Pisces - Cosmic Consciousness with the One Creative Source

Just a note:  not ALL the classic social role models ("archetypes") will fit the sign's characteristics--but these are good examples of people who outwardly express the qualities of the sign.

Pisces (February 19 - 

March 20)

"I am What I Intuitively Believe"

In Pisces, we find the emotional state of water compounded by the illusionary rulership of Neptune, as well as the higher ideals of inspiration and faith of Jupiter, its co-ruler. Piscean souls seem to be caught in the tides of human emotion that are constantly swirling around us. They have an empathic nature that makes them sensitive subconsciously to those around them, and to the world at large. Pisceans are reluctant to conform to "common sense" because they are vaguely aware that Earth is not the real home of our highly developed soul nature.

This longing to return back to the presence of God and the spiritual level of unity with our Creator makes Pisceans take an escapist attitude. Their attempts to transcend their earthly bonds can be destructive if not brought under control. Pisces rules the use of drugs and alcohol, as well as the fantasies of the mind, and many of these people turn to the abuses of mind and body in this manner.

The sign of Pisces is two fish, swimming in opposite directions. The escapist side is one fish, but the other is the higher evolved side, which turns back to the creative, mystical channels of universal energies. Pisceans are able to create great works of art or poetry, and their natural desire to express themselves in dance or music. They allow themselves to find their other-worldly self in the dream life of the theater, as they are able to envision themselves in another person's shoes and can act out roles by immersing their identity.

Pisceans also find a fulfillment of purpose in self-sacrifice and service, and are often found working in hospitals and institutions, where their healing love for people brings them peace. They are sensitive to the suffering of the world, and by reaching out to help others in need, they uplift the lives of others, as well as their own. A Pisces will also take on responsibilities or entangle themselves in relationships with the best intentions, but often attracting someone with qualities that make the Pisces' efforts seem in vain, such as patterns of abusive lovers or spouses.

Pisces rules the feet, as it is natural that these people learn to experience a grounding effect to keep them aware of the realities of life. It is this very contact with the earth that enables them to be the graceful ballet, choreographer, ballroom dancer or performing arts achievers, who draw us to daydream of the etheric heights. Pisceans also are blessed by their desire to play musical instruments, or the superb vocal qualities that they often possess. No matter what their gift is, a Pisces wants to share it with us to remind us of our origin and true home with our Creator.

Transcendental Merging with Spirit -
Cosmic Consciousness “Other-Worldliness”
(Neptune - Jupiter)
Union to the Creator’s Universal Mind
The Dreamer 
Savior-Martyr
Musician-Dancer 
The Renunciate

Fantasy    Substance Abuses    Cults  Escapism    
Religious Sacrifice    New Age music
Yoga - body work      The Musician - Poet
Reiki

The classic composition "Neptune" by Gustav Holst personifies the Piscean sense of One-ness with the Highest Creative Source/Godhead. 

Mercury Retrograde: Lost Information & time for personal reflection

About four times a year, a 4-6 week occurrence happens in when Mercury goes retrograde: all types of communication go 'unsteady.' It is often observed that papers are misplaced, documents and important transactions are not processed as planned, people often complain that they can't focus or think clearly, appointments are canceled or postponed, hiring decisions are delayed, or other matters of sharing information are cast adrift until that point when Mercury once again regains its position as leader and overtakes the Earth in its orbit. Travel plans go astray more so during a Mercury retro because Mercury rules short trips. 

What's a retrograde? A retrograde indicates an internalization process; influences and actions that would be energized for the planet(s) that are in a retro cycle are slower to manifest:  they are more ‘inside than outside’ and take longer to complete, comprehend, or activate. As a physical happening, this is when the Earth overtakes the other planet in our respective orbits around the Sun (*the other planets also go “retro”; the only one that doesn’t is the Moon)--and it appears that the slower moving one is going 'backwards.' We have all see this while driving on the highway or in trains: the landscape (or vehicle overtaken) looks to be going in reverse.  Of course, that does not really happen, but the optical illusion is there.  Mercury is the fastest moving planet that we know of in its orbit around the Sun: it takes approximately 88 days.

In astrological terms, Mercury represents our capacity to communicate and think, thereby "ruling" (or 'sponsoring') all types of mental activities and delivery of thoughts: written and verbal, as well as contracts, signings of such, and the industries that provide these services (phones, computers, electronics). Which signs get zinged the most? Well, Gemini and Virgo, because they're ruled by Mercury. Not that they're exclusive, but they seem to feel it sooner. The same for Gemini and Virgo moon signs and ascendants.

Has this any good potential--aside from feeling that one has lost his or her mind for a temporary period of time or that it's not appropriate to sign that important paper? Yes: some people find they can actually focus more clearly on a single idea during Mercury retrograde. Some writers (myself included) and people who may be considered hyperactive or ADD may find they can actually do more work on a regimented schedule during a Mercury retrograde. I have found some of my better writing efforts have come during a time frame like this. 

Also, matters that went wrong before but have better potential now for a renewal or second chance may find results during a Mercury retrograde. Sales, "meeting someone again" for the second time to repair or join again in a reunion often works better because it's a "we've done this before" awareness that allows for the subconscious self to blend mind and emotion without trying to out-think the idea on a conscious level. 

Aquarius - Universal Knowledge and Independence of Self

(Just a note:  not ALL the classic social role models ("archetypes") will fit the sign's characteristics--but these are good examples of people who outwardly express the qualities of the sign.)

Aquarius 

(January 21 - February 19)
I Am Unique in order to Liberate Myself and Others

Aquarians are the independent, free-spirited souls of the zodiac, answering to none but their inner voice that makes them unpredictable in thought and behavior. The symbol for Aquarius is a man pouring a pitcher of water onto the earth:  the representation is the water of knowledge that Aquarians pour to share with all mankind.  Thus, Aquarius is NOT a water sign, but an air element because water flows (and air does not readily do this).  Humanitarian endeavors naturally draw an Aquarian. They see no boundaries between social or nationality lines, embracing the brotherhood/sisterhood of the world. Aquarians are friendship-minded and group-oriented, and the agility and ease with which they find new associations, organizations, and ideas to share within those groups are more important than one-to-one relationships.

 The rulership of Uranus makes many Aquarians feel as though they are going through life on a roller coaster, with unexpected turns and upheavals. Anyone who comes into contact with an Aquarian may also be puzzled by their strong, stubborn sense of freedom and independence, as well as their choice to change the rules according to their own whims. Aquarians also display an amazing mental aggressiveness that characterizes air signs. Their thoughts can range from eccentricity to genius, at the same time and depending upon whose opinion is being considered! The changes in gender-identity are Aquarian; they are aware that we are transforming within our existence in the human experience and will eventually reach a level where there is no need for gender assignment or specification. This is a variable that exists in some but not all other planetary physical lifeforms, but is recognized and accepted. Aquarians have the capacity to live-in-the-moment but be aware of social patterns and trends that go decades or even centuries beyond the current times.

 The Aquarian phrase is "I Know," and they are quite honest in their confidence that much of the knowledge of the universe is accessible for them. Aquarians must have their sense of freedom to explore their need for change and new, exciting ideas to share with others. They can detach from commitments at a moment's notice without a need to explain, making them seem cold and distant. They can remain loyal to those with whom they feel worthy of attention, but mental challenge and intellectual rapport are critical to keeping them interested.  Aquarians also enjoy the determination and stubbornness that is typical of fixed signs. They can make dedicated workers, as long as their effort leads to the benefit of a group effort.

 Aquarians also share the rulership of Saturn, which lends a grounding effect to their sudden and erratic actions, as well as a desire to follow through to completion a disciplined end to what they have started. Aquarius also rules the world of electronics, radio communications and new inventions. Many Aquarians find great enthusiasm with the world of video or computers and their accessories.

 Aquarius rules the electrical aura of the body, as well as the ankles and shins. They often enjoy activities that challenge them with the physical use of their legs, such as swimming, biking, or skating. They are also prone to a loss of heat in their circulatory system when they have emotional upset or other illnesses weaken them.

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Brother/Sisterhood - Universal Knowledge and Thinking (Uranus - Saturn)
Independence & Originality - Eccentricity
Social Unity
The Humanitarian
“Different Drummer”

The Social Rebel  The Genius    Social Revolution
The 60’s  The Grateful Dead band

George Sand   Edison - Tesla   Einstein - Physics
Facebook and other social media  

The Matrix Trilogy

 The classic composition "Uranus, the Magician" by Gustav Holst represents the quirkiness of Aquarius.

(c) MDLOP8 2010

Venus in Capricorn: Love of Tangible Existence and the Existence of Love

This is about the strongest force in Universal Awareness--but brought down to a micro-level. We all think about Divine Inspiration with many special deified names according to our faith. That's fine as a concept; it's the foundation of this essay.

Because I want to use that concept as a baseline; I want it to be the framework. And I want to then juxtapose that idea into an astrological term: Venus in Capricorn. 

We have all heard about Love from our earliest days when we began to comprehend words. It was one of the most-often repeated phrases in our young lives, and it has been a powerful base of function thereafter. But what is Love on a Micro level?

The answer is Gravity: the very binding force of Nature that draws together two objects to each other. In the micro world, this is represented by the most basic pairing of atoms: two in a terrific force of attraction to each other. This is gravity: the sensational pull of two; one for each other. This is also the micro representation of Love: two atoms bound to each other. Gravity is Love in its smallest form on a planetary level. On a human level, we experience it as romantic love, but it's also biological too. (Carbon-based life form, high density, low spirituality level.)

On an astrological level, this is the highest level of Venus in Capricorn: a Love that Endures, Persists, Builds, Creates, Manifests, and Establishes precedence of Existence. “By My Existence and Force of Power, I Attract a Likeness to Me,” says Venus in Capricorn. “I Must Create a Legacy” by complimentary energy and nature; I must draw to me that which is harmonious in structure to my reality and existence to be the bedrock starting point of Life: like two atoms are drawn together.
This is the beauty of Venus in Capricorn: a determined effort to draw and create an energy force of “Like Attracts Like” with magnetic power; the smallest vibration of a union that is both a blend but also a separate measure together-but-apart: two atoms, both independent but joined, and not fused.

 (Fusion is nuclear; that is what creates chemical patterns of potential life.) Venus in Capricorn, representing the building blocks of gravity as an explanation for the attraction of atomic particles to each other as a means of physical manifestation in lower-dimensional structures of life-form existence, is purely represented in its strongest and basic concept as Love of Tangible Existence: Venus in Capricorn, as was, as will always be.

(C) MDLOP8 2013

Holst: Venus, the Bringer of Peace (and Enjoyment)

The joyfulness and sweetness of Venus, the Bringer of Pleasure and Love, and ruler of Taurus and Libra.

Venus in Capricorn: Love is a Working Relationship built by effort (or money)

With Venus in Capricorn, you can plan (a key word) for hard work, effort, persistence, and purpose to achieve a Relationship Worth Keeping. Venus is interested in either love or money, and if one comes with the other, so much the better. If you're hoping to win over someone who is looking for wealth and happiness in one package (and you qualify), now is your time.

    Often considered a cold placement, Venus here does have a practical side: there is the ability to repress emotions and feelings, but this can also be warmed up quite nicely in a romantic endeavor. And that's the difference when Venus transits through Capricorn: this is a time to win over personal and professional connections and show some business thinking. It's an excellent time to purchase items that have high value and historical legacy. 

    An excellent place to meet your special new love while Venus is in Capricorn: the corporate area (if you're allowed to mingle and not upset the human resources office). Also consider the ski slopes, or on a hiking tour: Venus in Capricorn will be at the high peaks looking for love. 

And just in case you're inclined or partial to the country, look for a farm girl who is wholesome, sincere, sweet, industrious, and good with animals. She's also a Venus in Capricorn type and attuned to Venus in an earthy way--and very well at home running things alongside you. 

Holst: The Planets - Uranus, the Magician

The German musical letters in Holst’s name G, Es, A H (G, E flat, A, B) are announced like powerful incantation on the trumpets and trombones (Holst’s own instrument). Out of the resigned serenity of Saturn. Holst bursts with confidence, enthusiasm, humour and originality. 
In astrology Uranus governs the forces we cannot see or understand and is illogical and erratic, but also it has a passionate energy not too dissimilar to Mars. All this can be heard and felt in this wonderful but powerfully extrovert movement. -Words by Raymond Head

Magi astrology synastry & Chiron's Key to Love, Romance, & Prosperity

The Magi astrology system of Love, Romance, Success, Prosperity, Longevity in relationships and marriage, and Happiness Together:

Synastry techniques

 Chiron represents the kind of person we want in a committed relationship, and also our outcome for family, children, and happiness in a partnership or marriage setting. This is the key focal point. Juno is about sexuality and commitment; She represents the Ideal Life Partner quality that we seek and what we offer in return.

The Magi system uses very narrow arcs of aspect from the major planets to/from Chiron, the Master Comet. Magi Planets are the basic 9 (with Pluto) and only specific asteroids.

Tight aspects are the key: 3 degrees for squares & oppositions (challenges), and conjunctions and trines (opportunities), and also the inconjunct/quincunx. Remember that squares and oppositions are flat-out “No!” indicators because they’re stressful. However, the quincunx, even though it’s an irritation, is also an enticement! (One exception: if it’s formed from Saturn—then it’s a more severe “No!” In fact, Saturn challenges are the worst, although the opportunities are neutral.) And no: sextiles are not acceptable in the Magi system.

Once again: it’s the conjunction & trine vs. the square and opposition, and the quincunx USUALLY supports a positive outcome (unless Saturn is the planet of contact with Chiron). Trines and conjunctions (and the odd inconjuncts, excepting Saturn, as noted) from the major planets to Chiron are joyful, harmonious, and promising: love, marriage, family, success, acclaim, adventure, bonding, and more.

Challenges from the Sun are about Trust; Challenges from the Moon involve emotional attachments and past-life memories; Mercury challenges are about communications and exchanges of ideas and views; Venus challenges are "The Impossible Dream" that we can't let go; Mars conflicts involve tempers. anger management, and a lack of emotional sensitivity.

Jupiter challenges are actually reasonable in Magi astrology--it's not bad, but it's not necessarily a boost. Saturn challenges are dead-ends: effort is futile and a potential ultimate disaster if pursued. Uranus conflicts are explosive: the family and friends circles know there's a problem, and they often are outspoken about the toll it takes on you. Neptune conflicts seem wonderful at first, and then fade away into dissatisfaction and departure. Pluto challenges start strong with a powerful attraction, then deteriorate at a rapid pace. Control and power are issues here.

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Chiron and the Sun’s Self-Identity and Soul Purpose: This is a positive outcome. It’s a Linkage (success): a special one that usually creates mutual trust, especially on the part of the Chiron person. For that reason, this is called the Linkage of Trust. Another result is great ease when the linked persons are in physical proximity, or even just conversing on the phone. Linked persons view each other as confidants, a part of the family, and long-term partners. The Higher level of Trust also means they need to be aware of each other’s faults and be honest about it.

Chiron and the Moon’s Emotional Intuition: A Chiron-Moon harmonious energy flow creates the intuitive feeling of having known another person in a previous life—often a sign of “love at first sight,” especially for the Chiron person.

Chiron and Mercury’s Communications Network:

Positive energy patterns are excellent for improving the ability (and desire) for two people to be able to effortlessly communicate with each other and have mutual intuitive understanding. It is a very beneficial connection, especially for the woman in the relationship, as females are naturally more aware of needing to talk over matters. In this case, it raises intuitive possibilities and the ability to “read each other’s minds” in a useful manner.

Chiron and Venus, the Bringer of Love, Pleasure, and Beauty/Enjoyment: This is a Magical Linkage, and a Golden Linkage for Success, and is singularly the most powerful and beneficial linkage that two persons can have. It is also a Romance Linkage and a Cinderella Linkage. It brings Combined Destinies, the uniting of futures, becoming one family, money as partners, joining forces, a lifelong relationship, and a charismatic relationship. If this is formed with someone, chances are very high that each will help the other. This linkage greatly improves the chances of marriage with the linked person. This is the strongest of all linkages and helps form enduring bonds. It has almost mystical influences and seems to help the linked persons in anything they do as a pair.

Chiron and Mars, the Male Energy Polarity: This is a strong sexual generator for the man in a relationship, but a woman will want a family with the man who brings this power to her life. In terms of attraction that leads to marriage, the Chiron-Mars connection often creates a level of attraction that is impossible to ignore. It is the one and only Marital Sexual factor where the man will often marry the linked woman.

Chiron and Jupiter, the Bringer of Fortune & Opportunities: This is a 3-way joyfully energetic and positive energy pattern when found in harmonious conditions; it brings Romance, Financial and Material Gain, and a Cinderella-Fantasy. Aside from the Venus-Chiron linkage, it is the most beneficial and powerful energy source that can be found: combined super success, a blessed marriage and relationship, a fortunate family, success as partners, and mutual prosperity by association with each other—“the treasure at the end of the rainbow.”

Chiron and Saturn, the Taskmaster of Life Lessons: This creates a very strong bond; usually the Saturn soul has a high level of control and discipline over the destiny of the Chiron person, and thereby has the upper hand in the overall relationship. It is neither negative nor positive regarding outcomes. Marriage between two people with this linkage is possible if there are also Romantic connections in the Magi system (Venus, Jupiter, or Neptune with Chiron).

Chiron and Uranus, the Surprising and Unexpected: This linkage is powerful in providing mutual respect and combined public acclaim and success. It brings a famous and charismatic partnership or career, and mutually magnified success.

Chiron and Neptune, the Mystical-Fantasy Figure: The harmonious energy patterns are a Lifetime Linkage and a Cinderella Linkage. This is also one of the connections that creates very lasting relationships. It is also a Romantic Linkage and the third most common connection among married couples. It brings a lifetime of togetherness, a lasting role as a member of the family, security in the family bonding and family life, and long-term security through marriage and children.

Chiron and Pluto, the Powerhouse of Personal Change: This is a Financial Linkage of Gain and Prosperity, a combined union of power and success, a prosperous and powerful partnership or marriage, noteworthy affluence, and compelling and effective family ties and emotional relationships. 

Steven Forrest discusses the 2nd Saturn Return

Master astrologer Steven Forrest discusses the 2nd Saturn return that arrives between age 59-60 and heralds the end of mid-life and the lessons ahead. This is a vital part of the Life Cycle and a very significant story to hear.

Venus in Sagittarius: Love in the Right Places and Open Spaces

When Venus prepares to make Her grand entrance into Sagittarius, we can expect more "Jupiterian" opportunities for love: perhaps some personal growth in our relationships and partnerships, or something (or someone) who brings "higher Truths and Wisdom" to our eyes (and senses). Because Venus Herself said "I do what with whom I want," we could also expect that a partner may say "I'd like to be more expansive and indulgent with myself in some pleasurable way." (Your imagination does not need suggestions if you have a swinging lifestyle already.)

Where would one find Venus in Sagittarius (aside from the bedroom)? Perhaps love or just enjoying social connections or making new ones in places like universities, colleges, religious retreats, ashrams, houses of worship, in legal studies or advisement, at the casino (Sagittarius likes to bet big--see you at the baccarat table, Mr. Bond, or at the Las Vegas Million-Dollar Poker stakes); publishing that steamy romance novel that you've always known is more autobiographical than you want to admit until now.

Or...because Sagittarius is the sign of the Centaur, perhaps you may consider looking for love at the horse races, or even (if you're in the right crowd) at the polo matches. Since running is also a Sagittarian sport, perhaps the track & field events or even at the cricket matches. 

Oh. One last thing: since our Venus-in-Sagittarius theme is Lady Godiva, a suggestion: if you ARE looking for love in an equestrian environment, may I suggest that proper attire be the rule? Saddle up, I say, and ride--perhaps (cough) reverse-cowgirl-style?!

Personal Boundaries in the Zodiac

I was recently asked about a comment I made that "Scorpios and Virgos are similar in nature." To explain further, I replied, "It's a way that Scorpios and Virgos have about obsession, actually. Virgo has it for maintaining order in their life--or someone else's--and Scorpio about letting someone else INTO their life. All about control."

The Rolling Stones had a song, “Get Off of My Cloud.” ESPECIALLY for those in intimate and professional relationships, as well as how we conduct ourselves, we are all learning about “personal space.” This is especially so for anyone with 2nd house planets, and more so for personal ones (Sun-Moon-Mercury-Venus-Mars). But this also goes for 7th and 8th house planets: and within those houses, add in Saturn for structure, Uranus for unwillingness to yield to social formalities, Neptune for lack of clarity and personal discernment, and Pluto for control and power. The 4 major asteroids can also be factors too: willingness to bend and yield to a partner (Vesta) as a personal sacrifice of Self; Juno's expectations of commitment; Pallas Athena's sense of championing the less fortunate and also stretching gender roles, and Ceres' ways of caring and extending nurturing.

How we respect and learn our self-value of “being me” and also recognizing the same for others is a significant lesson that we are learning. Each sign has its own potential realization of saying to others (and also to the Self) that “These are MY boundaries.”

So how do other signs handle personal space and respecting (or not) those of others?  Generally speaking--and this is not specifying EVERYONE in any sign:

(1) Aries will run right over someone's space. "You talking to ME?! No, I'm NOT being insensitive--you're just not motivated enough. Here, let me show you...."
(2) Taurus thinks whatever they have (or someone else has) belongs to them: "Well, I want it--therefore, I should have it."
(3) Gemini tries to slip past mental barriers with "I'm curious about something you said/think. Why, no, I'm not being nosy--I was just wondering...."
(4) Cancer tries to protect their own sensitivity because they can sense so much about other people's feelings (boundaries): "You don't care how I feel! Go ahead and hurt me--you'll be sorry for it."
(5) Leo just wants to have recognition for their own boundaries; no one else matters as much: "How DARE you defy me? Don't you know how important I am?"
(6) Virgo...well..."EVERYTHING has its proper place and space! Make sure you know where mine are and what I expect of you!"
(7) Libra wants to be sure everyone's boundaries are respected and equal: "All is Fair in Love and War. But if it keeps us from arguing...I agree."
(8) Scorpio will kill anyone who gets too close to a personal boundary: "None of your damned business! And who asked you anyway?"
(9) Sagittarius wants to expand their boundaries (and that of others): "The bigger, the better! You would gain something from me anyway."
(10) Capricorn wants to use their boundaries for gain or success at the expense of others: "I can use this to my advantage--especially if you don't know my intentions and goals."
(11) Aquarius hides within the Collective Group boundaries and avoids commitment: "If you can't see or find me, I'm not required to validate my boundaries. Besides, I might change my view of them without explaining why."
(12) Pisces just doesn't know boundaries; they're too "far out" to maintain them: "Oh, it doesn't matter anyway. This just isn't reality--so go ahead with whatever it is you want. I'll find some way of adjusting."

Neptune transiting the 1st house: "Reality has just left the building"

One of the hardest transits I’ve had to explain to a client is a Neptunian transit—especially when it’s a first-house event. It’s a long-term State of Confusion—and reality has gone on an extended vacation. Being an Outer Planet, Neptunian transits last for years. When this appears in a first-house position, and with the time that Neptune spends in retrograde again and again over time, it can feel like a lifetime has gone haywire for eternity. The Escher image can be somewhat helpful as a visual: "That doesn't make sense, but that's how I see things now." The body becomes more sensitive than ever to external influences, especially those which can cloud the mind, emotions, and thinking processes. Chemicals and substance indulgences can be especially hard to manage now, and their effects can be more debilitating when the individual is not aware of dosage or quantity.
Even worse, when these are used for escapism and “getting away from a world gone crazy,” the results can be staggering, both literally and figuratively. But with all transits, there are hopeful and meaningful Life Lessons. A Neptune first house transit can bring heightened levels of spirituality, sensitivity, and inspiration, especially if it brings energy to Venus or Jupiter, and if well controlled, to Uranus. (That is, if Uranus is managed well by natal aspect.)
Artists, musicians, and creative writers may find a Neptune first house transit to be helpful for their craft, and healers and spiritual-religious teachers may also find new levels of attunement with their values and beliefs. But the first house is an angular one (distributing significant amounts of attention for the individual’s personality and self-identity/image that society-at-large notices). In the case of a Neptunian transit here, there is a possibility that the other three angular houses (4th, 7th, and 10th) will feel an impact, especially if personal planets (Sun-Moon-Mercury-Venus-Mars) are placed in any of them. Even Saturn’s rigidness can be confused by Neptune, especially if the Taskmaster of Karma is natally positioned in one of those houses.
Imagine how unstabilizing a Neptune challenge can be to a 4th house position of Saturn—and the home environment slowly-but-surely comes undone to all that structure and discipline. Or consider a 7th house Saturn—and a Neptune opposition makes for all kinds of “is this truly a relationship worth keeping, or am I fooling myself—or being fooled in return?”
A 10th house natal Saturn would also suffer from a loss of foundation and long-term planning if Neptune crosses it via an uncomfortable squaring transit—and all that job security and effort might just be disregarded when someone decides to leave an established career and live as Henry David Thoreau on Walden Pond. And that’s nothing compared to Pluto positioned in the 4th/7th/10th with a Neptune square or opposition (or even conjunction): “My power, control, and domination have come undone: I’m Humpty Dumpty, and I’ve fallen off the wall and my shell has been shattered! How do I pick up the pieces and make sense of my life again?”
 Robert Hand says, “For the next several years, you will be changing your ways of interacting with other people. During this period, self-knowledge is difficult but essential. It is difficult because you will constantly be presented with new aspects of yourself as others see you, and you will try and incorporate what they see into your view of yourself. This is nearly impossible, however, because you are going through a chameleon phase to which you quite unintentionally present a wide variety of faces to people.
“It is essential that you know yourself during this transit, precisely because others will not know you clearly. You have to learn who you are in your own terms and to recognize that the way you project your personality to others is not the true inner you. It is only the aspect of yourself by which you relate to people. “The changes you are undergoing at this time may confuse you and certainly will confuse others.
Consequently, your relationships may become quite difficult because the people you attract relate only to the currently projected image of yourself, not your real needs. And just as you may confuse and delude others, perhaps inadvertently, they may do the same to you. Be wary of getting caught up in weird schemes and projects that others propose. Your sense of reality is not at its best during these years.
“You may also operate very idealistically during this period, acting on the basis of what you want to be true rather than what is true. You may get involved with very idealistic projects that have little basis in reality, with unfortunate results. “Another effect of this transit may be to stimulate your compassion for others. You may take care of someone you love who needs help, or you may want to work in groups with others for people who need help. There is a tendency to want to save others under this transit’s influence.
But avoid having people become improperly dependent on you, for that may prevent them from fully realizing themselves. You may also want to seek out someone who can help you during these years. In your confusion, you may become demoralized and feel that you are a totally unworthy individual. Or you may look to someone who seems stronger in order for you to be sustained by his or her strength. The chief problem with this is that you may become permanently dependent on him or her.”

Pluto transiting the 1st House: The Food Grinder of Life into Rebirth

Every week, there's a new business email request for advice: "Mitch, help! My life is under so much pressure! I'm not myself anymore! What's going on--and how long will this last?" 

Well, when the origin of this kind of stress is Pluto, all I can say is "A long time." And when it's placed by transit in the client's first house of Personality, Public Image, and Outward Expression of the psyche, all I can offer is the advice that "Yes, you're hurting--because you're being Transformed, Re-designed, and Rebuilt in ways that you can't yet understand--but the results will be amazing when the process is over. It's the Phoenix Principle all over again--but now you're getting it from up-down-forwards-backwards." It's what I call "Being thrown into the Food Grinder of Life": what comes out is a whole new look of the psyche and someone's physical being as well.

This transit, especially as it's Plutonian, will last for years--and if there's an interception in the first house, MANY years--and possibly for two decades or so. It also impacts (as the first house is an angular house, or area of Major Life Experience and Emphasis), the other three angular houses: the 4th (Home Environment), the 7th (Personal and Business Relationships), and the 10th (Career and Status).

I also consider a Pluto 1st house transit to be the quintessential "metamorphic" energy dynamic. Then again, if one desires diamonds, then there's got to be pressure applied to a lump of coal. In this case, it's the individual client who is now finding him or herself to be made of carbon. Hopefully, he or she will find themselves shining with brilliant value from within and externally as a "new person" when the transit has long passed.
With Pluto in the 1^st, into the grinder of Transformation, Change, Regeneration, Rebuilding, and Reconstruction we—or you--go!  The way you feel about yourself, and the image you project to the outer world will change radically. Your need to be in control of yourself and of your environment will also change, and you may find that your lifestyle alters considerably under this transit.

I would think of this transit as being caught in a vise, or slowly sanding off the rough edges on a huge carved statue—this definitely impacts the physical form; the body (human, or redesigning a corporate image if this is a business entity—a logo modification or new design?). What the world perceives about us is transformed as our appearance undergoes a change. 

Plastic surgery, having growths removed, applying artistic designs such as tattoos—and mental endeavors such as adapting a new persona and way of presenting oneself are potential 1^st house Pluto activities. This is also a time when ‘animal magnetism’ and sexual energy becomes stronger because Pluto will enhance a sense of radiant power.  No matter how it personally is internalized, on an outward manifestation, a 1^st house Pluto transit will “remodel” the receiver in some long-term fashion or manner.  An awareness of dynamic potential surrounds the individual like an aura.  I like to think of the caterpillar shedding its skin, or even snakes—and they’re Plutonian for that reason. 

This gives greater control over unconscious drives that have instigated compulsions and irrational impulses.  An individual will gradually become aware of the circumstances that have shaped him or herself.  As noted above, personality traits are more in line and there is greater opportunity to “remake” one’s image.  Actors or actresses who take on new and different roles would be a good visual image.  Physical practices may be undertaken to transform the body, such as yoga, Tai Chi, Pilates, or other movement forms.  Reiki sessions, massage, shiatsu, and Jin Shin Jyutsu are excellent therapies to consider.

Power trips and control can become more open and noticeable during a Pluto-1^st transit regarding your personality and how you approach the world. The possibilities for change are open: the choices are for greater or lesser, for better or worse. 

Astrological Poetry Part II

For those moments when I'm thinking of things astrological but not looking at charts, I sometimes find my fingers working on a keyboard without my control--sort of automatic writing--which is part of being a medium. No, not the size; a "medium," or someone who can communicate with souls who have died. That goes along with my 8th house Sun in Aries. In this case, the second poem flew right out of me without pause--and I realized the identity of the receiver and myself as well. Bonus points if you can guess who's who.  

(She had posted a personals ad on Yahoo!—and I was interested. I could tell from her information she was also an Aries—but I didn’t know her birthdate—which I could use as an astrologer to immediately give me more knowledge of her qualities.  I used the topics she included to successfully narrow it down within two days. 
She also refused a second date.)

"An Astrologer's Plea"

Upon this Earth
Thy day of birth
Was ascribed to thee.
Would’st  thou mind
And be so kind
To render such to me?
I know it not;
There is no plot,
And thus I say by letter.
Would you do so
And help me know
To understand you better?
The real key
Which I can’t see
Becomes the exact time.
And so on wings
Of written things
I say these words in rhyme

And then there was the girl who wanted to learn astrology:

"Star Light, in sight" (for Alix Bogart)

In a time quite long ago
You were one who yearned to know
The secrets of the Universe
A person who was sometimes terse.
With someone else who loved to ponder
Things that happened here and yonder.
Both of us would wonder why
Things occurred up in the sky.
And further out; we tried to see
Splendid things that seem to be
Hidden from the average soul
To learn them all became our goal.
I was one who had intentions
Make good use: my mind’s inventions.
You would read and contemplate;
Between us two, we did debate.
Others thoughts in ancient Greek
We scientists did learn to speak.
Powdered wigs upon our head
We challenged what each other said.
You have returned; I’m glad to see
Your name, I think is known to me.
But who I was, I’ll let you guess,
But worry not, nor feel duress.
I told you then of what I know
And now I see ingrained to show.
You did not know the thoughts I shared
But I am glad to see you cared.
Enough to wish to learn them now
I’m back again; I’ll show you how.
But be of cheer; you made your claim
And what you found has kept your name.
It does appear: it seems to burn
Samuel Clemens: he did learn
That when it came to see his birth
He knew his time allowed on Earth.
So solve this riddle and you’ll see
Identities: both you and me.
The Guiding Stars will tell the clue
The hint of what I said to you:
“I studied it (our tempers hot);
I know it, Sir, but you do not.”

Gustav Holst, Op. 32 - "Mercury, the Messenger"

Gustav Holst's "Mercury." from The Planets. 

Astrological Fear of Success leads to Self-Undoing

Do you know someone who is afraid of accomplishment?  How about someone whose astrological patterns show "a fear of success" or "a rejection of Life Challenges": someone who subconsciously attracts or manifests conditions which sabotages his/her life (or that of someone in collaboration) so that plans go astray in spite of the best intentions or desires. Or they express desire for happiness, but the fear of "the unknown" and its potential for growing past and through life challenges makes them reject opportunities that would otherwise bring them wisdom.

It's as if they generate a force field of Mercury/Mars retrograde in their lives. These actions are externalized through others, especially key family members, in the form of illness, accident, and other forms of controlled chaos.  Each time a plan is set or about to be implemented, someone close to the subject has an event upon which the subject then postpones, cancels, or delays whatever he/she was going to activate, again, with a second party's involvement.  (Hence, the Mars/Mercury retrograde parallel.)  I've known Crabs who do this with controlled helplessness, but this is slightly different: the subject DOES want to move forward or activate a project or goal, but is too emotionally caught up in the lives of others.

I believe there are patterns which may be clues: the moon in a water sign (especially Cancer) with Mars in tight or inharmonious aspect (conjunction, square, opposition--or even quincunx); Capricorn ascendant (I've seen this twice--they were content to be "tethered goats), and a cardinal sign Sun (or the cusp of Cancer-Leo: the Lion for dramatic effort).  The Aries sun type WANTS to initiate or activate, but keeps being sidetracked; the Libra type is too caught up in relationship issues, including co-dependency. And the Capricorn ambition to achieve is legendary; in this case, the objective (or mountain top) that is never reached.

I've also seen this with personal planets (Sun, Moon, Mercury, Venus, and Mars) in the 12th house--especially in water signs. (The individual gets so emotionally caught up in decision-making that they can't get going. Try telling a Mars in Pisces 12th house to take action! "On your mark, get set...{sink to the bottom!}"

A Jupiter/Saturn opposition or--believe it or not--the conjunction--can also indicate this: the person has great large-scale ideas (Jupiter), but is frustrated (or worried) about achieving them (Saturn). I call that aspect "driving with one foot on the gas and the other on the brake pedal." On the other hand, this could also indicate someone who DOES achieve in spite of obstacles or delays.

Again, psychological astrology looks at the individual and offers options: there is not a "you will do this" condition, but rather a set of choices.  Success or frustration is one example of how and why psychological astrology shows us the way we open or close the doors in our lives.