Astrology 19th-25th: Mental Maelstrom

Disclaimer: If you do not take every word of these horoscopes with the utmost faith, you will die. Statistics bear this out. Simply scan the newspapers. You will find that an overwhelming majority of the people that die each week DID NOT read the Baron's horoscopes.

Vol. 136: Mental Maelstrom

The week opens, on Monday, with a Full Moon in Scorpio. This is the second Full Moon in Taurus/Scorpio this year. This is unusual, the astrological equivalent of a Blue Moon. The Sun in Taurus tries to stabilize shifting terrain with its solar gaze, while the Moon in Scorpio demands that the very territory owned by the gaze stays in flux. This repetition lays extra emphasis on the conflicting desire to stabilize and the evolutionary imperative to move forward.

It is interesting to note that this Full Moon in Taurus-Scorpio occurs at approximately the same degrees in the Sidereal (constellation-based) zodiac as the earlier one did in the tropical. This pair of Full Moons also places us back on a rhythm where the New Moon in each Sign takes places before the Full Moon. We’ve been dealing with the opposite for over a year now, where the Full Moon in a given sign happens before the New Moon. A subtle, but important shift to the tidal rhythms behind our time.

On the tail of Monday’s last-minute Full Moon, the Sun strides into Gemini. Mercury is already deep in the shadow of his retrograde in Gemini, and the Sun’s light is desperately needed in these clanging corridors of mind. The Sun’s movement into Gemini shifts the focus from steadying the boat to clearing the mind. As the Sun moves into Gemini, the solar energy expressed by Mars in Leo mutates. The need for self-assertion becomes increasingly tangled in the half-baked formulations of a near-retrograde Mercury.

The week begins with a Full Moon, but it ends with Venus’ entrance into Gemini, where she joins the Sun and a not-quite retrograde Mercury. Venus’ movement into Gemini adds the passionate, emotional, and deeply personal component to the mental vacillations of the soon-to-be retrograde Mercury. Venus’ movement into Gemini completes the configuration that’ll be shining down on us for the next several weeks: Mercury, the Sun, and Venus in Gemini. The Sun, representing the central focus of affairs, Mercury, carrying with it the mind, and Venus marshalling the passions and finances all move slowly towards June 8^th, when they will align within a single degree, bringing things to a head. Wait for it.

In short, we stride uncertainly from the unstable pasture of Taurus into the wild mental winds of Gemini.

Horoscopes: May 19^th-25^th

Note on Horoscopes: 12 Fold horoscopes are a way to assess the general condition of the splayed rays of the zodiac. Although not without value, they are a blunt tool, and can only describe the archetypal activity in each power-zone. In order to sharpen the accuracy of the horoscopes, read your Sun Sign if you were born in the day-time, and read your Moon Sign if you were born at night. Reading the Sign in which the Ascendant is placed is also advised.

ARIES: Memory Aid

The Full Moon this Monday lays one last exclamation point on your finances before the Sun heads into Gemini. Then, on Tuesday, the Sun’s entrance into Gemini will send a spotlight to shed some light on your thought process. Once Venus heads into Gemini this weekend, it’ll be high time to let people know what they’ve been missing: You. Help them remember.

TAURUS: Unsettled Cattle

It’s been a rather dramatic month for birthday bovines. At the end of this week, Venus leaves Taurus, leaving your troubled pasture for the complicated world of Gemini. Second thoughts about everything are likely to come creeping in for the first few weeks Venus is in Gemini. Hold your ground and keep your head.

GEMINI: Identity Calculation

This week Mercury is joined by the Sun and then Venus in your Sign. As your birthday rolls around, the emphasis shifts to you. Mercury’s almost retrograde will likely find you deep in thought but short on words. You’ve likely in the midst of important and esoteric mathematical equations whose end product will be your identity. In the mean time, assign the less mathematically inclined Twin to keep your feet out of your mouth.

CANCER: Thick and Chunky Style

The planets have decided to have a giant party in the deepest reaches of your psyche, and you’re not invited. Expect what’s been pushed aside to pop into your head and other people’s mouths for the next few weeks. These little demons are stirring the cauldron of experience you’ve accumulated over the last 6 months into a hearty and edible alchemical stew. But it will take a while. And it will be horribly poisonous until its done. So keep your fingers out of the pot.

LEO: Special Note

Early this week, the Sun and Moon shine one last ray of light on important changes in the relationship between your home life and professional ventures. As the Sun and Venus enter Gemini, your focus shifts more and more heavily towards a series of negotiations and conversations with friends and fellows in familiar circles. The Baron senses big moves are afoot. Special Note: Don’t be an asshole.

VIRGO: St. Prudence the Boring

As the Sun and then Venus slip into Gemini to join a near-retrograde Mercury, the emphasis shifts solidly to your professional situation. Unresolved questions swarm it like flies around a neglected picnic. Or words around a bad metaphor. If it hasn’t been made clear by either the Baron or the world around you, you need to play it smart and conservative. Enshrine you dreams in prudence.

Libra: Lo Pan

Your directional sense continues to spin free of magnetic north. The Sun’s entry into Gemini on Tuesday will intensify the strength of your free wheeling considerations and Venus’ entrance over the weekend will toss in her emotional and financial 2 cents. Venus’ addition to the maental maelstrom will, however, pull your primary guidance system into the situation, and lend a sense of direction just before Mercury turns retrograde early next week.

Scorpio: The Wacky Arachnid Show

Another Full Moon for you, Scorpio. The bright blue beams decree that the mutations will continue. In fact, transformations of a variety of sorts will be on your mind, in your heart, and under your fingernails consistently for the next few weeks. This focus on changes contrasts with the bold and outgoing energy that has been filling your stinger since Mars moves into Leo. It is as if part of you was weaving a cocoon while another is on stage, tap-dancing.

Sagittarius: Twice as Awesome

The planets are conspiring to fill your social calendar for the next few weeks. What busy-ness has already begun will only grow as the Sun and then Venus enter Gemini this week. You’ll be having conversations with everyone’s evil twin. They’ll take turns speaking with your human half and horse’s ass. They might be able to tell the difference, but you can’t.

Capricorn: Things That Don’t Matter

Capricorn, there’s likely a pile-up of work you need to do in order to make progress in the direction you’ve chosen. Adjustments, corrections, do overs and technical problems are hovering around the coming period, like mildly frightening ghosts. You’ll be fine, as long as you don’t waste your time and energy fighting battles with things that don’t exist or that don’t matter.

Aquarius: Bright Ideas

Developing questions about lovers, life-style and creative projects find fuel as the Sun and then Venus enter Gemini this week. There are dualities emerging that suggest that decisions need to be made, but information is likely currently insufficient. Your relationships are relatively flammable right now, so be careful with your bright ideas.

Pisces: Not Drunk

The situation hovering around your home intensifies this week, as first the Sun, and then Venus roll into Gemini. Expect your foundations on both physical and emotional levels to undergo continuous renovation over the next several weeks. Just don’t expect the crew to show up on time, or not drunk.

Consultation Services: If you'd like a personal consultation with the man behind the mask, message the Baron's mortal vehicle at Xroadsconsultations@gmail.com for details. The Baron is also available for birthdays, weddings, funerals and orgies.

Educational Services: Beginning and Intermediate level Online classes in Astrology and the Tarot held every quarter. Spring quarter classes begin soon. Email Xroadsconsultations@gmail.com for details.

Free Newsletter: Send an email to Nightskystrategies@gmail.com in order to subscribe to the Baron's new online monthly mini-magazine. Issue 1 launches on May 21st.

COPYRIGHT ABYSSAL EPISTLES 2008

Sol in Gemini, Luna in Sagittarius
..

DEATH FROM ABOVE,

ON THE WEEKLY

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Astrology12th-18th: Juggernaut Repair Service

Disclaimer: If you do not take every word of these horoscopes with the utmost faith, you will die. Statistics prove it. Simply scan the newspapers. You will find that an overwhelming majority of the people that die each week DID NOT read the Baron's horoscopes.

Vol. 136: Juggernaut Repair Service

This week Mercury, now in Gemini, strides unknowingly into shadowed territory. The degrees of the zodiac and topics of conversation covered this week all have layers lying underneath them. These are areas destined for Mercury’s retrograde.

We have come through a turbulent series of large and small scale changes. The difficulties still exist but are now knowns. A new phase has begun, where we must rebuild what has fallen in the last year. But designs must match the times. There is a lot of thinking to do.

The process is two-fold. There is the question of building. This is a question of How. Then there is the question of design. This is a question of What. The reconstruction effort reflects the dual quality of the Twins. But other influences are in play. The familiar Western Zodiac is only one method of characterizing the quality of planetary influences, and a decidedly solar one, at that. To thoroughly understand the quality of this Mercury retrograde, we must look to the Lunar Mansions of Vedic Astrology, the Nakshatras.

There are 27 Nakshatras, one for each day of the Lunar Cycle. They are pinned to the sky by the solid light of the fixed stars. Each one occupies one-twenty-seventh of the Zodiac, 13 degrees and 20 minutes. They are used in Vedic Astrology to provide additional description about the character of planets, especially the Moon itself.

The reason that we must change lenses in order to examine this Mercury Retrograde is because it occurs all within one lunar mansion, stepping out of that mansion a mere degree in the next month and half. Mercury’s movement this month and the next is contained almost entirely within the Lunar Mansion of Rohini.

Rohini is one of the most fertile and productive of all Lunar Mansions. To it is attributed the power of growth. Rohini was the surrogate mother of Krishna, the embodiment of manifest divine consciousness. And so the building power of the Lunar Mansion provides the material support or “body” for consciousness. One of the symbols for this Nakshatra is the chariot, which supports, protects, and transports the conscious being within it.

Strangely, the English word “juggernaut” is derived from the very chariot associated with this Nakshatra. In the 19^th century, the British occupied India. They witnessed the yearly festival of Jagannatha, in which 50 ft chariots are constructed and paraded through the streets. These chariots house the very gods whom Rohini raised: Shiva, his brother Balarama and their sister Subadra.

Rohini, as an aspect of the divine mother, provided the material support for this triumphant trio. Therefore the symbol of her lunar mansion is the Chariot.

My Other Car Is A Chariot

There is a strange resonance between Mercury’s retrograde in Rohini and the Mars retrograde in Cancer. Within the Tarot, Cancer is assigned to Card VII, the Chariot. This is often misunderstood, as Cancer is a nurturing and supportive Sign, while the Chariot card is often associated with conquering force. However, the meaning implied by the assignment of Cancer to the Chariot is precisely the one described by Rohini’s chariot. The Chariot is a symbol of the supportive vehicle which makes the spirit triumphant. It is feminine or yin in nature, and complements or completes the yang character of the active spirit driving it. This is the “vehicle” referred to in the Lesser, Greater and Diamond Vehicle strands of Buddhism, and has a strong resonance with the Hebrew Merkabah tradition.

And so Mercury’s retrograde through these inconspicuous degrees of Gemini ties into the underlying theme that characterizes this time.

Horoscopes: May 12^th-18^th

Note on Horoscopes: 12 Fold horoscopes are a way to assess the general condition of the splayed rays of the zodiac. Although not without value, they are a blunt tool, and can only describe the archetypal activity in each power-zone. Although primarily present within only a few, each person, in reality, lives within all twelve. In order to sharpen the accuracy of statements, the Baron suggests reading the Sign the Sun is present in if you were born during the day, and reading the Moon for those of you born at night. Reading the Sign in which the Ascendant is placed is also advised.

Aries:

This week Mars’ movement through Leo continues the task of returning you to your abrasive self. Meanwhile, as Mercury drives deeper into its retrograde shadow, communications increase in volume but not necessarily in clarity. There are possibilities surrounding your work situation which won’t become clear for a few weeks to come.

Taurus:

Where the Sun’s spotlight shines, Venus’ benevolence is quick to follow. Recent streaks of luck last until the 24^th, when Venus heads on in to Gemini. And on the topic of Gemini, Mercury’s movement deeper into the shadow of its upcoming retrograde will set flies buzzing around your head about your financial situation. Give any major decisions as much time as possible before committing.

Gemini:

Mercury’s drive into the shadowed portion of its upcoming retrograde catches you in the midst of reconsidering your self-image. You might find yourself suddenly remembering some of the times where the notorious Mr. Hyde eclipsed the good Dr. Jekyll. This particular ride has a number of twists and turns before you can get off, so don’t jump to any premature conclusions.

Cancer:

Mars left your Sign last week, draining some of the poison from your cup. But the experiences and events of the last 6 months have yet to yield their full meaning. Mercury’s retrograde through Gemini over the next several weeks will help coagulate the disconnected bits into a solid mass.

Leo:

The recent rash of increased confidence and irritability extend well into the next month. Aggressive extensions into new terrain are linked to emerging networking opportunities. However, there is an obscuring cloud hanging over your relationships with other people right now. Make sure you get the facts.

Virgo:

As Mercury slips deeper into the shadow of its retrograde, the Baron hears powerful mumblings and rumblings in your professional sector. Ideas and deals coming together and pulling apart. Your pride and need for credit are inserting themselves in the equation from an invisible angle. Recognize your need to get your due.

Libra:

Your personal compass is slowly going awry as Mercury treads deeper into Retrograde territory. The looming retrograde stimulates questions about your personal direction, both geographically and philosophically. Meanwhile, Mars in Leo shines a hot light on you in the midst of gatherings.

Scorpio:

Mars’ stride into Leo lights up your professional situation, likely leaving you busy. Meanwhile, Mercury’s movement deeper into the shadow of its looming retrograde drives your mind into strange territory. Idle thoughts wander away from the tasks at hand and instead busy themselves exploring neglected corridors.

Sagittarius:

Mars movement into Leo last week may have activated an itch for travel, which is likely if financial circumstance allows. Meanwhile, Mercury moves deeper into the shadow of the retrograde to come. You’ll likely be having words with your partner(s), and should be on the lookout for miscommunications and technical difficulties at work.

Capricorn:

The not-so-bad times continue as Venus and the Sun make their way through the rest of Taurus. Meanwhile Mercury’s moves deeper into the shadow of its coming retrograde. You’re likely to get caught reconsidering your worldview, as well as getting endlessly absorbed into technical matters at work.

Aquarius:

Mars in Leo may bring you face to face with more annoying company than you’d prefer. Or maybe you’re just irritable. Meanwhile Mercury’s movement into the shadowed degrees of its upcoming retrograde will be providing you with a growing set of insights into the obstacles which have delayed your growth thus far.

Pisces:

Mercury’s movement into the shadowed degrees of its pending retrograde this week has a number of implications for you. It will likely find you re-considering your living situation in light of your relationships with other people. You’re in the midst of re-engineering your foundations on some level(s), and so don’t be surprised if you need some space.

Consultation Services: If you'd like a personal consultation with the man behind the mask, message the Baron's mortal vehicle at Xroadsconsultations@gmail.com for details. The Baron is also available for birthdays, weddings, funerals and orgies.

Educational Services: Beginning and Intermediate level Online classes in Astrology and the Tarot held every quarter. Summer Classes begin in July. Email Xroadsconsultations@gmail.com for details.

Free Newsletter: Send an email to Nightskystrategies@gmail.com in order to subscribe to the Baron's new online monthly mini-magazine. Issue 1 launches on June 19th.

COPYRIGHT ABYSSAL EPISTLES 2008

Sol in Taurus, Luna in Virgo

Astrology 5th-11th: Exit Strategy

Disclaimer: If you do not take every word of these horoscopes with the utmost faith, you will die. Statistics prove it. Simply scan the newspapers. You will find that an overwhelming majority of the people that die each week DID NOT read the Baron's horoscopes.

Vol. 135: Exit Strategy

So here we are. For many finances have tightened and work is creating more stress than money. Saturn’s movement from Leo into Virgo last September shifted the emphasis from living with integrity to living affordably. Then in January Jupiter’s movement from Sagittarius into Capricorn transformed expanding perspectives and soaring hopes into shrunken sets of survival concerns. And in the background, Pluto’s movement from Sagittarius to Capricorn has begun to shift fears from uncatchable terrorists to unstoppable global economic changes. In the midst of these long term changes, Mars went through a disastrous retrograde in Cancer, piling personal troubles on top of difficult large scale circumstances.

And so now the Sun in Taurus shines on all this mess. This Monday the Moon aligns with the Sun once more to start the lunar cycle anew. The New Moon falls like a dark and silent seed onto the fertile soil of Taurus. This Friday sees Mars, at long last, clear the boundary of Cancer and head into Leo. Meanwhile, Jupiter goes retrograde in Capricorn. With the movement of Mars out of Cancer, we come at last to the end of a difficult and unstable period.

Jupiter Retrograde: Buried Dreams

As if Saturn passed the baton last week, Jupiter turns retrograde this Friday. Jupiter’s movement backward through Capricorn will have the character of an archeological dig. Opportunities lie lost beneath piled-up bills and forgotten behind the frantic distraction of personal drama. As Jupiter digs slowly into the earlier degrees of Capricorn the outlines of these lost lessons will become clear once more.

Mars in Cancer: Dependence and Division

At long last Mars breaks the embryonic boundary of Cancer and strides into Leo. Mars has had an extended stay in Cancer, and the patterns and problems associated with that position have become abundantly clear. As noted in Abyssal Epistles, Vol. 108: Red Leaves, Red Planet one of the primary themes for Mars in Cancer is infighting or civil war- a group divided against itself. The challenge of Mars in Cancer is complex, for it calls on a nation or family to assert itself while divided internally.

We can see how this theme of internal division has played itself out in several mundane arenas.

The “no brainer” case of internal division is, of course, the ongoing situation in Iraq, where U.S. forces continue their “Super-Glue” campaign of trying to hold together a splintered country. As fatalities continue to mount, and Mars moves into Leo, the cries for independence will certainly grow louder.

The US Presidential primary races are another excellent case of internal division. The Republican nominee, John McCain, faced tremendous initial resistance from the social conservative factions within his own party. On the Democratic end, Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama’s tight bid for the crown has exposed the rifts within the Democratic party down to a microscopic level. 46.2% of under-weight white women diagnosed with leukemia support Hillary Clinton in New Hampshire! Pundits on the major news networks talk daily about whether this division within the party will prevent it from coalescing around a candidate by November. As Mars moves into Leo, we should see the cry to elect a king (or queen) and unify only grow louder.

Another theme that the long stay of Mars in Cancer has highlighted in people’s lives is dependence. A number of people have been put in awkward positions by the events of the last 6+ months, forced into unnatural positions of support or dependence. When you inject the independent sentiments of Mars into the issue of dependence, you get unnecessary levels of resentment on both sides. This dynamic changes as Mars strides into Leo. People’s sense of independence and personal sovereignty will wake up under this position, motivating people to leave the web of unnecessarily dependent relationships that they’ve become tangled in.

Overall, the drama-meter should head steadily south over the coming months. Hallelujah.

Mars in Leo: King Me!

Mars’ movement into Leo shines a spotlight on the groups torn by internal division during Mars’ time in Cancer. After a long focus on inner conflicts, the energy turns outward, and the question will be which groups, after the trials of the last 9 months, have the strength to seize the guarded opportunities presented by Jupiter this year.

The last important planetary action in Leo was the extended retrograde of Venus during July, August and September of 2007. The archetypal character of Venus in Leo is outlined at length in Abyssal Epistles Vol. 105: Lady of Flame, where the Egyptian goddesses Bast and Sekhmet were examined as mythological models for the planetary position. It is interesting to note that an important part of each goddess’ role is King-Maker. A King Maker confirms and supports the Pharaoh, legitimizing and defending them. As Mars moves into Leo, he strides into the hot Egyptian sands that Venus left behind last year. As many silently war to stake a claim in the shifting sands of the current global situation, it may be the king-makers who truly decide. One has only to look at the Democratic candidates for president or the legend of Beowulf.

Jupiter and Pluto in Capricorn: Pyramid Scheme

And deep in the background lies Pluto. In Capricorn, Pluto takes on the empty silhouette of a mighty zigguraut, the stone personification of hierarchy. Pluto’s movement into Capricorn has heralded a period where the world’s power structure is in transition. The landscape of power is changing, and some are falling from the crumbling edifice while others are scrambling up to the next tier. Jupiter’s presence in Capricorn only emphasizes the opportunities lurking in the pyramid’s shadow.

But that’s all history, much of it yet to be written. Let’s get back to this week.

Horoscopes: May 5^th-11^th

Note on Horoscopes: 12 Fold horoscopes are a way to assess the general condition of the splayed rays of the zodiac. Although not without value, they are a blunt tool, and can only describe the archetypal activity in each power-zone. Although primarily present within only a few, each person, in reality, lives within all twelve. In order to sharpen the accuracy of statements, the Baron suggests reading the Sign the Sun is present in if you were born during the day, and reading the Moon for those of you born at night. Reading the Sign in which the Ascendant is placed is also advised.

Aries: Square One

A mighty “Huzzah!” should resound from the throats of Aries everywhere as Mars makes its way into Leo this Friday. The endless focus on deeply personal entanglements begins to abate as Mars moves out of Cancer. Mars’ movement through Leo over the next 2 months will see you slowly returning to a self you know and recognize as you learn from the mis-steps made during the last 6+ months.

Taurus: Farm Implements

After a crash landing in the pasture last week, Venus sets up camp and gets down to business sowing golden seeds in your personal fields. Although the larger kingdom may be in the midst of a difficult transition, there are good things afoot in the rich fields of Taurus this week and the next. Just don’t spend all your flax on booze and farm implements of questionable value. Happy Birthday.

Gemini: Mid-Sentence

As Mars passes into Leo this Friday, you’ve likely found some relief from lingering entrapments in questionable personal investments. But the way you make your through the world has undergone a change in the last 6 months, and you’ve got plenty of rethinking to do before you can set a course you can keep to. Let your birthday come and go before you begin making promises you intend to keep.

Cancer: Struggle Free

At long last Mars leaves your Sign. The net that has ensnared you in complicated entanglements with others begins to lift as the red planet leaves Cancer this Friday. As you struggle free of this web, the opportunities that have stayed steadily out of reach edge closer. Possibilities emerge from shadowed territory in coming months.

Leo: Squash It

There’s likely been a mosquito you can’t squash no matter how wildly you swing. You’ve heard it buzzing from somewhere in the room for months now. With Mars’ movement into Leo this Friday, the problems that have been plaguing you will either dissipate or step out into the open, where they can be crushed. Brutally.

Virgo: Revisions

Jupiter’s retrograde station this week provides a viewpoint on your earlier plotted plans for expansion. You’ll likely be designing and redesigning your professional position over the next few months. Mercury’s extended visit through Gemini will be providing a plethora of good ideas and even better revisions, so don’t jump at the first one that passes through your mind.

Libra: The Thing That Shouldn’t Be

The many-tentacled monster which has been sitting atop of your life for the last 6+ months loses some of its life-force this week. Mars’ movement out of Cancer robs this beast of the vitality necessary to sustain it outside of its native environment. Meanwhile, Venus and the Sun team up in Taurus to consider your dependence on foreign oil. Its time to solve your personal energy crisis.

Scorpio: Bait

Venus reinforcing the Sun in Taurus indicates that it is time for you to attend to your many connections. Meanwhile, Mars’ movement into Leo announces that its time to shine like the precious little star you are. Perhaps its appropriate to shift into a more extroverted and social form of petulant narcissism? They say you catch more flies with honey than vinegar, but it doesn’t have to be that demanding. Just leave out a half eaten candy bar and see what comes sniffing around.

Sagittarius: Being Right Is Better Than Being Smart

This Monday’s New Moon shifts the focus to your work and health habits. Saturn in Virgo has likely kept a strong focus on these topics since September and the coming weeks offer you a chance to refine your manufacturing methods. Mars beleaguered emergence from the stifling shell of Cancer also has positive consequences. Mars movement into Leo will reawaken your sense of independence and energize your perspective. Don’t be afraid to share! Most people don’t have the same capacity for “being right” that you do. The world desperately needs your answers- the right answers.

Capricorn: Tentacle Withdrawal

Capricorn, you look better than most right now. Saturn’s station last week may have wreaked havoc on the world, but it likely signaled you getting your shit together. This week has more good news for the Baron’s favorite chronically depressed super-villains. Mars’ delayed exit from Cancer indicates a withdrawal of disgusting tentacles from your social life. They’ll slither back into the slimy pit of your awful karma. Where they belong.

Aquarius: Back To Average

Mars’ movement out of Cancer this Friday should see issues in your workspace go back to normal levels of neglect, ineptitude and passive aggression. Thank goodness! Meanwhile Mercury in Gemini is stirring the clouds in your mental skyscape into evocative configurations. Let the ideas come and go. There will be plenty of them.

Pisces: Garbage Fire

Dearest, sweetest, wisest Pisces, it is time for a celebration. Mars leaves Cancer this week. That means that the icky passive-aggressive nonsense which has so gently enfolded your love life and poisoned your creative urges is withdrawing back into its primordial abode. Being the little love-sponge you are, you’ve likely stored up a hearty charge of poison. As Mars moves into Leo, its time to turn that poison into gasoline. Burn bright, toxic star.

Consultation Services: If you'd like a personal consultation with the man behind the mask, message the Baron's mortal vehicle at Xroadsconsultations@gmail.com for details. The Baron is also available for birthdays, weddings, funerals and orgies.

Educational Services: Beginning and Intermediate level Online classes in Astrology and the Tarot held every quarter. Summer Classes begin in July. Email Xroadsconsultations@gmail.com for details.

Free Newsletter: Send an email to Nightskystrategies@gmail.com in order to subscribe to the Baron's new online monthly mini-magazine. Issue 1 launches on June 19th.

COPYRIGHT ABYSSAL EPISTLES 2008

Sol in Taurus, Luna in Taurus

Astrology 28th-4th: Concrete Improvements

ABYSSAL EPISTLES
The Astrology of Baron Samadhi von Coppockalypse

Disclaimer: If you do not take every word of these horoscopes with the utmost faith, you will die. Statistics bear this out. Simply scan the newspapers. You will find that an overwhelming majority of the people that die each week DID NOT read the Baron's horoscopes.

Vol. 124: Concrete Improvements

3 big events happen this week. First, on Wednesday, Venus moves into Taurus. On Thursday, Mercury enters Gemini and after long months retrograde, Saturn stations direct. Venus’ movement into Taurus and Mercury’s entry into Gemini are both good things. The planets work well in these Signs, lending a certain dignity to communications, the affections, and the finances. Saturn’s forward movement pushes delayed plans in the right direction, but his station is often accompanied by a rash of unpleasant events in the larger world.

Venus enters Taurus on April 30^th, leaving the troubled confines of late Aries to return to the comfortable pasture of Taurus. Although Venus initially undergoes problematic aspects to Saturn and Pluto, she will journey unmolested through the bulk of Taurus, steadily improving the situation.

The key word here is “improve,” not “fix.” The help that the benefics in Earth Signs (Venus in Taurus and Jupiter in Capricorn) will provide is an analogue of the tax rebate checks that the United States Federal government will be sending out during this time period- short term help for long term problems. The real changes will be a result of deeper shifts. These are promised later in the year by the commencement of the Saturn-Uranus opposition.

Mercury streaks ahead into Gemini on the 2^nd. The Messenger is at home in the swift Sign of the Twins, and improves the general quality of thoughts and communications while he resides there. Mercury will be in Gemini for an unusual 9 weeks this year, and will be going retrograde on May 26^th and staying that way until June 21^st. As situations slowly grind their way to resolution, there is a lot of thinking and re-thinking to do. Mercury’s long stay in one of his home Signs will do precisely that.

On the same day that Mercury moves into Gemini, Saturn stations direct after months retrograde. Saturn’s direct movement will begin to push forward dormant plans and awaken people to new responsibilities. The simultaneous changes to Saturn and Mercury are linked, for while Saturn is in Virgo, it takes orders from Mercury. Virgo organizes affairs in the most rational and efficient manner, but the very thoughts that define rationality and efficiency emerge from the works of Mercury. And so the forward march of Saturn and Mercury’s extended stay in Gemini are inextricably linked.

HOROSCOPES:
April 28^th-May 4^th

Note on Horoscopes: 12 Fold horoscopes are a way to assess the general condition of the splayed rays of the zodiac. Although not without value, they are a blunt tool, and can only describe the archetypal activity in each power-zone. In order to sharpen the accuracy of the horoscopes, read your Sun Sign if you were born in the day-time, and read your Moon Sign if you were born at night. Reading the Sign in which the Ascendant is placed is also advised.

Aries: The Ram

Venus’ movement into Taurus shifts the focus of your pleasure from raw being to your checkbook. Venus’ entrance into Taurus may begin with worry, but you should see your finances steadily improve as the month progresses. Meanwhile, Saturn’s direct station sees you making progress with your work situation and Mercury’s entrance into Gemini promises an extended season of heightened mental activity. Things are improving.

Taurus: The Bull

Venus’ entrance into your Sign speaks favorably about your general state for the next month. However, Venus’ initial entry into Taurus will be a troubled one, as she must face both Pluto in Capricorn and Saturn in Virgo at the same time. This indicates having to face facts about your material situation and make what may be serious changes. Across that particular electric fence lies greener fields. Happy birthday.

Gemini: The Twins

Gemini, you’ve been somewhat left out of the hot planetary action for the last few weeks. That changes this week as Mercury enters your Sign. This put you at the hub of communications, with what is usually your best foot forward. Not only that, but Mercury will be staying in Gemini for an abnormal period of time- over 2 months! Much of that time will be spent retrograde, but you likely have a lot of plans to make and unmake.

Cancer: The Crab

Venus’ movement into Taurus this Wednesday highlights your social situation. There may be difficulties encountered within social circles which hit in the midst of the week, but after that you should see the situation steadily improve over the next 4 weeks. Meanwhile Mercury’s movement into Gemini will likely find you thinking more clearly about what’s really been holding you back.

Leo: The Lion

This week’s movement of Mercury into Gemini starts a season of quick and clear thinking about your financial situation. Meanwhile, Venus’ movement into Taurus highlights your financial situation from another angle. Cutting unnecessary expenses will open the way for the improvements you’ve been considering for quite some time.

Virgo: The Virgin

Saturn’s direct station this week is significant for you, Virgo. Since Saturn’s entrance into Virgo last September, you’ve seen the ringed planet cut through many of your careful arrangements. Finally, this week, you’ll find yourself with a new plan that actually fits the circumstances you now find yourself in.

Libra: The Scales

The direct confrontations that have characterized Venus’ stay in Aries over the last month come to an end this week. Venus’ transition into Taurus steadies the scales considerably, providing you with an accounting of what needs and what you really don’t. Its time for a delayed Spring cleaning. Meanwhile, Saturn’s direct station sees your bold exploration into all the details you’ve filed away in the basement wax in importance once more.

Scorpio: The Scorpion

As Venus’ moves into Taurus this week, the spotlight strolls onto the status of your relationships, or lack thereof. There’s been a certain lack of social opportunity for the last several months, but that’s getting ready to change. After an initial crash landing in Taurus in the middle of the week, Venus should start opening social doorways for you over the next month.

Sagittarius: The Archer

Saturn’s direct station this week will likely resound throughout your professional sphere. The details of your duties will be dictated loud and clear for the first time in a while. Although there may be initial difficulties, your work situation looks to improve steadily over the next month. Meanwhile Mercury’s movement into Gemini will turn up the volume in your relationships. Conversations are coming, whether you like it or not.

Capricorn: The Goat

Saturn’s direct station this week finds you ready to really move forward. The months of adjustments and recalculations culminate into another fine plan for world domination. Although it might be a little rocky this week, Venus’ entrance into Taurus kicks off a month of fine times, and possibly fine dining.

Aquarius: The Water Bearer

Aquarius, your mutating appreciation for the details of your arrangements reaches an important point as Saturn stations direct this week. Mercury’s entrance into Gemini marks the beginning of an extremely creative season for you. If you’ve had blueprints that you’ve been unable to articulate, you’re likely to soon find the words falling out of your mouth.

Pisces: The Fishes

Mercury’s movement into Gemini indicates that you are going to be a much more mobile fishy in the coming months. Discussions around and about home abound. Saturn’s direct station in Virgo this week will give you a clear idea of the social lessons you’ve yet to learn in order to make the most of this period. Meanwhile, Venus’ movement into Taurus kicks off a period where you will see benefits that come from an extended social network.

Consultation Services: If you'd like a personal consultation with the man behind the mask, message the Baron's mortal vehicle at Xroadsconsultations@gmail.com for details. The Baron is also available for birthdays, weddings, funerals and orgies.

Free Newsletter: Send an email to Nightskystrategies@gmail.com in order to subscribe to the Baron's new online monthly mini-magazine. Issue 1 launches on May19th.

COPYRIGHT ABYSSAL EPISTLES 2008

Sol in Taurus, Luna in Aquarius

Astrology 11th-17th: A Box of "Chocolates"

Disclaimer: If you do not take every word of these horoscopes with the utmost faith, you will die. Statistics bear this out. Simply scan the newspapers. You will find that an overwhelming majority of the people that die each week DID NOT read the Baron's horoscopes.

Vol. 122: A Box of "Chocolates"

This week sits between last week's interesting solar eclipse and the multiple celestial events surrounding next week's lunar one. Between the clashing rocks of the eclipses and the grinding teeth of planetary gears, we find Valentine's Day.

Horoscopes:

Romantic Forecast '08

Note on Horoscopes: 12 Fold horoscopes are a way to assess the general condition of the splayed rays of the zodiac. Although not without value, they are a blunt tool, and can only describe the archetypal activity in each power-zone. In order to sharpen the accuracy of the horoscopes, read your Sun Sign if you were born in the day-time, and read your Moon Sign if you were born at night. Reading the Sign in which the Ascendant is placed is also advised.

Technical Notes for Astrology Nerds: The following are based primarily on an examination of the 5^th and 7^th Solar Houses.

Aries: The Ram

Ah, Aries. You may find that this year your idea of a good time has a sprung a leak. The South Node's slow back and forth through Leo this year (and next) will act like a slow eraser, smudging and then removing old ideas about love. Its like burning down a patch of grass in order to plant roses. Lovely idea, but it might look like scorched earth for a while.

Taurus: The Bull

Taurus, you'll likely find your concept of romance discovering detailed requirements you didn't know existed. Saturn's influence may also push you towards a dogmatic adherence to these structures. These may very well make your objects of affection feel caged, or keep them away all together. There's a difference between standards and processing plants.

Gemini: The Twins

With Mars' recent station in Gemini, you're likely still on the brink of major change in what you want out of relationships, as well as how you play the role of man, woman, or whatever you happen to be. Pluto's movement out of Sagittarius will seem to lift a great burden from your life. That particular burden is an attraction to psychopaths. However, Pluto dips back into Sagittarius to disrupt your partnerships for another 6 months in early June. After that, your love life should see a significant reduction in the number of psychopaths present.

Cancer: The Crab

Cancer, your love life is the most likely to get complicated this year. Mars movement through your sign during the Fall and its subsequent return the same territory throughout March and April will see you making some serious changes to the way that you approach sex, as well as your own gender role. Pluto's ingress into Capricorn marks the beginning of an era marked by a powerful increase in intensity. You'll get a taste of this until Pluto returns to Sagittarius until November, when Pluto comes into Capricorn to make his residence for well over a decade.

Leo: The Lion

Leo benefits from the movement of Pluto out of the Sagittarius and into Capricorn. This particular configuration takes the soul-felching intensity out of your love affairs. Look to see the beginnings of this type of change in the next few months, with a reversion back to soul-felching in early June when Pluto slips back into Sagittarius. Pluto's triumphant return to Capricorn in November '08 will mark the end of this old era.Neptune's presence in Aquarius throughout 2008 will continue the current pattern of idealized partnership.

Virgo: The Virgin

Dearest Virgo, Uranus' presence in Pisces during this year predisposes you to attract the genius, the eccentric, the exception and the mentally unstable. If you want to keep any of the weirdos you seem to be attracting, make sure to take it easy with Saturn in Virgo shears. They're just not going to fit in your box (pun intended.) Pluto's ingress into Capricorn is the beginning of a long term period of intense change within you concept and practice of love. Its slow to start, and won't be at full strength until nearly November.

Libra: The Scales

Libra, the skies will are relatively clear of interference this year. Problems with partnerships encountered in early 2008 should smooth out as Winter turns to Spring in the Northern hemisphere. Neptune's continuing presence in Aquarius will continue to over-idealized notions of love for the coming year and a few to follow, but this influence is nothing new, nor is it any great cause for concern.

Scorpio: The Scorpion

Scorpio, this year does not differ terribly from the last. Uranus, still in Pisces, suggests that your experimental attitude towards love won't disappear any time soon. Sudden connections alternating with periods of isolated independence should continue to characterize your love life. As the year grows older, however, the growing opposition between Saturn and Uranus may see you engaged in issues about how to structure intense but chaotic affairs.

Sagittarius: The Archer

Mars has tattooed a pattern of conflict into your relationships with his recent station. This particular stencil is likely in the midst of being factored into your attitude towards love in general. It will likely make for a rocky winter but things should get sorted one way or another by mid Spring. Its also important to note that although Pluto has left your Sign as of now, it will return for a brief stay in early June until November. This final audience with the dark king will have you dealing with the control and trust issues likely interfering with sweet things right now.


Capricorn: The Goat

Mars' movement through Cancer this Fall likely ignited conflicts within your relationships. His movement back through Cancer this March and April will see you revisiting and possibly mending wounds incurred this Fall. Even though Mars will clear Cancer in May, his retrograde has left an imprint in the relationship sector of your life. Understated conflicts about personal space may be a theme you'll need to work through this year. Although these themes may be present, Jupiter will have your back for the entire year, and your presence is likely to be seen in grander terms than at other times. Grand isn't ideal for those who favor the more subtle approach, but its better than pathetic, right?

Aquarius: The Water-Bearer

Aquarius, this may not be your finest year for love. Mars has stenciled a set of conflicts into the good-times part of your life, and the Node's dark pull has begun to draw energy away from your relationships in order to inflate you. This is not a death sentence, but it does put relationships in the karmic cross-hairs for the rest of the year. There are wrinkly issues to be ironed out.

Pisces: The Fish

Ah, Pisces. This year holds special challenges to your love life. Partnerships are likely to hold a serious element that you cannot ignore. Boundaries must be set and agreements made. This at a time when you're seeing an extremely independent side of yourself. Yes, the rules of the relationship and your sense of individuality will certainly find themselves in serious discussion this year, especially later in the year as Saturn and Uranus approach an opposition. In addition, Mars in Cancer presented important challenges to your idea of good times this Fall. Those, issues, most likely concerning personal space and dependence, will be revisited during March and April before being left behind.


Services: If you'd like a personal consultation with the man behind the mask, message the Baron's mortal vehicle at Xroadsconsultations@gmail.com. The Baron is also available for birthdays, weddings, funerals and orgies.

COPYRIGHT ABYSSAL EPISTLES 2008
Sol in Aquarius, Luna in Aries

The Year of the Rat

The Year of the Rat

Having seen civilizations great and small rise majestically and then inevitably fall, the Baron is inherently multi-cultural. On that note, Chinese New Year is coming up. It is celebrated just after the second New Moon of the year following the Winter Solstice. This year it's on Thursday the 8th, and you can bet the Baron will be knee-deep in dim sum before the sun goes down.

Being unable to stand the masses' pitiful ignorance, the following is a brief offering on the nature of a holidate that well over a billion people celebrate.

Comparative Pop-Astrology

Although most people in English speaking countries are aware of their Sun-sign ("I'm a Taurus and I'm lazy!"), Western Astrology does not have a popular, accessible method of assessing the basic nature of a year. Though popular methods are limited to sometimes-tragic oversimplifications (Not EVERY Aries is an offensively spunky go-getter, just the ones you know), these simpler methods are not without value. In addition to their own validity, they may provide gateways to more in-depth astrological calculations.

Chinese Astrology also has a 12-part zodiac. Unlike Western Astrology, the Zodiac in Chinese astrology is most popularly applied to a 12-year cycle, rather than one of 12 months. The Sign in the Chinese Zodiac describes both the people born in that year as well as the quality of the year itself.

The Year Star

Though this information is often mysterious absent, the application of Chinese Zodiac to a 12-year cycle is not arbitrary. It is, in fact, based on the approximate position of Jupiter, which has a nearly perfect 12-year cycle.

Because of the numerous parallels between the Sun and Jupiter, it's interesting that each is used in a system of popular astrology to describe the simplified essence of a time period. Both represent the celestial bodies the 12-fold zodiac cycle fits best, the Sun having a 12-month cycle, and Jupiter having 12 year one. Or, to put it another way, a 12 Sun cycle.

The Sign of the Sun in Western Astrology indicates the quality of the individual self, manifest in life, works, and love. It reveals qualities of ego, identity, and higher spiritual purpose. It is the heart, the center around which the rest of the chart hangs.

The meaning of Jupiter is similar to that of the Sun, but, like its cycle in time, it occurs on a larger scale. Jupiter, the largest of the planets and the first one past the asteroid's scattered fencing, serves to connect what is special about the individual (the Sun) with the social collective they are born into. Jupiter is about finding the place where an individual's talents are nurtured, and, in turn, nurture the society which mothers them. It aims at cohesion between the micro- and macrocosm, the self and world, and is represented in Chinese thought as being of the Wood element. Its energy is that of organic growth and expansion.

It is because Jupiter maintains its position for nearly 1 year that Chinese pop-astrology can say that people born within the same year share certain characteristics.

A system of pop-astrology must be simplified enough for the layman or woman to grasp its dynamics. The point the system is simplified down is interesting in and of itself, as it reveals some of the culture's general orientation. The individualistic West simplifies Astrology down to the Sun- the seat of identity in a chart- while more collectively minded China reduces their astrology down to Jupiter, a planet whose concerns are more collective, and which sweeps a year's crop into the same bin. Its also interesting to note that in India, pop-astrology is concerned primarily with one's Moon Sign, and which of the 27 Lunar Mansions, or Nakshatras, it resides within. The Baron's a Rohini. Now you know.

Time: Planetary Cycles vs. Ideal Divisions

And so the Years of the Chinese Zodiac use Jupiter's cycle in order to anchor them. Jupiter will be in the Chinese Sign of the Rat for most of 2008, but there are years where Jupiter is not technically in the Sign of the Year when that Year begins, and may slip out of it during that year.

This is because Chinese Astrology utilizes an idealized notion of time drawn from and confirmed by celestial cycles, but not entirely dependent on it. A similar type of idealized time structure can be found in Western Astrology in the use of the Planetary Days. In use since ancient times, each day of the week is assigned a planet whose energy is said to pervade it. This is not based on any observable connection between the planets and the days of the week, but has none the less stuck around for thousands of years and presumably vindicated itself in practice. In fact, the names of days of the week in English directly reference Gods and Goddess whose quality reflects the character of the planet that they are attributed to.

Archetypal Arithmetic

Now, in addition to the 12 Year cycle, each of the 12 years is thought to manifest in the mode of one of the Chinese elements, or phases of energy- The Wu-Xing. They are Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water. Similar to the Greek concepts of the 4 elements, the 5 elements are often used in Indian, Tibetan, Chinese, Thai, and Japanese thought. Each Elemental mode persists for 2 years, manifesting sequentially in a Yang and then Yin phase.

These pairings are expressed by using a color to represent the element, and an Animal. The pairing of a cycle of 5 and a cycle of 12 makes for a total cycle of 60 years, considered very important in Chinese Astrology. A 60-year cycle is interesting, because it roughly equivalent to the time it takes for Jupiter and Saturn to come back around into the same relative positions.

The Yellow Rat

The Chinese year inaugurated on the 8^th is the year of the Earth Rat, also called the "Yellow Rat". This configuration is also referred to as the "Rat on a Crossbeam."

Taken as an image, an idea, the year of the "Earth Rat" is quite interesting in light of the various planetary positions that will be present through-out the year.

Earth Rat, Earth Star

"Earth Rat"- the cunning, bravery and caution of the Rat directed towards earthly or material affairs. If we are the Rats, then Saturn in Virgo must be our maze. Saturn is known in Chinese astrology as the "Earth Star," and it is a role that Western astrologers are quite familiar with. More than any other Planet, Saturn describes the structures that we scamper within. In the Tarot, Saturn is given XXI The World, the backdrop against which the Fool's adventure's find meaning.

"...I'm Still Just A Rat In A Maze"

In Virgo since September, Saturn has enacted a somewhat brutal change of scenery. The transition from star-powered and overhyped Leo to down-to-earth (and below) Virgo has shattered a number of egos (and markets), and will shatter more before its down. Saturn in Leo recognizes that all world's a stage, and is determined to put on a good show. But with Saturn in Virgo, the scene is a different one. The sets that Saturn in Virgo erects are the type of drama that occurs in the doctors office, college classes, or in the form of a termination letter from your boss. Saturn in Virgo sets us up to analyze our oppurtunities and potential pitfalls in detail, and is willing to marshall misfortune in order to point out cracks in these critiques.

In order to get through this particular maze, we'll need to be cunning, brave, and cautious. An attention to detail in general, with a specific focus on habits as they pertain to health, finances and information is key. Brute strength of person or persona is not the way here. You'll just tire your self out trying to take down the walls, or your opponents. Maintain yourself, find the cheese, and find the exit.
One only has to take a brief look at the state of the United States' pre-presidential races to see the would-be candidates scampering after electoral votes like mice after Cheez-Its. Indeed, with the state of the economy, the candidates won't be the only ones scampering after little valuable bits this year, as we all fight to bring home enough cheese to feed the ratlings and pay our car and health insurance.

Once You Go Cross-Cultural...

The Rat also holds an important place in the Indian pantheon. Chubby and lovable Ganesh, the elephant-headed little Babar of the subcontinent, has as his mighty steed is a rat. Ganesh is often petitioned to remove obstacles, or provide a way around them, as his humble steed, the Rat can negotiate confusing and difficult situations that mightier but simpler animals, like a horse, could never manuever through. So as you work your way through the maze of the year, pause to consider Ganesh and his unassuming but effective choice of vehicle.

Astrology 4th-10th: Old Sun, New Moon

Disclaimer: If you do not take every word of these horoscopes with the utmost faith, you will die. Statistics bear this out. Simply scan the newspapers. You will find that an overwhelming majority of the people that die each week DID NOT read the Baron's horoscopes.

Vol. 121: Old Sun, New Moon

This week's celestial events center around the New Moon in Aquarius, which occurs late this Wednesday. Although the beginning of every lunar cycle is something to take note of, this week's lunation holds a number of distinctions. First, it is a solar eclipse, although one that will only be seen by residents of Antartica. Second, it is marks the Chinese New Year, a holidate celebrated by billions of people. And third, the New Moon occurs on top of a retrograde Mercury and as well as slow moving Chiron in Aquarius, packing it with extra meaning.

Cold Sky

The Solar Eclipse occurs on Wednesday night over cold fields of the Antarctic. Although viewers may be disappointed to miss out on the spectacle of the dark sun, it may very well be for the best. Astrologers of many cultures have come to a similar conclusion regarding the intrusion of the black sun into the daylight sky- it's no good. Forecasters of all varieties predict that the literal darkness of the sun will be followed by a metaphorical darkness in human affairs in the 6 months that follow it. Such was the case for Chile, over which the Solar Eclipse of September sparkled darkly, and then was subsequently smitten with a series of serious earthquakes a few months later. And so perhaps it is best that the dark sun shines only over cold plains of ice.

The Moon's Two Sons

Like every New Moon, each eclipse is worth noting, but this one holds a special distinction of its own. It marks the movement of the Eclipse cycle out of the Pisces-Virgo axis and into the realms of Leo and Aquarius. Virgos and Pisces can heave a slight sigh of relief while Leos and Aquarians are advised to pause for consideration. The movement of the Moon's North and South Nodes, the Eclipse markers, through the terrain of a Sign brings the forces of karma more directly to bear on the zodiacal terrain they traverse.

This cycle sees the North Node in Aquarius and the South Node in Leo. The Nodes' provide an entry to a vast cavern of meanings whose turning tunnels often obscure their relatively simple action. The North Node favors material matters but tends to diminish consciousness in the area that it invades. The South Node, on the other hand, tends to diminish materialization but boost consciousness. In a simple sense, the North Node enriches while the South Node purifies.

In Leo, the South Node eats away at identity. It signals the beginning of a period where works based upon strength of identity alone will be beset with numerous difficulties. The South Node eats away at the structure of identity, converting it back into the raw stuff of self, from which a thousand expressions may issue. It is a prelude to personal rebirth. As the South Node eats through the structure of our identity, the North Node in Aquarius deposits that freed up energy into social concerns on a much broader scale.

This particular turn of the wheel is of especial concern for those born with the Nodal Axis on the Leo-Aquarius axis. This Nodal Return is for you.

Chinese New Year

The annual celebration of the New Year according to the Chinese calendar, takes just after the 2^nd New Moon following the Northern Hemisphere's Winter Solstice. This Friday inaugurates the Year of the Rat. Specifically, it is the Yellow Rat- the "Rat on a Crossbeam." Look for a special supplement on the mechanics and indications of the Chinese New Year later in the week.

Mercury Retrograde, Chiron, and Associates

This inaugural Solar eclipse is not only distinguished by the factors mentioned above, but is also interesting by virtue of the 4 way conjunction of the Sun, Moon, retrograde Mercury, and creeping Chiron.

Mercury retrograde's conjunction with the Sun is the point at which our inverted thought processes approach the heart of the issue at hand. It is not the point of resolution, but the point at which the issue(s) become clear. This tri yearly event happens directly on top of the Centaur Chiron, a planetoid roaming our solar system in the empty range between the orbits of Saturn and Uranus. Although not one of the planets proper, Chiron, like Pluto, has demonstrable effects on a life. Chiron exposes the tend'rest flesh our minds have to offer, pointing to areas that desperately need greater care.

In Aquarius, it is the inability to belong to a group, and the subsequent feelings of isolation and rejection that we're dealing with. The Sun, Moon, and retrograde Mercury's conjunction atop this sore point indicate the next lunar cycle will deal especially with these wounded areas, with a focus on learning to articulate one's feelings of rejection and exclusion.

Horoscopes: February 4th-10th

Note on Horoscopes: 12 Fold horoscopes are a way to assess the general condition of the splayed rays of the zodiac. Although not without value, they are a blunt tool, and can only describe the archetypal activity in each power-zone. In order to sharpen the accuracy of the horoscopes, read your Sun Sign if you were born in the day-time, and read your Moon Sign if you were born at night. Reading the Sign in which the Ascendant is placed is also advised.

Aries: The Ram

The wheels of the year are grinding out some interesting professional developments for Aries. Lots of work and important networking to do. This extra-special New Moon in Aquarius throws a long term light on your relationships to groups and membership within them. Addressing miscommunications in this area is key to getting your war machine back on track after a season of being sidelined.

Taurus: The Bull

Taurus, this New Moon sets the stage for you to begin some serious rethinking of your professional situation. The Sun and Moon align to shine an invisible light on the unspoken words that have veiled the old wounds you're still hurting from at work. The coming weeks will see this insight for the seed of serious change that it is.

Gemini: The Twins

My friends the Geminis are always the ones who suffer most from the triannual retrograde of Mercury. With the recent Mars station in your Sign, the temptation to act like a crazy asshole is even greater than normal. The New Moon this week will concentrate your easily scattered motes of mind onto a set of deep questions about your direction in life. These questions, though painful, will most likely lead to soothing solutions.

Cancer: The Crab

Cancer, this New Moon shines its non-light onto already invisible areas of your life, illuminating secret matters and your connection to what stirs just beyond the current limits of your perception. The gravity of secrets may draw you into your own subconscious or deep into the affairs of others. Either way, there is a wound to address, a small abyss to stitch together.

Leo: The Lion

Leo, the New Moon this week speaks strongly about your relationships, casting a strong ray into this area of your life. The presence of Chiron indicates a wound in these affairs, a wound covered with silences, unveiled with words. This New Moon and an unseen eclipse kicks off a year and half period where the undertow will pull you away from yourself but closer to right relation to others.

Virgo: The Virgin

Virgo, the New Moon this week speaks directly to your work situation. Always the popular topic with Virgo, Saturn in your Sign emphasizes it, and the New Moon this week speaks small volumes about it. Highlighted is your relationship to what you're doing on a daily and hourly basis, as well as your communications with your coworkers. There's a sore spot somewhere in there that's likely to need treatment in the next few weeks.

Libra: The Scales

The New Moon that occurs this week will likely see you seriously re-considering your lifestyle. The two topics on the scales are pleasure, on one hand, and the need for healing on the other. Premature conclusions in this matter may lead to a desire to make rash changes in your lifestyle. Give it time and let the scales do their work.

Scorpio: The Scorpion

The New Moon this week highlights the shifting ground beneath your feet. You may find yourself floating for a bit, not certain where sure footing is. This question of position may take a few weeks to work itself out. It is entangled with a need for communication with those connected to your platform.

Sagittarius: The Archer

The events of this week's New Moon locate themselves primarily within your local social circle. Lacking communications and/or abundant miscommunications likely conceal a small rift between you and your crew. Carefully navigated discussions and thoughtful observations on the situation are the tools you can use to prevent open hostilities.

Capricorn: The Goat

This week's New Moon will dispense its energies into the area of your psyche concerned with value. Although values do not always translate into valuables, its likely that there's a conversation about account pending. This focus on value and values, whether it involves objects or not, connects to a question of personal worth that you'll ponder on and off in the coming weeks.

Aquarius: The Water Bearer

Aquarius, the planetary pile-up occurring on the New Moon this week happens right in your front yard. It's likely you've left important issues under communicated, leaving you more disconnected to certain situations than you ought. It's time to carefully remove the veils from your message. The eclipse that occurs on this New Moon initiates a new period for you, where your priorities will slowly shift from relationships to a growing focus on yourself. This new period will see you seeing yourself in the mirror rather than through other's eyes.

Pisces: The Fishes

Pisces, this alignment of the New Moon, retrograde Mercury and Chiron in Aquarius does not bode particularly well for you. There are a number of forces impeding easy progress right now. Although the difficulty of the situation will erode before the end of the month, the first few weeks of the coming lunar cycle are likely to hold a few annoying surprises. Keep treading water and you'll find yourself downstream from difficulties in a few weeks.

Services: If you'd like a personal consultation with the man behind the mask, message the Baron's mortal vehicle at Xroadsconsultations@gmail.com. The Baron is also available for birthdays, weddings, funerals and orgies.

COPYRIGHT ABYSSAL EPISTLES 2008
Sol in Aquarius, Luna in Capricorn