"Serenity is not freedom from the storm, but peace amid the storm."

Virgo 2009 Edition of Astrologically Speaking

Sun is in Virgo from August 22, 2009 at 16:38 PDT until September 22, 2009 14:18 PDT.

The image for the month shows the planets and the lines that connect them for now. I have been writing an article about the health care reform in the US amidst all kinds of unusual activity in my neck of the woods. I am calling these the ‘battle-lines'. Found guilty, charged with..., convicted of..., accused of..., found lying... are the phrases in most news items. I am calling the red lines that connect the outer planets battle-lines.

By the time the Sun enters Virgo, the tension from Mars subsides for now. Some of these configurations occur at 44 year intervals (Saturn opposite Uranus), which takes place mid-September. Looking deeper and finding the same signs and planets takes us back to 1918-20, another turbulent era. The end of World War I and the founding of the United Nations took place back then. Women in America were allowed to vote for the first time in a federal election—suffragettes, prohibition, bootlegging, jazz, Spanish influenza, civil wars, revolutions, economies in trouble... much unrest. The devaluation of Russian currency caused economic problems and most countries were beginning to rebuild their economies. As I looked for the previous occurrence of this particular planetary pairing and the same signs, I was surprised to find that it hadn't occurred for many centuries—at the end of the middle ages. To read more about the historical events etc. read the post on my blog.

I have heard comments of late from clients, colleagues and friends about being caught between a rock and a hard place, or meeting a brick wall after a brick wall; attending meetings in which no resolution was found—an uphill battle with no room for compromise. In the news in BC the Harmonized Sales tax is scheduled for implementation mid-2010. This means the cost of many consumer items, homes and services will go up by seven percent. The premier states that this is a compromise in order to get more money from the Federal Government for health care, yet health care services are being slashed. Federal and provincial budgets introduced a few short months ago were grossly inaccurate—the debt is far higher.

Once again there are rumblings about another federal election with a proposed date of November 9, following a planned vote of non-confidence at the end of September, by which time some of the battle lines are ever stronger. I will look at the potential outcome in a blog posting.

Mars will be in Cancer beginning August 25 and ending October 16. For a couple of days August 25-26, Mars is in a strong battle stance with Pluto, which marks a couple of intense days, and I expect volatility in the markets.

Mercury is in Libra August 25 to September 17, and in Virgo the rest of the month; Mercury is retrograde September 6-29, 2009. This particular Mercury period August–mid-October involves work/chores and public services and relationships/negotiations, promising many twists and turns, reneging of promises after September 6, things simply begin to go in the opposite direction.

The retrograde dates are not ideal for beginning or committing to something new, if it was in the works prior to the dates that becomes a mute point. If travelling, ensure that you have appropriate insurance. Be a little more flexible when appointments and meeting dates are moved. Keep receipts for purchases handy for the 'return season'. I always avoid major purchases during that time (September 6-29, 2009).

Horoscopes

Aries

March 19-April 19

This is a great time of the year to get things done; you have lots to do and for the past couple of years many more obligations. You may have 'power' battles with employer or someone in authority, requiring much effort on your part and sticking to the facts is vital. You might be doing 'battle' on behalf of someone—the current planetary configurations pull in the question about whether something is legal, ethical or morally acceptable. Plan your course of action and follow through. There is some sort of change in direction beginning early September. It could be as simple as you choosing to change your mind and as rewarding as coercing another to see a different point of view in order to begin mediation. This month much of the activity is around home and family—do remember to take breaks and sit down for a meal once in a while. This promises to be a hectic month, remember to keep important documents, emails, receipts etc safely stowed so that you can find them with ease. It is a good idea to back up your computer files should you have computer issues. September is ideal for writers and anyone who has to produce important documents—it is easier to copyedit.

Note that horoscopes address potential issues in broad terms; I have numerous inexpensive astrological reports for sale on this site; ranging from personality analysis to annual predictive reports. Read about the reports. A sample report of each is available through links on that page. Special offers valid through September 22, 2009. Three relationship reports for $20 and Five personalized astrological analyses on your chart for $30.

Taurus

April 19-May 20

You are faced with all kinds of options now; some based on choice others because you must choose. I find that using the energy of the Sun—this time in Virgo–helps in finding clarity about the best choices for us. Virgo is organized and purifying energy, I typically do a big clean-up in anticipation of this energy; I organize all my papers and make a list of things I must not forget to do. Virgo is an end of a season sign, school resumes and our schedules change. It's best to take your time rather than make hasty decisions; we are more likely to change our minds when Mercury moves against his norm—September 6-29. Things move in a different direction during that time, and in mid-September there are likely to be new developments that prompt you to choose differently.

This month is excellent for clearing tasks that you have been forced to set aside. The affairs of your children or people you think of as your children, may consume much of your efforts. You are a steady, reliable person and your advice may be rather sought after now. Remember to be more flexible about changes in schedules, delays in receiving information, correspondence, payments etc.

Gemini

May 20-June 20

Your intuition is strong at present; rely on your hunches to address problems and to find innovative new ways. Talk honestly and openly and life works out rather smoothly. There is a directional change around September 6, and more opportunities to move ahead with enthusiasm. This is an excellent time to do some serious 'house-cleaning' both figuratively and literally. It is also a time to get caught up.

The energy has been erratic for the past few weeks, which may have been rather stressful. Perhaps not in your personal life, but with someone, who counts on your support and empathetic ear. That energy is quickly subsiding, there however, more to come around mid-September. Between then and now we have an opportunity to find alternate solutions, a different way of tackling issues. Perhaps by then we get answers to issues that have been the backdrop for well over a year. Mercury is retrograde September 9-29, and because it is your ruling planet, you tend to notice the impact more than most. It is important now to avoid being critical with your comments particularly with those in your daily life. We don't all think alike, nor do we perceive things in the same fashion. What might be completely obvious to you, might not be so for another. We all need to avoid building mountains out of molehills—exaggerating the issue makes for drama and real life dramas are always more poignant compared to the ones we see on TV or the movies. Both sides of each issue have validity—always—there is a difference between what is legally acceptable, morally acceptable and ethically acceptable. We tend to reach the morals and ethics the strongest.

Cancer

June 20-July 22

Mars moves into your sign August 25 and stays there until October 16. Mars represents motivation and our actions. During these 6-week periods at two year intervals, we tend to feel energized and more likely to throw caution to the wind as we react and respond to whatever is going on in our lives. This is an excellent time to launch new projects and to pursue goals you personally hold dear. Do make a note to pay extra attention in traffic and around hazards; things you normally notice might escape your attention because you are busy doing things.

Beautifying your home, spending more time talking with family and friends add a rewarding tone to your month. The current dramas are more likely to play out in someone else's life, which might mean that you need to be extra supportive of friends and people you care deeply about. We are likely to be reminded that there are two sides to each story and each one of us perceives the world a little differently. Injustice and unfair treatment does not sit well with you, and for the next several weeks you have all the gumption to act on your convictions. Each one of us can make a difference.

Leo

July 22-August 22

You can sense a change in direction just around the corner, and now is the perfect time to finish off projects and tasks; do a big clean up and clear the decks for a busy autumn and winter. You tend to worry about money particularly the lack of it, whether there is cause or not. That has been more prominent over the past year or two. Now might be a good time to address those issues properly, deal with investments, obligations, create a budget and examine who gets your money. Seeing that we have some rather unique planetary configurations at present, perhaps you should spend a buck or two on a game of chance—if it is meant to be it will only take one ticket. (Note that if I could predict a lottery win, I'd have done it by now.)

If you are working too hard and beginning to feel it, note that the next six weeks or so are ideal for taking time out, going on a holiday and that it is important to set aside time for rest. Your intuition might be in high gear and/or you might be recalling more dreams than usual. Our dreams are often our own advice to ourselves, but filled with symbolism rather than clear statements. My favourite dream dictionary for many decades now has been Lady Stearn Robinson and Tom Corbett's 'the Dreamer's Dictionary'.

Virgo

August 22-September 22

There is a lot of activity in your sign this month. Since September 2007 taskmaster Saturn has been in your sign and those tension aspects I talked about in the general write up have been rather personal, particularly for those born after about September 7. There is another tense one mid-September and then that energy subsides. Saturn will move on at the end of October—thus if you have had a testing time, there is now light at the end of the tunnel. The potential tension around mid-August was about work and now that is 'sorted out'.

Yes, Mercury your ruling planet will be retrograde September 9-29, having left your sign and returning back—making a big loop. These times are ideal for finishing tasks, polishing off projects particularly about writing and communication. Because it is in your sign this time, it is more about you than anything else. There could be something that has been annoying your for a while and have chosen not to speak out. It might be time to do so, this is an excellent time to be the researcher, investigator etc. find out facts and 'ammunition' in order to present your case. You are often a resource for others, thus it might not even be directly about you. Pay extra attention to money-related matters, perhaps you are exploring means and ways to increase your income.

Libra

September 22-October 22

Nothing about life is static, these days we are bombarded by information and the news about the economy does not help brighten our outlook. What do you think; is a big question now, how do you separate the important things from the less important ones. What is most important to you? There is a change in direction around September 6, and work matters overall are important through mid-October. Things are changing and you need to be the one to find the right information; nowadays even most government services have become self-serve—meaning you need to do it based on limited advice.

How things have felt or changed at each change of season time over the past year or so (the equinoxes and solstices) will give you clues to what the next 2.5 years is likely to bring. Saturn will be moving into your sign at the end of October for about 2.5 years. Saturn is the planet of responsibility, maturity, obligations and limitations—it brings us the biggest lessons in life. Until then it is a good time to do your planning, work on clearing the decks to make room for the new and take good care of yourself. Life is too hectic and we often skip meals, eat on the run, and even when we are supposed to be resting and relaxing, we are 'working'' at something. I recommend curling up with a book, making popcorn and watching a good movie or three.

Scorpio

October 22-November 21

As you have noticed if checking in at the time the column was supposed to be available, my RA flared up, the weather seems to affect it, and typing was rather painful. So I am writing Scorpio on the 26th . I spent those tense weeks in mid-August and up until today ‘on a crusade' to help someone fight 'city hall'. The last days of August bring a bit of reprieve from your current 'cause' or crusade as the case may be. There is a shift in the winds the first back to school week (September 6-12), this might prompt you to redirect your goals and plans. Are you enjoying what you are doing, or has it become boring or mundane? What changes do you wish to make to create the kind of existence you would like to have?

Mars your special planet is in Cancer until mid-October; this influence can energize you and prompt you to be more social with relatives and people at a distance. It is also good for making plans for the future, starting late October and through June 2010; Mars will be in Leo influencing career and avocation matters. The last time this energy was in play was 1995-96; it just did not last quite so long. I will talk about this influence more in the next column. If you plan to travel this month, make a note to get travel insurance. This month is OK to change your mind; perhaps you have discovered flaws in your plans. Be flexible with your schedule, your advice might be in high demand.

Sagittarius

November 21-December 21

For the past two years life has gotten increasingly busier and or more demanding. Over the next 4-6 weeks work, dealings with bosses and other important people is par for the course. You need to remain flexible with schedules, deadlines and accommodate others on short notice (or no notice at all). Good effort over the next couple of months will pay off in rather short order—remember to put your best foot forward. Listen with care and speak less, there is a lot of important information to be garnered this month and well into October.

There is a lot of activity around the house as well; this is the perfect time for a major cleanup. I remember some years ago, I had several Virgo friends I'd visit and whenever I did I returned home with an urge to clean my space. It got to the point that I would think about the visit, in light of the time it would take me to clean house afterwards, and choose whether I wanted to put myself through the agony of cleaning for a few hours just to spend some quality time with a Virgo friend. Nowadays I plan any major maintenance and cleaning for the Virgo month. I learnt something over those years. I believe astrology helps time the times that are the most effective for accomplishing things—it is all about going with the flow. My personal flow this month has been against getting my column out in a timely fashion. I spent today and several others helping others do what they needed done. Make not of what signs are prominent with the people in your daily life and you get clues about what it is you need to learn in the now. We can only live in the now, tomorrow is a mystery to all of us... Yes, there are clues and insights to be had, but as an astrologer, I realize that most of us find clues in the moment rather than opt to consult with someone. I personally think the best consultations help validate what we are feeling rather than draw a detailed outline of what will be.

Capricorn

December 21-January 19

Those born with 2-3 days of the Winter Solstice are experiencing more turbulence and change. Life as I keep stating is not static, rather continuous change. Over the next 13-15 years, that change is the most profound for Capricorn, in order to have felt the energy you would have had to have lived a quarter of a century ago. Depending on your beliefs, you might think in those terms. Most of us, however, are most concerned with the here and now—that is where we live, after all. You are likely to note changes at the change of seasons, the solstices and equinoxes and when any of the slower moving planets change into the four cardinal signs—yours being one of them. This autumn Saturn moves into one of those signs and Mars is Cancer, the sign opposite to yours until mid-October—this planetary energy kicks you into action. Perfect time to rid yourself of unwanted, unused or useless possessions and pursuits; what is real and viable holds more value. What is it you think you want to have, do or be for the next 2-3 years (5-7 years for some)?

You may find yourself more involved in the affairs of your children than usual. Relatives and people at a distance may also be more important at the moment. What you do may seem insignificant, but it's important that you do it. It is an interesting month and you always find the right thing to do, it is a natural for you to create a viable action plan, whether for yourself or for others, wisdom flows effortlessly from you and for you. Trust your instincts

Aquarius

January 19-February 18

August is over in a few short hours... I have had such a hard time getting this monthly column finished. Aquarius has had to wait patiently... Those born in from about February 11 onward have probably been preoccupied by life, rather than bothering to read about what might be going on. The stressful patters are on money matters, mostly long-term plans—the state of the global economy isn't making that a rosy picture. Mostly you are likely to worry about those investments and pensions etc. This month is ideal for visiting with your financial planner/advisor. Note that these days, banks and credit unions tend to offer advice for free.

You are likely to be working extra hard and your support and advice are in high demand. Do pay more attention to your continued well-being over the next six weeks or so. If you for example have a referral for routine blood tests, etc. now would be a good time to take care of any routine checks at the dentist, doctor's etc. Kid gloves may be required to handle issues with co-workers who may be extra sensitive these days, and your pragmatic approach may be taken the wrong way. The same applies to family members who may also need a bit of financial support from you; they desire acceptance and support and may cringe if you offer more concrete advice.

Pisces

February 18-March 19

The past six years have been eventful for Pisces—probably an understatement of the century. Whenever I write my horoscopes I get strong glimpses into the lives of people I know. I know quite a few Pisces people and many are family members. It has all been rather challenging for them, and hearing it all first hand is rather emotional. Many surprising, completely unexpected turns of events, and I wish I could say it is all over now. This goes energy lasts for another year and then it subsides.

The current Virgo energy, which has been around for a couple of years now, put the attention on relationships. Regardless what your personal goals and aspirations might be, you are learning to put others first more often than even you are accustomed to. Your ability to support another fully, without conditionals is a strong backdrop to life. This may limit your personal freedom, yet, you will do what comes naturally—you will be supportive, it's your nature. Now is an excellent time for heart-to-heart conversations; don't leave others guessing as to how you feel or think, tell them. Family matters, particularly with regard to children are rather important now. Count your blessings rather than fixate on any obstacles.

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