How about those crumbling structures of the status quo?
Civilization, along with civilized interaction, seems to be collapsing
around us, but it’s a breakdown that started way before Wilson,
Williams, or West. In the wake of economic dissolve, we appear to have
reached some sort of weird negative critical mass that’s manifesting as
an unbridled need to share opinions and then to mistake those opinions
for facts. And because many of us are so indoctrinated by media
propaganda machines, lots of us have confused the medium for the
message and intensity for accuracy. The truth does not increase with
vitriol and volume. And just because you like what someone says or how
he or she says it, that doesn’t mean what’s being said is correct. One
of the tasks we’re facing as individuals, as well as members of the
collective, is how to separate fact from fiction and truth from opinion
so that we can make informed choices about what’s next.
The planets offer a couple of clues about our current situation. (1)
Since the spring, we’ve been under the influence of a
Jupiter/Chiron/Neptune conjunction, and while this conjunction is
generally considered to symbolize altruism, Chiron’s presence signals
both a deep wounding to those humanitarian inclinations, as well as the
potential for great healing. Translation: Chiron is revealing selfish
interests, and because Neptune can be called the Destroyer of Illusion,
the extent to which we have ignored, denied, or rationalized
self-interest seems impossible to ignore. But nowhere more impossible
than on the issue of health care. Didn’t Jesus heal the sick and feed
the poor? And shouldn’t that standard make the public option a given
for every Christian? Period. But it’s not just the Christian illusion
that’s being challenged by the Jupiter/Chiron/Neptune conjunction.
Where is the moral outrage of all religious traditions against the
injustice of poverty wherever it is found?
(2) Since last September, we’ve also been under the influence of a
Saturn/Uranus opposition, which represents the dissolution of the
stagnant structures. From a political perspective, this opposition has
turned the oppressors into the oppressed. Or as Bob Dylan once wrote,
“The first ones now will later be last.” Unfortunately, the newly
oppressed are not adjusting well to their lowly position; they are
revealing themselves to be the bullies they’ve always been. Aggressive
crowds aimed at shouting down anyone who disagrees because the members
of the crowd feel entitled to be angrier than anyone else. Well … I’m
classifying that as bullying. The deliberate intention to cause harm
because you don’t agree with someone’s point of view and you’re not
interested in changing your own because you’ve been riled up by
hate-mongering talk-show hosts who are feeding off of fear and
ignorance … yeah … that’s bullying. And this condition is
and has been our status quo for quite some time. Is it stagnant? Not by
a traditional definition. Does it serve? Only selfish interests.
Which brings us back to the notion that authentic altruism is
possible, but only when we recognize each other as equally deserving of
a good and healthy life regardless of race, gender, or religious or
non-religious affiliation.
If you know your Ascendant and/or your Moon sign, read that,
too.
ARIES You feel as if you are battling opponents, but the
fight, real or imagined, has the potential to deplete your system.
Instead of doing battle, stay focused and determined to accomplish your
goals.
TAURUS Don’t be surprised if an urge to break free from a
restrictive professional situation motivates the need for sudden
action. While I’m not advising you to act impetuously, I am suggesting
you honor our need for change.
GEMINI While it may seem impossible to find a balance between
personal and professional responsibilities, it isn’t. But strong, as
well as realistic boundaries are needed to resolve and alleviate the
tension.
CANCER The struggle between tradition and revolution is
always difficult, but for you radical breaks are often extremely
painful. So rather than make dramatic moves, keep your process slow and
steady.
LEO The solution you’re seeking is likely to be found in your
ability to step out of a polarized position and into an open-minded
attitude that’s willing to embrace a previously unconsidered
viewpoint.
VIRGO A deep current of creativity inspires you. So whether
your projects are personal or professional, spend as much time as
necessary devoting yourself to self-expression.
LIBRA It’s your season to transform and reform old patterns
that no longer serve. Make solid “New Year” resolutions by sorting
through what you want to leave behind and what continues to have value
for the future.
SCORPIO As you see it, the tension between what is possible
and what is probable is overwhelming. What you’re not figuring into the
equation is your ability to transform the situation.
SAGITTARIUS There is some money to be made, especially if
you’re willing to do whatever it takes to get the job done. Even though
you’re already working hard, a little extra effort could make the
difference.
CAPRICORN While you are under a lot of pressure to deliver
the “goods,” it’s important not to let that pressure turn into anxiety.
All you can do is show up, stay present, and do what needs to be
done.
AQUARIUS It’s a conflict over values, and it is likely to be
emotionally charged. Diffuse the intensity by your willingness to
listen to the needs of others with an open heart and an open mind.
PISCES The urge to pull away may not be the wisest response
to your current circumstances, so rather than withdraw, reach out to
friends who can help with solid, thoughtful advice.
