MONTHLY SINCE 1999
ISSUE # 274

May 2022

All newsletters past and present are available at my website www.mitchastro.com and you can always access them there.

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.

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My recent webinar:

“America’s Nervous Breakdown” – An astrological analysis of current events is now available for purchase through my website www.mitchastro.com.

In it I discuss the current situation we are facing politically and financially as we head into the 2022 mid-term elections. We examined the astrology charts of America, Biden, Harris, Trump, the NYSE, Bitcoin and other pertinent topics.

It was a 2 hour webinar with Q&A towards the end. The price is: $35.00. If you are interested please email me and I will set up a Paypal request and forward you the link to view the webinar.

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AUTHOR’S NOTES:

We are at a point in history that will long be remembered as either a moment of sanity and unity when events forced a truce in the great divide in America and Europe, or as a turning point, when society and world order was so severely altered that it will become a new, destructive era in our collective values and direction. NATO came close to being obliterated during the Trump administration. Now, thanks to Putin’s insanity, it has become stronger than in decades. But that unity will be severely tested in the coming months, as millions of refugees continue to flood European nations. How will they continue to absorb and finance this situation? What if we are facing a worldwide recession, as many economists fear? And what will happen in America as the chasm between parties expands and overwhelms any common sense still left in our body politics? Remember, it’s the stupid economy, stupid. And more than any other issue that is what drives American politics.

There are a number of reasons for the current malaise in the stock markets. While the economy is actually very strong, and the dollar is at heights not seen in years, the underlying fear that inflation, war, rising interest rates, and our disabling political discord are creating will ensure that consumers and traders will have trepidation for some time. Also, when the dollar is too strong it can offset growth by making American products too expensive. It’s a complicated issue. We are heading toward the last pass of Saturn square Uranus in October. This is a well-known bearish configuration that has often led to market corrections and even a few crashes. But what it implies along with other transits is that America and the world are teetering on the edge of a potential collapse.

The global economy that has grown for the past 40 years is no longer stable. Supply chain issues, the recurring pandemic, the war between Russia and the West, and the war between DeSantis and Mickey Mouse are all bearing down on us, leaving many with the sense that there is no stability and we are standing on quicksand – economically, socially and politically. The war in Ukraine is pushing us towards a food crisis the world hasn’t experienced in generations. While American’s will not suffer greatly (except for some rising prices and a few products difficult to acquire), Africa, the Middle East, Egypt and other areas around the world could see massive starvation and a break in world economic strength. None of this was necessary or productive. There are some issues that are out of our hands, such as the pandemic, but what Putin has done will have a chilling effect all around the world. Russia is the 2^nd largest exporter of grains. Ukraine is the 9^th. Remove their products from our supermarket shelves and we will see the results in just a few months. Europe will suffer less, as France is a big supplier of agricultural produce. But we will all see prices continue to rise for some time.

All of this will affect out mid-term elections and does not fare well for the Democrats, although I don’t think it will be the bloodbath many are predicting. There was little that could be done about most of this. Still, people need to blame someone, so they blame whoever is in office. The aspects on Election Day in November are quite disturbing. I analyze them in my aforementioned webinar “America’s Nervous Breakdown”. There is a Full Moon Eclipse with Uranus conjunct the Moon, Saturn in square to the Sun-Moon, and Mars in square to Neptune. This is one of the most difficult charts I’ve ever seen on an Election Day. It implies confusion, misdirection, and radical, unpredictable change. That may very well imply a reversal of power.

NEW MOON IN ARIES:

The New Moon falls on Saturday April 30^th at 4:28 P.M. EDT at 10 degrees Taurus 28 minutes, and it’s a Solar Eclipse. Eclipses, eclipses, what do they want from us? We’ve all been inundated with astrology in the past number of years. It’s become so popular because of the internet, there’s even a Taco Bell commercial based on astrology. My clients are more educated, and there are thousands of websites on the subject. I won’t go into what I think of many of them, but suffice to say it takes many years to become a good astrologer and to be able to use the knowledge herein to your advantage. Most people know their birth sign, many know their ascendant and Moon placement. And some aspects have become commonplace in our speech, such as Mercury Retrograde.

Eclipses are one of the better known aspects we encounter, at least superficially. Few understand their force, purpose and influence. Ancient civilizations were able to map out future eclipses for hundreds of years in advance. Their knowledge of the heavens is still startling to current astronomers and the more we study Stonehenge, the Egyptian and Mayan Pyramids and countless artifacts from the ancients, the more we realize how very in tune many of them were with the cosmos. So when we enter an Eclipse season, such as now, we can readily see the influence it has over our imaginations. But more that than, it has a physical and psychological effect that creates an atmosphere that requires our close scrutiny. Eclipse cycles can be viewed from different perspectives. They are effective for months, from one point of view, and from years or even decades from another. I won’t spend the time here trying to explain it all. I just want you to see that while we are all mostly concerned with our short-term problems, projects and potential, because of our short attention span, there is a much longer lasting impact that is at play. When one studies mundane astrology and tries to grasp the bigger meaning, the events of the moment can take on a much more pertinent position, while also becoming less important: one of the many incongruous truths about life.

This Solar Eclipse falls in Taurus, the sign of finances and values. These are the issues we are all dealing with. You can say that we are always confronting this, no matter the circumstances or the astrology, and you would be right on some levels. But there are moments when our collective attention is aimed in one direction more than usual, and the symbols have a profound meaning. This is a time when we all are being asked: “What do you believe in? What do you want from your life, your nation, your world?” How we answer that question will decide the direction our species goes for the coming years. Ukraine, and in fact the world is facing a challenge unseen in half a century. The West has decided that economics is the first salvo to be fired at Russia, and through sanctions and the disruption of trade with Moscow we are using that powerful tool to inflict pain without (hopefully) threatening a world war. And this eclipse season in Taurus (our possessions) and Scorpio (those held jointly) clearly shows the power of the purse. Russia is beginning to feel the effects of these sanctions and will feel them much more in the near future. So what’s more important to the Kremlin, financial stability and growth, or ego saber rattling? That is very much a Taurus – Scorpio issue. Europe is also feeling the effects, as fossil fuel prices continue to soar. The disruption to our global economy and the supply chain issues will have a long-lasting influence over how we do business.

In America we are heading towards an all-important mid-term election that holds a much more vital place in our history than the usual mid-term conflicts. Again, the same questions hold for this nation. What’s more important, securing our stability, financial and spiritual growth, and continuity, or pushing through a conspiracy theory, fear-driven agenda (think DeSantis and Goofy – a redundancy?) On October 25^th we will have a Solar Eclipse at 2 degrees Scorpio, and a Lunar Eclipse on November 8^th (yes, Election Day!!!) at 16 degrees Taurus, each in the opposite sign of the current eclipses. What takes place now will in some ways be resolved exactly on Election Day. The importance of this heavenly event cannot be overstated. Our nation and the world could be profoundly changed this year as values and resources are confronted in a new way. Such is the power of eclipses and the timing of the universe. One of my favorite quotes, often attributed to Voltaire: “God is a comedian playing to an audience too afraid to laugh.” Another old saying I enjoy is: “Man plans. God laughs.” It is most important now that we take this all very seriously and work hard to create the world we want; But that we also try our very best to get the joke and continue to find humor in our lives. For without it, this all feels like a movie by Ingmar Bergman, when it should be one by Mel Brooks.

 

VENUS CONJUNCTS JUPITER:

On Saturday April 30^th at 5:14 P.M. EDT the lesser and greater benefic planets conjoin. This can be a wonderful aspect, increasing our desire for connections with those we love and giving us a day or so of increased social and spiritual energy. It’s a great time to get together with friends or for a date. This is a very positive and optimistic transit. But keep in mind that Jupiter expands everything it touches, for better or worse. Try not to blow things out of proportion. This comes on the heels of the New Moon and sets up the atmosphere for the coming month. Expect things to get a little brighter and for some enthusiasm to ensue. Lord knows we’ve had a depletion of that recently. While I don’t expect the world to suddenly find its center, or for disagreements to disappear, this is a moment when we might find our commonality or at least a soothing energy that can offer hope.

VENUS ENTERS ARIES:

On Monday May 2^nd at 12:10 P.M. EDT until May 28^th 10:46 A.M. EDT the goddess of love and money enters the first sign. This will be a more outgoing and assertive month when many will say what’s on their mind, especially in important relationships. You should be more upfront with the important people in your life and don’t be afraid to initiate a date, meeting, or to express your feelings. There are times to be coy and times to be assertive. This is the latter. We will see the bear market continue for some time, but remember, there are vicious bear market rallies, so if we see one, don’t be fooled into thinking this is a bull market. That won’t happen for months. We are beginning a new cycle with Jupiter entering Aries as well on May 10^th. It’s time to reevaluate your relationships and your attitude towards money, possessions and values. With the New Moon eclipse in Taurus and the plethora of problems facing our economy, it would be wise to tread lightly. If you see a rally, you might want to take some profits off the table and put them aside so you can buy on the next dip. And there will certainly be dips throughout the spring and summer.

JUPITER SEXTILES PLUTO:

On Tuesday May 3^rd at 6:33 P.M. EDT this important sextile gives us all an opportunity to fix some things that are broken or worn out. This is true with material products, including your house, car, computers, worn out clothing, and just about anything that is frayed. But it’s also true on a deeper level where our goals, relationships and concepts lie. On a personal level you can make some adjustments in your attitude and decide just what is and isn’t valid. If something has out lived its usefulness, including your approach to problems and life direction, you will recognize it and makes some changes either to repair the damage or to remove it from your life. In a collective we will see some changes in the ongoing issues the world has been coping with. This aspect has been applying for several months and it has much to do with America and the West’s desire to fund Ukraine in the face of what was once considered overwhelming odds. The money that Biden and the allies have sent and promised to support that beleaguered nation is very much reflective in this transit. Pluto rules all things held jointly, including the collective wealth of the world. And that is what is being spent to ensure the continuation of Ukraine as a sovereign nation. It also is indicative of Biden’s plan to allow some debt relief to the massive student loan debacle that has weighed down millions of Americans. And it is clearly an example of the infrastructure bill that was passed months ago and is just now beginning to be implemented. All of these programs will have a huge impact on the world and on America’s need to rebuild our crumbling highways, tunnel, bridges etc. How the Democrats use this knowledge and express this to the population, in the face of blatant lies and misdirection will have a big influence on the mid-term elections. For now, use the completion of this transit to examine your own life and objectives, and see just where you can rebuild and redirect your energies where they can do the most good.

MARS SEXTILES URANUS:

On Wednesday May 4^th at 11:47 A.M. EDT this positive sextile will give us a day or two when we can project our energy into useful and productive direction. This is a very powerful combination, but because it is a positive sextile it won’t force itself on us. Rather it will give us the opportunity to aim that energy where it can be used and absorbed more readily and without much tension. Sextiles and trines must be used or they will pass as a pleasant but uneventful moment. By using this proactively we can accomplish much in a short time.

 

THE SUN CONJUNCTS URANUS IN TAURUS:

On Tuesday May 5^th at 3:22 A.M. EDT this rather intense aspect comes on the heels of the Mars sextile Uranus. This is a far more demanding and forceful transit that can be extremely positive and productive, or very destructive. It’s up to you as to how you use it. For one thing, this is a time to use caution. Don’t take this for granted. This combination can be explosive and unpredictable. You may walk into a situation that is out of your control and be faced with a skirmish without meaning to be. How you respond to this will decide if it is difficult or simply distracting. Pay attention and if you see something happening that you cannot govern or fix, sidestep it and avoid direct confrontation. On the world stage this may manifest as potentially violent acts. With the war in Ukraine escalating, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see a major battle ensue. And with the internal strife in America, including the political battle as the untethered epidemic of gun violence, there could be an incident or two almost anywhere.

On the more positive note, this is a time of innovation when you may be able to explore new and untried ways of dealing with your issues. If something needs to be changed, this aspect is one of the most active in that way. If something isn’t working out you will most likely know it around this time. If you need to redirect your attention somewhere, this will point it out and demand that you do something about it. Uranus is the planet of genius, invention and revolution. Look for ways to make changes. If you do it in a proactive manner this will be a very positive time and the results will be groundbreaking and original.

 

MERCURY RETROGRADES IN GEMINI:

On Tuesday May 10^th at 7:47 A.M. EDT until June 3^rd 4:00 A.M. EDT we once again face the demented and mischievous little twerp as it runs backwards and screws up as many things as it can. (LOL) I don’t really think that the planets have an agenda, nor is anything in astrology meant to make our lives miserable or difficult, although it may seem that way at times. Mercury retrogrades three times a year simply because of the orbits of the planets. But astrology, being a humanist science, implies that what is happening in the sky has a direct influence over our lives. Those of us who have studied it for a long time will attest that, in fact, it does. But it’s how we interpret that energy that decides how it influences us, and how best to use that force. This is a time to examine things carefully; to slow down so that you can make certain you are making the right decisions. Because this retrograde begins in the sign of Mercury’s rulership it will have an outsized influence with all issues of communication and travel. These are the usual places that Mercury retrograde messes up things, but this time it may be even more pronounced that usual. It will retrograde back into Taurus May 22^nd – June 13^th, and that will change the energy quite a bit. It’s an important transit because of the many issues that are influencing our society at the moment. The economy is struggling, the world is at war, and the upcoming mid-term elections are entering a new phase with primaries that will have a huge effect on our culture. Expect some secrets to be revealed and changes in attitude this month. They will surprise you as our path is diverted in ways you could not see. Keep your eyes open and on the road.

 

JUPITER ENTERS ARIES:

On Tuesday May 10^th at 7:22 P.M. EDT we begin a new 12 year cycle and Jupiter crosses over the start of the zodiac, called the Aries Point. Jupiter is the planet of growth, often called the “lucky” planet. But I believe we make our own luck. The old saying about the man who for years prays to God to win the lottery. He never wins. Finally he gives up his faith in God. Turns out he never bought a ticket. Jupiter gives us the opportunity for expansion and success, it doesn’t guarantee it. This is a beginning, a time to set our agendas and put them in motion. Don’t expect immediate results. Think long term and be realistic about your goals. One of the reasons that Jupiter aspects don’t achieve the level of success many astrology students assume is because they are impractical in their expectations and so there is disappointment. Keep it real and you can achieve great things.

Because this is the very beginning of a 12 year period you should look at the zodiac as a whole, with each sign representing what it means not only in the natural zodiac, but in your own chart. For example, if Aries falls on your 4^th house cusp this could be a good time to look for a new home or for expanding your existing one. If it rules your 7^th house, it will be in your most important relationships that your potential for growth is most prominent. This includes your “significant other,” but also business partnerships, close friendships and some family connections. But remember, the 7^th house also rules open enemies, so if someone has it in for you, you might find that their revenge has taken on a whole new meaning and escalated. But unless you’ve pissed off a mafia boss I wouldn’t put that first on my list of worries.

In world events, this is a very powerful configuration that will move some issues more quickly than they have in years. Biden’s huge support package for Ukraine is being voted on just as this begins. But remember, Jupiter exacerbates everything it comes in contact with, and Aries is ruled by Mars, the god of war. I’m not saying this will necessarily result in a massive escalation, and I’m hoping just the opposite will occur. But it is possible. And I believe in being psychologically prepared for whatever may come along. So I’m assuming we will see the war expand in the coming days and weeks.

 

THE SUN SQUARES SATURN: THE SUN SEXTILES NEPTUNE:

On Sunday May 15^th at 2:49 P.M. EDT & 3:15 P.M. EDT these two aspects come right before the Lunar Eclipse. The square to Saturn denotes a serious and restrictive energy that will force us all to be realistic about most things. It’s a moment of reflection and contemplation during which our sense of reality will be governed by what is, not what we wish for. That square implies a very low energy few days when many will feel restricted and frustrated. The worst thing you can do under Saturn’s influence is to take things too seriously. This will pass soon and your usual oomph will return.

The Sun sextile Neptune can be pleasant and spiritual, but coming on the keels of the Sun square Saturn its force will be muted. For the most part I would keep things as realistic as possible and try to deal with the most important issues first.

FULL MOON ECLIPSE IN SCORPIO:

This month lunar peak falls on Monday May 16th at 12:14 A.M. EDT at 25 degrees Scorpio 18 minutes, & it’s a Lunar Eclipse! As many of you know, Eclipses come in pairs. They’re afraid to travel alone (lol). This one occurs in Scorpio, with the Sun in Taurus, where the Solar Eclipse happened on April 30^th. We are going to experience the completion of the Taurus-Scorpio polarity and issues of values and joint ventures will be heightened. So much is resting on the economic situation in the world. There is the worst inflation in 40 years, a weakened stock market, food shortages, supply chin problems and a world on edge as it decides just what it values most. War is raging in Ukraine and it will escalate. As I mentioned earlier in this newsletter, “on October 25^th we will have a Solar Eclipse at 2 degrees Scorpio, and a Lunar Eclipse on November 8^th (yes, Election Day!!!) at 16 degrees Taurus, each in the opposite sign of the current eclipses. What takes place now will in some ways be resolved exactly on Election Day. The importance of this heavenly event cannot be overstated. Our nation and the world could be profoundly changed this year as values and resources are confronted in a new way.”

But let’s talk about some more positive ways this can manifest.

For one thing, if we don’t reestablish our changing values periodically we will stifle and become less productive and hardened. That’s never a positive approach to things. “The only constant is change”, an old saying that has more meaning the older I get. This represents a fresh, new approach to things that can lead to some important changes. It is only through an honest and, at time, painful evaluation of where we are heading that we can fix a small crack in the road before it becomes a massive sinkhole. America, and the world, has become a battleground of ideology and a struggle for the truth. The misinformation war fueled by propaganda and blatant lies threatens our ability to sift through the ridiculous amount of garbage that is spewed on a daily basis through social media and new outlets. Elon Musk has bought Twitter. How many of you believe that will be a good thing for the average person trying to navigate their way through these muddy waters?

But we can’t change that. All we can do is keep an open mind and try not to fall prey to the misinformation machine churning out the agenda of one side or the other. The truth is out there, if you’re willing to seek it. Jupiter rules the law and lawyers, and its sign Sagittarius is well-known as the truth-teller, often with a filter to squash what needs to be heard. As Jupiter begins its journey through this sign I believe some very vital information will be released, and it may have a profound effect on the world and how it assimilates information, both truth and lies. And that can certainly have a positive result.

MARS CONJUNCTS NEPTUNE:

On Wednesday May 18^th at 2:33 A.M. EDT this rather difficult aspect will bring us a day or two of low energy and dissipation of our usual oomph and enthusiasm. Don’t take this too seriously. It passes quickly and you will get your strength back very soon. But while this is in orb it’s important to double check things and make sure you are getting the correct information. I wouldn’t make any permanent decisions until the influence of this energy has passed later this afternoon. If this sets off your chart, it may be difficult to find the fortitude to stand up for your beliefs. There is fogginess around Neptune aspects, and since Mars rules the ego, the muscles, and the determination beneath your thoughts and actions, you may be apt to just shrug and accept whatever is being offered, rather than struggle for your true principles. If you use this to its best advantage it can be a very spiritual moment when the underlying weakness brings you to a revelation about something. Just don’t try to implement any major change until this completes.

THE SUN ENTERS GEMINI:

On Friday May 20^th at 9:23 P.M. EDT we enter the mutable part of spring. This sign is all about communications and relationships. How we talk to each other has a powerful effect on our understanding of each other’s needs and wishes. You can love someone, yet speak in a voice so harsh they don’t get the message. For the next month our attention will be on how we relate and the best way of saying what’s on our minds. Gemini rules relatives not including parents or children: siblings, cousins, uncles and aunts. It also rules neighbors and our immediate environment. Pay attention to what’s going on around your home and with family members.

MERCURY ENTERS TAURUS:

On Sunday May 22^nd at 9:15 P.M. EDT Mercury retrogrades back into Taurus until Monday June 13^th at 11:27 A.M. EDT. With Mercury in retrograde backing up into Taurus, many of the issues we thought we had dealt with will come back for a second look. This is true in the world, where so many situations require a close scrutiny. With the eclipses falling in Taurus and Scorpio, this month is all about values, money, possessions and how we relate to the material world. Now as Mercury joins that Taurus energy, conversations will have a profound effect on our monetary policies, both as individuals, and in the collective. Will the stock markets continue to deteriorate, or will they bottom out and make a rebound? While I would love to be more optimistic, I’m afraid that while we will see some powerful bear market rallies, that is exactly what they will be. The next bull market is many months away. Continue to trade defensively until the fall.

THE SUN SQUARES JUPITER:

On Monday May 23^rd at 7:05 A.M. EDT this optimistic and outgoing energy will create an atmosphere of hope and expansion for a few days. This isn’t powerful enough to change the course of mighty rivers, but it can give us all a little faith that things can work out, and sometimes that enough to push us forward against a strong wind. The world is on edge. I suppose it always is, in some ways, but obviously we are facing some very hard choices right now. How do we deal with Putin and a Russia so misinformed that the majority of the population believes that the invasion of Ukraine was warranted and supports their leader’s criminal acts? What do we do regarding an economy entrenched in inflation, supply chain issues, and a melting stock market? And how do we find any commonality and faith in a democracy that is torn asunder with each party looking to virtually obliterate the other? These issues are too much to handle as a whole, so we tend to pick and choose which things to pay attention to. Or in some cases, just turn off all news and stick our heads in the ground. At least for a few days things will look a bit better. The energy is shifting, with Mercury, Mars and Venus all changing signs. That bodes well for the coming month as we will be able to see things from a different angle and possibly see some important alterations in the world and how people are responding to it. At least for now, try to engage with others in any social activities. This is an outgoing and enthusiastic energy and you should use it. Travel is favored, so if you can get away for a day, or even a few hours, it might lift your mood and give you a much needed smile. J

 

MARS ENTERS ARIES:

On Tuesday May 24^th at 7:17 P.M. EDT until July 5^th at 2:04 A.M. EDT the God of war enters the first sign, that of its rulership, and begins anew the journey through the zodiac. With Mars about to conjunct expansive Jupiter later this week on the Dark of the Moon, we can expect certain results, some very positive and others disconcerting. This is a time to look for innovative and optimistic plans. You may be able to institute something new and potentially growth oriented, and you should use this force to look ahead with faith and optimism.

Mars can be a harsh and unyielding energy, and at times it will run roughshod over anyone or anything that stands in its way. As it gets situated in Aries, we can expect some boisterous and overly aggressive actions. There may be an escalation in Ukraine over the coming weeks. There will also be a strenuous push in our nation’s politics, as the primary season gets underway. But, with so many planets changing signs, you may also see some surprising changes in the polls. Don’t be afraid to assert yourself. That’s what this ingress wants. Just try not to be overly pushy or vicious. You could create a reversal that will play out against your plans. That is what I see happening in American politics, and in the world. Too much arrogance can turn people off, even if they believe what you’re saying.

 

VENUS SQUARES PLUTO:

On Friday May 27^th at 2:29 A.M. EDT this hard aspect will demand some serious thought regarding all relationships. In your personal life, try to keep an open mind and look at the circumstances to ensure that you are saying what you really mean, and acting in ways that reflect your inner beliefs. It’s quite possible under Pluto’s force to overreact or become so compulsive that you aren’t able to bend. The purpose of this square is to bring things to light and then discuss them in an open manner. This will also be true in politics and world events. Some truths will be revealed, and no matter how hard the person tries to put a spin on them, they will be seen in the clarity of daylight. You’re better off being honest to begin with, so you won’t look like you were trying to hide something. Remember, nobody is quite as stupid as when they think they are being smarter than everyone else.

 

VENUS ENTERS TAURUS:

On Saturday May 28^th at 10:46 A.M. EDT until June 22^nd at 8:34 P.M. EDT Venus will join Mercury and Uranus in this sign of its rulership. Taurus is a very loyal sign and, while it does tend to be rather stubborn, its tenacious nature implies long-term commitment and an unyielding sense of allegiance. With Venus traveling here for the next month there will be an underlying desire to solidify connections and to seek out trustworthy and steadfast relationships. This can be a good transit for the stock markets, but other issues will certainly play a role. Assuming any one transit will be powerful enough to dictate how the world or its economy will fare is a fool’s errand. I expect some bear market rallies, and hope that inflation will be tempered, but this alone will not be sufficient to end the economic malaise we are experiencing. With Mars and Venus in the signs of their rulership, relationships may take on a more traditional and balanced feel. Tell those close to you how you feel about them. You may be surprised by their reaction.

MARS CONJUNCTS JUPITER:

On Sunday May 29^th at 6:31 A.M. EDT this rather powerful conjunct will create a rush of energy and force that at times may be difficult to handle. But if you can work with it with an open mind, you just might break through some barriers that have been holding you back. Mars rules the ego, and Jupiter wants to expand in anyway it can. The combination can be exciting and lead to some adventurous actions, but without some restraint it’s easy to be overwhelming.

As noted, Jupiter creates expansion. Mars is the God of war. It doesn’t take a political genius to recognize the potential this may create. The war in Ukraine is going to escalate, that’s obvious. The Ukrainians are being given massive weapons and financial support to continue their resistance to Russian aggression. The Russians are doubling down on their objective, and neither side is ready or willing to concede defeat. As we tie up the loose ends of this lunar cycle, we will see a buildup in the war that may not actually explode until the New Moon, but it is most certainly in play. This aspect will add fuel to the fire. Often the Dark of the Moon is a time of completions, when a situation comes to a close. But that will only happen if that circumstance has reached a point of no return. If the battle for the eastern part of Ukraine is still ongoing, you may see a major shift in the confrontation that will put an end to one area of the battle. But this isn’t the end of the war no matter what takes place. This is an ongoing and expanding struggle that will not end until either Ukraine suffers an overwhelming defeat, or Putin is removed from power. We don’t like to think about it, but the West could be drawn into a conflict of escalation, as the world divvies up sides and each nation chooses what is best for their purpose.

DARK OF THE MOON:

The next New Moon falls on Monday May 30^th at 7:30 A.M. EDT at 9 degrees Gemini 03 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 Time.

May 2^nd  6:13 A.M. – 6:47 A.M.

May 4^th 4:37 P.M. – 7:05 P.M.

May 7^th 6:26 A.M. – 7:50 A.M.

May 9^th 8:39 A.M. – 6:53 P.M. ***Moon is void 10 hours

May 12^th 12:00 A.M. – 2:34 A.M.

May 14^th  1:07 A.M. –  6:34 A.M.

May  16^th 5:28 A.M. – 7:50 A.M.

May 17^th 11:59 P.M. – My 18^th 8:02 A.M. ***Moon is void 8 hours

May 20^th 8:00 A.M. – 8:53 A.M.

May 22^nd 3:19 A.M. – 11:49 A.M. ***Moon is void 8 hours

May 24^th 5:33 P.M. – 5:39 P.M.

May 26^th 11:20 P.M. – May 27^th 2:22 A.M.

May 29^th 10:11 A.M. – 1:23 P.M.

May 31^st 4:10 P.M. – June 1^st 1:49 A.M.

June 3^rd 11:15 A.M. – 2:38 P.M.

June 5^th 7:12 P.M. – June 6^th 2:22 A.M.

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April 2022

New York City

http://www.mitchastro.com

mitchastro@aol.com

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All Rights Reserved