Volcanic New Moon

New Moon @ 23Capricorn13
January 12, 9:00pm PST
January 13, 12:00am EST, 5:00am GMT, 4:00pm AEDT

Pluto conjunct this New Moon indicates quite a potent and transformational moon cycle to begin 2021. After last year, we cannot be too surprised about that, but we are likely to be very surprised in how it plays out. Uranus is too activated for any other scenario but something quite ‘stormy’ and unexpected. 

Plus we have dicey, discordant planetoid Eris square the Pluto New Moon, pushing disruption to greater levels. Warrior-like Eris impatiently stirs things up to expose truth. Disruptive and creative forces both erupt at the same time. Planetoid Haumea in Libra wields her magic stick to call in plentiful bounty and fairness. One reader described Haumea’s energy as “incredibly magical, mystical and with a dash of fairy godmother.” (I agree, Dr.Tia). She is also very grounded and powerful, birthing unprecedented newness. Let’s also remember that she gave birth to Pele, the volcano goddess.

This New Year opened with a waning moon finishing up immediate implications of the December 14 total Solar Eclipse and the opening of a new era under the glorious Jupiter-Saturn conjunction. We have been through a potent rebirth portal; now we see more volcanic dismantling of the world we once knew and the toppling of powerful systems and structures that are both negative and unsustainable as we move forward into a ‘new Earth,’ as some are calling our times. My intuitive heart resonates.

As we head further into 2021 we find ourselves on a roller coaster of ups and downs— an exciting, thrilling, shocking, stormy, nerve-racking, wild ride that leaves us breathless. Unexpected developments may happen at stomach-churning rate, requiring extra effort to stay grounded.

Mars entered Taurus on January 6, ramping up levels of revolution, disruption and unsettledness, already indicated by Uranus. Mars is heading right toward Uranus. The explosive meeting point of Mars with Uranus is exact at 6+ degrees on January 20, just after Uranus turns forward. The whole month of January is largely about this turning point of Uranus. 

Sabian Symbol 7 Taurus reads:
A Woman of Samaria Comes to Draw Water from the Well.
This Biblical storyline can mean many things to different people. Here I am quoting Lynda Hill and Richard Hill in their The Sabian Symbols as an Oracle:

If your emotions are clogged up with old, spent feelings, then it is time to clear these by making admissions to that stranger within yourself— your shadow. Plumb your depths to find renewed self-respect. Someone may be in need of help, draw on your inner resources, take time out to assist others. Dipping into family ancestry. Past lives.If negative— allowing social prejudice to rule decisions and behavior.” 

Considering that Uranus is in this degree all of January (also a week of December 2020 and February), this image can be applied to the awakening of the collective consciousness in some way— our collective ancestry and history. The last line about the negative potential specifically hits the Uranus button in its social relevance. 

Spiritual teacher Patricia Cota-Robles (www.eraofpeace.org, 12/17/20) indicates the challenge of our times with Mars/Uranus in Taurus interacting with the Aquarian planets with these words:  

“Our Earthly Bodies are literally multidimensional technology. In the new paradigm we are cocreating, we have the ability to hold space within our bodies for the highest frequencies of vibration. All we have to do is consistently pay attention to who we are Being in every moment through our thoughts, words, actions and feelings. Every single one of us has all of the skill, wisdom, knowledge, strength and courage we need to succeed God Victoriously in our mission. We just need to listen to our Heart and respond according to our intuitive Inner Guidance.”

Jupiter/ Saturn in Aquarius ask us to commune, collaborate, and celebrate, to come together and find a way to live the potential of this new era that is so promising. Air sign Aquarius breathes in the higher atmospheres above the clouds and fog, suggesting that we step back and view the larger picture and offering fresh perspectives that change the way we see our world.

In a recent talk, biologist Bruce Lipton quoted from an article by Dr. Richard Conn Henry, physics professor at Johns Hopkins University, entitled, “The Mental Universe”. The basic point of the article is that
‘The only reality is mind and observations, but observations are not things.
To see the Universe as it really is, we must abandon our tendency to conceptualize observations as things.”

This is a prescient commentary on the Aquarian perspective! 
Dictionary meaning: Perception = awareness of the elements of environment through physical sensation; physical sensation interpreted in the light of experience; quick, acute and intuitive cognition. Dr. Lipton’s article ends with this statement: 

“The Universe is immaterial—mental and spiritual. 
Live, and enjoy.”
Good advice for this new era we are entering.

As this volcanic New Moon waxes to full on January 28/29, we have a series of interactions between multiple planets in Aquarius— Jupiter and Saturn, of course, joined by Mercury, Sun and Venus in that order— and a power trio in Taurus: Uranus, Mars and Black Moon. Aquarius wants to wrap the mind about that mind-blowing Taurus trio, but no way. It has to be acted out, experienced, embodied. Consider this, as I share an interpretation of Black Moon in Taurus from my book, Black Moon Lilith:

“Lilith in Taurus revels in the embodiment of Heaven on Earth. Mythically Lilith lives in the Tree of Life with roots that tap into the planetary core. Taurus, too, puts down deep roots to stabilize and be fruitful. Lilith typically chooses a rare type of fruit. Look at the effect of that first apple! People with this placement can find resources and produce results in places which look barren to everyone else…. The “stuff” of life can become a heavy burden to Lilith in Taurus, with its load of memory, responsibility, karma, desire and attachment that comes with it all. It can also be a pleasure when lightly but thoroughly enjoyed. 

The earthiness of Taurus is deeply engaged by Lilith. The sensuality of this sign leads to basic, raw, ecstatic physicality and sexuality. Lilith in Taurus ultimately seeks beyond the tangible gloss of experience to the internal resonance. An inner sense of self-worth, not always reinforced by worldly definitions of success, is aligned with actualizing the spiritual quest. Natives here may buck tradition or plant their feet firmly in it. There is a relentless need to dig down to the fertile soil of their spiritual ground, the better to grow fruits that satisfy the soul and, perhaps, leave a meaningful legacy. 

Taurean Lilith, wades through deeply-embedded thickets of financial, sexual and life style issues, seeking values clarification. The security-seeking aspect of Taurus is rocked to its core eventually, often through complexities of financial loss, sexual betrayal or illness, any black hole of uncertainty. Lilith in Taurus can demonstrate extraordinary physical beauty and great physical endurance, when they let the light shine through….to free the creative power inherent in Mother Nature.” 

Here is a useful January/ February calendar of dynamic activations between the Mars-Uranus-+Black Moon Lilith power trio in Taurus square the planet party in Aquarius. Energetically I imagine circles of people around the world (all the different planets in Aquarius) dancing among standing stones, a grove of trees or in gardens (Taurus). 
(Note: I use EST, some dates may shift in your time zone. I am not giving exact dates for BML as she ‘wiggles’ around a lot).

Turning Point—
December 21, 2020— Jupiter-Saturn conjunct at 0 Aquarius.

January 2021
Jan 6—         Mars into Taurus
Jan 8-12— Mercury enters Aquarius, conjunct Jupiter-Saturn/ square Mars-Uranus-Black Moon
Jan 13*— Mars square Saturn (yes, on this New Moon)
Jan 14*—         Uranus turns direct
Jan 17—  Jupiter square Uranus = ‘big change’
Jan 19—          Sun enters Aquarius, shining sunlight on any situation
Jan 20*—         Mars conj Uranus
Jan 22*—         Mars square Jupiter
Jan 23—         Sun conj Saturn
Jan 26—         Sun square Uranus
Jan 28*—         Sun conj Jupiter   (on Full Moon in LEO!)
Jan 30—         Mercury retrograde @26Aquarius We’ll need this breather!

The drama is heightened once a week when the Moon is in a fixed sign–
Aquarius (Jan. 13-15) and Taurus Jan. 20-22/), of course, 
but also Leo (Jan. 27pm-29) and Scorpio (Jan. 7-8).

On to February 2021
Feb 1—         Sun square Mars/ Venus enters Aquarius
Feb 6—         Venus conj Saturn, square Uranus
Feb 8—         Sun conj Mercury
Feb 10-11*— Mercury square Mars.
New Moon in Aquarius on 11th!  
Moon in Aquarius conj. Saturn, Venus, Jupiter, Mercury, square Mars and Uranus, Venus conj Jupiter 
Feb 12—         Chinese Year of the Ox begins, Mercury conj Venus         
Feb 14—         Mercury conj Jupiter
Feb 17*—         Saturn square Uranus– first of three, key dynamic of 2021
Feb 19—         Venus square Mars
Feb 20—         Mercury turns direct @11Aquarius
Feb 24*—         Mars trine Pluto, worth mentioning as a positive

*High drama days with Moon in fixed signs—
Scorpio (Feb 3-5).
Aquarius (Feb 9pm-11) 
Taurus Feb 16pm-18) 
Leo (Feb 24-26) finishing up with 
A couple of significant March dates
March 3—         Mars enters Gemini, starting to trine Aquarian planets,  smoothing out the road forward
March 4—         Mercury conj Jupiter, third visit

See how much is going on! Take note of what is going on for you along the way. Too much to try to interpret in advance, especially as we are in fresh territory. Remember the huge galactic, photonic waves washing in to lighten up our solar system. What celestial choreography! what cosmic fireworks! — a roller coaster, a wild storm, a choppy sea—but we will make it through to the other side, a brighter world, promised by the Jupiter-Saturn, a double-star, radiant rainbow-like augur. Some people have been comparing it to the Star of Bethlehem. It seems to me relevant. We have only just stepped over the threshold. Pluto remains in Capricorn until 2023/24, for the last big clean-up, the last huge sweep of the vacuum.

Plant your feet down into Earth.
Raise your arms to welcome the stormy winds that clear the air.
Reach out with your heart to all whom you love and “all our relations”. 

 A last note: this Plutonian New Moon at 23/24 Capricorn is zoned right into the 1776 U.S. birth chart.  The U.S. is heading into the 2022-2023 peak of its first Pluto return, a 248-year cycle. Pluto is opposite Mercury in the U.S. chart. This New Moon is closely opposite the U.S. Mercury at 24 Cancer. A volcano of deep belly information is erupting during this Moon cycle

Year’s End Full Moon

Full Moon @ 8 Cancer/Capricorn 53
December 29, 2020, 10:28pm EST, 7:28pm PST
December 30, 3:28am GMT, 2:28pm AEDT

This last Full Moon of 2020 is the lunar flowering of the Total Solar Eclipse of December 14. Between New and Full Moon we passed through the Solstice portal and entered an historic new era thanks to the glorious joining of Jupiter and Saturn. The conjunction, low in the west, will soon be disappearing in the light of the Sun. Enjoy while you still can. We can let the gentle nurturing energy of this Cancer Moon soothe us as we remember back over an incredible year and steady ourselves for 2021 incoming.

The Portal
Did you feel it?
Solstice gongs from deep space
Sweet bells ringing with star shine
an orchestra of planetary instrumentals—
voices large or distant or close,
bass or soprano, alto or tenor,
horns and drums and strings—
embroidered with grace notes from circling moons 
and tiny moonlets shimmering like snowflakes or chimes!

Imagine that you were standing still, strongly grounded like a stone of Avebury or Stonehenge. Time is moving toward you, in wavelengths of light. A huge tunnel looms in front: the dark disk of the Total Solar Eclipse falls upon you. At the other end of the dark tunnel, a bright light envelops. You find Saturn and Jupiter on either side of you. Saturn lays a firm, steadying hand on your shoulder; Jupiter heartily grabs your hand. “Welcome to the New Era! Let’s go for a roller coaster ride!”

Jupiter and Saturn at 0+ Aquarius start the new story with this Sabian Symbol:An Old Adobe Mission in California. 
Sabian Astrologer Lynda Hill describes this as “a symbol of man’s ability to take natural materials from the environment, and to build something lasting and enduring that protects, sustains and nourishes the community” and later, “Creating civilization out of natural elements.” These two phrases caught my attention, as this new Aquarian conjunction will soon be in dynamic activation with Uranus in earth sign Taurus. Much more on that as we move into the New Year.

Full Moon in Cancer square Chiron in Aries
This Full Moon in Cancer asks us to feel our way into the New Year, remembering all that we have experienced in this crazy year. Cancer reminds us to take care, cherish those close to us, be gentle with ourselves and others. It is also a sign of fecundity and growth. How are you going to grow into the New Year? What are you feeling your way into that you connect with and are nurtured by? 

The most dynamic factor in of this Full Moon is catalytic converter Chiron, seeking holistic alignment that brings our total being into the Now, the present moment. This is really all we have. We no longer have yesterday, except in memory; we fill tomorrow and tomorrow and tomorrow with expectations and projections and wishful thinking. Accord This Moment its fullness by standing in your own Center of Being. Chiron bridges the gap between our experience and higher consciousness with a sense of circular time, a quantum perspective that is the calling of both our spirituality and the leading edge of science. 

Chiron brings up that which needs to be healed, shows us where we are resistant, scarred or scared. Under this Cancer Moon, feel your way into that point and ask for any help and support you need. With Chiron in Aries, be willing to explore new options. 

Sun /Mercury in Capricorn trine Uranus/ Black Moon/ Mars in Taurus
With Mercury close to the Sun in Capricorn, we glean what we have gained from 2020, even while receiving messages, news and experiences that change the way we think as we move forward. Uranus is full of surprises, especially when working with Black Moon Lilith. Listen to the powerful voice of this aspect of the Cosmic Feminine. “It is as it is,” is a good Black Moon approach, letting go of judgment and expectation that obscures the potential in any moment. 

Practice the yogic tree pose, walk in Nature or plant yourself like the standing stones I mentioned above, to connect with Earth and steady yourself for some rocking and rolling in 2021— especially when Mars enters Taurus on January 6 to meet up with Uranus. For the next couple of months, the level of volatility ramps up and breaks out in various ways. Mars activates the revolutionary, disruptive storminess of Uranus. People are likely to be stirred up; patience with any ‘status quo’ is at an end. One way and another, we are moving into new territory that changes the way we live in the world. The level of coming change indicated is not likely to be comfortable as we shake off stagnancy. As we awaken to more aspects of our collective underbelly, we let in more light and higher consciousness. As we face unexpected challenges, it will also be exciting, freeing and uplifting. 

Nodes of Destiny with Venus/ Neptune
This Olde Year ends and the Fresh Year begins with the Nodes of the Moon, the Line of Destiny, continuing their challenging square dance with Neptune. Confusion continues to reign, as we seek truth amidst myriad illusions and delusions, biases and assumptions. Some of these are our own; some we pick up from the foggy swirl of misinformation, of conflicting and contrarian beliefs and opinions around us. Pisces rules the feet, so put your roots down like an anchor into the Earth, to steady the rocking boat. Also, hold on to your spiritual anchor. If you have been, you are already above the fog in sunnier skies more of the time.

Let Venus lead the way. Our heart intelligence is keenly intuitive, overtaking mental rationalization and clearing mind-numbing fog with the higher wisdom of love. Heed the call of adventure as Venus joins the South Node, ready to explore new horizons. The North Node in Gemini has a restless curiosity and thirst for new input if we are open to hear it. Are you?

This is only the very beginning of the new era ushered in so recently by the Jupiter/Saturn “star.”  As in the Star Trek series, we head into New Year 2021 “to explore strange new worlds. To seek out new life and new civilizations. To boldly go where no man has gone before!” 

* * * * * * * *

Watch for
An Astrological Overview of 2021
coming soon on Zoom!
 I’m aiming for mid-January.
Meanwhile:

NEW!
Heading into 2021: The first 3 months
New interview on the podcast, “LEADING WITH LIGHT” 
 with friend, colleague and visionary extraordinaire, Sky A’Hearn.
I talk astrology cycles and Sky leads us through several energetic ‘downloads’ to help ground the incoming energies.
I’m so excited to share this with you!
Here is the link to your interview on Apple Podcast
Or go to SkyIsLimitless.com

SURFING the ECLIPSE/SOLSTICE WAVE

New Moon Total Solar Eclipse @ 23 Sagittarius 08
December 14, 2020, 11:16am EST/ 8:16am PST, 4:16pm GMT,
December 15, 3:16am AEDT

This week is a double power portal during which we are surfing a huge wave of incoming galactic light. These two cosmic events, Eclipse and Solstice, are the fireworks and rainbow at the end of a year of immense change. This rigorous year started with conjunction of Saturn/Pluto that wiped the slate clean of an agenda that began in 1982 at the last conjunction of that power pair. Throughout 2020 we have faced clear indications that we are entering a new phase. Major unexpected developments have ‘stopped the world,’ pushing us deeper in our own Beings. 

In the last few months, we have been asking ourselves what do we want and what don’t we want in our lives as we move into a fresh New Year? It’s been a long, tough road to make it this far through 2020—and it’s not over yet! We are not yet finished creating our new collective vision, our way of moving forward into a new dimension of experience. If you stay centered and clear with yourself, you make a great contribution to lift the pervasive collective confusion, a thick Neptunian fog that distorts our view. This celebratory celestial choreography to end the year is a window through which that fog starts to lift and the light shimmers in the air— 

Literally in the air. This portal further opens the Age of air sign Aquarius with the Solstice conjunction of Jupiter/Saturn at that sign’s very doorsill, 0 Aquarius 29. Jupiter and Saturn meet up every 20 years, initiating a new cycle of social, cultural experience. This one is extra special, more than another short 20-year cycle. Here are key reasons why:

* Jupiter and Saturn are closer in proximity than in 400 years, so close they may appear almost as one extra radiant star. [Perhaps something like the Star seen in the East by those three stargazing Wise Men way back when? though I would add in Venus to make a planetary trinity for that rare Heavenly moment.]

* For the last 200 years, the Jupiter/Saturn conjunctions have almost exclusively occurred in earth signs, focusing our experience on the practical, material world. This is the first conjunction in air signs, inaugurating a new 200 year cycle focusing on the mental world, on information, perception, perspective, social interactions.  

* The last time we began such a 200-year cycle of air sign conjunctions was in the year 1226 (specifically on March 4!). So this is a new 800-year cycle. That era took us from the Middle Ages into the Renaissance. What will our transition be like this time, in this new day and age, this new millennium?

This Total Eclipse at 23+ Sagittarius carries this Sabian Symbol image to inspire us:
24 Sagittarius: A Bluebird, a Sign of Good Luck and Happiness, is Standing at the Door of the House.
What a lovely augur. This total eclipse darkens the Sun and relights it with a good luck sigil. The old story ends; a new story begins.

This total eclipse is like a hugetowering wave, the largest wave in memory. We stand strong and balance on our surfboards, excited to catch that once-in-a-lifetime wave. We head into the tunnel, a curving alive wall of water, riding this powerful phenomenon, having the thrill of our lives. Speeding along under the cresting wave, we suddenly come ashore in the froth of the crashing waters. Where do we land? In the Solstice gateway and an Aquarian portal that leads to a renaissance. Pluto adds more regenerative impetus when it transitions into Aquarius in 2024.

Where does this wave originate? This is a South Node Eclipse, bringing something forward from our deep collective past. The Eclipse degree is close enough to 26 Sagittarius, the Galactic Center degree— a Surging Wave of Invisible Light from the Heart of the Milky Way Galaxy. In addition to the photon waves of higher frequency that have been coming in, perhaps solar flare activity will be heightened as well.

One of the original quantum deities now inhabiting the Kuiper Belt, is sending this wave and riding in with it. Varda Elentari is Star Lady of the Elves, She who shaped the Sun and Moon and blew love songs of light into bubbles of aether, causing them to kindle into stars. Thus the sparkling heavens welcomed the Elves when they first came into their realm. White-robed Varda is their High Angelic Goddess of Grace and Beauty. This ancient and everlasting higher dimensional world is evoked. Varda comes forth to welcome us into the new realm opening on Solstice (watch this website for an upcoming article on Varda).

Use this potent Eclipse of the year to let go of fears and open to the love coming from the Heart of our Galaxy. The old story ends; a new story begins. Here is encouragement from Rudolph Steiner: 

Verse For Our Time

We must eradicate from the Soul
All fear and terror of what comes towards man out of the future.
We must acquire serenity
In all feelings and sensations about the future.
We must look forward with absolute equanimity
To everything that may come.
And we must think only that whatever comes
Is given to us by a world-directive full of wisdom.
It is part of what we must learn in this age,
namely, to live out of pure trust,
Without any security in existence.
Trust in the ever present help
Of the spiritual world.
Truly, nothing else will do
If our courage is not to fail us.
And let us seek the awakening from within ourselves
Every morning and every evening.

Yes, the old story ends; a new, essential story begins. Storyteller Clarissa Pinkola Estes encourages us [thank you for sharing, Diane]:

“I hope you will go out and let stories, that is life, 
happen to you, and that you will work with these stories… 
water them with your blood and tears and your laughter 
till they bloom, 
till you yourself burst into bloom.” 

* * * * * * * *

Eclipse Archway of the Goddess

Full Moon Penumbral Eclipse @8 Gemini/Sagittarius 38
November 30, 2020, 4:30am EST, 1:30am PST, 
9:30am GMT, 8:30pm AEDT

A penumbral eclipse is not the most dramatic, but an eclipse is an eclipse is an eclipse. We will perceive the shifting tides in our lives in some fashion that may refer back to the reverse eclipse on June 5 of this year. 

Sun sign Sagittarius, November 21—December 21, brings us into a celebratory time of year, as we head toward December Solstice and the turning into 2021. There is a big astrological hurrah at the end of this year. We prepare as we go through this Lunar Eclipse to ride the waning moon into and through the powerful, solo Total Solar Eclipse of 2020 on December 14. What a way to end the year, and such a year.

This eclipsed Moon in Gemini, with Sun in Sagittarius, is a passage that echoes the reverse eclipse of June 5. You may notice some resonance with that time. I already have, surely and specifically.

Let’s take a quick look at the Sabian Symbols:

Sun at 9 Sagittarius:
“A Mother Leads Her Small Child Step by Step Up the Stairs”
Moving step by step we continue to learn, evolve, raise our level.

Full Moon at 9 Gemini: “A Quiver Full of Arrows”
We surely know we are in Sagittarius territory with this image. 
Like Legolas, the Elven Hero in Lord of the Rings, head out on your adventure prepared for anything. Stay focused on the goal. 

Eclipses are indicated by the Nodes of the Moon, which form the Line of Destiny of our collective journey. Since May 2020 through 2021, the South Node in Sagittarius represents what is given; the North Node in Gemini what we seek to energize. We need many arrows in our quivers. The kaleidoscope of Gemini shows a multitude of entryways, portals, points of view and perspectives, as well as distractions, disinformation, and discouragements to overwhelm us. Crossing signals, as if too many radio stations are coming in at once, we may experience static interference as we seek our heart-centered/ third eye intuitive Sagittarian sense of truth that we deeply hold, heart and soul.

When you tune inward to adjust your reception beyond the static, the compass of your soul’s ‘true north’ aligns with a kind of internal GPS guidance. On such an inner journey, we withdraw from the stormy winds on the outer bands of a type of cosmic hurricane into the calm eye of the storm, finding our solitudinal and sovereign soul center of solace. No one can take this journey for us or tell us what it is like or how to do it. You are You for this very reason.
There is no doubt the wavelengths are shifting in the huge sweep of light waves that are entering our solar system; such a ride we are on! 

Venus dives into Scorpio, November 21—December 15
The day that the Sun entered Sagittarius, Venus moved into Scorpio, infusing most of this high energy Sagittarian month with emotional intensity and strong feelings. We might be taken by surprise, as Venus is doing a flash dance with Uranus, across the sky in Taurus. This dynamic opposition between Venus and Uranus stirs up unexpected affects and evokes a strong appearance of the Cosmic Feminine. Let us also remember that Uranus, planet of higher mind, is conjunct Black Moon Lilith, with her ‘Buddha spacious mind’ level of wisdom transmission— another indication that the incoming waves of heightened light frequencies are awakening something deep inside the very essence of our embodiment as light beings. 

On the last New Moon in Scorpio, it was Mercury, also in Scorpio (and still in Scorpio), that was conversing with Uranus across the sky, coming up with surprising news and developments. On this Full Moon, it is Venus in Scorpio who is dancing with Uranus. This cosmic couple pull us into more than Scorpio’s signature hot and spicy tango; rather, we find ourselves in an intensely creative, inventive and avant-garde movement with a heightened electromagnetic rhythm. These two planets spark like fireworks, flashing with subtleties and nuances, shocking maneuvers and unexpected outcomes. 

Remember the Sabian Symbol of the last New Moon, picturing crowds of people coming down from the mountain to listen to “one inspired man’ [or woman].  What was it that he (or she) said? If this has not yet been spoken, this Eclipsed Moon in Gemini likely broadcasts some world-changing message. In any case, people are stirred up now with smoky, passionate Venus in Scorpio interacting with wildly unconventional Uranus in Taurus. 

Making this personal to you, how are your values and feelings about your life changing? To help finish up this rigorous year that has required a great deal of vigilance, personal responsibility and big questioning of how we want to move forward into a new year, Venus puts her energy behind figuring out ways to make our lives better, to feel whole-hearted and joyful; in short, to make life worth living. It takes radical change and freedom to do so. 

Venus in Scorpio likes to stir things up on her own; and much more so when made restless by Uranus. This is nota good time for stalled, stale or complacent relationships; it isa good time to spice things up, change dance partners or experiment with something unexpectedly different that stirs up feelings and fans any banked embers into fire. 

Venus in Scorpio is Kali-like, cutting away what is no longer life-giving and vital. Black Moon Lilith now in company with Uranus in Taurus,compels change that is authentic to our earthiness and enhances joy in the senses. When we feel in our hearts a great love for Mother Earth, we can feel our energy drop into her heart. Earth offers a foundation of strength and support especially when appreciated. Since Earth is receiving large waves of excited light frequencies, we share in the bounty of this evolutionary light. Can you feel it?
We can pull out of any bitter swampiness that pulls us down by communing with Nature. As poet Mary Oliver writes, 
“You have only to let the soft animal of your body love what it loves.” 

Our bodies are changing with the Great Awakening, impulsed by the intensity of incoming galactic waves. Can we trust the organic intelligence of every cell in our body to help move us forward toward well-being and upliftment? Monitor your emotional wavelength and find the high road that rises from deep within the heart of Earth herself. As poet Kathleen Raine perceives it:
“The Earth upon her celestial spindle winds her ecstasy-producing dance.”   

Heading into the Big Wave of the Total Solar Eclipse on December 14, we have two special days honoring the Divine Feminine:
December 8—celebrating the Assumption [and Divinity] of the Virgin Mary, December 12— honoring the Virgin of Guadalupe.
This dual celebration of the Divine Mother and her mysteries carries centuries of blessings, and is echoed in some particular ways by the exceptional activity of Venus through this Lunar Eclipse and through the Solar Eclipse of December 14.

We are coming closer and closer to the rainbow at the end of 2020. 
As I have been reminding us along the way:

By year’s end we are through a huge piece of work.
We enter a clear zone, on a new collective High Way.
Be Your Best Self!
You are a Star in a Galaxy of Stars!
* * * * * * * * *

GREEN LIGHT SCORPIO NEW MOON

New Moon @23 Scorpio 18
November 14, 2020, 9:08pm PST, 
November 15, 12:08am EST, 7:08am GMT, 4:08pm AEDT

This Scorpio New Moon opens a new cycle with the
go-ahead green light signal of Mars, just returning to forward motion. Life is on the move again! — whatever that means in terms of current dynamics and Scorpionic strategies.
Scorpio has a passionate all-or-nothing,
Big Yes! or flat ‘no’ response to life. 

Let’s look at the Sabian Symbol for some clues about this Full Moon at 24 Scorpio:
“Crowds Coming Down the Mountain to Listen to One Inspired Man.”

In her prescient book, The Sabian Symbols as an Oracle, Lynda Hill offers this interpretation: 
“There is a message which needs to be spread and the people are making their way to the one who can deliver it,” who“likely has some gift…the gift of speech, knowledge, communication and oratory…. There must be a reason for them to come ‘Down the Mountain to Listen’ — there is probably something important and stimulating that they should come together to receive. There’s no guarantee, however, that everyone is going to be receptive to what’s being said: people will have many different responses to the messages being given. Although it’s fairly clear that not all will be responsive, the message is likely to resonate with many.”

Lynda Hill continues on to say it is important to integrate into your daily life any messages, insights and realizations that you may hear from your inner guidance or from others who can lift your focus. Also to apply discernment and thoughtful discrimination about what it is that you are hearing. “Blindly accepting what’s being imparted can lead to a loss of the individual mindset.” 

This all echoes the key astrological signature of this New Moon.
Mercury, The Messenger/ Uranus, the Awakener
Mercury in Scorpio has come once again into opposition with Uranus, the Awakener, shocking the airwaves with yet more surprising news and developments in this already radically different year. Mercury turned retrograde opposite Uranus on October 14. Now a month later, much has been processed and weighed in the balance. As more information is revealed, our perspective changes and we wake up to a new way of thinking. Whatever this might bring to mind for you, this is the pure astrology of our awakening times. 

Black Moon Lilith is now keeping company with Uranus in Taurus, 
compelling us to feel how our bodies are changing with the Great Awakening. As Mars moves forward, gathering speed as a car does when pedal pressed at the turning of the light green, we need to feel how our vehicle wants to move forward. Our bodies can tell us so much about what we truly and deeply want to be doing and what we don’t want to do any longer. 

How are ‘things’ going for you? Are you going to get off the highway at the next exit and follow another path? Do greener fields beckon? Would you prefer to explore back roads at a slower pace with more beautiful scenery/ synergy? Are synchronicities and serendipities offering clues to new pathways, ‘light-bulb-over-your-head’ inspirations or ‘burst-of-joy-in-your-heart’ moments?

Apart from the mind-altering Mercury-Uranus/Black Moon opposition, this New Moon is the most smooth-sailing lunation we’ve had in a while. Let’s pick up some head wind to sail the high seas we are navigating, riding the waxing Moon into a shadowy Full Moon eclipse, likely to alter the direction of the wind a bit. If we are heading in the right direction we can easily tack with that wind. Otherwise we may be necessarily blown off course and have to recalibrate our GPS.

How do we get set in the right direction? We listen to ourselves. Stress is a response to bad choices or wrong thinking. Some deeper instinct of our organic intelligence knows when we are on the wrong track.

This New Moon is in synch with the Capricorn power trio of 2020, including the rigorous dynamic duo of Saturn/ Pluto that set this year into a sort of tailspin. This Scorpio Moon is the time to rise like the phoenix bird from the ashes of the old, to pull up and out and steady ourselves. 

The most exact interaction of this Full Moon is with wisdom planet Jupiter, the third of the Capricorn triad. The king of the gods stands at 23 Capricorn with his mythic daughter Pallas Athena close by his side as his top advisor. Drawing from her inherent insight and the ancient earthy wise woman energy of Capricorn, this goddess knows and shows how to deal with circumstances intelligently. Strategically shrewd and effective, she knows what she is doing and how things will play out, like a 5-D chess player. We find a way to triumph over difficulties when we ‘come down the mountain’ or get off our high horse to we seek her out and listen to her clear, well-tempered advice. 

How deeply can we feel into this Scorpio New Moon for the serpentine gnosis this sign holds?— not straight logic, but a cyclical perspective where circles come back around with ever more and ever fresh insights. We ride the cosmic waves now at peak influx, with ups and downs in these wild and turbulent times. It’s easier if we are not attached to any specific outcome. A good Scorpio strategy is to let go and trust the process. It all gets a lot more amazing that way.

We are coming closer and closer to the rainbow at the end of 2020. 
As I have been reminding us along the way:

By year’s end we are through a huge piece of work.
We enter a clear zone, on a new collective High Way.
Be Your Best Self!
You are a Star in a Galaxy of Stars!
Peace En-Joy!

BLUE MAGIC FULL MOON

Full Moon @9 Taurus/Scorpio
October 31, 2020, 10:49am EDT, 7:49am PDT, 2:49pm GMT,
November 1, 2:49am AEST
[you on that side of the world are welcome to join us over on this side in celebrating the Blue Moon!]

This Full Moon in Taurus a ‘Blue Moon,’ the second Full Moon in October. On Halloween, or Samhain, no less— one of the cross-quarter holy days in-between equinoxes and solstices. And in exact conjunction with the wild, radical Awakener, Uranus, the ‘odd-ball’ planet, it is lit up like a strangely-carved Jack o’Lantern or an expected Halloween trick-or-treater. At Samhain the veils between the material and ‘other’ worlds is thinnest. Black Moon Lilith as moved through that veil as she is entering Taurus to engage this magical and mysterious Blue Moon. 

Dare you look the Full Moon Mother or Man in the Moon Full in the face for what symbolism it conveys to you? The moon is seen as feminine or masculine depending on cultural context. Uranus goes beyond gender to embrace both sides of the brain. You might also find clues in the ground as you walk along, especially in natural settings or near trees. Taurus is like a deeply rooted tree, on such a Full Moon reaching down and through the underworld, tapping into the mysterious dark realms of Scorpio below surface appearances. 

No astrological cycle exists in isolation. The choreography of celestial cycles is like a grand symphony with different instruments (planets) playing their part. We can imagine the Sun as the orchestra leader conducting the cosmic musical score, yet the Sun is also a player in larger cycles in the grander galactic music— the ‘music of the spheres.’ as some of the great astronomers called it.

I want to address three particular planetary dynamics that sound the threaded themes of this movement of the symphony.

Uranus!  Expect the Unexpected! Never a dull moment with this planet that lives on the wild side, actually rotating on its side, with its polar axis facing the Sun. First of the “modern” planets, Uranus was discovered “by accident” in 1781, around the time of the American, French and industrial revolutions. Most of its 27 Moons are taken from Shakespeare. Not all moons have been named. Test your Shakespearean knowledge by recalling in what play these characters appeared. The 5 largest moons are Oberon, Titania, Ariel, Umbriel and Miranda. Other Uranian moons are Juliet, Puck, Cordelia, Ophelia, Bianca, Desdemona, Portia, Rosalind, Cressida and Belinda. 
*Answers to the quiz below.

This Uranus Full Moon harkens back to start of Mercury’s retrograde cycle, still in progress, when Mercury in Scorpio was opposite Uranus. What have we learned since then? What further surprises await us under the light of this Full Moon? The Scorpio Sun is full of secrets. 

Uranus is all about surprises, awakening, and seeing things from a higher mind perspective, sometimes caused by lightning-like shocks to our system. It’s important to remember that we are in a galactic cloud of higher photon or light activity that is sending waves unprecedented, higher frequencies throughout our whole solar system. This Full Moon indicates such an incoming wave. Dig in like that deeply rooted tree and hold on; steady your physical vehicle for a smoother comfort level in the energy storm. It’s likely that what we are experiencing, both personally and collectively, does take us by surprise and contains some shocking revelations or sudden awakenings of consciousness.

Any time Uranus is activated, the Uranus in your chart will turn on.
Where is your Uranus? Look it up! The 84-year orbit of Uranus takes it through a zodiac sign in 7-8 years, identifying a generation of people engaged in challenging, awakening and changing a dimension of collective experience.

 Mercury Retrograde in Slow Turn Forward
Mercury is taking a slow turn at the end of Libra, finally moving forward on November 3. It started retrograde opposite Uranus; now we have this Uranian Full Moon; and Mercury will oppose Uranus again on November 17, just after the next New Moon. Plenty of surprises!!

This Messenger of the gods is in Libra from October 28- November 10, signifying dialogue, decisions and choices weighed on The Scales. Libra seeks mutual regard, balance, justice, peace and harmony. 

While in Libra Mercury is consorting with Haumea, the Hawai’ian of Childbirth, one of the new planetoids in the ‘far out’ solar system. I have been mentioning Haumea for some months now, as I been realizing what a key part she has been playing, like an unusual orchestral instrument. She has been interacting with the Capricorn power trio of Jupiter/ Pluto/Saturn, and now opposite the extended passage of Mars in its own fire sign, Aries. 

She is adding a new dimension of creative engagement to the current necessity to redesign how we live on this blue jewell of a planet. Haumea was conjunct the last New Moon in Libra. Now she is collaborating with Mercury in turn-around, looking both ways. She is weighing the fruits of her labor, as she births new quantum options beyond our experience of the past. We are cutting ties with the past this year in some obvious and other subtle ways.  

In the spirit of Haumea’s call to Creativity, a reader [thank you, D’Aine] sent me this quote from Matthew Fox:
“The only hope Mother Earth has for survival is our recovering Creativity— which is of course, our divine power. Creativity so satisfying, so important, not because it produces something but because the process is cosmological. There’s joy and delight in giving birth.”
[For more on Haumea see my new article on The Wessex Astrologer’s website blog.]

Healing Goddess Impulse: Venus opposite Chiron
The third main theme of this Full Moon in Taurus involves Venus, the ruler of Taurus. What she says goes under this Full Moon. The goddess of love, beauty and money is now @4 degrees Libra, her other rulership sign. She adds harmony, peace and her high aesthetic standards onto the Scales. In close opposition with Chiron, new inpu is needed. There is a call for fresh, quantum-type ideas. Try something new and different! See how you like it. What new initiatives can add value, love and harmony to your life? What new approaches can be more satisfying to all concerned? Let us call on the Cosmic Feminine to bring us what we need and, more, what will brings joy and delight into our lives. Let’s get out our looking glass, our telescopic lens, our deep sky binoculars to peer into beyond what is visible to normal vision. Let’s seek what is possible, what lights up our inner skies and our hearts. 

As a longtime Cosmic News reader [thank you, Marilyn] signs her emails:
Peace En-Joy!
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

*Answers to Uranian moons Shakespeare quiz:
A few stumped me, but I knew Cressida from a college production of the lesser-known play, ‘Troilus and Cressida’.
Oberon, Titania and Puck(‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’; 
Ariel and Miranda (‘The Tempest’); Juliet(‘Romeo & Juliet’);
Cordelia (‘King Lear’);  Ophelia (‘Hamlet’); Portia (‘The Merchant of Venice’)
Bianca & Desdemona(‘Othello’- I’m impressed if you knew Bianca)
Rosalind (‘As You Like It’ — I once played Orlando in an all-woman version of this play in Vermont’s Unadilla Theater. I really enjoyed wearing a sword.) 
Umbriel and Belinda are ‘rogue’ names from Alexander Pope’s ‘The Rape of the Lock.’ I didn’t realize it was a trick question until I looked it up! So Uranus!

* * * * * * * * *

VISONARY ACTIVATION NEW MOON

New Moon @23 Libra 53 
October 16, 2020, 3:30pm EDT, 12:30pm PDT, 8:30pm BST,
October 17, 5:30am AEST

This New Moon in Libra clicks in a new cycle amidst a flurry of significant planetary interactions. October continues to look and act like the most rigorous month of the year. A key is to engage the creative potentialities available in our increasingly quantum world. 

Haumea’s New Moon Cycle
The Sun/Moon at 23-24 Libra conjunct far out planetoid Haumea, goddess of birthing, at 27+ Libra. Through collaboration we will find ideas that harmonize and spark the creative process into manifestation. 

The Sabian Symbol for the New Moon imagines such new possibilities: 
“A Third Wing on the Left Side of a Butterfly.” 
There is a delicacy in this oddity of Nature. Do we need to pre-judge a new experience? In the flow of any creative process, a particular energy arises that influences the outcome. This is the physics of an interconnected universe, where that butterfly wing makes a difference to what happens in the universe. Creativity involves an inherent sense of responsibility for nurturing the seed that is growing in your body, in your holistic awareness that attends to the spiritual/ mental/emotional dimensions of any being or experience that is gestated and brought into the world. What do you do with that third wing? your third eye? 

28 Libra holds the Sabian Symbol for Haumea’s current position:
“A Man Alone in Deep Gloom. Unnoticed, Angels are Coming to His Aid.” 
This image evokes the invisible dimension of Haumea and the other quantum dimensional planetoids coming into our realm, newly discovered since the opening of this new millennium. 

On October 12, the last of three sextiles of Jupiter and Neptune bring hopeful optimism for those who dare entertain and embrace such a belief. The mystical upliftment of Neptune is tangibly experienced by Jupiter grounded in earth sign Capricorn. This is a real boost to those who have been working to stay positive. 

Many of us have used these last months to weed out unworn clothes from the closet and old stuff from the basement and attic. We have also been urged to clean out our inner closets, finding hidden secrets to process, opening old boxes of memories, pulling out forgotten talents. We have been surprised into sweeping away cobwebby belief systems and unrealistic expectations that have been insidiously imposed by ‘authority’ figures over the years. 

With the power trio of Jupiter/Saturn/Pluto in Capricorn, ramped up by Uranus in Taurus, this is a practical time, focusing on utility and efficiency, basic needs and common sense. Venus now in Virgo (until October 29) fills in the third corner of the earth sign triangle. We are in a large and important time of taking responsibility, stepping up to do what we can do and learning what we need to make our lives work. This is not about the theoretical; it is about practical application and life experience. It does not take a college degree; it requires being in your body and being present. At the same time, we yearn to know that there is more to life than meets the eye. We seek our spiritual anchor to steady ourselves, find our bit of heaven on Earth, a “Grace that passes all understanding,” a sense of being part of a universal field of light and love. Are you finding that in some measure that reassures you?

On October 13, Mars reached a peak moment of its retrograde in Aries, opposite the Sun and at its closest to Earth. It has just squared Pluto for the second time last weekend, at 22 Capricorn, bringing us back to the opening of 2020 with the Saturn/Pluto ‘dead end’ at that same degree, calling for a complete restructuring of how we live. How much has happened since then! Look back on your experience of this year. What was going on in your life when ‘all this’ started?

Also on October 13-14, Mercury turned retrograde at 11 Scorpio, closely opposing Uranus. All kinds of shocking news and unexpected developments continue to unveil ‘hidden secrets to process,’ as I mentioned above. Some of these are personal; some come out in the news cycles. Scorpio is about letting go. Discerning what to let go is a mental challenge. Can we let go of thoughts and feelings that bring us down? Negative thinking can be turned to positive outlook—if you believe that is possible. On this New Moon, Mercury is opposite Uranus, so this is more likely to happen, as a sudden awakening or in some unexpected way, for many through some shocking news. This is the second of three such oppositions as Mercury circles retrograde, with the first on October 7 and the final roundup on November 17— an interesting span of time that may change our worldview.

My esteemed, Boston-based colleague Dorothy Oja writes: 
“Mercury requires deep reflection of the source of the strong and perhaps emotional opinions we hold and those that we see reflected in our society and culture. What were the powerful events that prompted us to align ourselves with one idea or another? Uranus means to shatter our misconceptions and the ideas that we’ve used to run our own lives. We need to refresh everything on a regular basis, even those emotional underpinnings we thought were solid.”
[Find Dorothy’s insightful daily astrology blog on FB @ http://www.facebookcom/PlanetWeatherNews]

Mercury retrogrades back into Libra on October 27, to rebalance those Scales of Justice. Mercury also revisits Haumea in Libra, suggesting some awesome unprecedented outcome from this wildly creative goddess of childbirth as she stirs the waters of life to bring forth what nurtures us. How will this dynamic again tip the Scales as Mercury turns forward on November 3?

On October 19, we have an important activation between Mars, retrograde in Aries, and Jupiter in Capricorn, an opportunity to act on some promising potential. There was a previous such square on August 4 when Mars was moving forward. When Mars turns forward on November 14, it can’t catch up to Big Jupiter before that biggest of planets moves into Aquarius. 

As we start to peek into the New Year, we see the next Mars/ Jupiter square— on January 22, 2021 at 7-8 degrees Taurus/ Aquarius. The potential of this combination is complexified (do you like that word?) with the added impact of Uranus and Saturn. The New Year immediately gets into high gear, a vastly different year than 2020. The new Jupiter/ Saturn Aquarian cycle, which begins on December Solstice 2020, opend the door into their new 20-year cycle in Aquarius.  Mars is in highly charged conjunction and activation with Uranus, the Awakener and Cosmic Change Agent.

Venus/ Neptune interplay 
The sweetest planetary interaction coloring this whole Moon cycle, is Venus in sensual earth sign Virgo opposite mystical, vibrational Neptune in Pisces. This becomes a more important dynamic as it squares the Nodes of the Moons, the collective destiny line. One can choose to stay on the lower potential of these times, which is to remain in the emotional confusion of delusions and illusions. The higher response is to keep a strong moral compass to guide your way forward with an open-mindedness that allows for a variety of possibilities and potentialities.

Venus in Virgo is highly sensual, feeling our physical resonance with Nature and Earth rhythms. With high frequency plasma waves washing through our solar system, our bodies are responding and need special attention. Do you attend to your physical vehicle as your temple of the divine? The opposition with Neptune highlights the quality of refinement, amplified sensitivity and uplift that is coming in on these waves. Feed your body with high quality foods; observe health practices that support your wellbeing; immerse yourself in Nature, wherever you live. Also nurture your emotional field with positive, high quality “vibes,” such as joy, appreciation of the small things in life, and more than a bit of beauty. With Virgo small things go a long way. What do you want to see around you every day? I have a painted clay pitcher from Portugal that holds water on my bed table. I eat and drink from clay cups and bowls made by dear people I know from living in the Virgin Islands. Daily flow is enhanced by such mundane pleasures. Let’s pay attention to these things, the simple things that make life worth living.

You are You.
No one else is living your Life for you. 
Live it up! Light up your life and radiate, 
like a lighthouse on a dark night, 
like the Star that you are.
* * * * * * * * * * * *

Note: I had hoped to upload an audio interpretation of this New Moon from Cosmic Inspiration Radio on wgdr.org. Unfortunately it was too long. You can hear it for 2 weeks here. Use the search button to find Cosmic Inspiration Radio.

QUANTUM REALIGNMENT FULL MOON

Full Moon @9 Aries/Libra 08
October 1, 2020, 5:05pm EDT, 2:05pm PDT, 10:05pm BST,
October 2, 9:05am AEST

Earth’s Energy has shifted into a new balance. 
Do you feel it?

This Aries Full Moon beams quantum wavelengths, as it is aligned with
*the healing frequencies Chiron,
*the shimmering photon waves of higher dimensional planetoid Salacia and *the clear diamond light shaft of the mean Black Moon. 
Aries rules  the head, the brain. In these awesome times our brains are changing, recalibrated by our hearts, plus a new alignment in relation to spacetime.

As the New Moon of September 17 waxed into blossoming on this Full Moon, we crossed the Equinox gateway into a new season and Sun sign Libra, the Scales.  When I first scanned 2020 and noted the strong planetary dynamics accompanying the Equinoxes and Solstices this year, I thought this September 22 Equinox did not live up to the potency of the rest. 

March 21 Equinox squared the Moon’s Nodes, two celestial points in the Moon’s orbit that mark eclipses and indicating the collective line of destiny. The alignment amplified the intensity of the regular seasonal shift at the Aries zero point. Also on this date, Saturn made its first entry into Aquarius, giving us a taste of what we might be facing next year when Saturn seriously enters that sign and stays for its two and a half year transit. This was a significant difference in our experience.

June 21 Solstice was a Ring of Fire Solar Eclipse! and the

December 21 Solstice rings in a new season, a New Year and the new 20-year Jupiter/Saturn cycle at 0 Aquarius.

So what about this September Equinox? At first glance, not a big deal, but in fact it is a subtly significant moment. Like the March this Equinox engaged Chiron, this time in opposition, in essence tipping the Libran balance into a new spacetime relationship. Are you feeling it? Something has shifted that is palpable, and coming to our attention in specifically personal ways. This Full Moon in Aries, conjuncts Chiron, bringing this subtle dynamic into higher relief and fuller illumination.

Another key turning point was September 29, when Saturn, in a slow, careful turn, turned to forward motion(from our point of view) at 25 Capricorn, ready to move on and finalize its visit in its sign of Capricorn. It enters Aquarius on December 17th for a second time, fully taking on its new agenda. Saturn also rules Aquarius, along with the more modern planet Uranus. Remember (how could we forget?) that Saturn made a first foray into Aquarius from March Equinox through June, before returning to Capricorn to regroup. By December we will be able to bring more experience, depth of consideration and greater perspective to Saturn’s Aquarian personal and global manifestations, lasting half way into 2023. 

Something has clearly been in the works throughout 2020; Saturn will now demonstrates more of what that is in straightforward terms. Nobody is going to miss the powerful developments unfolding this month, especial with Saturn in cahoots with Pluto and activated yet again by Mars in Aries. 

Planet Mars continues in retrograde motion. It’s on the same side of the Sun as Earth now, looming large and glowing red in the night sky. When a planet is retrograde it backtracks over what has already happened, to return, review or redo where we have already been on some level. We may find ourselves going way back into other times and cultures for treasures and wisdom that have been lost or ignored in modern times. 

On the personal level, as I wrote last time: 
“Consider what has been going on in your life, and what you want to be doing as time moves along toward the end of this rigorous year. Take it slow and don’t rush. Feel each footstep land on solid ground. Standing centered, strong and clear on your personal solid ground may upset others. Sometimes that can’t be helped. Personal integrity is based on self-clarity that cannot be compromised. With appropriate restraint, movement is focused, accomplishments well-crafted; indirect action can be most effective. When Mars comes out of retrograde, like a red light turning green, in November on Friday the 13th or Saturday the 14th, we want to be able to drive on with increased clarity and confidence, more sure of where we are going and what we are doing.” 

October is the peak month of the Mars retrograde activity coming back to engage in the major planetary dynamic of the year— the triple conjunction in Capricorn of Jupiter, Pluto and Saturn. And Mars is not alone, it is the visible member of another power trio involving far out planetoid Eris and Black Moon Lilith. These two dark aspects of the Divine Feminine stir things up to clear things up. Expect contention, arguments and potentially vicious disagreements. We wonder how can we clear the air. Libra is about finding agreement, a middle ground or a higher ground where we can all meet. Here are a few relevant quotes:

“Laughter is the shortest distance between two people.”—Victor Borge

“I wish there was a treaty between your love and mine.”—Leonard Cohen’s last words in his last album, “You Want it Darker,” released a month before his death on November 7, 2016. 

“Out beyond ideas of wrongdoing and rightdoing there is a field. I’ll meet you there.“—a popular favorite from the mystic Rumi.

How to use the Mars energy is up to you. Let’s look at some Mars activation dates, while remembering that the internal work  and ‘behind the scenes’ preparation/activation is at least as important as external actions: 

September 22-23 Equinox— Mars and Black Moon Lilith were conjunct to the minute with this Sabian Symbol for 27 Aries: “Through Imagination, A Lost Opportunity is Regained.”

Reading that, I am so encouraged that this is part of what the whole Mars retrograde cycle is about, especially in connection with Jupiter, the planet of opportunity. See October 19 below.

October 9— Mars square Pluto, a transformational energy referring back to January 2020 and the era-ending Pluto/Saturn conjunction that started this extraordinary year. Expect further changes on the playing field. We can also look back at August 13, the first Mars/Pluto square. The third and final of these finishes the job at year’s end, December 26. 

[Note: This is John Lennon’s 80 birthday. He was Libra with Aries rising and Black Moon Lilith on his Ascendant. It so happens there was a Total Solar Eclipse on October 1 before he was born. A Lennon playlist might be in order!]

October 13— Mars opposite Sun, highlighting the ‘full monte’. Also, Mercury turns retrograde at 11 Scorpio. It will ease back into Libra at month’s end until it turns forward on November 3 (now what is going on that day?).

October 16— We’ll have a New Moon in Libra- opposite Mars! -for more revelations before we move further on. Here’s one more important heads up in relation to the Mars interaction with the Capricorn planets: 

October 19— Mars square Jupiter, an opportune moment for……?
What is going on with you? Use this opening. Look back to August 4 and the last Mars square Jupiter for some clues. The next time Mars square Jupiter in January , these planets will be Taurus and Aquarius. So for now, remember that “Through Imagination, A Lost Opportunity is Regained” and play John Lennon’s iconic song: Imagine for inspiration.

I end by repeating this hopeful reminder: 

By year’s end we are through a huge piece of work.
We enter a clear zone, on a new collective High Way.
Be Your Best Self!
You are a Star in a Galaxy of Stars!

EARTH DREAM NEW MOON

New Moon @25 Virgo 01
September 17, 2020, 7:00am EDT, 4:00am PDT, 12:00pm BST, 11:00pm AEST

Are we dreaming the Earth or is the Earth dreaming us?

This is a relevant question for this New Moon in Virgo, which tunes into the fluid DreamSpace of Neptune across the sky.Neptune is a subtle influence, not always noticed, but effective as a strong underlying tone or frequency to our experience. In a sign for 14 years, Neptune challenges our collective consciousness with veils, obfuscations and illusionary trends, as it pulls us toward refined and uplifted perceptions of the interwoven web of life and the universe.  This New Moon timed right at the top of the hour illustrates Virgo’s love of precision and attention to specific details. Neptune in Pisces is like Impressionistic art, blending all these specifics into a tapestry of light and beauty. 

This New Moon opposing Neptune echoes the last Full Moon aligned with Neptune in Pisces, and with a fading echo of that Full Moon’s planetary triangle in earth signs. The peak efficacy of the earth trine is on the wane as the Equinox approaches and the Sun shifts from Virgo into Libra. This New Moon applies the Neptune DreamSpace inspirations with more fire sign flair, as Venus in Leo adds her creativity and love of beauty to the deep transformational work at hand. We have Mars in fire sign Aries and South Node in fire sign Sagittarius. Together these three factors form a fire sign triangle, stimulating us up with heightened creativity, motivation and inspiration to get even more accomplished, make more, do more. This helps us through any lackluster sitting back under the Mars retrograde. Virgo reminds us that even small acts, refined attention to detail and humble daily chores are a great service to the world and contribute to the greater good. We can still get a lot done 

Let your imagination sing with the stars! Adventure beckons with new stories to be told and invites us to tune into Nature’s divinely-infused manifestations—like this one from a recent astronomical realization.

Here is an awesome image to contemplate involving cosmic halos: Astronomers announced a new discovery in relation to the Andromeda galaxy, the closest to our own Milky Way galaxy. For some time astronomers have observed that these two sister galaxies are approaching each other and will merge one far distant day. They now see that the plasma ‘auras’ of the two galaxies may already be starting to converge. Andromeda’s ‘halo’ of diffuse plasma was measured to extend out more than one million light years, about half way to the Milky way, likely overlapping with the ‘gaseous halo’ of our galaxy. 

For some time we have been in a galactic photon belt, sending sweeping waves of plasma light frequencies into our solar system. I like the idea of overlapping galactic auras, which adds another layer of galactic input and communication. This certainly matches the incoming South Node energy, still positioned close to the degree of the Galactic Center (26 Sag). We ‘hear’ the wavelength, and find a way to translate the vision, sense of direction and light into our situational conversation, aligning head with heart. 

As we approach the September 22 Equinox, a hot and spicy conjunction of mythic siblings is in progress, asserting their energy on and off through the rest of this year. This New Moon features planet Mars and dwarf planet Eris at fiery peak conjunction #2. Both opposite Mercury, this suggests news that is upsetting to various people; also rampant misinformation, arguments and aggressive troublemaking, which will surely be demonstrated by some. A better expression will be seen by those who stand straight and tall, and do what needs to be done without rancor. Where do you stand?

Recently  I came across a phrase that well describes female warrior Eris: 
“Be the kind of woman that when your feet hit the floor each morning, the devil says, ‘Oh no! She’s up!'”
Enough said!

Planet Mars, retrograde, looming large, and glowing red in the night sky, remains in Aries over 6 months— from the end of June 2020 into January 2021. When retrograde, Mars backtracks over what has already happened. Some things may need to be tweaked. Consider what has been going on in your life, and what you want to be doing as time moves along toward the end of this rigorous year. Take it slow and don’t rush. Feel each footstep land on solid ground. Standing centered, strong and clear on your personal solid ground may upset others. Sometimes that can’t be helped. Personal integrity is based on self-clarity that cannot be compromised. With appropriate restraint, movement is focused, accomplishments well-crafted; indirect action can be most effective. When Mars comes out of retrograde, like a red light turning green, in November on Friday the 13th or Saturday the 14th, we want to be able to drive on with increased clarity and confidence, more sure of where we are going and what we are doing.  We may need to continually remind ourselves that this is mainly an inner process, impacted by the outer world, but operating on a deeper, Pluto-impacted level.  

In her most recent newsletter, intuitive visionary Leilah Ward writes:

“There is something much deeper going on within each of us – within our personal journey. The radiance of our energy field goes out into the world – the energy field of Earth. We are adding our own frequency to the harmonic resonance of Humanity. Many are aware of this. Bringing ourselves back into our center of love helps us maintain the frequency of our unique Divine Soul Essence… Tuning in to our center and simply being within the radiance of our Divine Soul Essence helps us to find peace and if we so desire, we can link to the Inner Net where we connect with one another in the beauty of our collective consciousness.” 
[read her full piece here] 

As the Moon waxes from this day up to the next Full Moon on October 1-2, a key turning point is September 29, when Saturn, in a slow, careful turn, turns direct at 25 Capricorn, ready to move on to Aquarius for a second take. Saturn made a first foray into Aquarius from March Equinox through June. This time (December 17) we will be able to bring even more experience, depth of consideration and greater perspective to Saturn’s Aquarian personal and global manifestations, lasting half way into 2023.

Something has clearly been in the works throughout 2020; Saturn demonstrates more of what that is in straight-forward terms. Nobody is going to miss this, especial as Saturn has been in cahoots with Pluto and continues to interact with the dynamic duo in Aries. Circumstances are demonstrably changing. What does this mean for you? “It’s happening!” Whatever “it” is, it’s timely, appropriate and ready to take us forward, even more so in November with the green light of Mars direct. And wouldn’t that be so amazing if Mars actually did turn green!

I end with this hopeful reminder: 

By year’s end we are through a huge piece of work.
We enter a clear zone, on a new collective High Way.
Be Your Best Self!
You are a Star in a Galaxy of Stars!

* * * * * * * * *

Mars Retrograde Special— Planet Mars, retrograde, large, and glowing red in the night sky, remains in Aries over 6 months. What does this extended activation mean to you? Each of us is being stirred up, questioning what we want to be doing and seeking clear direction. Let’s look at your chart and locate your leading edge, your front line. 45 minutes, $115.  

New! Leading with Light podcast
Astrological Overview of the last season of 2020
On Apple Podcast:https://apple.co/35RfSi7   
For those who don’t use Apple Podcast, go to SkyIsLimitless.com: https://bit.ly/3iB9sXH

Cosmic Inspiration Radio
Connect to the Wisdom of the Universe 
with StarLady Kelley Hunter 
Streamed Live  around the world at http://www.wgdr.org/
THURSDAYS, 4-5:00pm ET
WGDR, Goddard College Community Radio 
The September 10 show is about Mars retrograde, 
with a great playlist including Michelle Many’s Planetary Meditation on Mars (see more her great series at; the Mongolian band The Hu; and a series of songs all titled “Hero”. 
The September 17 show is on this New Moon! with a seasonal playlist.

Earth Energy Rising Full Moon

Full Moon @ 10 Pisces/Virgo12
September 1, 2020 10:22pm PDT, 
September 2  @ 1:22am EDT, 6:22am BST, 5:22pm AEST

Earth Energy rises in a grand trine in earth signs, a key feature of this Full Moon. With Uranus in Taurus and Pluto in Capricorn for a few years to come, it only takes some astrological factor to enter Virgo to complete the full trio of earth signs. ‘Tis the season of Sun sign Virgo, with the excellent presence of Mercury for another few days.

Some years ago, I realized that the Pisces Full Moon in the month of Virgo is one of my favorites of the year. I can’t tell you why; it just feels special, like a hand strumming across a harp in a woodland Faerie circle. Virgo can be an exquisite sign of detailed extraordinariness; Pisces feels like the sea under rippling Full Moon light, hearing the hush of lacy water wash in like a song, poetic as Nature can be.

This Full Moon is in very close sextile with Uranus in Taurus, as the Sun trines it— 10+ degrees all around. Earth magic abounds. Jupiter in Capricorn completes a grounded earthy grand trine (with Pluto and Saturn standing by). This is quite a contrast to the fire triangle of the last New Moon. Fire vision comes into form, but not in any typical way. Uranus produces unexpected new content, surprising manifestations, even brand new species! Jupiter inaugurates a promising plan. Virgo adds a double dose of common sense and organic simplicity, as the precision of the Sun in Virgo is enhanced by the fine perception and skilled touch and of Virgo’s ruler, Mercury.

The Full Moon radiates in Neptune DreamSpace. Mercury receives inspiration, in a dreamy, mystical opposition with Neptune, a finely-tuned frequency, informing Jupiter/ Pluto/ and Saturn in Capricorn.
Don’t drift off! Take advantage of this Full Moon. Much can be accomplished in the last two weeks of this moon cycle and through the next, starting September 17. The “I” gets dotted and the “T” gets crossed multiple times, in a harvest of information that promotes change and clarifies ongoing developments that mark the road forward. Whether we like it or not, whether we feel ready or not, the train is coming and it’s time to step aboard. Take responsibility for tending to your situation in the best way possible, with a prayer in your heart for the highest good for all. 

Meanwhile an interestingly complex grand cross is brewing in cardinal signs, calling for initiative that satisfies all of the elements—including aether, the 5th element. 

In fire sign Aries, Mars conjuncts Black Moon Lilith and Eris.  
In its own sign, Mars calls us to take direct action to make our lives better. Each of us must determine how to do so, what is right for us. Mars puts on its brakes, coming to a screeching halt to turn retrograde on September 9. In its 2-month retrograde, it can be frustrating and trigger reactions unless we rise to the challenge of heroic integrity, courageously trailblazing new paths that lead us toward fresh improvements. The retrograde can indicate indirect action.

Retrograde planets work internally, even Mars, evoking the best of our personal strength and energy with which to meet the circumstances we face in our lives. It is heroic to take a stand. Fears and doubts can stifle action. How do we confront such feelings? Mars in company with Eris and Black Moon Lilith necessitate response. Find ways to use, channel, physically express your energy so there are no unwanted eruptions!

Black Moon Lilith is measured in two main ways: its mean, average motion and its true motion, taking in to account frequent, undulating retrogradations. These two positions can be more than 30 degrees apart! It is not uncommon to have the two positions of the Black Moon in different signs or houses. More unusual is to see the true and mean measurements very closely conjunct, as on this Full Moon.

Mean and True Black Moon are 7 minutes apart in 24+ Aries, very close to Mars at 27+, and in the same degree as Eriswith the mean Black Moon conjunct Eris to the minute (24Aries24). Goodness, Goddess! Jeepers, creepers, where’d you get those peepers! Black Moon Lilith confronts us with shadow energy in subtle ways that we may not even notice. She brings this to our attention as problems ensue, when we project out a level of negativity in reaction to some situation or person. Have you noticed yourself or others doing that? Maybe or maybe not, depending on what you are taking for granted without looking beneath the Plutonian surface appearance. This intense dynamic delivers quite a potent beam of directed fire to the power trio of Jupiter/ Pluto/ Saturn in earth sign Capricorn. The old systems are coming down, as unforeseen developments open new trails and startling possibilities. 

Venus@ 25 of water sign Cancer is offers a softening influence, gently letting us know what feels good and what does not. Directly opposite Saturn @25 Capricorn, Venus supports Saturn’s crisp and timely agendato clean up old business and get on with growth-oriented options that promise better times ahead. Pluto and Jupiter add their combined weight and influence toward appropriate outcomes. There is just no other way.

 Centaur Chariklo is also @25 Capricorn, both conjunct Saturn and opposite Venus. As if from the heart center of the Capricorn conjunction, she adds her loving fluidity to aid Venus in finding her heart’s desire. Chariklo uses her natural shapeshifting ability to guide Saturn’s manifestational imperative toward the best solutions. 

“What best serves love,” is the theme of Chariklo, the lovely river mermaid who shapeshifted into a centaur to join with Chiron, the teacher/healer/shaman of the solar system. As a member of the executive Capricorn team, Chariklo offers some of the best, most seasoned advice while reminding us of priorities. Welcome the fluidity of Chariklo, as she slowly but surely ripples around or wears away stony obstacles that have blocked our way and stopped the flow. No wonder many of us are responding to the energy of Chariklo and her love story with Healer Chiron. You may want to read my story of Chariklo here, or listen to the story on this week’s archived Cosmic Inspiration Radio show-see below.

To complete the creative grand square of cardinal signs in this Full Moon pattern, we find Queen asteroid Juno paired with Hawaiian Birthing Goddess Haumea in air sign Libra— Juno @24 and Haumea @26Libra. Juno, committed to partnership, seeks reciprocity in a balance giving and receiving. If a relationship is out of such balance, her commitment may be questioned. Meanwhile, from the remote, far out, aetheric realm of the Kuiper Belt, Haumea is activated, gestating the invisible and as yet unknown into birth. Venus and Chariklo advise her on what qualities and substance are needed to grow and prosper. How are you answering that question for yourself and your loved ones?

Dwarf Planet Haumea at 26 Libra works well with the heartfelt values Venus to generates brand new, original and harmonious ways and means. Haumea in Libra supports choices that birth new levels of consciousness and relationships beyond the field of argument and dissention stirred up by troublemaker Eris in Aries. As we find a refreshed balance within ourselves that allows resonance and right relationship with All Life, we bring forth in our personal lives what will best serve the well being of all.

This Full Moon in Pisces/Virgo with its dynamic pattern invites us to apply both the earthiness of the three earth signs and the watery fluidity of this Moon’s revelatory fullness to do what we are called to do, from the inside out. With vigilance let us keep the energy at a high point, and be gentle with ourselves and others if and when we falter a bit. This is a call to the heroic, to the pioneer within that aspires to the high road, with an alert eye out for when and over what we trip up. When we become aware and take note, we can more easily regain our clarity and balance, back on track to a fuller and richer experience of life. This adventure calls for strength and courage, compassion and attention, curiosity and openness, keen interest and a willingness to “go boldly go where no one has gone before,” as the Star Trek motto declares. We are on a fresh, exciting path of evolutionary import. Let’s make these rigorous months worth it as we join in a renewed spirit of light and life and love,  hopeful, optimistic and excited. 

By year’s end we are through a huge piece of work.
We enter a clear zone, on a new collective High Way.
Be Your Best Self!
You are a Star in a Galaxy of Stars!

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Cosmic Inspiration Radio
Connect to the Wisdom of the Universe 
with StarLady Kelley Hunter 
Streamed Live  around the world at http://www.wgdr.org/
THURSDAYS, 4-5:00pm ET
WGDR, Goddard College Community Radio 
The August 27 show talks about the upcoming Full Moon and
includes a telling of Chariklo’s mythic story.
Archived show available for 2 weeks on the website 
Click on http://archive.wgdr.org/
search “All Shows” for Cosmic Inspiration Radio. 
Make Cosmic Inspiration Radio your home 
for starry music and astrology talk!

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Astrology Workshops

The night sky is the original movie screen, a living testament of philosophy and myth from many cultures throughout the world. I offer star gazing nights and astrology workshops.