18 Jul ALACAZEM 2013.07.18
July 18 to 25, 2013 Visible Planets: Morning: Mars, Jupiter Evening: Venus, Saturn
The planets are like an enormous cosmic clock, gears and wheels in circular revolution, timekeepers of seasons and cycles. Ancient cultures learned to chart the movement and phases of the Sun and Moon, map the transiting planets against the backdrop of fixed star constellations, and correlate celestial phenomena with natural events and changes here on Earth.
Then, in 1687, Isaac Newton’s breakthrough model of a mechanical universe, with its laws of motion and definition of gravity, awakened the western world to the notion of a divinely inspired and constructed cosmos, held together by a mysterious gravitational force. The cosmic clock metaphor – along with a new understanding of spectral light and color – was accepted amongst scientists as the new physical reality. Thus, the “Newtonian” worldview came to permeate the understanding and definition of not only the physical world, but also of such intellectual fields as politics and economics—in which people now sought simple and universal laws that harmonized with and supported Newton’s laws of physics and astronomy.
Today, we have come a far distance from Newton’s simplistic mechanical universe. Einstein’s theory of relativity, quantum physics, string theory and the dual particle-like and wave-like behavior and interactions of energy and matter indicate there are even more mysteries and metaphors for what we define as physical reality.
That said, we are still living in what we refer to as “real time” – the day-to-day, moment-by-moment progression and evolution of life as we know it. Thus, the cosmic clock remains a relevant metaphor to our human experience, and it continues to amaze me how recurring planetary cycles constellate repeating energetic themes.
The Uranus/Pluto conjunction [in Virgo] that took place the revolutionary [Uranus], metamorphic [Pluto] psychedelic 60’s has come back to haunt us 50 years later in the shape of a powerful 90º cardinal [Aries/Capricorn] planetary square. Conjunctions characterize birth and new beginnings, initiations and radical awakenings. Squares indicate the first challenge to that initial birth and awakening. They are checkpoints in the evolutionary process, times when we must readdress the energies and issues that emerged at the conjunction.
If you were around and living in the 60’s, you know what went on. If not, you have surely heard and experienced some of it on via movies and media. The ideals of freedom and democracy, individual liberties and social equality, anti-war/peace demonstrations, civil rights and the back to the land movement; “free” love, sex, drugs and rock-and-roll were themes. And “don’t trust anyone under 30.”
Now we see all these things in different guises. Different shapes and sizes. What have we done? How have we advanced? What can we do? What still needs to be done? There are a lot of good people, with good motives and intentions. And there are many challenges. Squares are all about challenges and taking action. If we don’t take action willingly, we are forced to take action. So, here’s to conscious right action. May we be blessed with the knowledge of right and wrong and the spiritual, celestial support of divine cosmic consciousness. May the Force be with you.
Aries (Mar. 20-Apr.19) Mercury resumes forward motion this week and Uranus goes retrograde, shifting tides and changing faces on the shape of things to come. Stellar wisdom suggests a direct, honest approach to all matters of home, family and security. Self-nurturing is big now, and even the most stubborn and hardened self-saboteurs are being provided with a powerful chance to change.
Taurus (Apr. 20-May 20) Saturn and Mercury direct encourage honest communication and straightforward right action when it comes to commitment, marriage, family and domestic relationships. You may have taken a hard line regarding others recently, and now, you can see why. Practical and realistic, you understand that plants can be over-watered. Live and let live. Be you.
Gemini (May 21-June 21) As your ruling planet Mercury resumes forward motion, you may suddenly feel as if the sky has cleared. Values and value systems play a major role in your week as you see the difference between your reality and those of others. Expecting or hoping others want for themselves what we want for them is a set up for pain and suffering. Detach and let go.
Cancer (June 21-July 22) As good luck, good fortune planet Jupiter rolls through the first degrees of Cancer, count your blessings and take a deep breath of the clean, fresh air surrounding you. Open your heart to the world of all possibilities and seek your treasure on the path of goodness and grace. Consider the equations of action and consequence. Recognize your part, and do your best.
Leo (July 23-Aug.22) You may be feeling a shift of priority and direction in your most personal issues and concerns. Emotions and feelings are a valuable asset now, leading you toward the buried treasure of spiritual healing and physical health. It’s time to go deep, excavate what lies beneath and cultivate the courageous heart of a bodhisattva warrior. Awaken to your higher self. Explore!
Virgo (Aug. 23-Sep.22) Finding your way through the forest becomes easier and easier as the light of spirit illuminates your path. Pay attention to inner dialogues, repeating themes and recurring challenges. You may discover great wealth in the most simple treasures: nutritious food, restful sleep, vigorous exercise and daily spiritual practice. Keep the faith.
Libra (Sep. 23-Oct. 22) Personal responsibility, combined with good, clean, honest living guarantees you health and wealth. Understanding the supreme importance you have in your own life – as opposed to the lives of others – is your golden key to true happiness and success. Show up for yourself first, with compassion and loving-kindness. Be kind and gentle to you.
Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 22) Moving forward, taking responsibility and actually enjoying it may surprise you. But, after all, you have worked hard to get to where you are today, so you might as well accept it. Good, bad or ugly, life is what it is. As the supreme creator and destroyer, consider what you want your world to look like. Manifestation comes via self-knowledge. Know thyself.
Sagittarius (Nov. 23-Dec. 20) You may feel a sudden jerk backwards regarding love and romance as Uranus goes retrograde in your solar 5th house of the heart. A creative project may revive itself, or a lover from the past may return to revisit old haunts. Whatever the manifestation, be open to reworking the way you love and want to be loved. Be honest and true with your feelings.
Capricorn (Dec. 21-Jan. 19) As communication clears in partnership and commitment, open the gate and let the light shine in. Others are willing to help, guide and assist you in the fruition of your hopes and dreams. Seek out competent, honest and creative people with which to interact. Deep changes of soul and psyche continue. Keep your mind and heart awake and aware.
Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) Ruler Uranus goes retrograde this week, initiating a prolonged period of potential self-awareness and self-awakening. As the world rattles and rolls, the people upon it twist and turn. You understand the deep power that individuals have when they work as a collective. And yet, you long for connection with those you can hold in high esteem. Keep looking and you will find it.
Pisces (Feb. 19-Mar. 20) Outer planet Uranus joins Neptune [in Pisces] and Pluto in retrograde motion this week, jumpstarting the trend toward reworking what we, as a collective whole, have left undone. Personal frustrations and recurring situations hold valuable clues in the quest for inner peace and outer calm. Do you best, cultivate patience and follow your truth.
Cynthia is a third generation astrologer living in a high mountain mesa 40 miles west of Telluride. Visit her website @ www.alacazem.com.
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