Pluto in Capricorn, Part One:
Beginner’s mind would be the wisest way to approach daily life this week, and the next several weeks. Pluto just entered Capricorn on January 25, which means we’re at the very tiniest, most minuscule start of an entirely new huge astrological cycle. And while much has been said by some and will be said by others about the danger that lies ahead, if you take the time to really feel the air, it is possible to separate anxiety from excitement, and to sense the vital potential of what lies ahead. A potential that is best met with openness, enthusiasm, and as few preconceptions as possible — as Suzuki Roshi once wrote: “In the beginner’s mind there are many possibilities. In the expert’s mind there are few.” So despite the stock market rumblings and the continuing ever-present threat of war, and the Mayan calendar, which has everyone’s apocalyptic G-spot quivering with anticipation, this column is going to try to focus on what’s positive about Pluto in Capricorn. Don’t worry — I haven’t succumbed to denial; I know I’m talking about Pluto, symbol of the shadow and guide of the underworld. Yes, there will be trials and tribulations over the course of the next fifteen years, but there is also every indication that progress can be made. And one of the ways to facilitate that progress is to keep an open mind and open heart about the future.
“Revolution” is the best word to describe the potential inherent in Pluto’s cycle through Capricorn. Capricorn is a Cardinal Sign — it thrives on doing. And its bent for action is going to move many of us out of the theoretical and into the actual. On a personal level, that transition could play out as a desire to put your money/body where your mouth/mind is. If you’ve always wanted to be a mentor, you won’t procrastinate any longer. If you’ve been afraid of leaving a bad relationship because you don’t have another choice, you may find the strength to be alone.
From the collective perspective, Pluto in Capricorn reorganizes political systems that no longer work. America is a country born from just such a reorganization; its “birth chart” has Pluto in Capricorn, and in 2022, it will experience a Pluto Return — something no human being will ever experience since a complete Pluto cycle is approximately 248 years. Returns always contain a review, and as part of that process, the United States will probably see increased political unrest. The good news is that there is plenty of time to figure out how to create a more perfect union. After all, it’s hard to pursue happiness when you’re hungry and homeless. And while Capricorn is a sober Sign, it is not heartless, and as Pluto strips away the conceit of capitalist democracy to reveal its cruelty, we will have plenty of opportunities to better fulfill the promise of our potential.
If you know your Ascendant and/or your Moon Sign, read that, too.
Aries March 21-April 19
Pluto initiates a new career cycle, but remember this is just the beginning. Be clear, authentic, as well as realistic about what you want to accomplish — and then simply get to work.
Taurus April 20-May 20
Pluto sets your compass on exploration, internal and external, and as part of that transformational direction, you’re likely to encounter belief systems that no longer serve. Learning to let go is an important facet of this journey.
Gemini May 21-June 21
Pluto is primarily interested in helping you to sort through what matters most to you, and then to assist you in integrating those values with what matters most to others.
Cancer June 22-July 22
Pluto concentrates on partnerships, personal and profession. Be prepared to examine your patterns of relating, with an especially keen eye toward identifying what you want and need.
Leo July 23-August 22
Pluto fixates on service, and while this may not be a glamorous theme, it will satisfy a real need to express your innately generous heart. Just be aware, service is not about sacrifice — it’s about joy.
Virgo August 23-September 22
Pluto puts you in a deeply creative phase and asks you to make powerful choices based on authentic self-expression. While there is the potential risk of narcissism, it’s a risk worth taking if it helps you to find the courage to be yourself.
Libra September 23-October 22
Pluto probes issues of security, as it simultaneously stirs your longing to belong. Be aware, this process isn’t about an external remedy; it’s about discovering what it feels like to be completely at home in your own skin.
Scorpio October 23-November 21
Pluto has you talking — a lot — about every little detail of daily life. So no matter where you are on the arc of language skills, as you share your opinions, you’ll be plumbing new depths of authenticity and intimacy.
Sagittarius November 22-December 21
Pluto focuses on value — and that means everything from money to self-esteem. And while this new cycle may seem overwhelming at first, if you use it wisely, your fortunes, internal and external, will grow.
Capricorn December 22-January 19
Pluto facilitates an identity crisis, and by the time this cycle ends, you won’t recognize yourself. Don’t be anxious; just notice where you are resisting, and then make that your first priority for transformation.
Aquarius January 20-February 18
Pluto stimulates a deep inner exploration. It doesn’t matter whether you use conventional or unconventional therapy as a tool. What’s important is your willingness to transform unconscious patterns.
Pisces February 19-March 20
Pluto emphasizes community, especially your ability to share your gifts and talents with the world. There’s no need to be shy — this is an opportunity to turn the last few years of growth into positive action.
