Astrology for Oct 5th thru 11th 2020

I�m having this sudden urge to see the movie �Tremors�. Have never seen it, but certainly have seen clips of it here and there. What I remember is the explosive ground eruptions leading to what exactly? Mayhem and terror was certainly the insinuation, but anything with Kevin Bacon can�t be all bad, right? Not sure exactly why it popped into my head but I assume it has something to do with these turbulent times that seem to bring daily surprises threatening our sense of safety and balance.

This week the challenge du jour involves two repeating patterns or series of planetary interactions. And one doesn�t include planets in Capricorn for a refreshing change! The rhythm of the cosmic dance includes an incredible number of planetary interactions and energies. But unlike some that come around once in awhile or infrequently, some stick around and appear in threes. This is because of the retrograde motion of the planets � the optical illusion from earth that a planet is moving backwards. Of course it is not, but astrologically it does.

It just seems obvious that an interaction that happens three times instead of once, should grab our attention. When we view them collectively as a pattern, we are likely to get more useful information. Think of it like gaining an overview instead of just looking at the microscopic details.

On Wednesday Mercury, the thinker and communicator, in very introspective Scorpio opposes revolutionary Uranus in Taurus. This is important all on its own, as you will read below. However, it has added punch and significance since this is the first of three oppositions the two planets will make over the next 6 weeks. When Mercury retrogrades in Scorpio next Tuesday (October 13), this backwards or inwards motion sends Mercury back on a trajectory to oppose Uranus again on October 19th and then for a final time on November 17th as it is moving direct after the retrograde.

So what happens when Mercury opposes Uranus? This combo is usually electric, eccentric, and experimental. The more unusual or unorthodox, the more it appeals. We might feel very mentally anxious or agitated, impatient, spontaneous, creative, and impulsive. It can be very exciting and stimulating, but also leave us feeling overly sensitive or strung out. Uranus is the rebel and revolutionary that resonates with our desire and need to break free of limitations in our lives. Although these are usually self-imposed, we might strike out at anyone or anything handy that serves as a projection of lack of freedom and independence that we are experiencing. Better to blame someone else than ourselves!

Since this week is the first of three, it may have less overt impact than the others or the combination of the three. But be advised, this is the beginning of a pattern that is worth watching, especially in ourselves as we desire more independence, creativity, spontaneity, and excitement in our lives. This could be a foundational piece of disruption or tremor signaling a coming change. This being understood, patience is on our side this week. Worthwhile change is rarely accomplished in one sweeping stroke. But nevertheless this could be the start of something big when it comes to our thinking outside the box and gaining a brilliant or novel insight and awareness.

The second series in the spotlight this week is retrograding Mars squaring Pluto on Friday. This is the second time Mars in head-strong Aries squares Pluto in unmovable Capricorn. They first conflicted on August 13th. With Mars now moving retrograde it�s unlikely we are going to experience anything close to a breakthrough this week. In fact, it�s more likely we may feel more stuck or befuddled than before. Withdrawing to regroup might be part of the ultimate picture of success. It�s not failure to recognize what can and cannot be accomplished given current circumstances and resources.

The good news is this is a temporary state. Mars will meet Pluto again at the end of December (23rd) and by then we are likely to feel much more enlightened and empowered. This week, if you feel like you are facing a stone wall, which could be an obstacle or delay or coming up against a difference of opinion or attitude of a loved one or co-worker, this is not the end point. There is still a distance to go for resolution. Don�t give up hope or get impatient. If you want to fight City Hall you will probably need a better plan, more resources, or a more targeted network than you have now.

Stay INFORMED; Stay SAFE; Spread HOPE!

Until next week, let go and wear loose clothes.

MONDAY
October 5
Moon in Taurus/Gemini
The Moon goes Void of Course at 11:41am enters Gemini 9:03pm
It�s easy to look beyond our own personal needs and interests today with the Taurus Moon just a few days from the Full Moon last week. As the waning Moon seems to disseminate its light, reflecting slightly less sunlight with each passing day, we resonate with the need to spread the light. Our hearts lean easily toward being useful to our families, within our communities, or participating in a collaborative effort with a group or organization. As Taurus is ruled by Venus, this energy is naturally creative and we are anxious to combine aesthetics with function. We want things to work better! And more importantly, we are willing to put our energy where our mouths are.

Our productivity is further boosted as this Moon aligns with no-nonsense Pluto and organized Saturn in disciplined Capricorn. After mid-day the Moon goes into a void of Course pattern, so in planning, start your tasks early and get them well underway or at least strategized in the morning. This afternoon and early evening are still promising for following through; but chances are we will be more productive if we get an early start this morning.

In late evening the Moon jumps into Gemini the sign of networking and communication. This could mean late night phone calls and chats, but is also a great time for writers and bloggers who have a message they would like to get out.

Daily Muse: My dad used to have an expression � �It is the lucky person who gets up in the morning, puts both feet on the floor, knows what they are about to do, and thinks it still matters.� (Joe Biden � Moon in Taurus)

TUESDAY
October 6
Moon in Gemini
We may wake up with a frown this morning as the Moon in abstract Gemini makes a contrary square to Venus in precise and exacting Virgo. If a loved one, or actually anyone, insists on making superficial chit-chat early this morning, we are likely to shut it down. We are not in the mood! Take your glib chatter someplace else please. Even well-intentioned affirmations are likely to be rebuffed.

As long as the rebuke isn�t overly stern, there shouldn�t be any long-standing hurt feelings. Many of us feel like we are walking a path we have never been on before, to an unknown destination. Sometimes we feel optimistic and happy but with little provocation can feel lost in the dark. We probably don�t feel particularly comforted by platitudes about the light at the end of the tunnel. Sometimes we just need someone to hold our hand in the dark and tell us they are with us.

The good thing about the Gemini Moon is its versatility, which can also be its shadow. The ease with which we can flip from one mood to another can be a positive thing, but also disconcerting and annoying! If it helps, talk through your feelings with someone or write them down. The Gemini Moon promises if you want a change of attitude you simply have to apply your mind in that direction.

Expose yourself to new information or messages; change the channel. Purposefully shift the energy balancing the negative with an ample dose of gratitude and positive thoughts. Avoid superficiality. It�s better to acknowledge how you are feeling and allowing someone else to do the same, rather than denying what you are feeling is your reality. Overriding someone�s account of what they are feeling is as good as saying, �I don�t hear you.�

Daily Muse: Getting old is like climbing a mountain; you get a little out of breath, but the view is much better! (Ingrid Bergman � Sun and Venus in Virgo)

WENSDAY
October 7
Moon in Gemini
The Moon goes Void of Course at 6:57pm
We can certainly expect the unexpected today. Is this really possible? Well at least we can be on the lookout for some surprising messages or revelations. The Moon is in Mercury-ruled mental Gemini clashing with dreamy and ethereal Neptune in its home sign of psychic Pisces. While this conflict sometimes leads to confusion, it�s heavily weighted toward intuition. It could be our gut feelings that are guiding the way, especially if we are having a hard time making 2 + 2 = 4.

Another important planetary interaction today is Mercury, the thinker and communicator, in very introspective Scorpio opposing revolutionary Uranus in Taurus. This is important all on its own, as you will read below. However, it has added punch and significance since this is the first of three oppositions the two planets will make over the next 6 weeks. When Mercury retrogrades in Scorpio next Tuesday (October 13), this backwards or inwards motion sends Mercury back on a trajectory to oppose Uranus again on October 19th and then for a final time on November 17th as it is moving direct following the retrograde. More often than not, planetary series involving more than one interaction � usually three � prove influential.

So what happens when Mercury opposes Uranus? This combo is usually electric, eccentric, and experimental. The more unusual or unorthodox, the more it appeals. We might feel very mentally anxious or agitated, impatient, spontaneous, creative, and impulsive. It can be very exciting and stimulating, but also leave us feeling overly sensitive or strung out. Uranus is the rebel and revolutionary that resonates with our desire and need to break free of limitations in our lives. Although these are usually self-imposed, we might strike out at anyone or anything handy that serves as a projection of lack of freedom and independence that we are experiencing. Better to blame someone else than ourselves!

Since this is the first of three, it may have less overt impact than the others. But be advised, this is the beginning of a pattern that is worth watching, especially in ourselves as we desire more independence, creativity, spontaneity, and excitement in our lives. This could be a foundational piece of disruption or tremor signaling a coming change. This being understood, patience is on our side today. Worthwhile change is rarely accomplished in one sweeping stroke. The Moon in Gemini finds motivation with a connection to Mars in willful Aries. In this case, the pen probably is mightier than the sword. Sharing an innovative idea or taking action on one may be the start of something big.

Daily Muse: The individual has always had to struggle to keep from being overwhelmed by the tribe. If you try it, you will be lonely often, and sometimes frightened. But no price is too high to pay for the privilege of owning yourself� Those who were seen dancing were thought to be insane by those who could not hear the music. (Friedrich Nietzsche � Mercury tightly opposite Uranus)

THURSDAY
October 8
Moon in Gemini/Cancer
The Moon enters Cancer at 8:45am
The Moon eases into domestic Cancer today, but instead of the nurturing homemaker we are likely to see the fangs of the protective Mama Bear. Be ready to roar; this Cancer archetype is equally representative of this sensitive, but assertive, cardinal water sign. While we may prefer to stay home, don�t be surprised if something lures us away from our homey den. There is a person or cause to be defended.

Venus in Virgo is feeling out of sorts by an uncomfortable aspect to Chiron the Wounded Healer. Although we may not delight in coming to the aid of the underdog, we probably won�t turn a deaf ear to the cries. If we are feeling somewhat unlovable or feeling sorry for ourselves, turning our attention to doing good for someone else who really could use our help will do wonders for repairing a temporary wound to our self-esteem.

Please don�t skip reading tomorrow�s daily write-up or better yet, read it today. Early tomorrow morning, Mars in willful Aries makes a second pass at squaring Pluto in Capricorn. Through today this energy is building and we may judge ourselves to be less than effective even though we feel like we are doing our best or at least making a darn good attempt. Understanding a little bit about what we are up against might help keep our expectations and judgments in check.

Daily Muse: I tell law students� if you are going to be a lawyer and just practice your profession, you have a skill�very much like a plumber. But if you want to be a true professional, you will do something outside yourself� something that makes life a little better for people less fortunate than you. (Ruth Bader Ginsburg)

FRIDAY
October 9
Moon in Cancer
Although the Moon in sensitive Cancer starts off on a positive note, with beneficial alliances with Uranus and Mercury in early morning, these feel good effects are probably quickly overshadowed when retrograding Mars in head-strong Aries makes a second (of three) squares to Pluto in unmovable Capricorn. They first conflicted on August 13th which set into motion this series of three rounds of battle. With Mars moving retrograde it�s unlikely we are going to experience anything close to a breakthrough today. In fact, it�s more likely we are going to feel stuck, ineffectual, and unable to move a personal agenda forward. Withdrawing to regroup is might be part of ultimate success.

In times of stagnation or difficulty it�s important to be patient and strategize instead of breaking ourselves on the impasse before us. I remember suggesting in August when we first encountered this situation that we consider the mythology of Icarus. If you didn�t then, consider studying it now. It might help illuminate the folly of failing to fully appreciate the diversity and complexity of the situation. It could be this second interaction between the planet of personal motivation, and Pluto, the planet of transformation, helps reveal a dead-end path or the need for change that goes beyond what we can personally accomplish. It�s not failure to recognize what can and cannot be accomplished given current circumstances and resources.

The good news is this is a temporary state. Mars will meet Pluto again at the end of December (23rd) and by then we are likely to feel very much more enlightened and empowered. For today, recognize if you are facing a stone wall which could be an obstacle or delay or coming up against a difference of opinion or attitude of a loved one or co-worker. If you want to fight City Hall you will probably need a better plan, more resources, or a more targeted network than you have today.

This evening emotional strain and dissatisfaction increases as the Moon squares the Sun in Libra and opposes Jupiter in Capricorn. Winning, may look a lot like withdrawing and saving our energies for another day. Later tonight, tensions are soothed with a compassionate alignment between the Moon and spiritual and imaginative Neptune.  

Daily Muse: If I have seen further, it is by standing on the shoulders of giants.
(Sir Isaac Newton � he may not have been the first to say it and he certainly won�t be the last)

SATURDAY
October 10
Moon in Cancer/Leo
The Moon Goes Void of Course 9:04 am enters Leo at 5:24pm
It may feel counterintuitive or maybe not logical but the sunniest part of the day will be late afternoon and early evening � astrologically speaking. We might be sad or grumpy as the sensitive Cancer Moon is feeling battered by a square to Mars in Aries and oppositions to both Pluto and Saturn in Capricorn. The Moon is also void of course most of the day � starting at 9:04 am Pacific Time. This can pull a cloud over an already less than perky day.

Things are definitely looking up this afternoon as Venus delights in a very positive connection to Uranus. The planet of revolution can open our eyes to new ways to find happiness and value in people and events that we haven�t appreciated before. This tingly energy can electrify existing romances or spark new ones. Overall, this energy can bring excitement and pleasure into even the most routine and dull situation.

The Moon�s move to dramatic Leo in early evening should help elevate our mood too. Although remember not all Leo energy is playful, sometimes it leans towards nobility and leadership � which this Moon does. Over the next few days the Leo Moon helps us remember our unique inner light and the importance of combining this light with others. On a practical level, we want to social, celebrate and spend time with people in lighthearted and joyful ways. Leo Moons also remind us to soak up some sunshine!

Daily Muse: In the turbulence of this anxious and active world many people are leading uneventful, lonely lives. To them dreariness, not disaster, is the enemy. They seldom realize that on their steadfastness, on their ability to withstand the fatigue of dull repetitive work, and on their courage in meeting constant small adversities depend in great measure the happiness and prosperity of the community as a whole. ... The upward course of a nation's history is due in the long run to the soundness of heart of its average men and women. (Queen Elizabeth II � Moon in Leo

SUNDAY
October 11
Moon in Leo
We are probably more than a little resistant to someone pressuring us on our beliefs or opinions today with several challenging solar aspects. Astrologically the Sun represents ego; and when the Sun in Libra finds itself in a conflicting square with Jupiter in Capricorn we may be tempted to go over the top ourselves. Under this influence we can be like unruly children, not interested in the limits and rules, we just want what we want! With our fingers in our ears we are not open to listening to why something can�t be done, or why our thoughts and opinions are not treasured, re-posted or re-tweeted by everyone.

The day is also complicated by a solar clash with Neptune. Chances are, we are not seeing ourselves or a situation clearly. But, I�m hedging on this one. I�d also be on the lookout for an influence or persuasion trying to shake our confidence in ourselves or in an idea we feel very confident about. Often a little conflict helps clarify our feelings and thoughts and this energy may do just that. The Moon is also in conflict with rebellious Uranus and with thinking Mercury. It doesn�t hurt to listen to an alternate opinion, but listening doesn�t mean you have to buy it without checking it out first.

Shortly after midnight (Pacific Time) Jupiter makes a very psychic connection with Neptune. While you are using your rational mind to verify information, don�t forget to check in with your intuition. If something smells fishy, it probably is.

Daily Muse: I always cheer up immensely if an attack is particularly wounding because I think, well, if they attack one personally, it means they have not a single political argument left. (Margaret Thatcher Moon in Leo)

The Week Ahead

Monday October 12 through Sunday October 18

Astrological Highlights for the week:   On Tuesday, Mercury begins a retrograde pattern in Scorpio sending it back into Libra; the Sun picks a fight with Mars on Tuesday, Pluto on Thursday, and with Saturn on Sunday; New Moon in Libra on Friday

Tuesday evening Mercury, the thinker and communicator, begins its third and final retrograde pattern for 2020. As Mercury slowly looks backwards (or inward) we will review the ideas, events, and interactions going back to September 23rd. Mercury will remain retrograde until November 3rd. Although we sometimes bitch and moan, mostly from habit, about planets moving into retrograde motion, this activity is an important and enlightening process. To move forward, we almost always have to lighten our load first. When Mercury moves retrograde we get the chance to review, re-evaluate, re-examine, and analyze life from a different perspective. Personally, I always find lost items when Mercury goes retrograde! This is a great time to repair, renovate, restore, renew and offload the superfluous.

Like most cosmic events in 2020, the New Moon in Libra mid-day on Friday is anything but ordinary. The Moon�s path to joining the Sun at 23 Libra includes first squaring Jupiter and Pluto in Capricorn and making a fiery opposition to Mars in Aries. Later in the afternoon, the Moon will also square Saturn as will the Sun on Sunday the 18th. There is just no avoiding those planets in determined, pragmatic, and earthy Capricorn!

Although there are challenging aspects to this New Moon Cycle, these squares and oppositions add color, depth, and dynamic movement to the events occurring in the next 29 � days. There is a preponderance of planets in three Cardinal signs � Aries, Libra, and Capricorn. These signs are the initiators of the zodiac. No way these planets (Sun, Moon, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn and Pluto) are coming to the table without having a lively and boisterous discussion about how to shape the future! (By the way if you have a Cancer Sun � born somewhere between the 13th and 17th of July�you can expect this to be a very impactful cycle for you as your natal Sun placement in Cardinal Cancer readily joins the negotiations. The same is true if you have a number of planets in Cancer between 20 and 25 degrees.)

Despite what might look like a fairly contentious New Lunar cycle, there is great reason for hope and encouragement. The Sun and Moon in Libra are joining forces to inspire and encourage cooperation, collaboration, and partnership towards what we believe to be the truth and highest path forward. Astrologer Raven Kaldera calls this Moon the �White Knight� who believes in true love, romance, right and wrong, ideals, and justice. Although this archetype may lack real world experience, and have permanent stars in his eyes, he is also without pessimism, cynicism and doubt. We could all use a bit of this youthful optimism right now.


This is not a time for false optimism, but rather for hope based in faith in the durability of the process of change and evolvement. The Sun and Moon in Libra encourage honest and open conversations to explore our ideals, expectations, and desires. Go deep with your feelings and see where it leads you. Discuss your feelings, truths, and opinions with others and be willing to listen to theirs. Honest and open discourse can unlock deep-seated issues and be refreshing to the soul.

Mars in Aries may test our resolve and help us develop perseverance and patience as we align with our passions. Jupiter, Saturn and Pluto in Capricorn ask us to objectively evaluate our intentions and foundations and be willing to make necessary changes as new information is revealed.

The White Knight has many admirable traits including devotion to higher principles, idealism, and an unwavering belief in what is possible. His shadow is seen when we view people and situations as broken when they don�t live up to our perfect picture. Armed with the sword of justice we charge forward to correct the wrongs of the world. And by the way, those people we rescue along the way, ought to be grateful! Although the White Knight doesn�t do it for applause, the sense of fairness and justice inherent in Libra, expects gratitude. Best to aspire to doing good with no strings attached.

Nobody gets to sit this one out. The energy is vibrant, dynamic and evolving. It won�t be easy to avoid getting caught up in one wave or another. But you know how I feel about it, grab your surfboard and have some fun.

Stay INFORMED; Stay SAFE, Spread HOPE, and Please VOTE!

MONDAY
October 12
Moon in Leo/Virgo
The Moon goes Void of Course at 7:30 am enters Virgo 9:56pm
Sometimes the best action is inaction. Is this a lesson from Mars retrograde? Maybe it�s a piece of the intricate puzzle for today and this week. Just a few minutes after midnight (Sunday night) Jupiter, the planet of luck and benefit, makes a sweet and creative connection with Neptune, the planet of spirituality, dreams, and transcendence.

Amidst a number of very challenging cosmic interactions lately, this is truly a port in the storm. If we are willing, it is a reminder there is a higher consciousness, an inner wisdom, and a place of harmony, peace, and oneness within us. Just like we are able to turn the channel silencing the news, or the re-run of the popular Halloween movie, we can mentally tune into something inside ourselves. This highly intuitive and creative connection can gently drift through the day encouraging silence, introspection and psychic ability. When we still the noise we are more receptive to inner wisdom and helpful messages from a variety of sources.

The Leo Moon at the end of the lunar cycle (New Moon on Friday) is the energy of a leader willing to put aside personal agendas in favor of applying his/her strengths towards group goals. Not all of us are quick to see how our success is intricately tied to the highest good of the group. In this case, we may be tempted to feel slighted or resentful about making what we perceive to be personal sacrifices. Here too, as the Moon makes positive alliances with the Sun in Libra and Mars in Aries we are reminded of the benefits of cooperation instead of going it alone.

Adding to the chorus, Mercury in Scorpio also makes a harmonizing connection to Venus in Virgo. This is reinforcement to lend our thoughts and voices to a message that will serve others instead of seeing our best interests as being separate from others.

The Moon is void of course from 7:30 am (Pacific Time) until late evening. Although this doesn�t mean we need to be inactive, it supports the energy of the day that suggests stillness, quiet reflection, and leaning toward our intuition is favored.

Daily Muse: Shakespeare, Leonardo da Vinci, Benjamin Franklin and Abraham Lincoln never saw a movie, heard a radio or looked at television. They had 'Loneliness' and knew what to do with it. They were not afraid of being lonely because they knew that was when the creative mood in them would work. (Carl Sandburg)

TUESDAY
October 13
Moon in Virgo
Mercury goes Retrograde 6:05pm
Today provides several opportunities to re-evaluate our attachment to ideas, thoughts, beliefs and material possessions. Remember reassessment doesn�t mean we necessarily have to give them up. It�s the intensity and type of attachment that is worth looking at. The waning Moon in Virgo is naturally introspective and private. A lunar alignment with eye-opening Uranus in early afternoon may help us see the simple truth and/or path even within a chaotic journey.

In late afternoon the Sun in partnership-oriented Libra opposes retrograding Mars in fiery Aries. A show of personal force may be on display, but unfortunately, unless we choose to be self-aware, we may find we are using a sledgehammer when a smaller and more precise instrument may have been more appropriate. Under this influence it�s easy to imagine enemies and competition aplenty. An enlightening lunar contact with Mercury in thoughtful Scorpio may bring the truth to light; and as the Moon connects with Venus later this evening, we may choose solitude or limit our social contacts to only those individuals who know us best.

This evening Mercury, the thinker and communicator, begins its third and final retrograde pattern for 2020. As Mercury slowly looks backwards (or inward) we will review the ideas, events, and interactions going back to September 23rd. Mercury will remain retrograde until November 3rd. Although we sometimes bitch and moan, mostly from habit, about planets moving into retrograde motion, this activity is an important and enlightening process. To move forward, we almost always have to lighten our load. When Mercury moves retrograde we get the chance to review, re-evaluate, re-examine, and analyze life from a different perspective. Personally, I always find lost items when Mercury goes retrograde! This is a great time to repair, renovate, restore, and renew.

Daily Muse: Peace is a daily, a weekly, a monthly process, gradually changing opinions, slowly eroding old barriers, quietly building new structures. And however undramatic the pursuit of peace, that pursuit must go on. (John F. Kennedy � Moon in Virgo)

WENSDAY
October 14
Moon in Virgo/Libra
The Moon goes Void of Course at 3:47pm enters Libra at 10:54 pm
Despite some early morning cobwebs thanks to the Moon�s ensnarement in the dream world of Neptune, we�re up early and stoked with a cup of our favorite morning brew and a healthy breakfast. The Moon in conscientious Virgo is ready to go with favorable and supportive connections to Jupiter, Pluto and Saturn in hard-working Capricorn. This energy works equally well alone or when working as a team member towards a worthy goal.

We are fortified with persistence and not looking for excuses � neither Mercury nor Mars retrograde will get in our way! The look in our eye is determination, and we will persevere until the job is done. This might be a good day to tackle a job that maybe is not your favorite, but is worthwhile since motivation is high. Achievement at the end of the day will feel sweet.

This evening we are likely to feel the intensity of the approaching square between the Sun in Libra and Pluto in Capricorn. It doesn�t actually peak until very early tomorrow morning, but with strong and compulsive cosmic interactions, we often feel the energy building. This one can be personally challenging as our egos get swept up into a sense of destiny. We may have a sense of things being out of our control (this is pretty much true!); and respond with renewed efforts to force people and events to conform to our desires. As the evening wears on if you find yourself feeling vulnerable, jealous, or sensitive to perceived criticism try to reframe your attitude toward change. We may just be reacting negatively assuming change is a bad thing, when in fact it may turn out to be to our benefit.

Daily Muse: Success is no accident. It is hard work, perseverance, learning, studying, sacrifice and most of all, love of what you are doing or learning to do. (Pel� � Sun in Libra, Mercury in Scorpio)

THURSDAY
October 15
Moon in Libra
The Moon slipped into justice-seeking Libra late last night, but we might find it difficult to believe there is any fairness in the world today. In the early morning hours the Sun in Libra makes a clashing square with resolute Pluto in unyielding Capricorn. It�s hard not to take things personally or avoid feeling vulnerable on some level.

Although most of what we worry about and are afraid of never manifests, there is no reason to invite trouble today. Our personal egos very likely will feel somewhat manipulated or helpless in the face of what seems to be an overbearing or tyrannical authority figure, organization, or system. In truth, we might be exaggerating a situation or making the proverbial mountain out of a molehill. If we feel particularly exposed or defenseless, our own response may be angry, demanding, passionate, forceful, and inappropriate.

For me, I think I will avoid the typical traps that I know are likely to provoke these feelings � renewing a driver�s license in an hours long line, trying to straighten out a billing error on a credit card or bank statement, or asking for a favor, exception, or leniency from a person whose job is to protect the law or status quo. Maybe you are braver than I am, but that�s my two cents. Unless you are itching for a fight or ready to sharpen your debating skills, you might want to postpone any interactions that are likely to be confrontational. You might win, but it will take an enormous effort with risk of destroying a bit of your humanity and peace of mind. And besides, a New Lunar Cycle begins tomorrow. Why not go out on a high note?  

Daily Muse: My humanity is bound up in yours, for we can only be human together. (Desmond Tutu � Sun in Libra)

FRIDAY
October 16
New Moon 24� Libra 12:31 pm
The Moon goes Void of Course at 3:11 pm enters Scorpio at 10:05 pm
Like most cosmic events in 2020, the New Moon in Libra mid-day is anything but ordinary. The Moon�s path to joining the Sun at 23 Libra includes first squaring Jupiter and Pluto in Capricorn and making a fiery opposition to Mars in Aries. Later tonight the Moon will also square Saturn as will the Sun on Sunday the 18th. There is just no avoiding those planets in determined, pragmatic, and earthy Capricorn!

Although there are challenging aspects to this New Moon Cycle, these squares and oppositions add color, depth, and dynamic movement to the events occurring in the next 29 � days. Despite what might look like a fairly contentious New Lunar cycle, there is great reason for hope and encouragement. The Sun and Moon in Libra are joining forces to inspire and encourage cooperation, collaboration, and partnership towards what we believe to be the truth and highest path forward.

Astrologer Raven Kaldera calls this Moon the �White Knight� who believes in true love, romance, right and wrong, ideals, and justice. Although this archetype may lack real world experience, and have permanent stars in his eyes, he is also without pessimism, cynicism and doubt. His shadow is seen when we view people and situations as broken when they don�t live up to our perfect picture. Armed with the sword of justice we charge forward to correct the wrongs of the world. And by the way, those people we rescue along the way, ought to be grateful! Although the White Knight doesn�t do it for applause, the sense of fairness and justice inherent in Libra, expects gratitude. Best to aspire to doing good with no strings attached, especially today.  

I was recently reminded of an idea expressed by Alcoholics Anonymous; this is a paraphrase. �You are never further from a drink than when you are helping someone else.� Indeed this idea spills over into many areas of life. When we focus on shared interests and/or are trying to lift someone else up, we can�t but help feel elevated ourselves.

Daily Muse: Every generation leaves behind a legacy. What that legacy will be is determined by the people of that generation. What legacy do you want to leave behind? (John Lewis � North Node of the Moon in Libra)

SATURDAY
October 17
Moon in Scorpio
The Moon dove into mysterious and passionate Scorpio last evening so don�t be surprised if you awake this morning feeling more emotional than usual. There are likely inner tidal waves building especially with the Moon opposing radical Uranus mid-day. The Moon meets up with retrograding Mercury this afternoon and Mercury is also in a clever and revealing aspect with Pluto (ruler of Scorpio). Emotions and desire are driving behavior and we may feel like we are simply along for the ride!

Despite Mars, the planet of action, being retrograde, there is the possibility for high energy and building momentum today to move quickly on tasks and projects we care about. We might also find ourselves multi-tasking and moving in multiple directions all at once. If the feeling of movement feels good, go with it. If you start to feel fatigued or worn out, listen to your body and slow down especially as we near evening. Time to rest and regroup.

Daily Muse: Think thoughts that make you happy. Do things that make you feel good. Be with people who make you feel good. Eat things that make your body feel good. Go at a pace that makes you feel good. (Louise L. Hay, Moon in Scorpio; Sun, Venus, and Mercury in Libra)

SUNDAY
October 18
Moon in Leo
The Moon goes Void of Course at 2:43 pm enters Sagittarius at 9:43 pm
A busy cosmic week ends with the busiest day yet. The Moon in reflective Scorpio is quite active as it meets and greets Venus, Neptune and Jupiter before dawn � the making of sweet and maybe sexy dreams. It will also make favorable alliances with Pluto and Saturn. Hang onto your deepest feelings and intuitions as they may serve to be a very valuable inner moral compass throughout the day.

Even though the Moon is feeling supported, there are some other issues developing. The Sun (ego) which has already conflicted with Mars (Tuesday) and Pluto (Thursday) has another hurdle to jump today when it squares authoritarian Saturn. Don�t be quick to dismiss the discomfort. This may represent an important revelation about an authority we have been accepting that doesn�t deserve our faith and devotion.

It�s also an indication we might want to double check our assumptions. If we have been deceived either purposefully or not, now is the time to get straight. Venus in analytical Virgo is opposing nebulous Neptune. It is difficult to know for sure who is telling the truth and who isn�t. Don�t jump to conclusions, but do your own homework and research.

This evening Mars in Aries backs into a square with Jupiter in Capricorn. This is part of a recurring cycle so pay attention. Our progress and movement forward may be temporarily blocked, but when we are willing to re-check our intentions, purpose, and strategy we will understand how to unblock the flow. The obvious path may not be the best one.

Shortly after midnight, Venus draws strength and a sense of renewed purpose from an alliance with Jupiter. The building influence of this aspect might help us end the day on a fortunate and happy note.

Daily Muse: Anyone who claims to be a leader must speak like a leader. That means speaking with integrity and truth�There will be people who say to you, �You are out of your lane;� They are burdened by only having the capacity to see what has always been instead of what can be. But don't you let that burden you.
(Kamala Harris � Sun in Libra, Mercury in Scorpio)