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May/June 2008 Starscope
Going Retro

by Guest Astrologer: Michael O'Connor

The planets are going retro. Pluto in Capricorn has been a major focus and in mid-June it re-enters Sagittarius due to retrograde motion. Neptune, Jupiter and Mercury turn retrograde as well during this period. Mercury retrograde (May 26 to June 19) could bring the usual delays and quirks in all modes of communication, yet because it is in Gemini, the sign it rules, it could produce some pleasant insights.

Aries(March 21 - April 19)

Major changes unfolding in your public and professional life cause you to reassess your priorities. You feel called to actions that transcend personal plans and desires. Previously held notions, dreams and ideals may have hit hard against inner and/or outer realities. Pressures to awaken to your own life patterns and challenges and those of a larger collective are subtle yet sure. Humility is calling you to clean-up and refine your mind focus and skills.

Taurus (April 20 - May 20)

To whom and what do you claim and/or owe allegiance? Confusion about your place and role in the world is likely these days. Yet, you can know what you stand for and believe. In these confusing and uncertain times of significant change, a widening of perspectives, long term vision, planning and patience are great assets. Integrity asks that you assume a position of leadership and responsibility. Respect for the needs and rights of others, just as you want in return are especially important now.

Gemini (May 21 - June 21)

Melding minds, visions and energies is your current quest. Your higher, unifying mind is calling. Meditation or bouts of silence, listening to receive soul guidance is ideal. Lessons about greater unity and commitment are at play. Of course you want it all, but you are challenged to make firm decisions about future directions. Facing fears about endings, death and transformation is important now and will nurture realism, strength and gratitude.

Cancer (June 22 - July 22)

Major change is on everyone's mind these days. Since change is the law, wisdom asks that we let go of resistance and let God and evolution have their way. New opportunities open amid major change with advantage in every situation. People and circumstances are pushing you to pay attention to the details of the bigger picture and to take pioneering initiatives on a variety of fronts. Your determination to learn new skills is important. Register, sign-up, join clubs and make lasting friendships part of your plan.

Leo(July 23 - August 22)

Your whole health is an area of major importance. Whole implies your physical, mental, emotional and spiritual health. Focus to build your constitution, clear the clutter, strengthen your relationship bonds and ties, thank and forgive yourself and others for past experiences, release emotional holds to embrace the present more fully, and learn to love yourself as soul incarnate. Ask for favors and earned rewards, and ask yourself and others what you can do to give more.

Virgo (August 23 - September 22)

Dreams and visions of your power potential are flooding your mind. To clarify these begin by identifying your greatest assets and potentials. Avoid too much dreaming, and intend to actualize. Nurture confidence with steady concentration, discipline and determination. Activate constructive criticism about how you can improve yourself and your offerings. Exercise creative leadership backed by resolve to serve and to be heard.

Libra (September 23 - October 23)

Progressive change is apparent in both your personal family life and your public and professional affairs. Some provocative events and opportunities have come about, perhaps in real estate or relationships. However, questions about what you truly want and need are arising. Are your needs balanced with your ambitions? Creating a sustainable future requires that we learn to be more aware of how much we consume. Less need and attachment will earn you confidence.

Scorpio (October 24 - November 22)

Major shifts in consciousness are affecting your perceptions and self-concepts. Awakening to the reality of ego assertions is making the ego less attractive. Learning that you have an ego versus that you are an ego is the first step to soul realization. The psychological process of separating the kernel from the husk is about realizing who you really are - both great and powerful, and humble and inconsequential - represents a balanced perspective.

Sagittarius (November 23 - December 21)

Bringing your wisdom and leadership to the fore is a central theme these days. The game is afoot and you are a player. To succeed you may have to clean up somehow. A sober and effective approach implies your will to do the work. Activate your vision in service to larger needs and movements now. Demonstrate will and courage yet avoid blame as it deflates your power potential. Everyone has a right to be here, even the bad guys. See the bigger picture, yet attend to your own duties and tasks.

Capricorn (December 22 - January 20)

Pluto in your sign indicates you are on the threshold of a powerful activation of direction and expression. Gaining more education is likely and ideal. The sooner you take initiative the better. Don't look back, simply commit to the forward path. This includes opening your mind to new perspectives. Taking calculated risks is better than leaps of faith. With your mind focus sharp and passions running high, this is a good time to push through doubt and other blockages.

Aquarius (January 21 - February 19)

Clearing to make way for the new has psychological and spiritual implications for you. You have entered a deep metamorphosis cycle. As the sign of humanity, this may come as no surprise. Avoid trying to be the pleaser and focus in upon your own process. This includes awakening to a higher vision and to reassessments of what is truly important. Authentic self-expression beyond weighing merely for economic gain may require faith and patience, yet constitutes a wise personal investment and social contribution.

Pisces (February 20 - March 20)

Entering into new modes of relationship, both personally and professionally is beginning to stir in your mind. You yearn to go to higher levels of expression. Awakening to ideals you once held and forgot or to new aspirations that were perhaps dormant are gaining your attention. The call to commit to groups and higher causes is sounding. This will progressively push you out of familiar circles and habitual comfort zones. Be patient with the pace and your progress.

Michael O'Connor, a full-time professional astrologer, currently lives in Nelson, British Columbia. A popular speaker and workshop facilitator, O'Connor also offers lectures, workshops and classes. Visit www.sunstarastrology.com.

Star Gazing

Taurus

• Symbol: Bull
• Element: Earth
• House: Second (material possessions)
• Planet: Venus (love and beauty)
• Color: Green
• Healing stone: Rose quartz

Gemini

• Symbol: Twins
• Element: Air
• House: Third (communication)
• Planet: Mercury (communication and travel)
• Color: Yellow
• Healing stone: Agate