by Mac McLaughlin | Jan 31, 2011 | Weekly Forecasts
The Aquarius new moon takes place on February 2. A new moon signals a fresh round of activities that basically culminate around full moon time two weeks later. The moon acts like a trigger as she comes along and activates and stimulates planetary exchange and activity throughout the month. The condition and position of the planets at new moon time tell us what type of energy is on board. Mars sits close to the new moon and his energy will be evident throughout the month. On the positive side of the ledger, we may very well be inspired by the true spirit of Aquarius, which connects us to our higher selves and also reminds us of our common bonds as human beings. We all want to be loved and respected and we all deserve to be nurtured and protected. Mars brings courage and bravery of the highest kind and it may be needed in order to attain our goals of peace and prosperity. Saturn lends a hand. He is in a triangular pattern with the new moon. Saturn is the true lord of Aquarius and he is in Libra, his sign of exaltation, meaning that we will receive the best that Saturn has to offer. His lessons are often stringent, but necessary. The combination brings cooperation and accord.
On the negative side of the coin, Mars offers war, anger and confrontation all the way around. All the more reason for us to take heed and strive to bring peace and understanding wherever we can. A cut from a sword will heal in a short time, but a cut from the tongue may fester for lifetimes. The full moon on February 18 will tell the tale. Mars is involved with the full moon and may shake things up locally and globally in boardrooms and bedrooms across the land. We know that changes are in the wind as evidenced by the reshuffling in our political parties that has jarred everyone awake from their deep slumber. Now we are experiencing the “Cardinal Onslaught.” It means that the big planets – Saturn, Uranus and Pluto – are moving through the cardinal signs Aries, Libra and Capricorn and they will not abate throughout this decade as they affect the horoscopes of Canada and the US and the rest of the world. It tells of a time of great movement and change as we gradually shift away from our materialism and move towards a more meaningful spiritual existence. No doubt we need to balance things out across the board, and we will. Next month The Royals… and the fates are riding high.
Mac is available for personal consultations. Call 604-731-1109 to make an appointment or click here to request a consultation online.
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Jupiter has just entered Aries with Uranus soon to follow. It is a clarion call announcing big changes are in the wind. Get a move on. This year may be your greatest ever. Reach for the stars, open your heart and embrace whatever the universe brings your way.
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Career opportunities and changes all around may be the case for Taurus. Once you start to really desire something, even if it means a big change, you will do it. Creative energies are high and you may be looking at re-evaluating many aspects of your life.
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Your solar ninth house of travel, education, publishing and spirituality is strongly activated and it may prompt you to book a flight or sign up for classes, etc. Just beneath the exterior of your average Gemini whirlwind talker is a soul seeking liberation and spiritual ecstasy in one form or another. Great changes are coming.
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Your curiosity is piqued in some way. It is time to do your natural thing, which, of course, is to dig in and discover what you may. Joint monies, partnerships, inheritances and mysteries, romance too, all figure in the cosmic dance throughout February.
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February is the general solar low of the year for Leo. Your view, versus the view of others, comes into play. Sensitive negotiations take place. It is time to nurture and care for yourself and others. Humility, honesty, patience and compassion get you through in fine fashion.
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Your solar sixth house is Aquarius and while the planets move through this region throughout February, you may be inspired to do your Virgo thing, which is to mainly get your ducks in a row. It’s a no brainer. Health, work and everything in between get a work over.
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You are in the midst of an important transition. It won’t let up so you might as well get into it, gladly so. No one wants to lance the cyst, but we’re relieved once the toxins are removed. The planetary deities are paying close attention as they help you through this time of correction and redirection.
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When the going gets tough, the Scorpios get going. Where others give up, Scorpio is just getting warmed up. A major retooling is in the works and it is essential that you throw yourself into the process. Let the old you die off and the dynamic new you will appear on the scene soon enough!
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Lord Jupiter casts his blessings as he visits your solar fifth house for the next four months. Romance, intellectual attainment, business opportunities and other such topics will do you well. Travel, education and spiritual upliftment are on the menu. Births take place literally or spiritually and possibly both.
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Venus visits Capricorn throughout February bringing blessings of love, harmony and happiness. You may have to deal with some unpleasant factors that need attention and correction. Fateful dates are February 8, 9 and 10. A total reassessment of your values may be in the works.
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The Aquarius new moon on February 2 has Mars involved in the play bringing courage, passion, action and reaction your way. Positive use of the energy is important. It is an excellent time to pioneer something new. The full moon on February 18 brings revelations and clarity.
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Out with the old and in with the new is the basic energy to be dealt with in the first few weeks of February. The Sun enters Pisces on February 18, soon to be followed by Mercury and Mars. This planetary combination will certainly ignite a powerful and dynamic round of activity.
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by Mac McLaughlin | Jan 18, 2011 | Weekly Forecasts
Hey, what’s your sign? This particular question was considered a pick up line back in the sixties. Things were simple then. You were an Aries or Cancer, Libra or whatever. People became increasingly aware of their Sun, rising and Moon signs. Some of us are born on the cusp, which means that the Sun was moving towards the end of one sign or had just moved into the next sign. Because of the wobble of the earth’s polar axis the Sun doesn’t always enter a sign on the same day each year adding more confusion.
Then along comes Parke Kunkle the Astronomer from Minneapolis who proclaims that the signs and dates are wrong, thus invalidating western astrology and its adherents. He tells us that the Sun moves through Ophiuchus, a constellation between Scorpio and Sagittarius, for 19 days before entering Sagittarius. This has thrown a monkey wrench into the works causing confusion and consternation, and might need some explaining in order to get it right.
The Two Zodiacs
In the world of astrology two zodiacal systems are used. We have the Western Tropical Zodiac and the Eastern Sidereal Zodiac. The two zodiacs matched up in 285 AD according to N.C. Lahiri, and his Ayanamsa is generally accepted and used in Vedic and western astrology. Over time it appeared that the sidereal zodiac positions were drifting away from the fixed tropical zodiac. This difference is called the ayanamsa. There are several disputed ayanamsas with Lahiri’s being the most accepted. The distance between the two zodiacs today is approximately 24 degrees of longitude.
The tropical zodiac is based on the seasons starting with the sun’s entrance into Aries on or close to March 21 heralding the vernal equinox. The 12 signs are equally divided along the ecliptic which is the path of the sun’s apparent motion through the 30 degree sections called the signs. In actuality it is the Earth’s path around the sun, giving us the illusion of the sun’s moment through the constellations that are near or on the ecliptic. The ancient Babylonians developed their astrology through hundreds of years of observation and they were able to compare the character and affairs of man to the different placements of the sun, moon and planets measured amidst the back drop of the stars.
The Sidereal Zodiac
The sidereal zodiac starts when the sun reaches the first point of the star group Aries. Vedic or eastern astrology is a system based not on sun signs but on the position of the moon and the sign that was rising in the east at the time you born, plus the planet that rules that sign. Western astrology is solar based, while Vedic astrology is lunar based. Both systems are valid.
The two chart systems are similar in some ways and very different in others. We hear people exclaim that they are Sagittarius through and through and they would never have the qualities of Scorpio. We hear other Sagittarius people proclaiming that although they are Sagittarius their behaviour is very like a Capricorn. Go figure. What is happening here is that the first person has the qualities of Jupiter and Sagittarius, while the second person has Saturn very prominent in his chart thus compelling him to behave in a saturnine way. Personally I would never do a reading for a client without studying both systems thoroughly. The astrologer that just adheres to one or the other system is losing out on a great raft of information.
So you can relax, nothing has changed, astrology is valid and is a sacred tool in helping us to understand God’s handwriting through the stars. The ancients knew that the moon cycle took approximately thirty days to move around the earth and worked out a system of 12 signs at thirty degrees each making up the 360 degrees of the zodiac. The 13th sign would never be valid and would never work. Unfortunately the astronomers just cannot accept the fact that astrology works. If they cannot see it or measure it then it must not be valid. I’m sure that most of them do not believe in God either. Godless men with a truncated measuring stick with nothing else to do except to take another swipe at something they have not studied and probably will never understand. Too bad, so sad.
by Mac McLaughlin | Dec 31, 2010 | Weekly Forecasts
Happy New Year!
Well, I’m back at it again! I am now writing a regular monthly horoscope called Star Wise that will appear on this site and on Common Ground. Hope you enjoy it!
-Mac
When a pickpocket meets a Saint, all he sees are his pockets. When an astrologer meets someone, they see their starry constellations, planetary configurations and all sorts of other dynamic features that are helpful in understanding what we’re all about. One such feature is called Gaja Kesari yoga, where the planet Jupiter is in an angular position to the Moon in your chart. This yoga, or planetary configuration brings untold good luck and fortune. There are stories of Jotishis (Vedic astrologers) in India that have the ability to spot someone with Gaja Kesari yoga just by their appearance and shape and size of their foreheads. One story relates about a fellow traveling through India when he was approached by a Jotishi and invited to walk through a cobra pit. The Jotishi knew the gentleman would not be bit. Cobras will bite some people and turn their backs for others. The traveler was also aware that he had Gaja Kesari yoga and was very surprised with the invite. I’m sure he didn’t take him up on it though.
The solar eclipse on January 4 carries very important and potent karmic seeds that will be distributed throughout the year. The position and condition of the planets at eclipse time tells the tale of what’s to come our way. Although this sounds a tad ominous, we must remember that we always have choices, and there is always God’s grace and love. The fates are riding high and this eclipse in Capricorn will stir up the governments, leading parties and all things political. A time to shift, change and rearrange has arrived. Mars, Pluto and Saturn are involved in the play. Everyone seems to be concerned about 2012, while I think 2011 is the year that the poop hits the fan, so to speak. Great movements and profound plans are in the works. Espionage, war and terrorism will not abate. We are witnessing the energy locally, nationally and globally as heads roll, governments fall apart and all kinds of new alliances begin to congeal. Before you get too stressed with this depressing karmic state of affairs know that there is a positive side of the ledger as well.
The Jupiter – Uranus conjunction in Pisces has caught my eye and it is an indicator of great breakthroughs along with a tremendous amount of love and compassion. This energy runs throughout January and the conjunction happens four hours after the solar eclipse which tells us that the effects of the planets at eclipse time will also carry throughout 2011. Venus the planet of love is in perfect triangle with Jupiter and Uranus and is a wonderful indicator of breakthroughs and miracles of the human spirit. The forces of light and darkness continue their illusory dance throughout time. Now is the time to lend a hand and lean in towards the problems that plague us. As it gets darker and darker it gets lighter and lighter and God’s grace and compassion for his children will outlast the negative power every time. Have no fear, be of good cheer. Reach out and help someone, give a bit a more, give a lot more and the rest is history as they say.
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Career prospects are hot and if not you should make them so by being pro-active, not aggressive. If you are unsure as to which way to go, then continue to eliminate old, negative pathways. Soon enough, the new direction will manifest itself. Be ready.
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Spiritual changes take place, particularly if you are fed up with the grind. The universe is pleading with you to make the necessary changes that will bring peace of mind. All positive efforts bring excellent returns especially in the last half of the year.
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The journey deepens in many ways as you weigh up all that has come to pass. Inheritances and joint monies come into play, as do a few mysteries for you to solve. Career plans may shift suddenly and in your favour.
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It’s all about relationships right now. Expressed another way, it is all about how you relate to others and how you allow others to relate to you. Power plays and powerful days unfold rapidly. Exciting opportunities for travel, education, publishing and spiritual enlightenment arise.
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A stitch in time saves nine. Follow your instincts, as they help you prepare for upcoming ventures. Health, proper diet and balance are the objectives that must be attained and maintained. It is time to organize and harmonize everything.
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Romantic energies are strong as bonds deepen and new souls arrive. Business opportunities and joint ventures dovetail along with good times. Your relationship house is active meaning that new partnerships may develop and old relationships may change suddenly.
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The month may not start off with much of a bang, but things develop as the weeks unfold. New friendships pique your interest. It is a time of redesigning your plan to fit with present realities. Powerful and positive relationships are developing.
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Creative potential is high. Muster your courage and move forward. Popularity and magnetism draw all kinds of interesting souls your way. Keep the door open, especially on the romantic level. Business opportunities present themselves throughout the month. Others find you simply irresistible.
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You are the prophet or prophetess of the zodiac. Pay close attention to what comes through your consciousness these days as your internal wisdom is sending strong signals. You are probably right on the money intuitive-wise. Be bold, brave and fearless. Bring it on.
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Big changes are in the wind. It is not time to dig in and resist; it is time to assist whatever is changing in your life. Powerful forces are at work. Fierce resistance, backlashes, collusions and backroom deals congeal into new realities.
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January starts off a little sluggish, but things pick up mid month. The Sun enters Aquarius on January 20 and accompanies Mars in your sign bringing courage, enthusiasm, action and attraction. You will feel emboldened, supported and cheered on by your colleagues.
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An energy shift takes place and you may be surprised with who shows up in your life now. All kinds of unusual people, even groups of people who share similar interests, manifest themselves. The stars tell of a time of wonderment and spiritual awakening.
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by Mac McLaughlin | Jun 29, 2010 | Weekly Forecasts
The time has arrived to move on. Astrology has been my ruling passion, but writing about it has extracted its toll. I will be available for personal consultations always. I want to thank the readers for their wonderful support throughout the eleven years with the Georgia Straight and also to those that have followed my column on the website. I hope that I have delivered solid astrology to the public, at least as far as sun sign columns go, which hopefully would inspire the seekers to look a little deeper at the profound wisdom that lies hidden within the starry sky.
One people, one planet, one love.
Mac McLaughlin
by Mac McLaughlin | Jun 12, 2010 | Weekly Forecasts
Each month we experience a new Moon and a full Moon. We marvel at the brightness of the full Moon and we know that life’s activities are heightened, emotions tend to run high and all kinds of lunacy manifests from bar room brawls to all out rioting in the streets. Wonderful and memorable occasions take place as well. The full Moon phase includes the two days approaching and two days after the full Moon date. Often times we will look up at the bright Moon and wonder what the big deal is. It may seem to have no effect on you whatsoever. Then a full Moon comes along and lands on one of your planetary positions according to your birth chart. All hell breaks loose and you catch a glimpse of the full Moon glaring at you through your venetian blinds. Even a feeling of not being able to escape its light and influence can be experienced.
The new Moon takes place two weeks after the full Moon. At the time of a new Moon time there isn’t much light to be seen and we don’t pay much mind to the energy. The new Moon in Vedic astrology is considered weak and inauspicious, while the full Moon is considered auspicious.
Western astrological thought leans towards the full Moon as being inauspicious. My take on it that the new Moon is just as important, and just as impactful as the full Moon in both western and eastern systems. The new Moon carries the karma to be released and experienced over the lunar month. The karma is in seed form, latent in its potential until released at the proper time in the cycles of the Moon and planets. When a new Moon lands on a personal planet in your birth horoscope you will get a strong play in accordance to the position and condition of that planet. A new Moon on your Venus will indicate a month of creative and romantic energies taking place. You may feel good about yourself, money comes in and you’re into beautifying yourself and your surroundings. A new Moon on Saturn could bring up a gloomy time or a time of increased responsibilities, hard work and financial concerns. The new Moon gives birth to what is written and what is destined for mankind to experience collectively and individually. The full Moon brings the monthly activities to their peak and then the energy wanes until the next new Moon takes hold and on we go, ad infinitum.
The new Moon on June 12 takes place in Gemini, while Mercury lord of Gemini rises in the east in its own sign at new Moon time. It tells of a time in which business, commerce, trade and all factions of life get a boost as Gemini is the sign of communications, agreements, contracts and negotiations. Lord Mercury is in square with Mars at new Moon time and the fur will be flying, people will be crying, possibly lying and of course some dying. Great debates regarding education, travel, and all other considerations of how we get along will come to the fore. Mercury is in good aspect with Jupiter and Uranus as they form a powerful conjunction in the first degree of Aries. It is another indicator of breakthroughs and great humanitarian efforts to help out in the troubled regions of the planet. A busy time for all signs is indicated.
The full Moon lunar eclipse on June 26 is conjunct Pluto and if we are not successful in our negotiations to bring peace we may witness a horrific loss of life as an eclipse with Pluto is a harbinger of darkness and misuse of power. It is essential that we strive to become one people on one planet, serving and helping one another. The tyrants and terrorists are on the move and our ecology is suffering as we kill off our oceans. We haven’t learned a damn thing yet, and we continue to dine on a constant diet of fear and paranoia, while we build bigger and better bombs to handle our insecurities. The Jupiter Uranus conjunction in early Aries indicates great movements are taking shape as powerful and dynamic changes are about to take place on the planet. As fearsome as it all sounds, God’s grace is around and always will be here. As it gets darker and darker, it gets lighter and lighter. Only love will do. As my beloved Guru, Param Sant Kirpal Singh Ji Maharaj would say, “We cannot wash away blood with blood, but only with the waters of forgiveness.” Love is the answer, and only love will do.
Mac is available for personal consultations. Call 604-731-1109 to make an appointment or click here to request a consultation online.
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Ever jumped off of a high cliff into a lake? You know that feeling you get, like butterflies in your tummy? You may get that feeling now as you anticipate the possibilities that are heading your way at lightning speed. Have no fright, it’s all right, you are heading towards the light. It’s all good. Muster your courage, gird your loins and be ready to step into the future. No time to question, no time to wrangle. Be who you are and live in your truth. The universe will lay out its plan soon enough.
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It may occur to you that not much is happening. But that is not really the case. Life is coming together in a good way and although it may not be visible outwardly you may experience an inner satisfaction which can only be achieved when you have yourself together and living the lifestyle that suits you best. Your solar money house is lit up strongly throughout June, but it may not be money as much as contentment that comes your way. It is time to reach for the values that are most important to you as they are achievable now. Much is happening internally and the universe is in a generous mood. Watch for what you want, for you may get it now. Curiosity and creativity are at a peak. Go forth and learn.
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The ball on the cosmic roulette wheel has dropped into your sign and the payoff is great. The new Moon on June 12 occurs in your sign. Mercury lord of the new Moon rises in his own sign Gemini at new Moon time. It is your time to shine. All matters of importance, negotiations, transactions, short journeys, publishing and everything to do with the media and internet may come into play in a strong way throughout the month of June. It’s your kind of time. Jupiter and Uranus throw good energy into the mix bringing a plethora of creative ideas and innovations that will catch the attention of those for whom they were intended. Mercury and Mars square off and contentious issues may surface in order to get some resolution. Angry retorts and accusations bring more resistance. June 11 to 14 are the most intense days. Hard work, dedication and devotion get you through a demanding time. June 23 to 26 important developments take place that help you in your decision making.
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Your solar twelfth house is activated by the new Moon on June 12. Now is a time of preparation. Behind the scenes work, burning the midnight candle, and honing and perfecting your skills are the activities of the times. The Lunar eclipse on June 26 involves your sign and it indicates important changes and developments taking place especially if you are born close to June 26. The Summer Solstice on June 21 heralds your solar high of the year. The planets are casting fairly positive energy into your sign in the coming months and you can achieve your goals by persistent and tenacious attention to what must be accomplished. Many aspects of your life are in the throes of change now. You must stay sharp and keen in order to make the best choices in the upcoming days.
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Venus spends the last half of June in your sign. She brings peace and wisdom your way. The urge to beautify your surroundings may send you on a shopping spree. June 14 and 15 are special days, possibly even magical. Be sure to do something great on these days. Your interest in philosophy and spirituality will increase as will your curiosity regarding exotic places to visit. Travel is indicated strongly as is the urge to discover what is hidden. Inheritances and joint money situations may come into play in the coming months. New circles and new friends are developing. It is time to hook up with like minded people.
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Mars spends the rest of the month in your sign indicating excitement and challenge. You may be way too busy, but enjoying it anyway. Big demands are upon you and you must perform. Caution is needed especially around tools and machinery. Watch for fires, mishaps and accidents. Measure twice cut once is the mantra of the times. Saturn finally leaves Virgo in late July to your relief no doubt. Good lessons learned though, will serve you well in the future. Go with flow and set a pace in order to avoid stress and burnout. Otherwise fill your pockets as the opportunities for positive developments continue to present themselves over the next few months.
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The new Moon on June 12 lights up your solar ninth house ruling topics such as travel, politics, publishing, education, law, philosophy and spirituality. No doubt they are heady topics, but Libra is a cardinal air sign that thrives on intellectual curiosity and can devour a library in a short time. Life will continue to change at a rapid pace throughout the year. A time has come to renew and refresh, or should we say a time has come to balance the scales once again. ‘Out with the old and in with the new’ is the mantra of the times for your sign over the next couple of years. Be the conscious co-worker of your own divine plan. Do your part, and the universe will do its part.
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The Gemini new Moon on June 12 takes place in your solar eighth house. Scorpio is the eighth sign of the zodiac. It might be one of the reasons that Gemini and Scorpio will sometimes bond. Matters of inheritance, joint monies, taxes and the goods of the dead may come up. The Summer Solstice on June 21 brings an easier rhythm into existence as the summer Sun harmonizes with Scorpio. Discoveries in health and medicine could help you in some way. It is also probable that you’ll want to help, serve and heal other souls that are suffering. Travel is indicated along with a new longing for adventure and freedom to wander and wonder and create as only a Scorpio can.
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Your solar seventh house of relationships is getting a strong workout these days. The seventh house in one’s chart rules all forms of relationships. It represents all those for and against you. People that love you and people that oppose you are seventh house topics. The heat is on. Issues, debates, meetings and frustrations can boil over especially from June 9 to 14. Generally you have the overview and often a good sense of humour as well. Now is your time to work out the kinks in the program. It is also important to ensure proper rest and recreation as this is your solar low of the year until June 21.
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By the light of the full Moon On June 26 revelations come rolling in. It’s a lunar eclipse and the Moon is conjunct Pluto in Capricorn. The combination can be an indication of some type of abuse of power. Rogue nations can lash out and the dark forces will be about. Our imaginations can do the rest. The oil spill disaster is at the top of the list of things that are destroying our planet and it seems like our hands are tied. Now you must be perceived as a team player. Outright bids for power or abuse of it can cause a serious backlash. The wand of power may be in your hands and now you must act according to the wishes of the majority. Big plays are in the wind, personally and collectively. Stay in the light and let your works be seen. Endings and beginnings are taking shape.
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Soon Saturn will enter Libra as he climbs towards the top of your solar chart. It tells of a time in which you may do your best and your success may run for many years. You may have lost your way in a Neptunian haze over the last several years. Now the fog is lifting and new vistas appearing along with a headful of new ideas and untraveled, untrodden places are awaiting your discovery. Romantic energies come up as Venus visits your solar seventh house of partnerships in the last half of June and early July. Pleasant surprises and discoveries take place especially on June 14 and 15.
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Life continues to shift and shape itself as Jupiter, Uranus and Saturn make their contributions to your evolution and growth. Jupiter brings luck, fortune and freedom, Uranus revolutionizes you and Saturn wizens you. All in all the next several months will be important in the shaping of your destiny. Go with the flow and reach for the stars. Go for the highest, believe in yourself and the universe. Back here on Earth, you might want to take special care from June 11 to 19 as controversies and concerns come up. Heated scenarios can come up quickly. Kindness and patience gets you through. All in all, it is an exciting time for your sign as many unique discoveries are destined to come your way this year.
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by Mac McLaughlin | May 4, 2010 | Weekly Forecasts
Good News! I’m going to be writing more frequently. The column will now go out every new and full moon. So the next columns will be on June 12 and June 26.
In the April column we talked about the Saturn / Uranus opposition that is taking place and will be in effect until September 2010. Here is an excerpt from last month’s column.
The list is long but the types of events that come to pass during the Saturn Uranus opposition include all types of chaotic occurances like earthquakes, tsunamis, terrorist activities, raging storms, upheaval and revolutions be they tempests in a teapot or major wars breaking out. Shift, shock, change and rearrange are the activities of the times.
Everyone that I talk to has remarked on the intensity of the times. Stress levels are high and we have people ‘acting out’ in a big way. We have tormented twisted souls that are willing to attack defenceless children in their school rooms, or other types of terrorists that are willing to take innocent lives to make their point.
The oil spill disaster taking place in the Gulf of Mexico certainly fits into the category of Saturn/Uranus events. Saturn represents nature in its pristine state, pure and natural. Saturn is travelling through Virgo which is the sign of hygiene, health and caring for all of nature. Uranus is moving through Pisces which is the sign governing the oceans. Now we have a major catastrophe on our hands and the problem is nowhere close to being resolved. Of course the terrorists are on the move and certainly they have rattled our nerves again as we digest the news coming out of Manhattan on May 2.
Now Jupiter comes along and forms an opposition with Saturn which will be in effect throughout the Month of May. The principles of expansion and contraction are at work when these two planetary giants face off. Fear versus optimism, Jupiter says go and Saturn says no. The thing to keep in mind as we suss out the planetary energy is that the planets’ influences will affect all areas of life, and all we need to do is to apply the principles of what the planets and signs represent as we move through our daily lives.
Here in British Columbia we have a government that has not exactly been upfront regarding the hated Harmonized Sales Tax that is being rammed through regardless of how the people feel about it. This has caused a huge resentment and backlash that will reverberate through to the next election. People are outraged and a giant backlash is anticipated.
On the positive side of the coin we are learning big lessons with many more to come as we strive to bring order and balance, justice and fairness for all. Possibly mankind will be come to the realization that we should not be tampering with nature, especially under our seas, for the cost when it all goes bad is far too high. Other options are there and one day we will get it right or we will just keep adding on to our eventual demise. Saturn says, “don’t take risks, stay safe” and Uranus says “you must take risks and we must break through to the other side”.
Saturn is moving slower than normal and reverses his direction at the end of the month which is another indicator that he will hammer home the lessons that we need to learn. Yes it is a sobering time, one that we must weather through. Jupiter will visit Pisces until late January 2011 which is a lucky break in the sense that Jupiter is the natural and original ruler of Pisces. Neptune became a co-ruler of Pisces after its discovery. Jupiter is King of the Gods and he represents abundance, freedom and happiness. Just as we are most comfortable in our own homes, Jupiter is able to operate freely and comfortably as he completes his journey through Pisces. Possibly something good will come out of this tragic disaster in the Gulf of Mexico that will benefit the inhabitants of the sea, such as a ban on drilling under the oceans, worldwide. It’s a wakeup call. How many times must we shoot ourselves in the foot before we get it? Jupiter brings faith and confidence our way and hopefully healing as well. Most importantly this Jupiter/Pisces combination enhances our spiritual yearnings for peace, love and freedom.
Mercury continues to retrograde until May 11 and will be pretty much up to speed by the middle of the month and hopefully some form of normalcy will result. Mercury retrograde offers up a perfect time to reconsider the important things such as relationships, home or career objectives. As Mercury moves forward one is able to implement the plans that were thought through during the retrograde phase.
Both Jupiter and Uranus will have entered Aries by early June and we may experience quite an energy shift within ourselves and our societies. People become strongly proactive and everything gets shaken up. Soon we will be in high gear as we move into the future. Inventions, innovations, great awakenings and possibly more than a few miracles may take place. We won’t be bored, but we may be floored by the realities that come our way. It is time to get on the bus and be part of the effort and energy needed to put it all together as we strive to help all those less fortunate than ourselves.
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The month of May is your final preparation month. Preparation for what, you might ask? Here is a list of just a few types of events that you might expect to take place as Uranus moves through Aries over the next eight years. Uranus is the planet of surprises, shocks and big changes. A move across the country or out of it could take place. Singles get married, and the married get single. Regardless of what you plan or what you do, Uranus will bring to you what truly must be done. These are the types of energies that cannot be overcome but must be accommodated and worked with. If you are unhappy with your career, health or relationships and haven’t done anything about it, you will experience an urgency to do so. The point of the drill is to find the truth and begin to live it. Ignoring cropped up problems from the past will make things explosive and changes will come one way or the other. It is best to be the perpetrator of your own happiness rather than the victim of your own ignorance. If you are living the truth then you don’t have much to worry about. Conversely if your life is a lie, changes will come about unexpectedly. Although this is a little scary, you may look back someday and realize that you had to get yourself free from the ball and chain of the past. Excitement, adventure, freedom, love and peace can very well be the results. A newly defined way to relate and love could be fashioned in the crucible of experiences that come your way over the next several years. Prepare now by commencing your search of what is real and what is not real or worthy in your life.
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Mercury the messenger is retrograding in your sign and will move forward once again on May 11. He will need a couple of weeks to get up to his normal speed. Delays, broken promises, confusion and having to cope with a series of mistakes could be the case. “He said, she said” scenarios can drive you right up the wall now. Taurus folks don’t suffer fools gladly, if at all. Make sure that you are not the fool this time around by checking and rechecking the facts of any matter. The Taurus New Moon takes place on May 13 heralding a new start in some way. It is your solar and lunar high of the year. Now you can implement all that you have garnered in the last few weeks and you may be able to put things together in a very good way. Resources get a boost and money manifests a bit easier. Your mind may be on beautification projects, gardening and other activities that bring you peace of mind. The big planets are casting good energies into Taurus helping you in many ways. Tension is still around and you may not have it all together and confusing issues may continue to dog you. “Stay clean and let your works be seen” is the mantra of the times for your sign. Relax and enjoy all that life has to offer. Being too bullish will not work, and if anything could work against you. Use the pent up energy on something positive like working out, jogging or other physical activities that get you sweating. For those that find gardening, sweating and all that other earthy stuff distasteful and would rather be at their favourite jewellery store or choosing fine fabrics etc, it time to do so as well. Marriage, babies, construction of a new house or a move to new dwelling is in the stars for some of you lucky Venusians. True friends are valued now and it is time to broaden your circle a bit. Hook up and join up with others of like mind.
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There is never a moment, not even a millisecond of time when we are not under the influence of the stars. The stars are us and we are the stars. We are stardust, we are golden, and we are the sons and daughters of a benevolent God who one day will bring us all back home to his bosom. “Yea that I walk through the valley of death I fear no evil for thou art with me. Thy rod and thy staff protect me.” Powerful and heavy words matching powerful and heavy times, not so much for your sign, but for life in general these days. If you are mercurial then you know what I’m talking about. Venus visits Gemini until May 19 bringing light and laughter and positive social connections. Creativity is enhanced along with a sense of refinement, balance and love. You may have to work hard for it all though, as Venus also represents our values and sense of worth. It is time to sort through everything that is important to you as Venus squares off with Jupiter, Saturn and Uranus in the middle of the month. May 16 is an important day and what comes to pass may help you come to terms with what is what and what must be done. The tension may be regarding work, home, ethics, health or relationship concerns. The Sun enters Gemini on May 20 bringing you into your solar high of the year and you may be happy and relieved that you have worked through the sticky wicket of past problems. Now is the time for action, growth, sunshine and good times. The full moon on May 28 might help in clarifying this month’s column’s deeper implications.
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Been feeling restless, dissatisfied and longing for enlightenment? Have the worldly attractions lost their lustre? Have you been yearning to seek out far off exotic places? I would not be surprised if your answer was yes to all of the above. Life is changing at a dramatic pace and soon you will be active and on the move or someday seriously regretting that you did not follow your true instincts. Your solar ninth and tenth houses are getting lots of planetary action and the heat is on. It’s your choice. Ride the wave or duck under it and catch the next one that brings you to your destination. Man up! Be ready for a wild ride through time. Career changes and all kinds of powerful and profound scenarios catapult you in the future. Somehow you have to become “Rambo” and right the wrongs as you strive to serve and protect. I know this writing is intense but it is with purpose that I choose these words in order to help shape you up for what is coming your way. Adventure, excitement, challenge, births, deaths the whole enchilada is to be experienced in the next few years. “Out with the old and in with the new” is the mantra of the times for your sign.
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Intense times are onboard for all signs and with Mars moving through Leo you might be fired up about any number of things. Mars brings energy and excitement into the play. Confrontations and clashes, accidents and incidents could manifest with the wrong use of this Mars energy. Heroic deeds take place and your confidence soars in many ways. May 4 to 6 are intense days and clashes are likely. Clashes don’t always have to end negatively. Actually it might be the best time to put your cards on the table and ask the other players to do the same. The last quarter square of the Moon on May 5 in your opposite sign Aquarius indicates some type of showdown or fess up session taking place. The Taurus New Moon on May 13 in your solar career sector may bring an increased workload. Mercury the traditional planet of commerce, business and exchange finally gets up to speed in your career sector as well. It is another indicator of increased activity and responsibility regarding career objectives and goals. The river begins to flow again. Fresh connections and new friends come into your life now. Travel and education are big features in the near future and a spiritual change could take place in an unusual way. Dreams and visions may point the way. Pay attention.
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Saturn visits Virgo from September 2, 2007 to July 21, 2010. Nobody likes to hear too much about Saturn as no matter how we dress him up or strive to present him in the best light, he is still a first class malefic planet and he brings strong lessons our way that either kill us or make us stronger. Often after a long Saturn transit one feels sobered, older and hopefully wiser. Saturn carves deep lessons into our souls, and although there is not a lot of hilarity around on his watch we may value and cherish the lessons that he brings. If we become ill because we are stressed out and working too hard and not eating well, when Saturn comes along we may experience a setback. Some folks proceed to blame Saturn for their woes rather than addressing the problems personally. If we adhere to Saturn’s ways and strive for a balanced and wholesome lifestyle we will eventually experience peace and harmony rather than stress and illness. Now is the time to get it together and put things right in all areas of your life. Pay now and play later, or play now and pay later. Saturn often represents less than more and we learn the lessons of streamlining and economizing when Saturn comes knocking.
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The Sun’s passage through Taurus from April 21 to May 20 enlivens your solar eighth house related to death, taxes, inheritances and legacies, joint and shared monies, secrets and other concerns such as the occult. Deep spiritual realities may be foremost on your mind. Mercury the planet of communication, business and exchange is retrograding in this same sector of the sky and it will have the effect of bringing up concerns and activities regarding the above named topics that may need to be gone over and dealt with. Venus the ruler of Libra is travelling through your solar ninth house and is another indicator that your inclinations and proclivities may lean more towards the divine. Matters of the higher mind take precedence now. Travel inwardly or to the far horizon is indicated. Long distance romances may take shape and someone from afar may show up now. Meeting a potential mate while traveling is another probability. Your career sector gets a strong boost when Venus commences her journey of that region of your solar chart starting on May 19. Watch for career or job opportunities in the last ten days of May and the first half of June. Jupiter and Uranus will be spending quite a bit of time in your solar seventh house of partnerships starting in June and it indicates excellent opportunities for developing all sorts of interesting connections. Partnerships can be marital, sexual, professional or business. Prepare to revolutionize your concept of what relationships mean to you.
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Mercury the lord of your solar eighth house is moving through your solar seventh house bringing matters related to inheritances, investments, joint monies, and partnership monies into play. Mercury is retrograding until May 11 and will take a couple of weeks to get up to speed once he begins to move forward again. It indicates a time of frustrating delays in which it becomes difficult to really get anywhere. Projects become bogged down and may have to be re-worked. Your ruling planet Mars travels through your solar tenth house boosting career potential significantly. As much as you may need a break, you may not be able to take it because of work demands. It is important to find the balance as Scorpio is prone to go to extremes and push the envelope all the way. Your solar low of the year ends on May 20, but until that date you might want to nurture yourself with proper rest and a healthy diet. The heat is on and the competition is making loud noises. Do one thing at a time and eventually you will get it done. Travel is likely in the last ten days of the month and in the first two weeks of June. It would be good for you to get a break and let down for a while. Take the break, the competition will always be there and so will the work. One never gets more than they are destined to receive. Not a penny less or more. Relax and enjoy everyday.
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Your ruling planet Jupiter forms an opposition with Saturn bringing varied forms of concern and frustration. Saturn acts as a wet blanket to Jupiter’s extravagant ways and some type of compromise must be made in order to carry on. Much of this drama will probably manifest in the workplace or at home. Laws and limitations, trials and tribulations come up with this powerful planetary opposition going on. Jupiter proceeds along the zodiac and forms a conjunction with Uranus in early June and a new wave of exciting changes and opportunities may come your way. The future is fast approaching and it is time to cut the ties from the past and look forward to new horizons. Relationship potential is strong as Venus moves through your solar seventh house of partnerships until May 19. The Sun enters your opposite sign Gemini on May 20 signalling your solar low of the year. You may need more rest and basic down time. A vacation would work wonders. It may be time for a good health check up just to stay on top of things. The Sagittarius full Moon on May 27 will illuminate the pathway ahead for you. Revelations come flooding in and answers to long held questions are revealed.
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Your ruling planet Saturn reaches the top of your solar chart in late July for a two and a half year visit. Saturn will be transiting through Libra which is the exaltation sign for Saturn. It translates into a time in which success and fame come your way. Much depends on how you have reached the top. If you got there through hard work, dedication and diligence then you may bask in the light of your accomplishments. On the other hand if you got there by abusing power or any form of manipulation there is a chance that you will fall from a high place. Former U.S. President and Capricorn Richard Nixon was impeached as Saturn reached the top of his chart and he certainly had a long fall for the rest of his days. With Pluto moving through Capricorn it is likely that you have your hands on power in some form, be it as a gang leader, banker or politician. Being perceived as a team player and sharing the wealth with others will guarantee your success. Abuse of power in any form may bring a powerful backlash that could destroy everything that you have worked for.
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Home and family concerns take up your time and energy throughout the month. Real estate sales, home renovations and like activities are on the cosmic menu. With fiery Mars moving through your opposite sign Leo you may find that others are testy, impatient and willing to do battle without much cause. It may have sharpened your instincts to a keen edge. The heat is on and the completion is strong. Romance may not be a stranger as Venus moves through your solar fifth house. Entertainment, children and business activities increase and are enhanced. Take some time to enjoy the simple things in life. Spend time with family and friends. The Sun enters Gemini on May 20 and he will cast very good energy into your sign over the next thirty days. Changes are coming fast and furious and it may be hard to keep up. Go with the flow and see where you land. It is time to be a bit radical. Shake things up, dare to be different and provocative. Creativity and inspiration which has seemed to take a long vacation comes back and a plethora of ideas comes pouring out of the Aquarian urn for humanity to enjoy. Awake, arise, spread your wings and fly into the future. The long sleep is ending.
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Activities with friends and family are on the to do list throughout the month of May. Artistic and creative energies will be strong. Big changes are going on for Pisces as Saturn and Uranus are still in an opposition phase. Tension and pressure spikes you onward and into the future. A big move is in store and radical changes to your lifestyle could be the case. Positive or negative changes come anyway. It is time to make a difference and move towards the lifestyle that suits you best. Don’t be overly concerned with any changes that come up, but go with them as you seek to find what works for you. By June of 2011 Neptune will enter Pisces for a fourteen year visit. At that time you will be in your own element in the sense that Neptune is the co ruler of Pisces and the combination of Neptune moving through his own sign will blow open the doors of your imagination and spirit. Neptune’s last visit to Pisces was well over 180 years ago. Your natural abilities for service, love, compassion and creativity will be enhanced as never before. Relax and let it all happen. If you have any latent talents in the musical, artistic or entertainment areas of life they will be sure to manifest in the coming years. For the devotees of the Lord your thirst for his love will be fulfilled. Psychic energy will be enhanced dynamically. Dreams and visions multiply and there is much to be done. Surrender and acquiesce to the universe and it will guide you to your destination. Volunteer where you can best be of service.
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