Wheel of Light

July 2013
July brings the most complex and interesting alignment of planets we will see this year. It’s a relatively rare pattern and the only thing that prevents it from defining the entire year is that its peak will last for only one day – July 29. Prior to that day the planets will be slowly moving into position, some of them are there already. The most striking element of that day is two intersecting Grand Trines, called a Star of David.
As we discussed in this space last month, one of the trines is formed by planets in water signs. That Grand Trine continues this month with Jupiter in Cancer, Saturn in Scorpio and Neptune in Pisces is even stronger and likely to be activated with Mercury and especially the trigger planet Mars in Cancer. The Grand Trine is the most harmonious combination of planetary influences that we can experience. Each of the planets functions to support the other two in order to create an increased probability of a positive, desirable outcome. The only thing we have to do is generate the drive to activate it. Sometimes the energies of the Grand Trine are so comfortable that we simply remain stagnant. Even if we’re aware of the potential, it may seem too hard to manifest it.
The other Grand Trine this month consists of Pluto in Capricorn, Venus in Virgo and, for a few hours on the 29th, the Moon in Taurus. A Star of David in the yin water and earth signs brings power and harmony to the feminine. This would be a perfect day to celebrate the Earth, the Mother that gave birth to and sustains every material manifestation of this planet. This could be a formal ritual, a trip to the beach or mountains, extra time in the garden, or simply taking a moment to feel and express gratitude for the blessings each of us has. Expressing overt thanks to important women in our lives who are or have provided us with nurturing and a sense of emotional well being is also appropriate at this time.
Whenever a Star of David manifests, however, there are also some challenges. One is that with so much energy in the yin signs, very little is in the yang. At this time there will only be two planets in fire signs and none in air. So for a while, motivation, self expression, even physicality itself may not be too strong. Because the Star won’t be too long I don’t think that this will become problematic, but striving to balance the yang with the yin is always beneficial.
Another problem with a Star of David is that it is usually accompanied by a Grand Square, or Cosmic Cross, and at least one T-Square. This time the Grand Square is in fixed signs and the T-Square is in cardinal signs. The fixed signs are about values. When they line up in challenging relationship to each other, they are requiring us to redefine and reprioritize what is important to us. What gives our life meaning? The cardinal T-Square implores to put into action what we value in order to experientially learn whether what we conjecture or assume is, in fact, functional as well as meaningful. These alignments bring challenges, stress and require work. By aligning the harmonious flow of the Star of David with the confrontations of the crosses, we can have ample tools with which to respond to some gnarly tests. In the process, major and desirable growth can take place.
For those of you who are astrologically literate, know that there are also two mystic rectangles and a Grand Sextile on the 29th. Space limits my ability to define these alignments. Suffice to say that power, potential and seemingly limitless vision are available throughout this month, getting stronger day by day.
Aries
This is a time to focus inward. That could be dealing with family or home issues. It could also imply a time to look within yourself to get in touch with your emotional life. Once there, growth can come from taking steps to becoming more emotional self-nurturing. By extension, this could also lead to letting those close to you know what’s going on inside.
Taurus
This is a good time to refine the techniques you use. This could be in relationship to creativity, parenting or simply in terms of integrating the aesthetic with the practical. Growth comes from avoiding perceiving external situations idealistically and striving to be helpful to others.
Gemini
Working to use your intuition to solve practical dilemmas can provide growth this month. Challenges come from digging deep and sharing vulnerable parts of yourself with those closest to you.
Cancer
 The New Moon on the 8th is an ideal retreat day. Your intuition as well personal sensitivity will be extremely strong and it’s beneficial to feel safe and protected from emotional overwhelm at that time. The full Moon on the 22nd may bring opportunities for social interaction, but be selective about who you choose to spend time with.
Leo
If you are young, you may feel pushed and pulled by parental issues involving either your parents or yourself as a parent. If you are older, this is a good time to make sure that your daily activities are supportive of your long-range goals.
Virgo
Feeling close to family, or feeling as if good friends are family, is a good way to experience the energy this month. In either case, however, growth comes from not getting too controlling or possessive of either group. Accepts others as they are and allow the energy to flow as it does.
Libra
Challenges could come from family, partner and career. Growth for you comes from working to stay centered and out of co-dependency in responding to these tests. When we’re centered, we can live from our own inner being out to the world. Otherwise, we live outside in and allow others to define our reality.
Scorpio
The alignment on the 29th provides the challenge of remaining autonomous even as you share deeply with others. Growth comes from remembering to show up when called on to be present. The Grand Trine can provide endless feelings of emotional security and strength within to do so.
Sagittarius
This is as good a time to be emotionally transparent as will be available to you for quite a while. The challenge is to allow yourself to get close to others without following that by running away. A hint: don’t be excessive when you open up. Do so gradually.
Capricorn
There is great energy for you to move forward at this time. Start slowly, but plans for projects that have been on the drawing board for months should be ready to be activated. And there’s plenty of energy available to make major strides, even if moving methodically.
Aquarius
This could be a confusing time for you in general as much of the energies call for deep and personal exchange. Internal research is also called for now. None of these are activities you may feel drawn to or be good at. Therefore, growth for you comes from making progress, however incremental, in these areas.
Pisces
With so much harmonious flowing energy, you should be able to use it to reach a new stage of awareness creatively, spiritually or servicefully. Growth comes from remembering to keep limits and boundaries in mind and not do more, or expect more of yourself, than is realistic.
Rio Olesky has been a professional astrologer since 1976. He is the author of “A Manual for the Modern Mystic” and “Astrology and Consciousness.” He offers both private readings as well as classes for both beginning and intermediate students. Call Rio at 707-887-1820. Check out his website: www.starwatcher.com.