Alacazem 2010.08.05

The other day I had a friend come up to me and ask, “Is that Mars and Saturn conjunct in the evening sky at dusk?” When I responded in the affirmative, he said, “Well, that explains it!” and gave me a piercing, knowing look.

I always love it when people comment on the visible – and invisible – planets. A few years back, a woman who has risen well before dawn for years asked me about a brilliant point of light she had been watching each morning above the eastern horizon. Could it be a UFO or space station? No, it was only Venus at perihelion, awesome and dazzling in the predawn blue-black darkness.

Lately, we’ve been treated to a rather unusual planetary display in the western sky at twilight. Mercury, Venus, Mars and Saturn have been dancing together for weeks, and will continue to do so until mid-September. It’s a fabulous opportunity to get to know four of the five planets visible by the naked eye. And, for those who like to go a bit deeper, it’s a great opportunity to combine astronomy with astrology.

How are you feeling these days and nights? Do you intuit tension and discomfort in yourself, others and the world? Do you feel yourself involved in battles of desire [Mars] and restraint [Saturn]? Are others assuming positions of authority and attempting to control you or tell you what to do [Saturn]? Are you in turn, reacting, rebelling and persisting in doing it your way, even if it’s self-indulgent, self-defeating or self-destructive [Mars]? It’s basically self-will [Mars] surrounded by finite structure [Saturn], and there’s simply no selfish way out. No matter what we want, or think we want, there are physical conditions and material realities that we must deal with.

It’s all about doing the next right thing – considering what’s practical, efficient and realistic and then utilizing the self-discipline and patience to implement it. It’s the pursuit of manifestation, the action of perseverance and the consistence of practice. And, then there’s non-visible Uranus opposite these two in the eastern sky, guaranteeing that whatever we do, however we do it, radical change is on the horizon. Do your best and embrace what comes! Good luck.

Aries (Mar. 20-Apr.19)
Themes of power in personal, professional, legal and societal relationships dominate the week. You are involved in a dramatic square dance that requires patience, perseverance, forgiveness and self-love. Partners or people you care for may motivate, attempt to control or anger you. Proceed with an open heart and force yourself to do what’s right.

Taurus (Apr. 20-May 20)
The Leo New Moon takes place at a time of year when cosmic energies peak. Cross-quarter electro-magnetism pushes and pulls the Bull in directions of open-minded possibility and unlimited potential. Hanging on to what no longer works is simply self-defeating and ultimately fatal. Focus on self-improvement and ask for angelic assistance. Do your best.

Gemini (May 21-June 21)
A rather exciting and turbulent week presents itself as celestial energies demand courage and creativity, collaboration and commitment. You are being called upon to constructively utilize, balance and integrate ideas and resources for other’s education and learning. Whether teacher, professor, neighbor or friend, feel your feelings and follow your heart.

Cancer (June 21-July 22)
The first of three “super-moons” takes place this week as the Sun and Moon conjoin in Leo, awarding you with a fortuitous opportunity to align inner values with outer circumstances. Consider whether or not you’re living in a manner that supports and reinforces what you truly value, heart and soul. Awaken to awareness and see, hear and live the truth.

Leo (July 23-Aug.22)
Happy zodiac and lunar month! Emotions align with thoughts, heart with soul and body with spirit. Pay attention to what’s going on both inside and outside. Use your word to make magic and refrain from nasty tirades or out-of-balance actions. Maintain composure amidst the chaos and utilize self-restraint in relationships. Wait until the muddy water is clear.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sep.22)
You may feel highly motivated and even over-amped when it comes to taking action, earning money or pursuing what you want. Balance passion with patience and follow a practical, realistic, step-by-step program of goal achievement. Good luck is the union of preparedness and opportunity. Stay on course, do the work and focus on gratitude.

Libra (Sep. 23-Oct.22)
You’re the center of the circle this week as life and love seems to be revolving around your thoughts, dreams and desires. Others see you as beautiful, capable and competent, but, somehow, you’re not so sure. Gather your forces, maintain inner peace, cultivate courage and go forth with a calm and grateful heart. Everything’s exactly as it should be. 

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 22)
Electro-magnetic sparks and cosmic vibrations awaken the angels and call upon divine forces to intervene and intercede this week. Pay attention to the people, places and things that come your way. Life is giving you signals and it’s imperative that you be as pure of heart and clear of mind as possible. Look for fairies, say your prayers and discover magic. 

Sagittarius (Nov. 23-Dec. 20)
New Moon energy in fellow fire-sign Leo uplifts and awakens you to the world of spirit. Feel your feelings and follow your heart as you tap into higher-self being and doing. Remain awake and conscious in your daily round. See the meaning behind the madness and stalk the emotions you experience when you find yourself reacting to others. Take your time.

Capricorn (Dec. 21-Jan. 19)
A rather radical week of awakening, resistance, breakthrough and forgiveness presents itself as an extremely powerful cardinal T-square demands equal rights and fair trade in professional business and personal relationships. Family matters morph and transform as power struggles continue. Maintain emotional balance and cultivate peace.

Aquarius (Jan. 19-Feb. 18)
Chiron retrograde in the last degree of Aquarius reminds you to take care of your health and heal the wounds – both old and new – that cause you pain. Expose vulnerability, cultivate humility and get to the root of your fears via genuine, honest, open feeling and sharing. The heavens awaken to those who are willing. Be sweet, be true and be you.

Cynthia is a third generation astrologer living in the high mountain desert of the American Southwest. Visit her website @ www.alacazem.com.