Dramatic confrontations are still a distinct possibility this week
— the warriors among us are not only not likely to be worn out
from recent battles, they may actually feel empowered to flex even more
muscle, a condition that’s certain to make the days as well as the
nights anything but silent, let alone holy. As the intensity continues,
the brouhaha is sure to become mesmerizingly irresistible, and like a
moth to a flame, you could find yourself singed by the heat of the
moment. The problem is doing battle, while momentarily gratifying,
won’t be satisfying in the long run. Not only are we in the midst of a
collective anxiety attack and meltdown over m-o-n-e-y, we’re also in
the midst of holiday affective disorder when emotional expectations
reach a fevered pitch and disappointment nestles under the mistletoe.
Put simply — it’s an emotional mess. Fortunately, ’tis also the
season of the Winter Solstice, the time of year best suited to quiet
contemplation (at least here in the Northern Hemisphere). So rather
than forge ahead and run the risk of getting swept away, withdraw, and
use the next several days — maybe even two or three weeks —
to honor the rhythm of Planet Earth.
The source of intensity makes a quantum shift this week, as Pluto
joins the ongoing Mars/Sun conjunction. When the Sun and Mars unite, we
experience the thrill of pure physical power, energy that can be put to
positive use, even though it also has a tendency to turn attitudes
prickly. Mars/Sun contacts are also famous for inspiring a competitive
spirit. When Pluto joins the team, that ambition easily turns into a
need to win at any cost. Be careful how you rationalize your choices,
especially if those choices put others at risk. Remember, from a
transformational perspective, the means don’t justify the ends —
they are the ends. This entire bundle has a tendency toward violence
and cruelty; so don’t kick the dog or anyone else ’cause you can. If
you feel the urge to be a bully, go get the help of a therapist. And if
you are allowing someone to bully you as an alternative to taking a
stand for yourself, also seek the help of a therapist. Sun/Mars/Pluto
is a difficult bundle to handle at any time, let alone the most
emotional time of the year.
These days before and after the Winter Solstice on December 21, are
actually the shortest and darkest days of the year, days our ancestors
in a variety of civilizations celebrated with elaborate sacred sites,
all calibrated to the position of the Sun. To the ancients, the Sun was
the sacred source of life, and its every move was meaningful, every
day. But this time of year, when the Sun seems to stand still, and
that’s what “solstice” means — the standstill of the Sun —
seemed to have a special spiritual significance. And while we
understand the astronomical basis of the solstice relative to the
earth’s tilt and its orbit around the Sun, I can’t help but wonder what
the Anasazi or any of the other ancient cultures knew. I’m willing to
assume the Solstice signified a new sacred cycle of life — all
life, not just individual lives. So as you move through another intense
week, celebrate the Solstice knowing that the sacred source of life
shines equally on all of us, even our enemies. And with that in mind,
channel the Sun and let your light be a ray of compassion during these
darkest days.
If you know your Ascendant and/or your Moon Sign, read that too.
ARIES March 21-April l9
You’re right, you are in new territory, but that doesn’t necessarily
mean you are completely alone. So find and keep company of like mind
until you adjust to the new terrain.
TAURUS April 20-May 20
Stay in control, but don’t be afraid of taking risks. While this
sounds like a contradiction, it will actually create the balance you’re
seeking.
GEMINI May 21-June 21
It is simply a matter of one foot in front of the other, one day at
a time. Boring? Yes. But a consistent, well-executed plan will lead to
steady, tangible progress.
CANCER June 22-July 22
Partners, personal and professional, may have specific, individual,
or special needs, and while I’m not suggesting co-dependence, I am
advising you to honor those needs as best you can.
LEO July 23-August 22
Don’t be afraid to take a stand, just be aware of the consequences
of your righteousness. Remember, we inspire the loyalty and support of
others by our example.
VIRGO August 23-September 22
It is time for a fresh perspective, which means it is also time to
let go of old systems that no longer serve. Be willing to change and
the change will occur with greater ease.
LIBRA September 23-October 22
You’re in a deep transformational cycle, which makes it important
for you to spend as much time as possible thinking about what needs to
change in your life, and why.
SCORPIO October 23-November 21
Show up, be honest and direct, practice non-attachment to the
outcome, and work toward a just resolution for everyone, including
yourself.
SAGITTARIUS November 22-December
21
Yes, you are on display, but you are up to the scrutiny, especially
if you can maintain your confidence. This isn’t so much about being
judged as it is about being seen.
CAPRICORN December 22-January 19
Do not compromise your principles or abandon yourself. Yes, you’re
in a difficult process, but that doesn’t mean you can’t make
progress.
AQUARIUS January 20-February 18
Rather than allow yourself an emotional meltdown, seek the help of a
trusted friend, advisor, or counselor who will give you positive
support, as well as candid insight.
PISCES February 19-March 20
Keep your expectations realistic and you won’t be disappointed.
Sounds like simple advice, but keeping it real will require discipline
and consciousness.
