Stellar Insights ~ Early October 2012

We made it through the incendiary Harvest Full Moon in Aries without disaster, and now it's time to start adjusting to the prolonged activation of the Scorpio archetype. Mars- traditional lord of Scorpio has been conjunct the Moons North Node which tends to increase and amplify whatever it contacts. And although the Scorpion is primed to sting, we can use that same energy constructively by channeling emotional intensity into passionate action. Win-win situations are always best.

Jupiter is stationary-retrograde from Oct. 4 until Jan. 30, 2013. And the urge to grow and expand requires a process of review or going back over in preparation for a more outward manifestation of the Jupiterean energy when it finally shifts forward. This week we might be feeling some hopeful optimism related to the station, as planets are concentrated in their influence when they change directions. In working with clients, it appears that major events often correspond precisely with the station dates. But this week the picture is more complex as Saturn moves from Libra into Scorpio on Oct. 5.

Saturn has been transiting Libra since Oct. 29, 2009. And since Saturn is exalted in Libra, like an honored guest here, it's entry into dark Scorpio is somewhat daunting. Many unsustainable relationships (Libra) ended or had their integrity challenged during the last 2 and a half years. Astrologically, Saturn refers to the process of maturation, being responsible, and taking care of business- building something through hard work. Once we are born into the world of form and limitations, Saturn is like a teacher and mentor. The planet of checks and balances will reflect developmental pressure. Tough love is Saturnian. We mostly enjoy learning but not always being taught. And Saturn gets a bad rap by simply calling for us to step up our game, as does Scorpio for it's cunning or hidden agenda.

Scorpio might be the most misunderstood sign, and shadow projections muddy the deep waters wherein the Scorpion lives. The penetrating quality of Scorpio reflects it's nature as a fixed water sign. Fixed signs are known both for their endurance and stubbornness (i.e. resistance to change), while the water element represents emotions and psychic energies. The magnetism, sexual or otherwise, that we attribute to Scorpio derives from it's capacity to hold energy in check and sublimate when required. Protection and perseverance are paramount to this sign, similar to Cancer the Crab in that regard. Scorpio's will fight when attacked but otherwise prefer to keep to themselves.

Traditionally, the red planet Mars rules Scorpio, but in modern astrology Pluto- lord of the underworld is considered the astrological ruler of the 8th sign. Pluto definitely has an affinity with Scorpio, but it was only discovered in 1930 around the time of the great depression, the rise of fascism and the Nazi's- and the development of nuclear power/energy. (Pluto = plutonium.) However, Mars is the true ruler of Scorpio, although Pluto has an affinity.

Waxing philosophically, as this astrologer tends to do- it's important to have ethical integrity when dealing with personal and business matters, as this determines both our our happiness and that of others. Emotional honesty is essential, as well as compassion for the suffering of our fellow beings. When we have the right attitude, everything is less complicated- there are no hidden agendas. Fear comes from a basic lack of trust. Facing our personal and collective shadow responsibly, we can live happily and fulfill our true purpose. This might be one of the most significant lessons during the period informed by Saturn's transit through the sign of the Scorpion (Oct. 5, 2012 - Dec. 23, 2014).

*The planetary shifts this week are:
Venus into Virgo (October 2-29)
Saturn into Scorpio (October 5- December 23, 2014)
Mercury into Scorpio (October 5-29)
Mars into Sagittarius (October 6- November 17)
Jupiter turns retrograde (October 4-January 30)

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Astrologer Steven Forrest on Spooky Saturn in Scorpio