear and move into the future.
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Love is in the air as Venus visits Taurus throughout the month. A lively and exciting time is to be expected. Travel plans congeal and luck seems to have come your way. Move forward with confidence, as others are receptive to your energy now.
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Wrap it up and put away the past as the future is fast approaching. March is a time of preparation. It would behove you to move towards your goals or at least prepare to do so. The next several months bring grace and abundance.
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It’s a time of joining up, mixing and mingling. A new circle of friends may materialize. Social and professional connections become enhanced as others vie for your attention and possibly your affection. A time of resurgence has arrived. Make the best of it.
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The benefic planets Venus and Jupiter dominate the top of your chart throughout the month, bringing all kinds of opportunities for advancement, acknowledgement and achievement. Watch for biting off too much, though. You may be hungry for some new adventures.
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Mars the warlord continues his lengthy visit to your sign. Best use the energy rather than be used by it. Action, exertion, effort, trial, travails, stormy weather, blood, sweat and tears all mixed together may bring success and honour. Good times prevail as well.
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Saturn the stern taskmaster is still around for several more months. He brings deep and powerful lessons that carve wisdom into our souls. Mercury and Uranus send dynamic energy throughout the month making life hectic, challenging and very exciting. It’s all a bit edgy.
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Mars and Pluto – co/rulers of Scorpio – send good energy indicating you can get things done. Venus and Jupiter cast excellent energy as they light up the area of relationships and partnerships throughout the month. A lucky break regarding contentious issues brings relief.
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The new moon on March 22 fires up your imagination. You might have a head-full of potent ideas and plans for the future. Venus and Jupiter move through your health sector indicating a time of re-evaluation regarding everything: work, diet, stress, etc.
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The words “float like a butterfly, sting like a bee” came from beloved Capricorn Muhammad Ali. It is a time of great movement and transition and Ali’s words of wisdom may come in handy. The stars lean in your favour. Make the best of it.
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The fourth solar sector represents your home and your deeper internal self. Now, Venus and Jupiter are moving through that area and a renewal process may begin regarding all aspects of the self, home and family. Creative energy is high throughout the month.
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A new day dawns as Neptune begins his journey through Pisces. Stay open and perceptive, as the signals from this planet will come clear for those who are clean and sober. Artistic, compassionate and creative energies abound. Spread your wings and catch the wind.
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by Mac McLaughlin | Feb 5, 2012 | Weekly Forecasts
In Shakespeare’s play, Julius Caesar, Cassius has explained the law of karma simply and accurately when he proclaims, “The fault dear Brutus, is not in our stars, but in ourselves, that we are underlings.” According to the mystics, the whole world is a play made up by the karmic impressions stored in the mind of the people of the world. We know that karma represents the law of give and take, action and reaction. The familiar axiom, “As you sow, so shall you reap” is another way of explaining the laws of karma. The stars and planets are woven into the fabric of our beings and are the representatives of karmic distribution in accordance with our give-and-take, make-and-break ledgers congealed and played out in the present incarnation. The beautiful people among us that seemingly have it easy as they glide along life’s path, radiantly successful with great families etc, are experiencing the positive bounty of generous actions from previous lives. Conversely, the souls that did the negative, non loving and violent activities will come back into this life with severe karmic difficulties, not to punish them but to help them evolve spiritually.
Let’s take a look at some of the karmic energies destined to unfold in the month of February. The ancients had the night sky to study and ponder. They noted the different energies prevailed according to the star group or nakshatra that the moon was moving through. From that, they could decipher what type of energy would befall mankind. The full moon on February 7 takes place in the Nakshatra called Ashlesha and from what I have studied this nakshatra really doesn’t have a lot of positive connotations. Suspicion, paranoia, collusion, conspiracy and many other not so nice aphorisms dominate the energy coming from this star group. We get to see the underbelly of human behaviour. One writer says that Ashlesha represents the power to inflict poison. Sharp venomous attacks take place and many things are hidden and waiting to be discovered. Plus the moon is full and no doubt we will find out what it is all about soon enough.
The new moon on February 21 takes place in the early degrees of Pisces and is conjunct with Neptune. On the positive side of the coin Pisces / Neptune energies convey wisdom, kindness, creativity and compassion. On the negative side of the ledger we have distortion, deception, confusion, lies and misdirection. A few days after the new moon, Mercury opposes Mars (February 23) and this is an indicator of unrest, anger and confrontation. Sabre rattling, nerve jangling threats and counter reactions will be the case, just name the place and let’s see what unfolds. Neptune / Pisces energies rule over the seas and oceans and with all the tension going on in the Strait of Hormuz we can use our imaginations for what may take place. Yes, we are in the belly of the beast whilst we travel the rocky road of the kali yuga. When the great saint Kabir stepped on to the Earth he discovered that no one was happy. How can we be happy when we’re so disconnected from our higher self. Not to despair, we are on our way home. Love will come our way when our hearts can no longer stand the cruel suffering. A change of heart is needed. The mystics teach us that love is the only commodity that increases when given, all other types of giving leads to depletion.
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Venus casts her lovely rays your way starting February 7. She offers refinement, beautification and transformation along personal lines. Love, affection and creative energies come along nicely. You may be surprised with the dynamic changes that are starting to happen in your life.
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Bust a move or two. Sheesh, go for the whole enchilada. Do not waste this opportunity to truly make positive changes at work, home and especially within yourself. March and April are dynamic months as well. Make the best effort and it will pay.
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News from afar, possibly regarding publishing, or travel comes your way. Your longing for the divine becomes enhanced. Your career sector heats up towards the end of the month as do considerations regarding home, family and real estate. Make ready for a big year.
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The full moon on February 7 prompts you to take a deep look at everything. You may be restless and casting about for some changes, especially career wise. Secrets, inheritances and shared monies may be topics of interest throughout the month.
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Relationships of all sorts come into consideration as the Leo full moon on February 7 takes hold. How you relate to others and how others relate to you is what it is about. Romantic energies are strong and you may be restless for some travel.
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The month starts off in a good way with romantic and creative potential being strong. Travel and higher education could be on your mind. Keep in mind that a soft reply turns away wrath as Mercury and Mars clash on February 23.
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Your solar fifth sector ruling business, romance, entertainment and children is strongly activated in the first 20 days of the month. After that your instincts drive you towards perfection, harmony and balance starting with your body. It is time for some early spring cleaning.
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Jupiter casts his glance bringing abundance and good timing to you.. Your creative imagination goes into high gear especially after February 19. Pay attention to your dreams as they may hold significant information and inspiration. Confused issues surface midmonth and may need delicate handling.
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Mars heats up your career sector throughout the month bringing action and challenge. It might be time for a job change. Home, family and real-estate activities increase as well. Creative, artistic and romantic energies create happy and memorable times.
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Lord Saturn sits at the top of your solar chart for most of the year bringing opportunities for advancement and success. Honours and accolades for those that rightly used power, and a fall from a high place for those that abused positions of authority.
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You are in your solar high of the year. It means that you can become empowered, acknowledged, directed and respected and of course, loved. No time to ponder, but it is time for action. The full moon on February 7 brings it all home.
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Keep a diary by your bed and record your dreams as they should be flooding in strongly in the last ten days of the month. You may feel inspired and ready to make all kinds of unique and dynamic changes that are long overdue.
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