If you life has been filled with ongoing stress, depression, emotional swings or if it has seemed like the world is falling apart around you, then please read on. During the course of the past couple of years, in particular, life hasn’t been very fun for many of us. I’ll bet for some, donating a kidney or giving birth would be a welcome alternative if we would be guaranteed that the ongoing craziness in our lives would end. If you thought it was just you, that only your life was in turmoil, the truth is just about everyone has been challenged over the past few years.

The energy on the planet, this last year in particular, has been extremely difficult for most of us. What I have noticed over the course of the last few years is that the more sensitive you are, the more your life was being affected by “whatever” was going on. In my work, I have talked about this energy for a long time, but couldn’t understand its source. Well finally I think I have an answer to what has been happening.

I believe we have been experiencing the effects of Saturn as it moves through different signs of the zodiac.

I would never have looked to an astrological connection to the challenges that we have been facing had it not been for an article written by Carol Barbau about Saturn’s transit. While I am not an astrologer, apparently Saturn moved into Virgo on September 2. In the article she talked about how Saturn affected us while it was in its last sign Leo as well as what we could expect as it moved into and through Virgo. In reading the article I was amazed. She described the troubles in my life and the lives of many of the clients I have worked with over the past few of years.

This led me to doing some research on my own into the subject and this is what I will be sharing with you. For me, it was eye opening. I do hope that as you read through this material it will explain or at least help you to understand the who, what, when, where’s and why’s of what has been going on in your life. Trying to be as complete as possible, I have decided to turn the clock back 5 years to when Saturn was in Cancer and move forward from there.

Before we talk about how Saturn has affected us as it transited (moved through) Cancer, Leo and now Virgo, let’s first talk about Saturn and the energy of Saturn itself.

Saturn takes approximately 2 ½ years to move through each sign of the zodiac and 29 ½ years to make one complete rotation around the sun. Saturn can be likened to an authority figure. It is associated with limitation and restriction. It can be harsh, unforgiving and judging. In its limiting role, it needs rules, regulations and structure. It likes to build fences, set boundaries and create systems with carefully strategized steps.

As an authority figure, it points out our limitations and what isn’t working in our lives and expects us to rise up to the occasion. Manifesting as frustration, blockages or delays, it shows us where we need to put our effort and make changes in our lives. It works by stripping us down to our essentials and gives us the opportunity to rebuild ourselves. Through this, it allows us to transform our weaknesses into strengths.

While this may sound harsh, without defining boundaries and constructing strategies, our lives would end up being unruly and haphazard at best. In addition, without our flaws being exposed, we would end up making the same mistakes over and over again without learning, improving or growing. And like any good parent, its tough-love approach may seem unforgiving, but it is coming from a place of love.

So now let’s go back 5 years and take a look at what astrologers said would be going on in our lives. Starting in June of 2003, Saturn moved into Cancer. Cancer is the sign of love and compassion. It’s free flowing nature sees the goodness in all things. It is all giving, embracing and nurturing. Cancer is the guardian of the home and family, which includes our ability to feel of secure personally and within our environment.

So what does that mean or how did we experience Saturn in Cancer. For many, emotional states flared or transitioned back and forth, which may have led some to experience feelings of depression. Remember, Saturn is working on taking us down to our bare bones and with its union in Cancer, it caused us to look really deep inside and evaluate our needs and decide what was truly important to us.

As we began to recognize what we wanted, we started to evaluate our relationship with ourselves and others. As a result, we might have seen major disruptions within our homes or in our personal relationships. In a family unit, it may have manifested as one parent taking on the Cancerian freedom loving role, while the other took on the job of disciplinarian.

We had the chance to see where things were working and observe if our needs were being met. I know, that in my private practice, I saw many people working on this aspect of themselves, where they embarked on the task of nurturing themselves. As they identified who they were and what they wanted, they started to create boundaries in order to correct the imbalances they observed.

As we embarked on nurturing ourselves and breaking patterns of behavior that were no longer useful, it is no wonder why there was so much conflict going on. And probably if you think back, many of the issues experienced revolved around our ability to experience love, nurturing and security in our lives. In the end, it opened many people’s eyes to the reality of how they were using their energy – both positively and negatively.

Finally on July 16, 2005, Saturn left Cancer and moved into Leo. In Caner we were presented with the opportunity to discover how we felt deep inside and now, with Saturn in Leo, we were being given the possibility to express who we now were. This was especially true with regard to our personal, professional and romantic relationships. The fire of Leo gave us the impetus to stand up for what we believed in and Saturn added the energy of letting us hold our ground as we began to show the world.

Leo is a sign that likes drama and to perform. It is fun loving and attention seeking. A little bossy and liking to have its own way, even according to astrologers, the transit of Saturn through Leo can and did create a bit of havoc in our lives. Saturn as an authority figure cannot help but to clash with Leo’s natural exuberance and need to have the final say-so.

The lesson of Saturn in Leo is many fold. First, we were afforded the opportunity to critically examine ourselves and explore our ulterior motives. We had the chance to evaluate the energy dynamics that occurred between ourselves and others. With Saturn in Leo, we were being tasked to project our newfound selves out into the world and display our “authentic selves” - not in an effort to satisfy our egos, but instead so that we could live our lives with integrity and passion.

For those who were able to find and be their true selves, they were rewarded. In turn, the imposters, meaning those that weren’t coming from a place of integrity suffered. What I found interesting was that for many of us parts of our lives worked fine, thus we were rewarded, while in other areas we suffered deeply. This suffering was an indication of the portions of ourselves or our lives that just weren’t working – places where our egos were still ruling the ship. As the transit through Leo continued, Saturn, in its parental role continued to strip us of our pride until we had no choice but to change and be ourselves or suffer the consequences.

Operating behind the scenes, this period was most likely overflowing with problems and tension. You may have found yourself anxious, restless and confused. You may have seen your life as being filled with setbacks or failures that hurt your self confidence and self-esteem. During this period of time, you may have had to shoulder more and more responsibilities, yet received no rewards. Instead, life because very serious and basically, no fun at all.

Thankfully, as I said before, Saturn moved into Virgo on September 2 nd of this year (2007). Virgo rules science, medicine, teaching and working for the common good. It is health conscious and service oriented. To me, this is one of the most important aspects of Virgo as we move into this next phase or our lives. This is especially true with regards to our relationships, be they personal, professional as well as our relationship with the planet.

Virgo realizes that we each have a duty to heal ourselves. We can do this by healing the pain of others. It is through these acts of selfless service that we inadvertently heal ourselves – and I think we can all use some healing right now. It is also during this transit period that we will be called to account for our excesses and continued failures as we begin to recognize how our destructive behaviors have contributed to the physical and mental suffering we have had in our lives.

So, wipe your brow and breathe a sigh of relieve because help is on the way. Thank God.

My final comment to you is this. You are being given a wonderful opportunity to heal. Be open to the miracle. Acknowledge the messages of spirit or the synchronicities in your life. Pay attention to what’s working and where you are experiencing resistance, setbacks or pain, because these are the areas in most need of healing. Most importantly, be open to the magic that this period has to offer.

© Copyright Body, Mind & SoulHealer – www.soulhealer.com 2007. All rights reserved.

Dr. Rita Louise, Ph D is a Naturopathic Physician, founder of the Institute Of Applied Energetics and the host of Just Energy Radio.  Author of the books “Avoiding the Cosmic 2×4” and “The Power Within”, it is her unique gift as a medical intuitive and professional clairvoyant that enlivens her work.  Let Dr. Rita assist you bringing health, healing and wholeness back into your life. Visit http://www.soulhealer.com or listen live online to Dr. Rita on http://www.JustEnergyRadio.com.

The great wheel turns and the long nights slowly give way to more and more day light. This is an exciting year for many things, but nothing quite as passionate and universal as the Presidential primaries that begin in January. While the election is in November, this first quarter is, arguably, extremely important. The Primaries offer a wide selection with the potential of a president who will make history simply by virtue of race or gender or religion. I can’t remember a race where there was more to choose from. Whether you are off to the left, the right or in the middle, there is a candidate for you and some say there is one for you in both parties. Will you cast your vote and vision for the future of the nation with a familiar face or with someone new? Will you step out of party lines for the best person or will you choose the one the pundits say has the best chance to win? Would you cross party lines for a candidate you want to follow or does the thought of voting for one of “them” send a shudder through your legs? This season we look at what we believe and stare into our fears as we reach for the future. The primaries are the most obvious example. You’ll find others as you move through Your Winter Stars. Get out your chart and see how you’ll feel the push and pull of choice. The desire to be a part of the action, and yes, the service to society, will be strong. Many will register to vote, who have never voted before.

Mars and Pluto face off: Mars is the warrior planet, Pluto the lord of catharsis and transformation. These two faced each other through the fall. I told you that the potential for peace was strong. Look around the world, there are some hot spots, but for all the posturing most of the world is at peace. As Mars and Pluto face each other, and Mercury, the business planet, joins them along with the Sun and moon, we see who are allies and who are adversaries. However, that doesn’t equal war, but it does equal information. Mars and Pluto will spend 3 full months sitting across the table from each other. The action planet and the planet of destruction: The warrior who fights for a nation and the one who kills for his god. Mars is about service; Pluto is about destruction. I know these are harsh words, but these planets linger in lunar mansions that remind us that the world is once again facing the potential for service or sacrifice. Pluto lingers in the center of the galaxy, and sends his powerful bang out to the cosmos. Will He and Mars work together or will they split along ideological lines? Will you face these sides within you? There is really good news: if you had felt the pull to do something different or to make a huge change, and were just waiting for the right time, the first months of 2008 may provide the momentum to leap…even when you don’t know where you’ll land.

Pluto challenges and intensifies Mars’ animosity, but he reveals the cost of aggression quickly. This could be a stand-off, but will likely manifest as powerful peace talks. Neither side walks away with all the booty; but when this combination works, hubris dims in the floodlight of what would come if he tried and failed. This only works when both parties want to carry on so it is not at all good for suicide bombers or petty thugs; it intensifies their drive. For ideologies, religions, societies and political parties, it is great. You see what is worth loving and fighting for, what you must keep and where you can give in order to make the most of what you want to manifest. See plenty of folks split into one of the two parties as they clearly see which side fits. This is true for religion, too. More than anything, it enlivens the passion of the individual even as he identifies his tribe. One vote may not matter to the pragmatist, but the passion that flows through the voter for a candidate or a platform he believes in is palpable. It makes a dark horse candidate a real possibility and discussions are lively!

January: Look yourself in the eyes: Should we trust you? Mars, the planet of action and service, is moving backward in the heavens. We look back on the past and see what we could have done differently. We look ahead to the future and see what we can do to help. We review the old plan and adjust it. Mars and Pluto kick off the year. Around the world, even more than a football team, we feel the pull to pick a side and a candidate. The primaries begin and each of us picks our favorite. That means we must come to terms with our selves, what we believe is possible and what we fear. We wait to see who rises to the helm of the parties. Jupiter is powerful in the heavens throughout the year. He is good for many things, one of which is spin. Hold onto your spin detector and keep your self grounded. With so much at stake, there will be plenty of folks who want to turn you away from one and toward another. Jupiter lingers with Mars and Pluto; the spin master’s tool of choice is hyperbole and fear. Whether it’s the salesperson or the pundit; your challenge is to decide for yourself: critical thinking takes effort and reaction is a reflex. It is up to you to discover what you believe in. It’s OK to change your mind. Mercury goes retrograde from January 28th until February 18th and we get to review as we rethink our beliefs and direction. Better repeat all numbers and expect plenty of old film footage of what candidates said in the past to surface. Pluto is deep and hidden, many will vote their beliefs, but keep those to themselves. If you happen to have a planet between 4 and 10 of Gemini or Sagittarius of your Vedic chart, you are feeling called and ready to act.

February: Pulled Between Work and Rest: Eclipses are coming. There is a solar eclipse on the 6th. It won’t be visible except in the lower part of the southern hemisphere. Still, eclipse time is always dynamic. The Solar eclipse on the 6th is particularly challenging. The Lunar Eclipse on the 20th helps us put a structure in place to work out of the real or apparent mess. Seriously, Eclipse time is a great time to change jobs. Folks leave one that doesn’t fit and that may be the perfect fit for you. The Mars retrograde is over, companies are ready to fill openings and get moving. Mercury is retrograde and we struggle to read the big print, but may forget some of the finer things in life, like patience and empathy for the folks who sincerely forgot the meeting or your birthday. We would rather spend the 1st week of the month in a quiet lodge by a fire, but there is too much going on. There are some dynamic aspects. Combined with eclipses, the Market is volatile. Be sure you get the facts before you buy or sell. In the political realm, the race is volatile too. Caution: don’t believe what you hear and only part of what you read. Sift through the data for verification and facts. Mars is moving forward. The plans set in motion early last fall, then sidetracked later in the fall, are finally ready to go forward. There are plenty of folks, finally, who are making up their minds. Give them until late this month to come forward. Of course, you could call them up just to check on them. Retrograde Mercury on Valentine’s Day assures there will be plenty of mistakes and miscommunications that day. Better deliver the flowers yourself. If giving more than one gift, triple check the cards. The retrograde Mercury period is known for simple errors and delays. Be patient with the delivery person and give your sweetheart the benefit of the doubt. He truly did forget. Be clear and direct when you speak from your heart.

March: Things are Moving! We begin the month with Mars facing Pluto for the final time. Rumors of change in Iraq make the news, but we can only have faith they cannot be confirmed. Take a moment to face your desire for change and your fear of moving toward it. This combination offers an element of surprise; mostly, it brings the end to a long project begun 6 months earlier. This month could signal the end to the primaries. It surely brings clarity to the opposing sides. Financially, we should see the dollar turn around. I expect it by the end of this month, surely by late April. I do not see real recession. There may even be talk of the benefit of home ownership even though it costs the value of the dollar. We start to pull out of the financial crises late this month and gain strength in the world. It is very possible that some of the peace talks made a difference. It is also likely that some other foes now openly declare plans for future conflict. It seems that some conflicts end as others some to light. The US economy chugs along in the face of global interdependence.

The Race: Clinton and Romney were front runners. They both just finished a year of favorable transits. At the end of November, that changed. To hold onto their positions, both will have to rely upon strategy and vision to stay ahead. It doesn’t look easy for either.

Three Republicans: Huckabee has great drive and a powerful desire to win. As I write this, he is gaining momentum in Iowa. I don’t have a birth time, so with birth date alone, I’ll go out on a limb and say this: He’ll gain popularity through the winter, which may get him onto a ticket. Still, he has some really tough transits in the spring. It doesn’t look good for him long term. But he gives them a run and may take the VP spot in the future if his clout is needed. Giuliani has a number of favorable transits that combine a mix of destiny and luck. He has charm, ambition and a past that will haunt him. He might make it through the winter, but if the time of birth I have of 2:30pm is correct, I doubt he’ll make it through spring. Romney has the most balanced personality of the three. His big obstacle is his religion. He is better at making friends than sparring for sound bites. His natural drive is strong, but only a strange mix of events will win him the nomination. He will come out with surprises through this season. We haven’t seen Romney hit his stride yet. If he does get the nomination, he’ll be the best contender against the Dems. He even has very favorable aspects in January 2009. It’s a long year ahead. What does this all mean? None of these three has an easy or clear path to the nomination. It should be exciting; perhaps there will still be another contender.

The Democrats: Right now it looks like Clinton, Edwards and Obama. Edwards may be 3rd, but he has favorable and feisty transits throughout this season. He’s not fading from view any time soon. Obama’s time of birth is not known to me as I write this. Just looking at his date of birth, he continues to have the passionate transits of Mars, Pluto and Jupiter on his Venus. Thus far, he has taken the high road and avoided sniper-like comments from Clinton. If he gets the nomination it will be through passion, his love of the country and his belief that anything is possible. That message will carry him far and his faith that people want a vision more than caustic remarks will set him apart. (Of course, his friends are helping.) Clinton has the most intense and combative chart of the three. She is considered the front runner and will feed the hungry crowd what it wants in terms of sound bites and jabs at her competition. Her time of birth is also unknown. She has given at least 2 different times to different people. Again, I’m just using the date. She has very few lucky transits this year. Not at all like last year. It will take great effort to stay ahead. But, she has been known to exert great effort for a goal. The front runner is pulling out of her best or at least easiest time. Hmm…could it be Obama and Edwards on the same ticket or will it be someone else?

Where the Love Grows: January is more reflective and cautious. We look for wise partners above wild ones. February is strongest for passionate commitment and confusion. Particularly after the 10th. Be clear about how you feel and what you mean. March finds us looking at the practical side of love: friend and partnership. Are you good at friendship? Are you partner material?

How the Money Flows: The end of this quarter marks the end of a 6 month, volatile period. The Market and the dollar steady. It may be a recession, but not a deep one and the dollar works its way back. In the meantime, expect plenty of foreign travelers who take advantage of the exchange rate. Expect to bump into them at every tourist stop. Welcome them.

We welcome autumn breezes that lift us more upright and carry us along like a breeze beneath little human wings. We wait and watch for the bright autumn pallet that emerges differently each year; and hope we aren’t so busy we miss the show. Finally, the trees drop their color on the ground below and we welcome magical rain and its carpet like children welcome snowflakes in winter. The days grow shorter as the nights grow longer and we try to celebrate each hour as the gift it brings. That’s the gift of time.

It is an exciting time for politics as we get ready for 2008. The primaries dominate the news and the parties are so different that we might just miss exciting candidates as they come forward. Expect surprises on both sides. If they represent us as the U.S., it’s time we have some expectations. Do you want a vision or will you settle for anyone who isn’t one of “them”? Will you choose out of fear, or expect something greater of the candidates and of us? It is a time of choice.

Mars, the planet of war and service: We seem to speed up in the fall. Like us, the planets are moving, too. There is one notable exception: Mars. He lingers in one lunar mansion all season. He goes forward, then appears to stop and retreat. The house where he lingers in your chart will be activated, but you might face your personal demons on the journey. The lunar mansion he occupies is felt universally. That mansion is Ardra.
The symbols for Ardra are the head (brain) and a gem (many facets). One author calls it “the teardrop.” The Hindu deity associated with it is Rudra: “the howler” or storm god. These images are rich with literal and symbolic meaning. There may be literal storms; it is a “moist” time of the year. The greatest storms for most of us will come from our own thoughts. The journey of Mars can literally be self-destructive as we reach for others, who share in our collective howl or find something to self-medicate. [Does man or woman bashing make anyone a more loving partner? Does staring at your computer bring you closer or keep you apart?] This mansion is also associated with excesses, even addictions on the one hand and the quest for power, financial success or acquisition on the other. The result: we find that neither can quiet our inner storms and we reach for each other. Look in your Vedic chart for a personal planet [Sun, Moon, Mercury, Mars, Jupiter or Saturn] in Gemini and you will feel this personally. If you also have a planet in early Sagittarius, then you’ll play it out on several stages in your life. If you don’t feel it personally, then help others who do.

October: Ready, set go…well, almost ready. Mars starts the month facing Pluto, who is in the first degrees of Sagittarius. Both are in mansions good for fierce causes and destruction for the sake of something better. Expect whispers and news of corporate mergers. Don’t expect them all to appear this month, some may take 6 months; but things everywhere are rearranging. In the U.S. these planets trigger Venus and Jupiter: our collective love, money and beliefs. Jupiter is law in general so there will be lots of business surrounding the process. Money is rearranged and there is a booming business around that. The support for folks who struggle to pay mortgages looks real.

The fierce combination is, unfortunately, good for war. Each of us must face the battles within. What is worth fighting for? Do you understand the other side? This can be a great time for smaller, leaner corporations that have some service to offer. Mars at his best is about service. Get out and meet others. Work toward a goal. Resist the temptation to blame “those people” for everything that upsets your world. Breathe deeply and seek inner peace. Whew! It sounds like a long list, but these actions really do help us all find balance when the world seems crazy. Jupiter is moving fast now; it is time to take action with enthusiasm. Don’t give into fear; you’ll miss the good stuff! Take a stand for what is just, but be patient with the process.
Mercury goes retrograde from October 12 to November 1. Back up your computer early in October and keep it backed up. It’s time to doublecheck your appointments, verify your travel plans, charge your cell and your own physical batteries. This is when we are most likely to lose our patience and our phones. If you have been waiting for a reply, follow up with a smile, not a snit. Repeat all numbers: don’t assume caller ID is going to do it for you. Make your message simple and you’re more likely to get a call back sooner. Be kind to the clerk or service person and, most of all, keep a sense of humor. We are only humans trying to pedal faster and get there. This is a fabulous time for mental R&R, but a lousy time for a tight schedule. You may need to meditate for a few minutes during the day and allow your brain time to rest. Find that time and it will keep you connected. If you travel, be flexible. If you make travel plans during this period, then follow up. Even the best system goes astray if you punch in the wrong request. It is, however, a nice time to travel for enjoyment. You’ll get there when you get there. The world will go on if you miss a few calls.

November: Use the first few days to get organized. Ruthlessly toss what you don’t need or what burdens you. Mercury appears to stop and go forward just in time to set up your corner of the world the way you like it. Remember, Mercury is about business and intellect. They are moving forward. Jupiter spends his final month in the constellation Scorpio. He’s moving fast now and the big plans from months ago resurface with the added momentum and enthusiasm to bring them to reality. If you have a planet in the last 5 degrees of Scorpio, then this is your lucky time to set something in motion. Jupiter is the guru, teacher, trainer, storyteller, attorney, politician and actor. They all have one thing in common: they need an audience. If you’ve been shy, then this is your time to leap out into the world. It’s a powerful time for activists and sales reps. The momentum is on and we, as a whole, are starting to feel lucky again. Jupiter is about big constitutional ideas and ideals of groups.

December: Jupiter is in his favorite constellation. He’ll linger here for a full year. This first partner is Pluto. The combination is powerful for big change and transformation. This union is strong for good publicity and all kinds of PR. If you have a planet in the first 5 degrees of Sagittarius of your Vedic chart, then you feel the power and the responsibility that comes with it. Corporate mergers are in the news and there is a buzz around the U.S. about how our money is and has been spent. Information about corporate financial scandal could be the hot topic. It is time to look at your own finances and see how you’ve spent your money. This is a great time for bonuses and opportunities if these planets hit your chart. It’s not limited to just this month, but to much of next year. The Market is stimulated, but it is still bouncing, with folks moving back in before the year’s end. There is excitement in the air.

Mars Faces Jupiter with a dose of Pluto: Act upon your dreams: Think 1960. This begins on November 28th and continues until the end of April 2008. It’s rare that we find Jupiter and Mars in lunar mansions that are so fierce and emotional. I did a little searching and found several, so this combination does not promise great destruction. It is strongest in the month of December 2007. “Strong for what?” you ask. I took a look back in time. Mars faces Jupiter on a regular basis, but literally activated the same mansions in the fall of 1960. That fall JFK would win the election, we were preparing to launch the first man into space and organized opposition to segregation laws later called Freedom Rides was gaining steam. The movement followed a Supreme Court decision on December 5, 1960 on Boynton v. Virginia. The decision ultimately outlawed racial segregation of public transportation. The “sit ins” began in ‘61 and would legally desegregate the South. Just when it looks dark, we see the value of cooperation and connection. Yippee! Take a few minutes to read about this emotional, fierce and cathartic movement. MLK is a great place to start and his writings are rich for us all right now.
These planets naturally lend themselves to hyperbole. It is true the lunar mansions of Adra and Mula were activated on 9-11-2001. However, it does not necessarily follow that history will remember this autumn as a troubled or destructive time. It may remember it as the beginning of something big. It may stimulate us each to look at the best and the worst of ourselves, as well as to what we think we know about “them”. Keep a keen eye on the courts and expect the beginning of evolution all around. Turn off the tube and walk away from the computer. Get outside and notice what is going on around you. That is the antidote to destructive thoughts.

Love and Money: There is great love and compassion all around. The challenge is to look at each other with different eyes. This will be tricky as the political rhetoric of separation resounds. The money is flowing and the goal is to pull us into a camp. The Market will fluctuate, but as you look back, imagine how rich you would feel if you had invested your heart in the words of Rev. King and not in the separation. Where might you invest now?
So, what can we do with it? Religions, political groups, and yes, action or reaction groups of all kinds, pull in like-minded folks. The fear of destruction pushes us first apart, then pulls us closer to source. We can expect a JFK-charismatic and smart leader. We can also expect the best of ourselves to come forward as we face our fears.

A heightened awareness of our own mortality and that of our loved ones finds us searching for meaning or distraction. We will reach for some cause greater than ourselves and for peace within ourselves or we will be distracted by a way to self-medicate. Remember, Ardra is vulnerable to excesses: that might be anything from drugs and alcohol to computer games. The big question: Do you feel connected or are you fearful and wired. If it’s the latter, then it’s time to pull out the old meditation tools, such as this one: Breathe deeply; put both feet flat on the floor. Close your eyes and consciously become aware of your toes on up to the top of your head. Continue this until you feel that slight tingle of energy that is your cue you’ve connected with source energy. If you are drained, you can draw upon this to sustain you. If you are sad, you can allow that emotion to float away. If you are stressed, you can slowly allow your body and mind to relax. When you feel the pull of anxiety or fear, then you can look to see if it is real or part of the collective marketing plan to get you to react. Find a meditation group or come together with others in prayer. Walk out in nature and take in the gift of life.
What I thought I knew would hurt me: In the tradition of Jupiter, let me tell you a story. I was recently a guest at a Southern Baptist funeral that wasn’t a funeral at all. At the behest of the deceased, it was a gathering of family first and then folks who wanted to visit and say goodbye. I thought it would drag on, but the 3 hours were so light because the dear lady who passed had lived a compassionate life; she invested her love in those around her and took chances. Don’t think for a moment that she had an easy or indulged life: quite the contrary. This gathering brought out the best of all. Emotions were wide as folks shared joyful stories with grief at the loss and a little relief. Their loved one had suffered great physical pain before she passed. She remained loving, but sincerely ready to go.

My thoughts pulled me away: A woman brought in a lone white dove in a tiny ornate cage. I was convinced she would release the dove and it would certainly be some hawk’s dinner. All I could think about was a magician who told me he used white doves because they were bred to be passive and dumb. He said they could not survive in the wild. I fretted about the dove. I presumed that all white doves were alike. I was distracted from the love all around me by my thoughts. When we arrived at the gravesite I stood in the back. There was one dove in a cage, with several more nearby. I saw the handler and she looked so hard and cold. When the service was over, the dove handler spoke: Her voice was kind, resonant and loving. They were going to release the dove, which was a homing dove. It was going home, not alone, but with others. I was so relieved to realize they weren’t going to the hawk buffet, but out for a flight with their friends!

The dove handler’s voice was so loving; her whole appearance changed in my mind, my heart and my eyes. I instantly knew she was speaking the truth. The great grandchildren were allowed to touch the dove and the daughters came forward to help release it. They would give their mother wings and all wept with the joy of that liberation. The lone dove with 3 others right behind her formed a group, then circled back. They knew that 8 more were going along. As we move through the autumn months and are tempted by fear or separated by our own “thoughts”, hold this story near. Your mind (ardra) may be the source of separation and the mental fears of destruction (mula). Are you ready to fly home? Will you choose fear or connection? When you judge, will you step aside and look from a different perspective? This could be the beginning of the end of another form of segregation. We may need to “sit” to feel it.

Cynthia Novak is a professional astrologer. She can be contacted at metro 817-261-2984. Read Cynthia’s daily astrological message at www.HolisticNetworker.com/dailymessage/ or see www.CynthiaNovak.com
Come hear Cynthia’s talk at the Wellness Expo on Sunday, October 21 at 11:30am entitled “Astrology and You”.

Will you offer problems or solutions? It is a simple query with powerful potential. As we look at the planets with all their potential for both problems and solutions, look into your own eyes in the mirror and ask which you will offer. At first glance you might see all the solutions you have to the problems and dramas of the world and others. If you are human, it may be a stretch to find the solutions to your own dramas. As the days and weeks roll by, you may notice that your thoughts often turn to problems. This intensifies as the months pass. That is why it is so important to start this exercise now. Take a deep breath, look into the mirror repeatedly, and ask for solutions. Whining is allowed for a finite period of time. How long? You may whine for as long as you are willing to listen to it from others. The challenge is on to fill that space with a solution of any size. This is a daring summer and I dare us all to consciously look for solutions and invest in them for personal, as well as public, problems. The bigger the problem seems, the smaller the initial solution. It’s got to be something we can wrap ourselves around and it can and will grow. An example: If the world seems a violent and fiercely polarized place, reach out to someone who really gets on your nerves. The solution: begin the process of world peace at your personal peace talks.

July may be a sultry month, but the planets promise clear thoughts and direct action. This is great for any new project and strong for the economy. Drive is the hallmark of capitalism. This is good for all activities and it’s up to us to invest it wisely. If you want to start a business, then this is a great time to dive in and get all the details done. It is particularly strong after the 9th when Mercury goes direct. Use this combination to its best: Take the first 9 days of the month to review and reevaluate the project, learning from the past. Then charge ahead on the 10th. Again, this is good for all projects, from your family reunion to a corporate merger. It is as good for war as it is for peace. Our challenge is to direct our thoughts and actions for peace, while we move forward with each rich hour and full day. There is no better month to become aware of your investment in problems and dare yourself and those around you to act on solutions. If you want to exercise, then find a way to get up early and beat the heat. If you want to meet a new love, then do something you love or maybe try speed dating.

Saturn Leaves Cancer on July 15th: If you felt there was a big bull’s eye on your back for the last year or two, and you have a planet in Cancer in your Vedic chart, then you will be glad to hear that the weight is lifting. Folks with planets in early Leo will feel responsibility on their shoulders. The best way to maneuver a Saturn transit is with structure and simplicity. Get some exercise, know that you are truly not the only person who can carry the world, it only seems that way, and clean out your closets in every way. That sounds like a simple solution to the realization that you are mortal, but it does work. I can’t tell you how many folks are liberated by a clean closet or the satisfaction of clearing the past out and allowing the peace of simplicity in. Saturn brings an appreciation of things that last and people who share. Cultivate both and move the “stuff” along to someone who will use it.

August: Crabby folks attract all the attention! That’s true if we give them ours. Politics in all arenas of life get nasty this month. Isn’t it supposed to be the month they take off? The strategists and spin misters won’t take any time off. As August moves along we’ll all be challenged to remain graceful in challenging social situations. Is it really necessary to tell the folks at the next table what you think about their politics? Do you have to remind your mother of everything she did wrong? Could you possibly be so self-absorbed that your perceptions are off? Maybe it’s just prickly heat or a great abscess of old pain coming to the surface. One thing is certain, you are not alone and if you insist on poking the folks around you, then you can expect someone to erupt and get you dirty. This will not last forever, however, it will likely seem big. In the last days of July and through August, Mars makes one stressful aspect after another. That elevates the potential for problems. Still Mars is a daring planet and we can dare to work toward solutions no matter how bleak the picture we’re shown.

Mars Square Saturn: My President, boss or parents don’t run things right and I’ll do what I can to stop them. This transit begins on July 31st and is pushed by a Mars Pluto aspect on the 1st of August. August gives the opportunity to be most reactive or proactive. The choice begins with our commitment to solutions or our fixation on problems. I like to think of it this way: If we only see the problems with “them” and “they” seem to have power, then it’s easy to lose our hope for the future. On the other hand, if we see ourselves as creators of the future and of our image of today, then “they” lose power. “They” become temporary irritants in the big picture. So, if that obnoxious person cuts you off, or says just the worst thing at the wrong time, then your response to it is the solution. This is true at the dinner table or at the peace table. Although it is true that there are real threats that must be addressed, our reaction to find a solution or list the problems is indeed up to us. There is no point in trashing our politicians for what we do in our own families and workplaces. I dare us all to find solutions.

Total Lunar Eclipse August 28th: Emotions are erratic. Before you react, notice if you are responding from reason or emotion. It is very important to sensitize yourself to the difference. Here’s an example. I may “fear” that someone at my workplace is out to get me because I haven’t done everything perfectly. This “fear” comes with a litany of mental thoughts or chatter. Contrast that to the “fear” that is deep and knowing: That sense that something is out of sorts, but may not seem “rational”; you just know it. Learn to feel the difference between anxiety (the first example) and deep fear (the 2nd). Take the appropriate action. The more calm and attuned you are, the wiser your responses will be. Fear is a survival gift; anxiety gets in its way. Learn the difference between them.

September: Voted the month most likely to have disruptions and delays in travel and inner peace. There is a partial Solar Eclipse on the 11th. Travel will be slow on the days just before and after; but, on no day will international flights move more slowly than on the 11th. Al Qaeda aside (and I do expect word of threats to surface in the weeks just before the 11th), every nut-job with the desire to disrupt travel or get on the news will be agitated. Work to remain conscious. If you are tempted to “act up” on a plane or bus, then expect to be pulled aside. Everyone will be vigilant and on heightened alert within, as well as turning to security forces around you. This is no time to take chances or to taunt authority.
Sun square Mars and Pluto the 2nd half of September: How did you do? Take a quick survey of your solutions or compulsion to see problems. In late September we see ourselves more clearly, but it rests upon us to look honestly. Pluto appears to stop in the heavens on the 7th of September. This time is often associated with uprisings in hot spots around the world. Pluto is making his final pass over 2 degrees of Sagittarius in your Vedic chart. If you have a planet there, the transformation is complete and you carry the wisdom out to the world.

Feeling Lucky? Jupiter is the planet of abundance. In fact, when he slows to an apparent stop in the heavens, he lingers in one place for a long time. Some folks get lucky; others feel lucky. One thing is certain if he stops on a personal planet in your chart; this will be a summer of optimism and maybe a little too much indulgence. Pull out your Vedic chart. If you have a personal planet (one of those visible by your own eyes in the sky), then this is a great summer to try new ideas, travel or enjoy the sights, sounds and people in your corner of the universe. Are you ready? Jupiter spends all 3 months between 17 and 20 degrees of Scorpio. If you have a planet within 15 and 23 of Scorpio, Pisces, Aries, Taurus, Gemini or Cancer this summer, then you could change your attitude and your life. If you have a planet between 15 and 23 it’s strongest and if you have one in Scorpio it’s strongest of all. So take a risk, but don’t bet the farm.

The Middle East: Unfortunately this area will continue to be violent. We are fortunate that steps are already underway to bring opposing factions in Iraq together. It is time to focus on solutions and do our best to set aside cynicism and doubt.
The President of Iran continues to make explosive statements, while his chart continues to be triggered by volatile and erratic transits. Uranus to his natal Mars is a transit of accidents, but also of aggression. He grows increasingly restless and unpredictable as the months go by. The Solar Eclipse in September triggers his Jupiter: religious self-righteousness is part of this transit, but also is foolhardy daring. He may leave his position in some manner by spring of 2008. In late August through September there is a classic planetary combination for the fall of kings or leaders. Ketu is the soul’s contract or fate. It joins the Sun in the heavens. The Sun is associated with leaders, and while this is a short transit, most notably for late August and early September, it suggests a shift in power. It may not be him alone. This has been a year of change and it will not stop. We may see evidence of internal opposition to him in Iran this year. September begins with Mars, the war planet, square Uranus. This aspect triggers the charts of the Iranian President, VP Cheney, Sec. of Defense Gates and many other world leaders. There is a solution to these matters. Uranus is innovative. Let’s turn our attention to innovative solutions. It may take a fierce confrontation to begin the process. Hopefully, it will evolve as creative world peace and mutual cooperation.

Pluto, the planet of transformation and death, dances with the Sun and Mars during the 2nd half of September. Perhaps a threat motivates world leaders to find a solution. I pray this is true. On September 7th Pluto appears to stop in the heavens and move forward. The month of September may find armies massed on a border as the world demands action and prays that reaction will be wise. This is not only in the Middle East, but in all volatile zones, including Darfur; and for some of us, emotionally armed camps of the local political parties. How can we expect them to heal centuries of pain and separation when we cannot reach beyond party lines?

How the Love Grows: On July 27th, Venus, the love planet, slows to a stop and begins to move backward. This will last until September 8th. The summer may find you looking back at loves lost; some may track you down. Keep an eye on caller ID for ghosts of the past. Venus turns direct and we move forward. The summer is rich for introspection. As Venus slows to a stop in September, she faces Neptune and gets a tweak by the trickster Uranus all at once. We can see the essence of our lover’s soul. The trick is to ask yourself: “Are you seeing him or her today or the essence of some past union? Is it real or are your hopes projected onto a warm body?” Rose colored glasses are available online with your personal ad or at your favorite pub on any night. Our challenge is to look at our lovers with clear eyes and give ourselves time to see before we invest our hearts in a fantasy.

Where the Money Flows: This is a tough one. The emotional volatility of late August and September could slow the Market. It’s fear that comes with a run on the Market. There will be plenty of fear then. I am not a financial adviser; look carefully and honestly at your investments and make your decisions. It is possible that the “correction” analysts expect will arrive late this summer.

The 2008 Election: The most interesting charts for the Republicans are Newt Gingrich and Fred Thompson: Neither is running as I write this. Both will come forward and run. The Democrats have Obama mania going on and it will continue. I don’t see much future for Edwards, but I expect him to make it to the first primaries. Hilary Clinton will remain strong. Although the press continues to place her and Obama as adversaries, I don’t expect open conflict between them, just different positions. This may end after the first primaries. The Uranus aspects this summer offer a rich field for independents and candidates who venture outside the limitations of either party as usual. As this unfolds expect new and fresh political advisers. Gingrich is taking his “solutions” to the people. That sets the stage for the others to follow. Thompson, the actor, is playing a believable part. The challenge of the Democrats push each to offer something unique and the people win. It will be exciting to see what each candidate offers. We-the-People can only benefit. Expect each serious candidate to address the crises in the Middle East.

The winds of spring blow quickly and storms may arrive with little notice. They can be blissfully cool on a hot afternoon or brutally snap trees or buildings as they spin across the plains. One thing is certain, spring offers change to us and through us. However, the big question for each of us is: Does life and opportunity happen to you or does it work through you? Sure, there are the unforeseen events like natural or man-made disasters. However, for most of us there is a level of choice. Take a deep breath, look within and ask yourself whether life happens to you or does it work through you? If you don’t have an answer, then take a personal survey today. How many times do you feel the winds of change move through you and how often do you fear it will happen to you?

This spring we have the usual potential for creation and destruction. It works through each of us when we speak or think. We have the opportunity to be generous or selfish: charitable or punitive. The most volatile period stretches between mid-April and mid-May. The eyes of the world watch as contentious names in the news swagger and dare each other. How will it unfold? I don’t know. I do know that there are planetary combinations for peace and treaties. Let’s ride the breeze of those rather than the winds of war. This is such a powerful combination of planets there could indeed be great strides made in Iraq and adjacent countries. There is hope, but we must create it.

April calls to the winds of change and says: “Bring it on! I feel lucky!” On the 8th Jupiter, the benevolent and indulgent optimist of the heavens, appears to stop, then slowly go backward until mid-August. When a planet appears to move backward in the sky, then he is as close to the Earth as he will come all year. The backward movement is an illusion created by the tilt of the Earth; the opportunity when this planet triggers your chart or your psyche is limitless. For all of us, The Jupiter station falls in a place in the heavens known for “wisdom won from betrayals.” It is time to look at your past and decide: will you hold onto the betrayal or expect something different? It’s really up to you and while this is easy to say, it’s a challenge when you have a history of disappointment. The change won’t blow through in one gust, but will gently offer your sadness a soft ride into the future. We’ve all had loss. However, when we live expecting it, then we aren’t protecting ourselves from disappointment. Rather, we are feeding it and miss the excitement of hope and the generosity that grows naturally when we sense and trust we will succeed.

April is a time when Saturn, the taskmaster of the heavens, slows to a halt. The cosmic accountant himself appears to stop at 24 Cancer. On the 19th he slowly begins to move forward and we see the rewards of the hard work we’ve done in the last 2 years. Saturn’s wisdom is the wisdom of time and age. This spring, Jupiter and Saturn dance together. They are in a tight mutual aspect all season and particularly strong this month because both are moving so slowly. Saturn gives tenacity and endurance; Jupiter offers us the enthusiasm to go forward. They are really working well together this spring. If you decide to be a slacker, that’s up to you, but the winds of change and opportunity are interwoven. Saturn and Jupiter working well together are analogous to the process of birth: expand and contract. Only, now we need to provide the internal push. From the 8th until the 12th of April, the Sun joins them. This is our life force and these aspects are harmonious. True, there were betrayals, but it’s time to direct your life force and tap into the cosmic flow. What will you birth?

April isn’t all ease and gentility: From the 24th through early May things tense up and heat up. Mars, the warrior, pulls into the eclipse path. The eclipse point is called Rahu, the dragon’s head. This dragon had huge jaws and is ready to gobble up his desires. This combination is great for getting what we want. However, it is not so wonderful for appreciating what we get nor having the wisdom to know beforehand if it will bring us contentment. This is a strong placement for business and capitalism: We are ready to push and risk. This should help the Market and enterprise. The dark side of this union is aggression. We’ll all feel the edge and want to push our way. Not the stuff of international conflict, but office drama and petty feuds grow with little gusts through the grapevine.

This time may be volatile on the world stage. The charts of several tempestuous world leaders are triggered at this time: The President of Iran, The leader of Hezbollah, Kim Jong II of North Korea and the United State’s own Secretary of Defense Gates and VP Cheney. Mars is good for action. Time to focus on success, liberation and treaties: They all require action and, during this time, by grace, the warring factions may turn to creative action. There is that choice at every level including our own warring thoughts. It is wise to be cautious when we travel between mid-April and mid-May. I expect news of a plot that was broken, but it’s important to be vigilant. Mars crosses the eclipse path (Rahu), then Uranus. This could herald terrorism. Expect nasty political attacks from all but the most enlightened candidates: it will bring surprises of all kinds and is most often chaotic. However, it is purely energy so the choice to look for a treaty even when there has been none is a useful action on every stage. Plus, Venus is very happy at this time and she will face Jupiter, the optimist. The combination of planets makes the time rich for the potential of indulgence, success, aggression and peace. From this list, which winds will you ride? How hard will you blow?

Mid to Late May: Time for change and excitement! Saturn slowly pulls out of aspect to Uranus, the planet of restless change. Saturn is the old guard. Uranus with Saturn is the excitement of revolution, but lacks the wisdom. Jupiter is still helping Saturn give birth to something new. As we move through May, we see what we’ve learned during the past two years and how we can make practical change in stages. This energy fuels political campaigns and donations flow all spring. By the fall we see how our creative investments in the future paid off. For now, it is important to invest and have faith that change is a part of life and structure (Saturn) is useful for change.

June is a gentle month. The planets are scattered around the heavens so there is no particularly stressful arena. The Month begins on an optimistic note and while there are trying days, there is an uplifting tune playing on the breeze. The biggest challenge is focus. So many options and only one you to choose! By late month Venus, the planet of love and money, joins Saturn, the wisdom of age and practicality. We see what and whom we love and how we “chose” even when we didn’t realize we were “choosing” them to be in our lives. We are sensitive to the values and struggles of our parents and ancestors. Mostly, I hope this time from mid-June into July blows in dynamic peace talks and strong treaties. As unlikely as it seems as I write this, I realize that the planets offer the potential of clear-thinking leaders, who want to learn from the mistakes of the past and hope that if we all hold onto the potential for selfless change, then it will be done.

How the Love Grows: With all the action in April and May, this is the strongest period for romance and passion. In June we are a little more reluctant to risk and perhaps wonder how we could have been so sure before. This, too, will pass, but June brides and grooms are a little more circumspect and uncertain. What traits do you love about each other? Make a list and look at traits like kindness, patience and peaceful demeanor. Add to it and when you feel the natural doubt of time, go over them with the person you love. Gratitude is healing, but commitment reflects the courage to take the step and the willingness to be together even when in doubt. A friend told me how he and his wife “knew” their marriage was the right choice for both of them. They prayed and fasted and waited for personal revelation. Sometimes we need to trust a power greater than ourselves and deeper than desire.

Where the Money Flows: The impulsive Mars transits in April and May are a little daring and great for spending. That could send the Market up and then down. It should keep it bouncing along, but if you are a cautious investor, pull out until June or decide to enjoy the wild ride. When Mars is that active, money goes to defense and legislators vote to spend. Lobbyists are really active, too. Financial scandals are in the news all spring, but a big one might break during the mid-April to mid-May period. Hold onto your inner peace and take the news in small doses, particularly at this time.

GWB: Saturn the slow moving planet of wisdom born of frustration prepares to leave his chart. It won’t be gone until later this year, so the spring continues to bring obstacles. He does have a very favorable Jupiter transit. This helps to keep his spirits up and the combination will both test and reinforce his faith as it compels him to look for order where there has been chaos. The spring is mixed for him, but hopeful, too.

Cynthia Novak is a professional astrologer. She can be contacted at metro 817-261-2984. Read Cynthia’s daily astrological message at www.HolisticNetworker.com/dailymessage/ or see www.CynthiaNovak.com