WHEEL OF LIGHT

August 2013
This is a year of extreme fluctuations of energy interspersed with periods of calm. After several relatively calm months, June and July were highlighted by the delightful Grand Trine in water signs. This month, however, a very challenging planetary alignment will confront us.
We’ve discussed the 90-degree relationship (square) between Uranus and Pluto for several years. In late July, Jupiter entered Cancer. It immediately was trine both Saturn and Neptune to form the Grand Trine. But in July it moved into an opposition to Pluto and a square to Uranus forming a T-square. This aspect can create difficulty, as we may seem to be blocked in some way by whatever we attempt to do. To some degree the T-square may not have seemed too challenging since July also contained the beautiful Star of David, two intersecting Grand Trines, that peaked on the 29th.
This month the three planets that have been forming the T-square are joined by a fourth – Venus. In some ways, this could prove to be beneficial since Venus represents the principles of love and harmony. However, these four planets will all be at right angles to each other the last two weeks of the month. This means that they are squared to each other and form the most challenging of all planetary aspects – the Grand Square or Cosmic Cross.
It’s important to remember that there are no bad aspects per se. Or good ones, for that matter. There may be difficult times or pleasant times, but that doesn’t necessarily make them good or bad. What determines the outcome of a planetary alignment is our free will response to it. Last month I mentioned that when a comfortable, harmonious Grand Trine is available, we could get lazy and not take advantage of the opportunities. If we allow the challenges of the Grand Square to overwhelm us, if we adopt an attitude of victimization or self-pity, we aren’t taking advantage of the growth potential of the times. And if there is one thing that a Grand Square offers us, it’s a brilliant opportunity for growth and change.
In responding to this period, keep in mind that all the planets are in cardinal signs. That is, they are all action-oriented. This is not a time of deep contemplation or of creating philosophical theories. It is a time to do something. We don’t have to get it right the first time, either, because these signs are comfortable with trial and error. They learn by doing.
A simple methodology or strategy to employ at this time is to prioritize the four points of the cross. These are some keywords to keep in mind as you plot your plans. Pluto represents transformation. It wants to root out what is old and outmoded or even decayed and stagnant. Letting go provides time and energy for new things to be created. Pluto can pertain to truth. If we are living in truth this transit can provide a peak experience that shifts our whole reality. If we are not living in truth there could be significant losses.
Uranus is about feeling inspired to do new things that enhance one’s sense of uniqueness and liberation. Uranus calls on us to be provocative, revolutionary and innovative. Jupiter is about expansion. It could expand the benefits of a Plutonian peak experience or the pain of the losses. It could provide confidence and a joyful attitude in boldly becoming and expressing who we are or a period of erratic behavior that leads nowhere.
Venus brings a note of caution and the suggestion that, even in times of great stress, we can make our decisions methodically rather than in haste. Venus will be in Libra, a sign that values being thoughtful of others. If we act with deliberation and diplomacy, taking others into consideration without blocking our own changes with co-dependency, Jupiter will provide a big picture perspective of how to do so. The warmth and nurturing qualities of Cancer become enhanced.
 A Cosmic Cross is like a cosmic riddle. This is not a period of stasis. We must act in ways that are in harmony with our basic nature, while giving ourselves the opportunity to explore new and exciting ways of being. We need to be brutally honest with ourselves and others about who we are and what we’re doing, even as we take our ongoing relationship and previous choices into consideration. How to do this is neither easy nor obvious. The outcome is not assured. We do have an opportunity, however, to transform our relationships, our financial situation, our consciousness and ourselves in previously unprecedented ways. Not an easy task, but well worth the effort.
Aries
Conflicts at home or at work start to subside in early month. Late month could find a renewed sense of drive and creativity that provides the boost to start new projects. Growth comes by basing your choices and actions on what you’ve learned in the past couple of months and not getting carried away with the energy.
Taurus
Ironically, as a sign noted for its need for stability, you may be able to roll with the punches this month. The key is to act in ways that enable you to be of service to others. You may find that your support helps others to get through some tough spots. Their gratitude could in turn further your own changes and growth.
Gemini
You could feel as if some of your basic values and habits are challenged this month. Mid-month could find you doubting yourself, possibly as a result of being challenged or disagreed with by others. Late month could bring more confidence, but possibly more confusion. Growth comes from overcoming the confusion by using your intuition to find clarity.
Cancer
The transit of Jupiter into Cancer should be taking root by now and you may be feeling joyful and confident. That will help you this month to overcome challenges in relationship, family or career. Long simmering problems could surface. Growth comes from confronting the issues and the people, resorting to neither self-protective hiding nor attempts to control.
Leo
Mental clarity is strong for you this month, as is your ability to express your points of view. Use this ability to seek new perspectives, especially around work, health and family. This is a good time to troubleshoot parts of your life that have proven difficult for a concerted period of time.
Virgo
Your analytical mind and willingness to work hard will serve you well this month. You may be called upon to mediate for others in early month. Spend some time alone from mid-to late month. The intuitive clarity you could derive will serve you well communicating and interacting with others in late month. The more inner clarity you have the more powerful your words.
Libra
Feelings of being-contained and enjoying alone time in early month could be followed by challenges both domestically and professionally in late month. Growth comes from finding compromise solutions that take everyone’s needs and feelings into consideration. No one should be left out, including you.
Scorpio
This month could bring some inner challenges that help you understand some of your underlying motivations, especially in terms of romantic relationships. Travel could be dicey, leading either to a spiritual peak experience or continuous struggle with your companion. Growth for you comes from prioritizing debate, negotiation and compromise.
Sagittarius
Although you may be enjoying the action-oriented Jupiter in Cancer, this is a month to make sure you’re not getting overextended. Sometimes your intentions, positive and beneficial to others though they may be, could leave you with an energy deficit and others with unfulfilled expectations. Growth comes from being realistic about both your limits and other people’s needs and problems.
Capricorn
This month will provide useful and realistic perspective about the degree to which you are dealing with yourself and your reality with honesty. The more realistic you are and have been will lead to some incredible transformations. The less so, the greater the challenges and difficulties. If the latter transpires, note the areas or relationships in your life from which you are receiving unpleasant feedback. That’s where the work needs to be done.
Aquarius
The full Moon in Aquarius on the 20th provides an opportunity to become more emotionally aware. In turn, that can lead to being more expressive of your feelings to others. This may not be easy for you, so be patient with the process.
Pisces
As the world seems to be sailing out of control all around you, you may have the ability to remain present and centered. Others may call on you for advice, counsel and wisdom. Growth comes from being real. You can’t give to others more than you have or more than you are giving to yourself.
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 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.