Skins are thin this week, a condition that could cause the slightest criticism—even an observation offered with a loving intention—to be felt as an accusation or an attack. And because of that hypersensitivity, many of us are likely to be more than just a little cranky. Seemingly simple tasks have the potential to become the straws the break the camel’s back, making many meltdowns likely, yours or others’. Unfortunately, because so many of us are facing so many challenges, normally reliable support systems are evaporating at an alarming rate—that shoulder you’ve always been able to lean or cry on is having rotator cuff surgery, and your “rock” may have vanished in an emotional landslide, if not an actual one.
I have no idea what the magic mantra is that will remedy the collective or personal psychic chaos, but I think “tolerance” would work for now, especially if it emanates from the openhearted realization that most of us are feeling a deep sense of loss. Whether it’s the death of a loved one, the destruction of a home, the devastation of a sacred place by fire and flood, or the fear of what losses may lie ahead, aggressive attitudes or behaviors are often attempts to mask sorrow in an effort to fortify the soul against a sense of helplessness.
The source of this escalating irritation is a Mars/Saturn square, which is exact and separating on September 9. Mars signifies energy, particularly physical energy. Saturn signifies essence, particularly the distillation of wisdom from experience. And when they clash at a hard angle, Mars often feels Saturn’s presence as persistent restriction. And under Saturn’s inhibiting thumb, Mars grows increasingly melancholy, mean, or destructive. Currently, Mars is in Leo, a no slouch in the drama department Sign that encourages dynamic self-expression. Saturn is in Scorpio, a Sign that likes to mull over the facts at least a dozen times before making a decision. And the clash of these conflicting rhythms often leads to harsh, destructive tests of strength. As you encounter various responses to the psychic as well as physical friction of the week—volcanic or glacial—try to remember that life is not competitive sport.
Despite the stormy astral weather, there are still opportunities to appreciate life’s simple pleasures. So rather than fortify or distance yourself behind a belligerent stance, consider alternative responses that are grounded in the acceptance of a variety of opinions and ideas, responses that will facilitate peace. This is not an easy position to find and to hold on to, especially when polarization seems to be the solution to every disagreement. But if enough of us are determined to give peace a chance, eventually peace will win.
If you know your Ascendant and/or your Moon Sign, read that, too.
Aries March 21-April 19
Make every effort to hold fast to a thoughtful approach that carefully considers the consequence of your actions. You’re dealing with the same old circumstances in a new setting, which means you have a very real opportunity to break the pattern of your repeated reactions.
Taurus April 20-May 20
Do not let strife at home, interior or external, interfere with your attempts to create a vibrant environment. Yes, there are difficulties, but they aren’t necessarily permanent and there are definitely solutions.
Gemini May 21-June 21
Be careful about making promises you can’t keep. I’m not suggesting you squelch your enthusiasm. I’m simply advising you to leave extravagance out of the negotiations.
Cancer June 22-July 22
You can about fret about money, or you can realize that your anxiety over finances is the real issue. Be clear about what you ultimately value, and you’ll find a way to balance the budget.
Leo July 23-August 22
Take off the bossy pants, and figure out how to lead as a benevolent despot. The tyrant technique may have worked in the past, but no one is interested in following an out of control leader, especially when all of life seems to be spinning out of control.
Virgo August 23-September 22
Try not to let the Brain Worm, that famous mental energy-eating parasite, compulsively chew on the same information. Concentrate instead on accepting the idea that you can’t correct every mistake and sometimes that acknowledgement builds character.
Libra September 23-October 22
Rather than trying to fit a square peg in a round hole, just let go. Maybe you are already aligned, and what’s required is recognizing the connections rather than continuing to search for them.
Scorpio October 23-November 21
Seize the moment, and step boldly into the leadership position, and as you do, remember to empower and encourage your following. Yes…there are lessons to be learned, but harsh criticism will only fall on deaf ears.
Sagittarius November 22-December 21
Constant self-recrimination won’t undo what’s been done, and will eventually have a dreadful effect on your attitude toward yourself. The best way to neutralize the habit of blaming yourself is a renewed determination to learn and move on.
Capricorn December 22-January 19
Money matters, and so do our beliefs about how it manifests. You can struggle with conventional opinions about money or you can make an effort to develop your particular understanding of how money flows in your life.
Aquarius January 20-February 18
It’s your choice: Argue with significant others, personal or professional, and risk getting mired in hurt feelings, or make a sincere effort to find a workable compromise that acknowledges and respects everyone’s needs.
Pisces February 19-March 20
It’s a crisis of faith, but that doesn’t mean you don’t believe in a Higher Power; it simply means you’re exploring new ways of understanding how to let go of the need to control the situation and trust in the possibility of a positive outcome.
Ralfee Finn specializes in Transformational Astrology. For readings, call 1-888-937-9264, write P.O. Box 343, New York, NY 10025, visit AquariumAge.com, or e-mail ralfee@aquariumage.com.
Copyright © 2013 by Ralfee Finn