MONTHLY SINCE 1999
ISSUE # 247

February 2020

Note: All aspects are most powerful and effective as they apply. Once the transit has completed, its force is lessened. The further it separates the weaker it becomes.

AUTHOR’S NOTES:

As we edge ever closer to the 2020 election some things have become clear. As most of us know, impeachment probably won’t result in the removal of Trump from office – we never have done that in our history, and the balance of power in the Senate remains what it is. Still it isn’t a useless or impotent gesture as some would have you believe. It is a vivid and loud shout from the “people’s house” that may fall upon many deaf ears, but if it changes just enough minds it will have a massive effect in November. Another thing that is obvious is that it isn’t just the president that is on trial, it is the presidency. The office has grown in power beyond what any one person should have, and as Trump has clearly shown, that power has made the person almost out of reach. If this lesson isn’t learned and he is reelected there will simply be no recourse against any abuse of power for someone in the oval office. It will have become a de facto dictatorship with no checks or balances.

It is the very definition of the presidency that must be changed or this will continue and happen again. The founding fathers were very smart people. They built a constitution with the ability to grow and change as our society changed. Judge them for the times they lived in. Yes, they made mistakes. The human race is flawed and fragile. But they allowed for amendments to that great work so we could adjust it as the centuries go by. We have used that surprisingly quite sparingly in our 240 years, but each amendment was huge in its importance. We need to convene a constitutional congress and once again repair the tears in our collective clothing. Trump has done what no other president has been able to do. He has altered the job so much through his narcissism and irreverence that it can no longer stand as it is. The office of the presidency itself must be altered. And no single election will do much more than install another person who may or may not fit your personal perspective.

Mercury will retrograde on February 16^th while this impeachment trial is going on. That will muddle the waters, slow things down and possibly reverse some decisions and alter the outcome. No matter what it does it will demand that we take a moment to think this all through no matter what your preconceived ideas are.

If you’d like to see the astrological connect of Trump’s chart and America’s I recently did a webinar for the national chapter of the NCGR.
Below is a link to the youtube broadcast. Please visit and enjoy.

LINK TO THE YOUTUBE WEBINAR:

https://youtu.be/Ked-8qAPmss

 

NEW MOON:

The New Moon falls on Friday January 24^th at 4:42 P.M. EST at 4 degrees Aquarius 22 minutes. All New Moons offer us an opportunity for a new start, a refresh of the projects, relationships and ideas we have been working through. Of course, just because this monthly lunar aspect occurs doesn’t mean that we will suddenly change our basic nature, or be able to leap into a new life. It’s not that easy. Real change takes time and begins within our consciousness and then manifests in the outside world. So don’t expect massive alterations in your nature. But miracles come to us often, if we’re able and willing to see them as such. I consider astrology a phenomenon and marvel of sorts. The fact that I can look at a piece of paper and tell someone I have never met thousands of miles away what is going on in their life, or where their medical issues originate and how best to approach the healing process is, in my opinion, nothing short of a miracle. As I said, we see all sorts of wonders in our world. But we have become jaded and inundated with so much input in a life filled with artificial spectacles and unrealistic expectations that much of the wonder of life has been lost in our modern world.

Of all the New Moons the Aquarian may be the most wondrous of them all. This is a chance to explore new ideas even more so than on most New Moons. It’s a bit erratic and unpredictable (a word astrologers hate, by the way) and it offers us a different perspective. It’s a time to consider changing your direction or taking a new path forward. Often this will begin in the unconscious and then manifest in weeks or even months. But if you look back you will realize that is was on this energy that you made the choice.

Because this is such a radical and changeable moment we may be shocked at some of the events that occur this month. This may manifest in your own life, or in the political and world stage. I expect that we will be some surprises in this impeachment trial. I don’t expect the Republicans to suddenly throw themselves on the sword, but there could be cracks in the wall that will eventually lead to a few discovering their conscience. Only time will tell. The stock markets are insane at the moment, and they are ready for a big correction. But that will only be a tease to what I expect next year. I’ve been lecturing anywhere I can and warning that we are heading for a serious crash. This month we may get just a taste of what’s to come. But it will be enough to convince some that I’m not out of my mind and to consider a more cautious approach to investing. Let’s see what happens.

Also I think that Trump is finally stepping over some lines that can no longer be tolerated no matter what party you are affiliated with. His destruction of the EPA and the rollback of most of Obama’s restrictions on pollution are dangerous and stupid, and much of the country will suffer as their stream, rivers, lakes and wetlands are destroyed beyond repair. I don’t care how much you like the DOW numbers (as manipulated as they are), what the hell good will your 401K do you if you are drinking polluted water and can’t go to your favorite vacation spot because this guy has decided that the coal, oil and BIG AG companies have more rights than the citizens of our nation. Enough is enough!!! And the fact that he has made this announcement now simply shows his disdain for public opinion and his feeling that he is a dictator and needs answer to no one. God help our nation and our children.

 

VENUS SQUARES MARS:

On Sunday January 26^th at 8:37 P.M. EST this square begins a few days of tense interaction between the sexes. Whenever the male and female planets are in conflict it implies a day or so of some stress and difficulty interacting. This doesn’t mean that all men and women will be fighting. Most will not even notice this energy. It will be more prominent in close relationships, either intimate physical ones or close friendships, where there is much at stake. But with Neptune part of this aspect, conjunct Venus and in square to Mars, there will be an underlying confusion and a fog around how we interact with each other. My advice is not to pay attention to the little things and to find a way to ignore or work through any minor disagreements. The important issues should be attended to so that they do not fester, as is Neptune’s usual influence. That planet rules infections of all sorts, including viral or bacterial, as well as psychological or spiritual. The way that we heal any infection is to bring it to the surface and expunge it from the system. If not, it can linger and grow exponentially. Bring any misunderstandings into the light and clear them up quickly.

 

VENUS CONJUNCTS NEPTUNE:

On Monday January 27^th at 3:01 P.M. EST the conjunct continues the energy I mentioned in yesterday’s post. This is a difficult aspect that will put a fog over many issues involving relationships and financial matters. When Neptune is active on the inner planets you cannot count on things being as they seem. This often has a negative effect on the equity markets, but as with all things Neptunian you really can’t know which way they will go. With the square to Mars occurring early tomorrow morning I wouldn’t be surprised with a big downturn in the stocks. Because of the ongoing concern about the Coronavirus (Neptune’s domain) in China any new scares will weigh heavily on the financial markets. In your personal relationships it’s very important that you clear the air about any misunderstandings and deal with the spiritual and empathetic side of Neptune. A kind word or an understanding attitude will go a long way.

 

MARS SQUARES NEPTUNE:

On Tuesday January 28^th at 5:35 A.M. EST this very difficult square will add to the ongoing Venus – Mars – Neptune energy we are dealing with. This can be a very low energy few days as Mars, the ruler of the ego, physical energy and assertiveness is weakened by Neptune’s lethargic sense. This can also be a fearful aspect as we all feel that dip in energy and confidence. Just to put it in perspective America has this square in our natal chart and we can be a very fearful nation, spending more on overbuilding a military than on any other program. Also, we have had a “war” (Mars) on drugs (Neptune) for half a century with no real achievement. That shows the force of this square in our national consciousness.

With Venus also conjunct Neptune I would expect a bad week for the markets. Because of the heavy Neptune energy things will not be as they seem. This doesn’t have to be difficult for you as long as you stay in the moment and allow your more spiritual side to emerge. These aspects do the most damage when we fight against the stream. If you can go with it and bend accordingly it may be a light-hearted few days when we may drink a little too much wine or indulge in other forms of change in perception. Be careful and don’t let your ego rule your common sense.

 

MERCURY ENTERS PISCES:

On Thursday February 3^rd at 6:38 P.M. EST until Wednesday March 4^th at 6:08 A.M. EST the planet that rules our thoughts, speech and reasoning abilities will travel through this Neptune-ruled sign. This is not the most realistic of placements and it would be wise to clarify things and not assume that you understand exactly what is being said. You must double check all paperwork and contracts or you could easily miss some small point that could cost you dearly in the future. Mercury will retrograde in this sign on February 18^th, and that will increase the need for attention to details. This can be a very pleasant transit that can be calming on your mind and nerves, but only if you are in a position of stability and can relax into this transit. With too much on your mind or vital issues that require a great deal of mental activity it may be hard to enjoy a day in nature if you’re worried about something that may or may not be within your power to change.

 

MERCURY SEXTILES URANUS:

On Wednesday February 5^th at 4:43 A.M. EST this exciting and stimulating aspect will increase our mental activity. If this is used properly you could work through some problem or gain a deep understanding of some issues. But with Mercury in Pisces you still must be vigilant and keep a realistic and clear head. Thoughts and ideas will come at a fast pace and you may not be able to keep up. But if you can the rewards will be stimulating and you could find yourself walking down a new road.

 

VENUS ENTERS ARIES:

On Friday February 7^th at 3:03 P.M. EST Venus enters this Mars ruled sign. This implies that many of us will be more assertive or even aggressive in our most intimate dealings with a lover or friend. If you tend to be shy, this may help you express your feelings in a more direct fashion than usual. Just don’t overdo it or you could scare someone away. A good balance between forwardness and gentleness will work well now. With the Martian energy in control you should expect an assertive attitude from our nearest and dearest. Be prepared and

 

FULL MOON:

This month’s lunar peak occurs on Sunday February 9^th at 2:33 A.M. EST at 20 degrees Leo 00 minutes. The Leo Full Moons are notorious for their showiness. We have had some serious snowstorms on this aspect in the past number of years. Whether we have one this year or not, you can expect that there will be a grand show put on by the world. Leo rules the stage and acting in general. And as some obscure guy once said: “All the world’s a stage and all the men and women merely players…” Has that ever been truer than right now? We have a world where the president of the U.S. is a half-assed reality TV star. Zelensky, the president of Ukraine was a TV actor before being elected in a landslide. But this isn’t something new. Here are just a few of the dozens of show biz people who have held office. Ronald Reagan, Al Franken, Shirley Temple Black, Sonny Bono, Clint Eastwood, George Murphy, Arnold Schwarzenegger, and so on. The list is extensive. This is a roundabout way of saying that we are in the midst of a grand comedy in Washington, though the underlying issues are all too serious. We may see some explosive event or confrontation around this lunar aspect. I wouldn’t turn away. You’re seeing history in the making no matter what the outcome.

On this Full Moon you can expect some histrionics on a personal level as the more dramatic side of many personalities come out. Keep that in mind as you approach your close relationships and don’t get caught up in the action or take things too seriously. Let the actors play their roles but don’t take it too much to heart until the final curtain. All Full Moons are over the top, and they each have their personality. Leos don’t back down. They stand like the king of the jungle and roar their disapproval while stalking their prey. Be the lion when it’s appropriate, and the lamb when you must, and you will survive whatever is in your way.

 

MARS ENTERS CAPRICORN:

On Sunday February 16^th at 6:34 A.M. EST until March 30^th at 3:44 P.M. EST Mars enters this Saturn-ruled sign. Many students of astrology are surprised to learn that Mars is exalted here. And that Saturn is exalted in Venus-ruled Libra. But that’s because without a strong Saturn influence relationships don’t build a foundation and often won’t last long. In this sign there will be a strong desire to build things, make a strong wall or base. Through the 6 weeks or so that Mars is here try to secure the support for the projects or idea. This will be true in your most important relationships as well. Capricorn doesn’t like to rush things. It prefers to move in a slow and steady fashion. Take your time making decisions and once you’re sure of what you want and need, then you can move towards the finish line. Mars doesn’t like to be slowed down, but when it works well with the Saturn energy of this sign you can be sure that the foundation you are building will be strong and last a long time.

 

MERCURY RETROGRADES:

On Sunday February 16^th at 7:54 P.M. until Monday March 9^th at 11:49 P.M. EDT we begin our thrice a year comedy. As always you can expect problems with communication and travel. Phones, computers, cars, and planes may be a source of difficulty and it’s important to keep a close watch on things. Leave extra time for travel and double check everything. Most problems are a result of distraction or a lackadaisical attitude. With a little care you can avoid most issues. Because this retrograde begins in Pisces there could be another layer of confusion and misunderstanding the Neptune influence will produce. Be as clear and concise in your communications as possible and don’t assume that someone understands you. Make sure to express things succinctly or several times, even if it’s redundant.

With this retrograde coming in the middle of the impeachment of Donald J. Trump you can expect some distractions and confusion in that arena as well. This is not a great time to be involved in such an important issue when so many are trying to make up their minds. But we have no control over the heavens, only some over our reaction to what’s going on. Expect that things will become more muddled and less clear as the weeks go by.

 

THE SUN ENTERS PISCES:

On Tuesday February 18^th at 11:57 P.M. EDT we enter the last sign of the zodiac. The Sun joins Mercury, Venus and Neptune in this mutable sign and you can expect some fogginess and misunderstandings. But if you keep a clear focus and make certain that you are expressing yourself honestly and clearly it should be fine. In fact, with so much Neptunian energy around, this will be a few weeks when you may more readily reach a deeper understanding with others and find common ground on an emotional or spiritual level. Because this is the last sign of the year it’s often a time of completions when projects and plans are tied up as we prepare for the New Year when the Sun enters Aries. This sign favors the arts, medicine and religious or transcendent issues. It’s also associated with psychic abilities, though I’ve known people of all 12 signs who display talent in that field. Look over your projects and plans and see which are closest to completion. That’s where you should aim your energy. If there are any underlying health problems they may demand your attention. This won’t create a situation, only potentially bring an existing one to the surface.

 

JUPITER SEXTILES NEPTUNE:

On Thursday February 20^th at 10:59 A.M. EDT this important aspect completes. This is a positive and useful transit, though sextiles must be used proactively. They do not force themselves upon us as the hard aspects, conjunct, opposition and square will tend to do. This can be a very spiritual moment when empathy and compassion are prominent. While I don’t think this will change the world suddenly and we are all going to be holding hands and singing Kumbaya, it may be easier to reach out to someone and mend fences if you approach them from your heart and not your head.

 

MARS TRINES URANUS:

On Friday February 21^st at 4:08 A.M. EDT this energetic and forceful aspect will allow us an opportunity to freely express our desires and be proactive in our approach to the world. This is a positive trine, but as I’ve said many times the trines must be used directly or they will simply pass without much notice. This is a chance to make changes and redirect your energy without the usual resistance from the world. Take a little time and think about what you’d like to alter in your life. Then push your force in that direction and you should find that you can accomplish a lot in a short period.

 

THE SUN SEXTILES URANUS:

On Saturday February 22^nd at 9:12 A.M. EDT we have another chance to make some changes as this positive Uranus force continues the energy we felt yesterday. We can continue to alter our path without too much resistance from the universe. Because this falls on the Dark of the Moon it’s an opportunity to complete some things in preparation for new beginning on the next New Moon tomorrow morning. Uranus makes it easier to let go of things that are no longer valid. Don’t be afraid to view your life and your goals with an honest and open mind. If something really is no longer serving your needs you should be willing to let it go.

 

DARK OF THE MOON:

The next New Moon falls on Sunday February 23^rd at 10:32 A.M. EST at 4 degrees Pisces 29 minutes. The day or two leading up to it will be a particularly low energy period. If you tend to be emotional this may be a very trying time each month. I have found that people with prominent moons or a Cancer Sun, Moon or ascendant respond to the lunar cycles more intensely than others. Spend this time finishing up anything that is incomplete, don’t try to initiate new projects on a waning moon, it just won’t work out. Once the New Moon hits you begin new projects or attempt a new approach to an existing problem. If you have been living in a situation or involved in a relationship that is intolerable or has outlived its usefulness this would be the proper time to move on with your life. If you have been working on a project that is almost complete but you seem to lack the energy for the finality, you must push during these low energy days to end the matter once and for all. If you don’t, when the New Moon arrives it will bring this “dead” energy along with it and conflict with the newer force being presented. Each month we are offered a chance to clean house, so to speak. 

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Below is a list of times this month when the Moon is Void of Course and neither important decisions nor purchases should be made during these periods. The Void of Course Moon is a time when we should try to center ourselves and deal with spiritual matters not materialistic ones. Any decisions made on the VC Moon will not turn out the way we had expected.

The Moon is Void of Course from the time it makes its last major aspect in a sign until it enters the next sign. For example, if the Moon squares Mars at 27 degrees Aries and then has no more aspects until it enters Taurus it will be Void of Course for three degrees or about 6 hours. The aspects used are the conjunction, sextile, square, trine, and opposition. All times are Eastern Daylight Time:

January 25^th 2:06 P.M. – January 26^th 6:44 P.M. ***Moon is void 20 hours

January 28^th 8:08 P.M. – January 29^th 6:51 A.M.  ***Moon is void 10 hours

January 31^st 10:09 A.M. – 7:29 P.M. ***Moon is void 9 hours

February 3^rd 6:28 A.M. – 6:29 A.M.

February 5^th 9:20 A.M. – 2:03 P.M.

February 7^th 10:43 A.M. – 5:45 P.M. ***Moon is void 7 hours

February 9^th 11:08 A.M. – 6:39 P.M. ***Moon is void 7 hours

February 11^th 1:26 P.M. – 6:37 P.M.

February 13^th 4:40 P.M. – 7:37 P.M.

February 15^th 5:20 P.M. – 11:07 P.M.

February 18^th 4:03 A.M. – 5:37 A.M.

February 20^th 9:18 A.M. – 2:42 P.M.

February 21^st 11:08 P.M. – February 23^rd 1:37 A.M. ***Moon is void 26 hours!!

February 25^th 9:12 A.M. – 10:46 P.M. ***Moon is void 13 hours

February 27^th 10:25 P.M. – February 28^th 2:30 A.M.

March 1^st 10:52 A.M. – 2:21 P.M.

 

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January 2020

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