Faith, Hope, and Vigilance! Nothing Changes unless We Do

By Alexandra Karacostas

Happy New Year! We embark on yet another spin around the sun. Once again, it is with the promise and determination to continue making meaningful and significant changes in our lives. The planetary energies shift from the heavier earth elements of 2008 to the lighter nuances of air. Our attention makes a subtle shift away from conventional problem solving to broad cooperative efforts. We can arrive at intelligent solutions to our common global challenges through honest discussion and exchange of innovative ideas. If we keep our vision clear, the path can be easier to follow.

            Expansive, jovial Jupiter on January 6 enters the sign of Aquarius, where he rides out the rest of 2009. He brings the Aquarian qualities of humanitarianism, truth, further advances in technology, inventions, communication, and community strength, highlighted by the theme “think globally, act locally.” The changes and challenges that began in recent years persist and continue to grow. We must keep sight of the fact that the depletion of resources, personal and collective, remains a very real problem. Sustainability is the most important theme on our planet today!

            Whatever Jupiter touches is bestowed with elements of exaggeration and exuberance, sometimes for the better, sometimes not. In 2008 Jupiter traveled through the earth sign of Capricorn. While he was there, because of these influences, we woke up to the serious and critical issues facing our financial, economic, and governmental systems and structures. We have been not only willing, but eager to try almost anything in fiscally conservative Capricorn, a mark of our desperation.

            In February 2009 Mars joins the party with Jupiter and Neptune in Aquarius until mid-March, intensifying the themes of brotherhood, global unity, and original ideas. Mars represents how we assert ourselves. We may recognize more easily that that which benefits each of us can benefit all of us if the power and intention of self-ishness is used for the higher good. One for all and all for one!

            On January 26 we have the first solar eclipse of the year, reinforcing the Aquarian themes for months to come. As Jupiter makes his way closer to Neptune throughout the year we can anticipate moments of inspired insight and revelation. We must be careful not to fool ourselves by clouding our vision. Collective dreams and hope, change we can believe in, may prove to be loftier aspirations than perhaps we can now realize, but there is momentum in a healthier and more holistic direction. Remaining absolutely vigilant and keeping our eye on the ball are the keys to success. What a truly a provocative time for the opportunity for change, renewal, maybe even redemption. It is up to us!

            Pluto began a journey in 2008 by dipping his cold toes into Capricorn; he now takes the plunge and stays deep until 2023. The last time Pluto entered this sign was in 1765. Not coincidentally, the U.S. horoscope (July 4, 1776) has Pluto in Capricorn. It was during this period of history that we first witnessed aristocratic forms of government fall. Now, 240 years later, we are coming full circle, again reconceiving and restructuring new forms of government, more responsive to the needs of the people they serve.

            Pluto represents transformation, empowerment, and the ability to regenerate—rebirth. Pluto takes us to the invisible underworld and invites us to surrender. It is a scary process, inevitable yet necessary for evolution. From the darkness we can potentially emerge with greater humility, honesty, integrity, and a wealth of treasures. The transformation has already begun in how we manage resources, personal and collective, in more equitable and responsible ways.

            It is interesting to look at the downside of the Aquarian energies. Change rarely occurs unaccompanied by fear. Fear rarely arises without desperate attempts to control the environment and the outcome. Much to some people’s dismay, we will likely witness the increased use of cameras, microchips, and other devices to monitor and track everything and everyone. Big Brother is watching ever more closely!

            On the other hand, the same communication tools used by Big Brother create an ever-widening path to an even broader information highway. Real freedoms are to be found here. It may be that one day very soon, all kinds of information will be available and free via the Internet, our TVs, phones …who knows through what else.

            With the mutual reception of Neptune in Aquarius and Uranus in Pisces, we cannot  deny our interimpact on one another across the globe. Despite our diligent efforts to build walls and fences, literally and metaphorically, we can no longer live in a world where we conceive of ourselves as separate.

            Some of the most important events of 2009 revolve around an ongoing dance between Saturn in Virgo and Uranus in Pisces opposing one another. The first exact opposition occurred on November 4, 2008. We saw what happened on that day—the U.S. presidential elections. Two more exact oppositions of Uranus and Saturn will be on February 5 and September 15. (There will also be two more  oppositions in April and July of 2010.) Saturn represents established patterns, cautious and conservative methods of conduct. Uranus represents revolutionary, rebellious, and often seemingly unexpected changes. Think mid-1960s and take a brief glance at the current unrest worldwide today. It is the clash of the titans, the old and the new. Make no mistake. These gods are at war.

            Transition is always challenging, especially as we move from the “old” to the “new.” At the end of October 2009, Saturn enters the friendly, peace-loving air sign of Libra. Then things really become interesting as Pluto and Saturn begin tough negotiations. It is likely we will witness more ultimatums cast in the fight for world influence and power, cloaked in the name of justice.

            Saturn demands taking responsibility, being efficient, facing our fears through disciplined action. While he travels through the sign of Libra the stage is dominated by the need for cooperation, clear communication, and the honoring of commitments and obligations in relationships. This will be a time requiring reconciliation, effective leadership, compromise, and the promotion of justice in relationships of all kinds.

            Meanwhile, Saturn remains in Virgo, where he has unfinished business to complete. Medical reforms, labor relations, the service industry, and distribution and production of commodities such as food, oil, metal, and so forth continue to demand attention and resolution. With Jupiter’s entry into Aquarius, representing increased optimism and faith in humanity, solutions may become more apparent. As long as we apply ourselves constructively we can make progress.

            The path and trajectory we are negotiating demand that we concentrate our energies. The universe patiently invites us to live in a sane and sensible manner. We are very capable of moving forward with better insight and skills. Nothing changes unless we do. Let us all make a great start of 2009 by celebrating our diversity and recognizing our common ground!

Aries—The New Year begins with a bang in your career. You find you have the energy to complete projects already started. Working independently will further your progress. Social activities and participating in unusual pleasures takes you through February. Enjoy!

Taurus—Life might feel more complicated as you start 2009. Career and work circumstances may change, but ultimately they will provide you with better options for growth. Communicate fresh ideas. You are invited to take an alternative route to your destination. Try something new!

Gemini—Working intimately with others may be beneficial for all concerned if you use trust and honesty as your primary tools. Taking time for an adventure can provide you with a renewed outlook on your current domestic situation. Create space to care for yourself!

Cancer—Concern with intimacy and shared resources is highlighted as you enter the New Year. Crack your shell and go deeper into vulnerability. From there you will emerge with promised treasures. Relationship challenges become more complex, yet potentially richer. Move toward the fear!

Leo—All kinds of partnerships call for your involvement. Remember that in some way each relationship reflects an aspect of yourself. Make decisions only after careful evaluation, especially mid- to late January. This is an excellent time to create healthy habits and a sensible routine.

Virgo—As the New Year begins so does a flurry of excitement in the office or workplace. Try to accept changes instead of resist them. Discover and employ new skills to enhance the quality of your work. Much growth and opportunity awaits those ready to think outside the box.

Libra—Establishing balance between your home life and career invite innovative thinking and possibly taking a few risks. Communicate from the heart with family and close friends. Impulsive actions will place you further from your goals. Pave a new path toward creativity and romance!

Scorpio—The New Year begins with a new project at home that may last several months. Let go of fears rooted in the past and dive into new territory. Real or imagined obligations may interfere with authentic expression and freedom. Don’t keep score. Do you want to be right or happy?

Sagittarius—Social engagements and activities can take your attention off more meaningful long-term goals. Invest yourself in what you believe.  Changes in self-worth, personal values, and money can now be enhanced by a new vision for the future. Faith and optimism are your true allies!

Capricorn—Happy Birthday to all of our Mountain/Sea goat friends! The New Year jump-starts with enthusiasm and ambition. Reassess your financial situation and make changes where needed. Your life is slowly, but surely, changing in powerful and profound ways. Determine that your direction is sustainable for the long term. Don’t be afraid to go where you have never been before. This is going to be a ride unlike any other!

Aquarius—Happy Birthday to all of our Water Bearer friends! January brings the expansive and optimistic influence of Jupiter into your sign for the remainder of 2009. Focus your energy on developing your confidence and personal assets. Be mindful to not bite off more than you can chew. New acquaintances and circumstances enter your life, introducing fresh elements. Allow your insights and vision to guide you as you begin a new cycle of individual growth. Merely remember to take it one step at a time.!

Pisces—Your inner guides are speaking to you. Are you listening? Community events and celebrations kick off the New Year, but don’t get lost in the party. Strive for balance between your needs and your commitments and obligations to others. Practice how to simply hear the silence.

Dear Reader, I welcome your questions, comments, and feedback. I am available for consultations in person or by phone. If you are a Capricorn or Aquarius, mention the Lotus Guide and you get a 10 percent discount off an astrological reading until the next issue comes out. I look forward to hearing from you! You can reach me at (530) 520-9992, email me at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. ., or visit www.WisdomAstrology.com.