Heavenly bodies wax poetic, as well as philosophical this week, and their musings stir human hearts and minds to feel, as well as to think, deeply, about who we are and what we desire as individuals and as a collective. But this contemplative signature is anything but stodgy, as the stars deliver surprising insights into closed or restricted areas, especially topics or terrain previously labeled taboo. Expect unpredictable wells of tears or bursts of laughter, as different layers of meaning strike poignant chords of recognition. Also anticipate being astonished by the intensity of your reactions or the reactions of others. For as we move through this week and the next several weeks, daily life is likely to resemble a mythic realm, populated by larger-than-life characters and astonishing events. A realm where heaven and earth are connected through our perceptions, participation, and choices.Â
Here, in America, Thanksgiving, our national holiday of gratitude, signals the start of the festival season, the time of year in the Northern Hemisphere when the days grow darker and the approach of the winter solstice invites us to conserve our energy by turning inward through quiet contemplation. But given the simultaneous cultural invitation to party, revel, and shop till you drop, the call to introspection isn’t always acknowledged or accepted.
From a psychological perspective, the coming weeks are the season when fragile hearts strain to measure personal reality against the onslaught of fantasy and pretense. Nothing in real life looks as good as an art-directed Thanksgiving with its airbrushed turkey. Or a lavish Christmas Eve in a picture-perfect home that is impervious to poverty, disappointment, struggle, abuse, or alcoholic rants. In Hallmark Land, no one ever falls face down in the eggnog or suffers from an eating disorder or has lost a limb to war.
From an astrological perspective, the source of both poetry and philosophy is a Jupiter/Pluto conjunction in Sagittarius, a combination that won’t happen again until 2244. Jupiter is a great big benevolent planet that signifies good fortune, laughter, and optimism. Pluto is a nonstop, singular symbol of transformation. Sagittarius is the Sign of belief systems. When Jupiter and Pluto unite in Sagittarius, everyone from your favorite professor to your pet turtle feels the need to express an opinion about the nature of existence. While this conjunction is exact on December 11, we’re well within the range of its influence now, and that translates into enormously interesting conversation around the holiday dinner table.
During the next several weeks, as we are bombarded with images of what life should be, many of us could become increasingly despairing about what life is. And that’s a shame. Because even though life may not be what we want it to be, it is still precious and worthy of appreciation. Being thankful for life, despite its difficulties, is not a form of denial. It’s an affirmation of the Sacred, which makes itself known through each of us as living, breathing manifestations of spirit.
If you know your Ascendant and/or your Moon Sign, read that, too.
Aries March 21-April 19
So many ideas are occurring to you simultaneously, you’ll need to either record them or write them down. I’m not kidding — this is a hugely inventive time and it’s important to make the most of it.
Taurus April 20-May 20
It may not be easy being authentic, but the more you practice, the better your skill. So rather than spend your energy holding back, speak your truth, and allow your passion to transform any awkward moments.
Gemini May 21-June 21
Yes, there are a few moments when backs bristle and nerves fray, but that’s not the entire picture. So rather than focus on the unraveling, concentrate on what knits you and those you love together.
Cancer June 22-July 22
There’s nothing wrong with being idealistic, but if you mistake fantasy for reality, you might wind up confused or disappointed. Keep both feet planted on the ground, and then, allow yourself to speculate on the possibilities.
Leo July 23-August 22
Not everyone will agree on how to handle tense circumstances. But even if some of those moments are uncomfortable, you can use your innate creative talent to transform difficult moments.
Virgo August 23-September 22
Lively conversation sparks your curiosity and opens up new ways of viewing an old situation. While this new perspective is unsettling, if you give yourself time to digest the information, you’ll emerge decisive.
Libra September 23-October 22
Try not to let unexpected events at work throw you off your game. Yes, your choices have consequences, but not every decision is as weighty in the long run as it appears to be in the moment.
Scorpio October 23-November 21
Financial concerns could become overwhelming, especially if you start worrying about the future. Stay in the moment, and you’ll have an easier time remembering how the present creates what lies ahead.
Sagittarius November 22-December 21
Yes, your life continues to be intense — and that’s not changing anytime soon. So continue to adjust your personal pace to what you can comfortably handle and you’ll do fine.
Capricorn December 22-January 19
Don’t be fooled by external appearances — not all that glitters is gold. Trust your intuition, make patience your constant companion, and you’ll make steady progress toward success.
Aquarius January 20-February 18
Despite all your efforts to the contrary, you’re likely to be forthright if not downright blunt about certain subjects. Rather than exhaust yourself holding back, have at it — you may not be as radical as you think.
Pisces February 19-March 20
Your question may have more than one answer, and while that could be confusing, it could also be liberating. Stay open to the benefits of diversity, and you’ll find your way through a maze of conflicting ideas.
