The Grand Cross with Lunar and Solar Eclipses Set the Stage for Change

June/July Update

The June/July astrological lineup accentuates the influence of the old, in conflict with the new. A growing need for change headlines the upcoming months. We instinctively feel the intensity building, as major separations between the past and the future emerge. The powerful aspects of the Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus and Pluto T-square intensify the periods from June 26th through August 21st. The world is still reeling from the first Saturn/Uranus opposition that made its exact aspect on November 4, 2008, during the presidential election. This signified the transition from the old to the new.

This summer, Saturn will make the first of a series of squares to transiting Pluto, beginning to form what is called the Cardinal Climax or the Grand T-square aspect. Both squares and opposition aspects create stress, crisis and discomfort as the impact motivates us to find innovative ways to break free. In essence, cardinal signs are focused on the self and self-identity and the need to take action. Uranus, the revolutionary planet of independence, originality, and unpredictable change, conjoins with the expansive planet, Jupiter, on 6/8. Both planets transit through the sign of Aries and we are asked to act with courage and clear intention as we initiate new beginnings. Mars, the ruler of Aries, opposes Chiron, unearthing old, psychological wounds for healing. A push for independence urges us to overcome old limitations and fears.

On 6/10, Mercury transits out of Taurus into its natural ruling sign, Gemini. The mind is quick silver as a lighter, faster pace begins. The New Moon in Gemini on 6/12 helps us to translate our inner perceptions into outer experiences. Communication is increased through intellectual pursuits, writing, speaking, understanding different opinions and exchanging ideas. The Summer Solstice begins on 6/21, as the Sun enters Cancer, conjoining Mercury and squaring Jupiter, Uranus and Saturn, opposing the Lunar Eclipse axis. Mercury moves through the instinctual sign of Cancer on 6/25, as thoughts turn to women’s issues, real estate, home, family and emotional security.

For the next two months, Mars, the aggressive planet of actions, shifts from the high-spirited sign of Leo to the practical, self-disciplined sign of Virgo. Organizing, cleaning and attention to detail are this sign’s best qualities. Use this time to get things in order. Avoid hypercritical behavior, particularly when the tendency is self-directed. Issues regarding health and work are brought to the forefront.

Venus transits through the fiery sign of Leo, on 7/10, as the heat fuels self-love and loving relationships. Keep it light and playful, as the drama of romance plays out. This is an ideal time to host a party or celebrate an event.

The intense concentration of energies occurring during the Lunar and Solar eclipse, on 6/26 and 7/11 respectively, increase our need for personal development and greater self-awareness. The Solar eclipse is a special New Moon. Things that are begun, the seeds we plant, the projects we undertake, the contacts we make, take on added significance six months down the road. Reflections on what must be released to accommodate the intentions we set are backed by conscious goal setting for long-term security under the Capricorn Solar Eclipse.

Three planets change positions during the month of July. Uranus, changes direction as it turns retrograde until December, deepening our ability to express our uniqueness to the outer world. Mercury leaves the sign of Cancer and enters the strong- willed sign of Leo and Venus moves out of the fun loving sign of Leo for a month’s stay in Virgo. The quincunx between Neptune (the dream) and Saturn (the limitation) creates confusion. Adjustments and compromise between conflicting realities and desired goals are necessary. (A quincunx can be defined as a great opportunity brilliantly disguised as an impossible situation.) Finding balance between our personal needs and our desired outcomes requires careful management, as we abandon outmoded structures in our lives.

Advance understanding of these astrological influences, from a conscious standpoint; help us prepare for these disruptive forces as events occur over the next few months. Remember to breathe!!

Marcia McCaffery is a practicing astrological counselor, Reiki Master, spiritual advisor, and a certified life direction coach with a private practice in the Denver area. She is a featured astrology reader at Shining Lotus™ Metaphysical Bookstore. To learn how these changes impact you personally, contact Marci at 720 272-1042. For free, valuable resources visit her web site at www.stardirectionastology.com