February 2008

ASTROLINK 2008 February ROSE MARCUS

EVOLUTIONARY ASTROLOGER,    TAROT READER, CLAIRVOYANT

Director, School of  Evolutionary Astrology, Canada

ASTROLOGER for SHARED VISION MAGAZINE, Vancouver

FORECAST COLUMNIST for THE MOUNTAIN ASTROLOGER, USA

www.rosemarcus.com Consultations & Classes: rose_marcus@shaw.ca

Overview:

Mars in Gemini has just completed the retrograde cycle begun mid November last, while Mercury, now traveling through Aquarius, has just embarked upon its three week retrograde stint. Reigning with a weighty-ness that brings a stacked-deck feel to the here and now, Pluto has recently begun to hold court in the sign of Capricorn. Quickening the pace, February also hurls us through the first pair of eclipses for 2008. Whew, it’s off to the races we go!

With our sensory instincts on the high alert probe, Mars and Pluto initiated an expanded awareness cycle in January of 2007, it’s been mushrooming ever since. This is a critical transition for Mars and Pluto; they will not tee up in the Gemini/Sagittarius polarity again for the next couple of centuries. Why is such a striking impetus now animated?  When this planetary pair engages by dynamic aspect it is a critical soul dance; personal, social and collective evolutionary needs are greatly intensified. The heat generated between these two planetary energies set key karma into faster motion.

End of September brought the midway plateau of this major transition cycle as Mars made the first of its three opposition aspects with Pluto. This was also the beginning of a six-month sub-cycle chapter of great significance. By the time mid November arrived and Mars went retrograde, situations became more obvious and/or they took a major turn. A key evolutionary ignition point fired at that time. Mars is Gemini suggests a double track or multi-tiered learning cycle; the circumstances that were set in motion have been advancing not only the current growth mandate but have also animated the much deeper levels of the core soul issues in need of reconciliation. The second Mars/Pluto opposition, which occurred January 2, can be viewed as an information synthesis point. Take a moment to review what took place for you at the end of 2007/beginning of 2008. At the same time that shifting realities started to sink in deeper you will recognize that a new internal drive was also arising. Through January, Mars retrograde continued to heat up the undercurrents as a reformed sense of direction begins to build.

Mars is now unleashed from its retrograde cycle, so you can expect to be kept especially busy right from February’s get-go. Note Mercury retrograde will deliver the typical trickster challenges, the usual warnings are in effect. Mercury is retrograde in the sign of Aquarius this time around; make sure you pay extra attention to your computer and other communication devices or technological tools. Also, keep vigilant for mechanical problems and misfire negotiations too. Weather patterns – and people for that matter, can be unpredictable; fabulous opportunities can suddenly appear, but they can also vanish in the blink of an eye too. Positively applied, Mercury retrograde can bring an excellent time for internal or creative exploration.

Eclipses tend to act as an accelerator influence; riding on wind of Aquarius in overdrive, we can expect that we may soon experience a jolt. The Solar Annular Eclipse in Aquarius, Feb 7, marks the beginning of Chinese Year of Rat (a flavor of the charismatic, ambitious, and opportunistic) and occurs just after the US candidate’s super elections day. We are in for an over the top week or two. In fact, we have already witnessed the eclipse activation, i.e. the recent topsy-turvy stock market and the shocking sudden death of a much beloved young actor, Heath Ledger. A Solar Eclipse (new moon) commonly announces the death or birth of a high profile individual.

The Solar Eclipse ignites the group-consciousness air sign of Aquarius. (Mercury’s retrograde cycle does too.) Watch for spotlight attention to be focused on the following: friends, groups, political affiliations, aspirations or involvement; social, public, or political events or controversy; scientific and technological advances; atmospheric conditions, perceived and/or actual (re emotional climates as well as the weather), out of the ordinary social fads; the plus and minus of our interconnectedness.

Note that China’s Pluto is directly opposite the Solar Eclipse, anyone born 1949 (to 1951; fall of 1959 to spring of 1960; Jan/Feb or Nov/Dec of 1978; Aug to Oct of 1979) can feel this eclipse strongly. It is a time of great awakenings (Mother Nature included); of the revolutionizing of consciousness, norms, and lifestyles; of altered realities that can quite likely occur in the blink of an eye. Note that this eclipse also energizes Chiron in Aquarius (keywords: controversial, revolutionary.) The exceptional or extraordinary could be put in your path; note that you can make a huge leap (for yourself and on behalf of others) when you choose the maverick’s path. On an added note: with Mercury retrograde up to tricks, watch for something quite striking to be repeated.

The Full Moon Lunar Eclipse of Feb 20, 2008 occurs across Virgo/Pisces axis, emphasizing work and health related matters; religious or spiritual issues/needs can call attention too. With Saturn and Pluto engaged by trine, we may stumble upon solutions to that which previously seemed beyond grasp. To be sure, it is a time when much will come to light; when confusion (and Mercury retrograde setbacks) can be cleared up; realism prevails, potentials may be realized. Saturn trine Pluto ignites great resourcefulness; lucrative contract signings are quite possible. If it has not already occurred, perhaps the US writers strike will be resolved around this time.

FEB   6:    SOLAR ECLIPSE, NEW MN: 7:44pm (17:44 AQ)

FEB 20:    LUNAR ECLIPSE, FULL MN: 5:35 am (1:54 LEO)

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February  17:  Venus enters Aquarius                      11:22 am

February  18:  Mercury completes retrograde          6:57 pm

February  18:   Sun enters Pisces                 10:50 pm

Standout dates: Feb 1, 13, 14, 16, 25, 26: Opportune

Feb 4, 6, 7, 9- 11, 19 – 22: Can go either way:

Feb 24:  Effort, pressure, challenge; completion, fruition

ARIES (MAR 21 – APR 19)

February is all about making connections; get out there and spread your news. Fresh stimulation is easy to come by, you certainly won’t lack for ideas or conversation. A higher social and professional profile can be quite rewarding, especially when you have something new to strut. You could be asked to step into a presidency or lead role within a club, union, or organization; yes, it’s more responsibility but your contribution could be just what they need. It’s a month of upgrades at all levels, so whether you want to change your appearance, your outlook, your material status, or something more, put ambition to work and watch the good it will do you! Mercury retrograde may bring surprising re-connections or repeats. Lucrative financial opportunity can appear in this first half of the month, even with Mercury in retrograde (resume or renegotiate, try again.) Excitement can build from the start of the month through the Solar Eclipse week; watch for something (or someone) unexpected. On a note of caution, while casual and relaxed can be a preferable way to play it, know that during Mercury retrograde, this approach can also leave you unwittingly vulnerable. Knowing when to let it slide and when to tell it like it is can be tricky. Stay alert, keep it fresh, reserve judgment. Out-of-the-box experimentation serves you well; be willing to explore anything once (keeping safety in mind, of course.) The Solar Eclipse will prompt you (or force you) to make improvements. If there is anything you have missed, it could be revealed at the time of the Lunar Eclipse (on or around Feb 20.) This can be a time to settle an old score or to sign an important contract. Now through June, Pluto in Capricorn can keep you ambitious and will help you to get a better handle on your responsibilities and goals. Aim for greater professional achievement, and/or direct concentrated effort toward making your private life more rewarding. Pluto in Capricorn is an empowering planetary energy for you, take charge anyway you see fit.

TAURUS (April 20 – May 20)

Whether you choose it or it happens to you, your life is set for a drastic dismantling or restructuring. For some, new realities can be initially jarring. Even so, you know change spells improvement. It can be a matter of trade-offs, one door closes, another opens. Jupiter and Venus in Capricorn suggest you’ll move through the transition just fine. In fact, Mercury retrograde, Neptune in Aquarius and Mars in Gemini make change easier to both handle and accomplish this month. Mercury retrograde (to Feb 17) can re-ignite issues with a parent, boss, or authority figure. You could suddenly find yourself set free or let go (of a job, relationship or obligation.) Legal or insurance claims, credit ratings or banking matters can need your priority attention. A job, marriage, deal, or friendship could suddenly end. A new relationship can move along very quickly too. (Perhaps you’ll hear yourself saying, “I don’t usually work this fast.”) When tempted to jump in with both feet or to sign your life away; remember to leave yourself an easy out clause while Mercury is retrograde. Better yet, explore your options, negotiate but don’t sign until after Feb. 17 (if you must, you must – sometimes it just works out that way.) The Lunar Eclipse Feb. 20 is especially lucrative; financial or romantic commitments made around this time hold long range/lasting benefit. This Lunar Eclipse is also a wonderful launch-point for your future prosperity: pursue an educational specialty, finish off your degree, become a professional in performing or visual arts; travel/relocate for love or money; or go forth and multiply!

GEMINI (May 21 – June 21)

Are you ready to rock and roll? With Mars in Gemini now out of retrograde, and so nicely fired up, you should feel back on track, and be able to keep yourself better informed too. You can make great progress; in fact, things could come together quite easily for most of this month. It’s all a matter of opening the right doors at the right time; surprisingly perhaps, Mercury retrograde can be helpful in this regard. Want something? Ask for it; if it is no sweat for others to deliver, it’s yours. Looking to reconnect, make amends, or re-enter the job market? As Mercury tours retrograde to Feb 17, you can easily to go back and pickup where you left off. Don’t hesitate to call up friends, previously clients and employers. Life can deliver one thing after another through the Solar Eclipse on Feb. 7. With Neptune and Mars in easy accord, synchronicity and spontaneity can work like a charm. Random acts of kindness go along way too. Someone special could reappear; expect also to run into people you know more often than usual. Tradeshows, public events, conferences, fund raisers, social mixers, show & tell – all are worthy investments. For the most part, you can look forward to a lucrative sales or connect-the-dots month lies ahead. With Mercury retrograde in slide mode, it’s easy to sway people. A word of advice, with such facilitating stars, you can just as easily slack off too. While Mercury is in retrograde (to Feb. 17) it’s important to put more due diligence forward in all areas. The Lunar Eclipse Feb 20 can bring time to file papers or take a test; to re-negotiate a partnership, legal arrangement, or financial matter. On another note, this Eclipse could prompt you to take on a room-mate, a renter, to hire an agent, to sign on as a student or apprentice; or to make a relationship official (to set a wedding date perhaps?); it could lead you to a perfect piece of real estate to buy, or a better place to rent. It can also be the right time to start (home or office) renovations or to launch a home based business.

CANCER (June 22 – July 22)

It’s time to get a better grip over your finances and other priorities, but Mercury retrograde and the Solar Eclipse could make things more complicated. Surprise expenses, repairs, inconsistent pay, and financial/investment wildcards can be disconcerting. An important relationship could take a surprising turn too.  On the positive note, you could stumble upon information that can put you a step ahead of the game. Still, use added caution while Mercury is retrograde. You may or may not be drawing the appropriate conclusions or thinking along the right lines. Only time will tell, so keep an open mind, take it in stride, and try not to go into reactionary mode. While the stars are concentrated in the sign of Aquarius, anything could happen, plus and/or minus. It’s best to deal with things one at a time, to make the most of the moment, and not to bank too far ahead. Think in terms of “for now”, and stay alert. A temporary job, agreement, patch-up, or truce could be a good stop-gap. If the Solar Eclipse Feb 7 delivers a jolt, the Lunar Eclipse Feb 20 can help you to sort out the reality check and get grounded again. It can help you to reach an important goal or to make an important decision about your future. This Lunar eclipse can also bring poignant healing or a sense of appropriate timing; perhaps you’ll find yourself at a point where you’ll finally be able to give in, let go, and move on. Work or workable solutions can be more readily found. As the month comes closer to the end, you should have a better definition of your needs and priorities, and feel in better position/more confident to finalize a course of action.

LEO (JULY 22 – AUG 21)

As the stars bunch up in Aquarius, you are sure to find most of your attention is focused on others, (personal and professional.) Relationship drama or politics can take center stage. Then again, the stars could simply set your social or love life into firecracker mode; either way, an exciting couple of weeks are sure to unfold. You could be absolutely mesmerized, impressed, surprised, or shocked; you could become involved with the public a lot more, whether you find yourself in the lead or whether you stand among the crowd. Do your associations define you? Is it to your liking or benefit? A partnership deal could be on the table for discussion. You could also be busied with legal affairs or arrangements, or event planning. Negotiate but try to avoid finalizing things until Mercury is out of retrograde (Feb. 18.) February can be the month to experiment or to do a test market. A specialization can keep you in high demand. Know that quality time put into studies and practice will net a visible and faster payoff. It does not appear that you will run out of creative ideas, things to say, or people to share with. Re finances, work, contractual arrangements and relationship matters, the Lunar Eclipse on Feb 20 could bring finalization and/or goal achievement. Pluto’s advance into Capricorn suggests it’s time to focus on quality over quantity; to polish up ambition and to direct your resources more effectively. This Pluto placement also suggests you should take your health more seriously too.

VIRGO (Aug 22 – Sept 21)

The month ahead can help you to make great strides in your work and/or healing. With so many planetary influences in Aquarius (six of them), you are being asked to welcome each day with a fresh perspective and can-do attitude. Experiment all you like, rely on out of the box solutions first, take on a temporary new job or project if you want to/need to. You will not lack for inspiration or for ways to fill your time. While you may have a plan for staying organized, know that when Mercury is in retrograde (through Feb. 17), it can be near impossible to stick to a tight schedule. You can be greatly distracted by temporary projects or asides, interruptions or interrupted service, noise, or people who run interference for you. Your work environment can be especially chaotic over these next few weeks, especially if you serve the public, or are in the aviation, essential services, computer or telecommunications industries. There could be a sudden break in your work too (labor strikes are typical of Mercury retrograde.) Still, Jupiter and Venus in Capricorn help you to manage yourself very well throughout it all. These two planets can pump up your ambition and your self-reliance, and that’s a very good thing. The Solar Eclipse Feb 6 could bring news or information, you could stumble upon something or someone that’s just right for you (re work or health related matters.) Mercury retrograde along with Chiron in Aquarius can deliver plus or minus. A co-worker could need your help, or prove to be a surprising competitor. Your support network could evaporate or synchronicity could deliver surprising help in this regard. Use your instincts when it comes to hiring an agent, you’ll know right away if they are the right one for you. Know that you could suddenly come down with something, guard your health, do not open chain letters or suspect emails, especially Feb 5 – 12. Please also be careful when driving, cutting, or using electrical tools or devices. The Lunar Eclipse Feb 20 could bring a crowning achievement, re personal or health matters, work or work related (perhaps you’ll pass a test or an interview; or do something you feel particularly proud of. It is also an ideal time to start your own business or to go professional. The Lunar Eclipse can deliver a dynamic new relationship or brand new fresh start. If a relationship has been on wobbly legs, the Lunar Eclipse will bring a time to go your separate ways.

LIBRA (Sept.23 – Oct.22)

An exceptional month is about to begin! A new address, a big renovation, an addition to the family, a significant lifestyle change, a professional opportunity or a hot new love affair – perhaps even a lottery win – how exciting! Yes, you could be soaring this month! Synchronicity is doing overtime on your chart; opportunity is worth traveling for. While the usual Mercury retrograde snafus can be evident, for the most part, this Mercury retrograde cycle can be gifting. It can see you repeat a past success or a career high, or put you back in touch with very special or influential people. With so many planetary influences in Aquarius, you could have a life altering experience or déjà vu of great significance. Know that you can call in special favors this month too.  This particular Mercury retrograde can help you to tap into your creative genius, so dive into a project and give it your all. You will easily impress everyone around you. Your intuitive abilities are also very well ignited; you’ll be tuning in much more than usual. Expect the first half of the month to be exceptionally busy; Feb. 1 to 14 can keep you amazed/deliver much more than you expected. Children can also take center stage; they could have their own high-highs or low-lows and are sure to keep you racing and guessing. It may be hard to discipline them. Aquarius is an accident prone or sudden move sign, so be on the watch and expect to be surprised. Venus moves into Aquarius Feb. 17 and extends your good luck, especially in affairs of the heart and financial matters. If you have not done so already, know that Pluto’s advance into Capricorn will create a significant change to the very foundations of your life. Family, home, real estate matters or a home based business will undergo a time of critical restructuring (especially for those born near Sept 23.)

SCORPIO (Oct. 23 – Nov. 21)

You could be feeling exceptionally restless or impatient or conversely, you could feel supercharged by some exciting new prospect or project as February begins. For the most part, you should find yourself on the good roll. In fact, busy could be an understatement. Ambition could send you into absolute overdrive; note that Mercury is in retrograde until Feb. 17. Take it moment to moment, and know that you could be surprised to learn how many layers or stages you have yet to go through. Be prepared to manage with added pressure, chaos, or uncertainty; the best you can do is to be open to anything goes.  Mercury retrograde can bring problems with home appliances or electrical matters, or see more flow through of people coming and going (boarders, renters and clients for example. It can be time to revamp your home office or business. If you are hosting an open house or a public event, make sure precious items are protected and that you have your security well covered. Family dynamics or finances can undergo a significant revamp. A new roommate, agent, or financial advisor could be a step in the right direction. Home renovations or sudden uprooting can be in the cards for some. While you might want to race ahead and just get it out of the way, know that things are easier to manage or nail down after Feb 18. In fact, the Lunar Eclipse on Feb 20 could see a goal come to fruition or a significant achievement realized. It may be time to attend an official event or awards ceremony. A contract offer, notoriety or special attention can bring terrific validation.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov.22 – Dec. 21)

Pluto’s move out of your sign and into Capricorn can put added pressure on you to become even more resourceful than you already are. This Pluto position (in favor to Saturn) is about holding your own, of overcoming shortfalls, and of beating the odds. Finances or investments may need to be fortified or revamped altogether. It can be time to give your professional profile, business, or personal reputation an upgrade too. Watch for the opportunity to fill a niche market, or to make use of something that others have undervalued or missed altogether. While Mercury is in retrograde, your name is sure to pop up even more than it usually does; some will criticize you, others will admire you, and others will look to you for answers and added support. This Mercury retrograde cycle says you should put added effort into re-establishing your authority or reclaiming your parental status. It could also find you even more actively involved in a mentorship or support role; of course if you are the one in need of extra support, reach out; help appears readily available. February stars also is suggest you should make a point of acknowledging other people’s rules, limits, or capacities, and also aim to forge a better relationship with parents, the bank, or those in key or administrational positions. Your attitude toward your work, commitments, and responsibilities appear to be going through a major change. Pluto will help you to develop more continuity, consistency and follow through.  Jupiter’s one year tour through Capricorn will help you to stretch your resources/pluses, and your dollars, and to make the most of each moment. The Lunar Eclipse on Feb 20 – 22 can bring you to an important fork in the road decision, an abrupt stop/start, a sudden goodbye and/or hello. Once in motion, things are likely to move forward real fast.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22 – Jan. 19)

If you are born around Dec 22, you are sure to be feeling the more obvious effects of Pluto’s advance into Capricorn; a physical overhaul or new environment is just the beginning of so much more. This planetary influence can find you transforming elements of yourself or your life that you may have not even wanted to consider just a short time ago. If you were born later in the sign, you more likely to be in research mode or in an incubation and build-up phase while you try to sort out what comes next. Saturn and Pluto will continue to work harmoniously through June, so know that no matter what your actual birth date is, that you are progressing onto a very solid track. Having said that, Mercury retrograde and the Solar Eclipse on Feb 6 can be financially or emotionally challenging; added expenses, sudden repairs, or other complications and uncertainty may challenge you. The cycle is best used to upgrade skills with a short training program and to better observe the world around you, with added attention focused on those closest to you. It is also a time to become better informed re competition in the marketplace, politics, new medical procedures or techniques, career and financial options. Still, while Mercury is in retrograde (to Feb. 17), it’s best to keep open ended or non committal, to be non judgmental/give benefit of the doubt, and to adopt a wait and see what comes next attitude.  The Lunar Eclipse Feb 20 (to 22) can be especially revealing or confirming. You should feel more secure about a course of action or future plan by this time. It is a good influence for promotional activities, for getting the word out and for establishing yourself out there in the world. This eclipse can also bring you to a pinnacle accomplishment, a scholastic high, deliver recognition or an official status, or see a legal matter resolved.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20 – Feb. 18)

Birthday month sets you on fire! (Figuratively of course.) Still with Mercury touring retrograde through Feb. 17, it pays to step up on the due diligence. Mars in Gemini ignites a go-getter attitude through Mar 3. In fact, you are likely to find you can zip through most things much quicker than you usually do. Try not to let stress be your fuel, pump up on high potency B vitamins instead. With Chiron in Aquarius activated by the Solar Eclipse, it will become even more apparent how your life path sets you apart from the rest. Now is a special time for you to take the lead, to strike out on your own, and to follow your heart’s calling. You are unique, broadcast it, celebrate it. With so much concentration in Aquarius, you are likely to feel more alive than ever; but if you give in to fretting, you will probably feel more like a live wire. Mercury retrograde can keep you so wrapped up in the moment, it may be near impossible to stay on track with the clock. It is a good idea to keep pen and paper handy and to make notes to yourself. Also, pay extra attention to your health, stay away from coughing people, and make sure your diet provides you with enough fuel to match your high-energy output. The Solar Eclipse Feb 6 could bring something exceptional and/or completely out of the blue. You could find yourself suddenly heading in a direction or dealing with things (or people) you did not expect. Neptune and Mars make for ease, but they can also cause you to be somewhat sloppy, costly oversights or missteps are possible. Positively, your intuition should kick in when you need it, so don’t ignore messages or signals. You could be a master of great timing. On another note, know that you are also likely to have a lowered tolerance level/be more susceptible to alcohol, medications and drugs. An important relationship matter or financial decision is on the table around the time of the Lunar Eclipse Feb 20. This can be the right time to call a less than satisfactory relationship to an end or to jump into a major financial or relationship commitment.

PISCES (Feb. 19 – March 20)

There is a lot going on behind the scenes with you this month. You could be working toward completion on studies or a major goal, or you may be working out the kinks in your head or heart. You may feel the need to pull back from your social life in order to regroup or address personal priorities. Whether you are studying, healing, or creating, it is important not to let yourself get distracted by outside influences. If you are working on something confidential, keep it so. With Mercury retrograde up to tricks, it’s far too easy to let the cat out of the bag. Similarly, this first half of the month is an excellent time to put yourself in observation mode. People can be very revealing when you pose the right question, or simply sit back and watch. On another note, volunteer activities can keep you very busy. For the most part you should feel wonderfully rewarded when you donate your time and attention, but Mercury retrograde can also create added hassles or complications and make you question if it was all worth it. Feb. 1 to 17 is a time to avoid scheduling more than you need to. Try to hold some energy, time or cash in reserve. Both Mercury retrograde and the Solar Eclipse can deliver the unexpected. The Lunar Eclipse (full moon) will occur across the Virgo/Pisces axis; if you are born around Mar 20, you are sure to feel the effects quite strongly. Uranus is also greatly energized; a sudden break-off or end of the road could be rather difficult to handle. Be especially careful when skiing or doing other physical activities. The effects of this eclipse could be felt indirectly; someone close to you could be affected instead of you. Positively, this eclipse could bring an important contract or a goal realization to fruition.

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