WE'VE BEEN FEELING the
uncomfortable effects of a Mars-Saturn square building over the past
few days. Symptoms of this aspect range from discouragement to overwhelm
and even to fear as we come up against obstacles or resistance, or
perhaps dwell too
long on the vast divide between where we are and where we want to be,
personally or globally. We may be feeling a lack of energy to accomplish
certain tasks, especially when we consider how much work there is to
do. And, we may feel alone, like we have to do everything by ourselves
and for ourselves.
This
aspect requires considerable patience, persistence, and internal
fortitude. Mars represents the action principle, while Saturn acts as a
container or structure that can limit movement. While these two planets
are in square aspect (acting contrary to each other), it may feel like
"two steps forward, one step back" or even "one step forward, two steps
back."
It
may help to remember is that Saturn's job is ultimately to strengthen
us, much as resistance weight training builds muscle. Another primary
role Saturn plays, as we realize that we simply don't have the energy to
do it all, is to help us to refine our desires and to consolidate our
efforts, so that each action is purposeful rather than a
scattershot.
Delays
in having our needs met also gives us the time to redefine what we
really want. At this time, we will benefit from focusing on the essence
of what we desire, rather than on the form we believe will meet our
needs. This gives the Cosmos the leeway to work its magic in creating
our new reality, unhindered by a more limited view of what is
possible.
A MARS-SATURN SQUARE occurs
every year, but it is more powerful this year for a couple of reasons.
First, Mars and Saturn are both reinforced energetically by being in
their "home" signs: Mars is currently in Aries and Saturn is in
Capricorn. This makes each planet more adamant
about having its core needs met, creating a stronger field of resistance
between the two.
Second,
both Mars and Saturn will station in September, so they are moving more
slowly now as they prepare for their change in direction. Because of
this, they will linger within "orb" (effective range) of the square
aspect for a week or more, rather than just a day or two.
AS THESE two
planets clash, the pressure of being told what we individually can or
cannot do can feel oppressive. Frustration levels are heightened, and
anger may be closer to the surface if we are feeling helpless or
hopeless.
To
move through this time, we will be most successful if we focus on
taking one step at a time. As we stand at the base of the mountain, we
want to put our attention on the path directly ahead of us, rather
than looking up at the peak and wondering how in the world we're ever
going to get there.
ADDING another
layer of significance to this aspect, there will be three Mars-Saturn
squares occurring within the next five months, due to Mars going
retrograde. This means we are currently at the first stage of a longer
process. While this knowing could add to overwhelm, it's also reassuring
to know that
we're not yet supposed to be on top of the mountain.
What
seems insurmountable now will actually become more attainable over the
months ahead, as we continue to strengthen our resolve, align more fully
with our integrity, and fine tune our intentions. As we travel the
trail that leads from here to there, we will become even more capable of
creating new forms that will be sustainable for the long term.
We
can watch events around each of the three Mars-Saturn squares to see
how they relate to and build on each other. Those dates are August 24,
September 29 (a powerful pivot point, being the day after Saturn
stations direct), and January 13, 2021. It will be especially
interesting to see what unfolds with the third square, which will occur
after Mars
has moved into Taurus and Saturn has entered Aquarius ...
AND THAT'S
just one of the influences in effect this week! Keeping in mind that
the Mars-Saturn square is providing the underlying drumbeat, here are
some of the other melodic (or dissonant) themes we'll be working with:
On Monday: Mercury quincunx Chiron, Mars square Saturn, Mercury sesquiquadrate Eris
Communications
are frustrating and troubling. It will be hard to keep voices calm,
tempers are short, and misunderstandings easily occur. Conflicts reveal
an underlying insecurity and need to blame others.
On Tuesday: Mercury
trine Uranus, Sun sesquiquadrate Jupiter, Venus opposite Jupiter,
Mercury sesquiquadrate Saturn, Mercury sesquiquadrate Mars
New
ideas and insights, but a tendency to overlook important details or to
overestimate our abilities. Problems in communications and travel plans.
Anxiety and worry can be strong, so remember to breathe and focus on
the step directly in front of you.
On Wednesday: Mercury trine Pallas Athene
Inspired insights that lead to practical solutions. A good day to access the wisdom of the Divine Feminine.
On Thursday: Venus trine Neptune
Compassion
and caring are strong, a knowing of oneness and connection, a desire to
assist those in need. Romantic and creative energy.
On Friday: Pluto square Juno, Sun opposite Ceres, Venus sesquiquadrate Ceres, Sun semisquare Venus
Relationships
and partnerships under stress. People feeling very needy. Uncertainty
in how to assist others without falling into victim consciousness or
going into self-sacrifice. Being pulled in many different directions.
On Saturday: Mercury trine Jupiter
An easing of tension, cautious optimism, better communications and opportunities to find a meeting of the minds.
On Sunday: Venus opposite Pluto, Sun sesquiquadrate Pluto, Mercury opposite Neptune
Defensiveness
and resentments come to the surface, people are very sensitive and
likely to want to assign blame. Criticism can deeply wound if we are not
careful. If we let go of needing to be in control of the situation, we
can better access our intuitive knowing of what to say and when, and
also what not to say. A lack of clear vision about next steps
provides the motivation to go within.
IF YOUR BIRTHDAY IS THIS WEEK: The
year ahead provides opportunities for you to reinvent yourself and your
work, or other means of being of service in the world. If family
members and other loved ones do not agree with your choices, use their
perspectives to help you
clarify what you truly value. Stressful situations help you see where
you have been self-sacrificing, so that you might find a new balance
between fulfilling your personal goals and accommodating the needs of
others. This is an opportunity to grow in self-esteem as you let go of
an attachment to the Virgo need to be "perfect," and learn to love
yourself under all conditions. (Solar Return Sun semisquare Venus, opposite Ceres, trine Uranus)
Pam
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