Lotus Guide

July, August and September 2010

Balance and Order in Our Relationships—An Inside Job

By Alexandra Karacostas

Last month on June 26 we experienced a lunar eclipse, a powerful full moon, in the sign of Capricorn. What makes this eclipse so particularly important is that the god of transformation, Pluto, was intimately involved. I won’t bore you with the details, but between the sun, moon, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Pluto a dance is going on in the heavens, which in astrological terms is known as a “cardinal grand square.” This is a very big deal, because big things are playing out, colored by themes of death and rebirth!

This auspicious planetary configuration looks like a huge rectangle in the sky. It demands action to relieve the tension and conflict created by the sharp angles of its own square. A lunar eclipse magnifies things, this square being no exception. Further, the influence of an eclipse can last from several months to a few years, which this one is likely to do. What does this mean? A lot of human activity goes in the world with enormous impacts, many negative. Today, nothing goes unnoticed; there is no place to hide.

The cardinal grand square includes all four of the cardinal signs. These are the signs of the zodiac that start each season, bringing new activity. So, if your birthday is early in any of the cardinal signs, Aries, Cancer, Libra, and Capricorn, this time is likely to feel like one requiring profound adjustment, maybe even turbulence. This influence touches us all, but it is especially compelling in the above-mentioned signs. Yet this period also provides us all with an avenue to make creative changes in the most important areas of our lives.

Necessity is forcing us personally and collectively to make changes in our lives that consider others in ways we haven’t in the past. Much talk of doom and gloom is in the air and indeed, we live in precarious times. But acting out of fear only begets more fear. Acting out of kindness, generosity, and understanding, learning to function as a whole, can provide us with the freedoms we imagine possible for all living beings. A friend, Maurice Fernandez, offered this insight: “Maybe this is a time for redemption—in the name of humanity (and yourself), ask for forgiveness and pledge to realign on this day. So much damage is done...but as it always is, nothing is in vain."

So now let’s get to Saturn, one of the lead dancers. Starting this July, Saturn will be reentering the sign of Libra, where he will remain until October 2012. His orbit takes about 29 to 30 years, so the last time he came into Libra was in 1980. Saturn is concerned with conservatism, consolidation, structure, and limitation. Saturn demands that we honor our contracts, whether individual or global, and his influence is strong in the sign of Libra.

Libra is concerned with relationships of all kinds. Its symbol is the scale, representing balance, justice, equality, and harmony. During this period actions from the past come to light in special ways, revealing the karmic nature of relationships. It is essential to honor agreements, accept rules of conduct, and further develop our abilities to work with others. The need for cooperation is paramount and necessary. Saturn in Libra offers us another opportunity to start making things right by respecting ourselves, each other, and our earth. It is a time of cosmic beginnings to correct our mistakes and set the world aright!

Aries—You are approaching a new cycle of expansion and personal growth. This is an exciting time, though it may feel uncomfortable as you hedge between caution and optimism. Strive for a new kind of personal freedom while balancing choices with responsibility. Exercise your physical body as well as your inner faith.

Taurus—Sudden disclosures and information may be helpful in reconsidering certain attitudes and ideals. Insight will come through the practical, daily encounters of life coupled with frequent “aha!” moments. Spend time alone for reflection. Relish these experiences and use them for creative and playful inspiration.

Gemini—You possess many skills for generating money. Now is a good time to take a step that might feel risky and/or threatening. Pursue long-terms goals with gusto. Communicate truthfully with family members about your concerns and plans. You will receive greater support than you imagined.

Cancer—Happy birthday, Cancers! Relationships and career are on the forefront demanding your attention. New realizations about the obstacles standing in the way of your objectives seem much more apparent right now. The trick is to practice patience while taking advantage of unexpected opportunities. Use your intuition and pay attention to your feelings and your inner voice.

Leo—Happy birthday, Leos! The revelations concerning your work and values percolate more perceptively to the surface. Now is a terrific time to make long-overdue changes in the workplace. Your “job” needs to become more rewarding and meaningful. Take a calculated risk and move toward your inspiration. It is a process well worth initiating—now!

Virgo—Happy birthday, Virgos! Managing your own assets as well as those held jointly with partners will require some reconsideration and reexamination. Discipline and limitations can prove personally gratifying.  nitiate action on your own behalf. Venture toward your dreams and aspirations while tending to the home hearth. The secret to success is balance.

Libra—Yours is the sign of relationships, balance, and justice. During this period the universe is inviting you to redefine and improve the relationship, balance, and justice to yourself! Decisions concerning your profession, home, and responsibilities abound. Your present task is to remain flexible and open to assistance from others.

Scorpio—You are drawing near the end of a cosmic 30-year cycle. The time is coming when you will be letting go of the hopes or wishes that have not been fulfilled. Revamp your ideas about the present. This can be an exhilarating and exciting time in your work. Take advantage of technological breakthroughs while creating some of your own.

Sagittarius—Be prepared to form new friendships and group associations. Some friendships may fade away as you review and restructure your long-term objectives. Remain true to what you appreciate and value. Cultivating your creativity and taking some chances in romance may prove fun and worthwhile!

Capricorn—Partnerships of all types demand your attention as you attempt to redefine your place in community and professional direction. Stimulating and unexpected changes in the domestic arena may have you looking at options never before considered. Your perception is keener than you think. Trust it.

Aquarius—A new project will revive your existing routine, bringing with it fresh ideas and concepts. Educational opportunities may also become an alternative during this period. Stretch your mind. Outdoor adventures and jaunts into nature are a way to unwind and maintain health inside and out.

Pisces—Your children will be a focal point during the next few months. Nurture, support, and allow them space to grow and develop in their own unique ways. Unsuspected prospects for increased income may come your way. Providing you do not have to make long-term commitments, take the chance and tread into unfamiliar territory.

Dear reader, I welcome your questions, comment,s and feedback. 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.