Jupiter-Neptune, and Saturn Stations Direct

Dear Friend and Reader:

Congratulations on making it through last week. I'm hearing from a number of people that it was an especially challenging build-up to the Full Moon, which peaked early on Saturday -- as in, not a typical Pisces Full Moon at all. Personally, I found it to be marked by a variety of external stresses, internal emotional detours, and a number of interpersonal situations not working out as anticipated at all.

	One of the largest and longest-lived storms recorded in our solar system, first observed on Saturn in 2010; pictured here in false color. The blue stripe is the rings seen edge-on; that black band is their shadow. Photo by the Cassini Imaging Team, SSI, JPL, ESA, NASA.

We can likely chalk a lot of that up to the primary feature of this week's major astrology: Jupiter in Sagittarius in a long square to Neptune in Pisces (which was directly involved in this Full Moon).

On Saturday, Sept. 21, Jupiter and Neptune will make their exact square for the third and final time in this series; the other exact contacts were on Jan. 13 and June 16. Between now and Saturday, Saturn stations direct in mid-Capricorn -- more on that in a moment.

You might check your calendar or journal to see whether you can trace a progressing or recurring theme between the first two exact contacts of Jupiter-Neptune and now. Or does the year feel like one big, smudgy painting: lots of beautiful light and colors, some deep, dark shadows, and not many distinct shapes or clear edges?

You may have a sense that certain ideals and dreams for your future are continually being tested. Even if it feels like you've been taking a step backward for each two you take forward, that is still progress. Remember that one potentially effective strategy is to take a gradual, patient, drop-by-drop approach to anything important to you.

Yet we're still in a zone where emotional and spiritual confusion is likely. How well is your imagined ideal scenario matching up with the actual signposts of reality? For example, what are the demonstrated facts and data of your bank account; your work situation; tangible actions by friends, lovers and colleagues? Where do you have legit options and in-hand or in-print offers and opportunities? Who replies to your messages and follows through on their promises?

And what if you feel like the one who's not following through? There is a caution with Jupiter-Neptune squares not to promise more than you can deliver. Sometimes it pays to set a big goal, because it can motivate you to work harder and more efficiently. This week looks like a better time to set small goals that you can meet with steady, non-Herculean persistence.

	This is what happens when Saturn falls asleep at a party hosted by Neptune and Jupiter. Oh, wait... no; it’s just three Voyager 2 images, taken through ultraviolet, violet and green filters, combined into one image. Photo by NASA / CalTech JPL.

Saturn stationing direct on Wednesday, Sept. 18, could begin helping with that. Particularly since it stations in a square to Mercury and Venus in Libra. On one level, this aspect suggests some needed initiative, stability and discipline available for thinking and working.

Yet, curiously, just like the Jupiter-Neptune square, this square to Saturn can describe challenging negotiations. In part this is because Mercury and Venus square Saturn can feel a little down, a little lonely -- and it can be hard to communicate clearly and give an accurate impression if things seem more negative than they really are.

On the more productive side, Saturn and Neptune are in an extended sextile to each other. This suggests potential breakthroughs in understanding.

Recent and upcoming insights might not all be light-hearted, but chances are they will be useful to your deeper aims around healing, growth and what you can offer to the greater good.

Perhaps most importantly: Saturn stationing direct this week marks the beginning of the final leg of approach to the exact conjunction of Saturn and Pluto in Capricorn on Jan. 12, 2020. That's 'the big one' -- the aspect Eric devoted much of this year's annual edition to. It's the event that a great deal of what we've all lived through this year is seemingly preparing us for, though it remains to be seen what we've learned and what it all means.

Saturn and Pluto symbolize the two most dependable agents of change in astrology. We relate to them the events that encourage -- or force -- us to take responsibility and authority in our lives, and the circumstances that compel us to surrender and release what is no longer working. In the world around us, Saturn and Pluto are reflected in a great deal of stress, chaos, pressure, uncertainty and destruction.

Within ourselves, we have an opportunity to respond with creativity, growth and a willingness to step into our lives more fully. It can be daunting, but it can be done. Stay curious, and stay in touch with the optimism and visions of today and of this year; they may be valuable motivators as you continue onward, even if the picture that finally comes into focus is not quite what you expected to see.

Yours & truly,

Amanda Painter In These Times — 2019 Autumn Reading It has called forth all of my knowledge, experience and wisdom to do this work. I have proceeded in the spirit of therapy, knowing that most people do not or will not go. That spirit first involves seeking refuge, becoming aware of your situation, ordering your priorities, and then making choices. But the single most important factor of therapy -- and of old school spiritual mentorship -- is not giving answers, but helping the client find them for themselves. What I have to offer you are 12 readings of approximately one hour each, which use astrology to address the matter: the one about how to orient yourself to make the most of the difficult and challenging times we are in.

All 12 signs are currently $111. I am keeping that price low to encourage having access to all of the work. Individual readings are $44 for the first and $22 for each additional. Daily Birthday Readings from Planet Waves

Here are the next week's Birthday Readings; if it's your birthday this week, many happy returns to you. Please note you can also read these entries as daily posts on our Intelligence website. Sunday, Sept. 15, 2019 (The Day of Mastery) As you were growing up, it's highly likely your caregivers or family had some expectations on who you were to become, and how you should live your life. As an adult, you have a free choice on how far you will stick to that narrative, though depending on the pressure this isn't always easy. This year, you have an opportunity to strike out on your individual path more decisively, regardless of anyone else's preconceived ideas or wishes. Follow your desires, and don't worry about going off-script. Monday, Sept. 16, 2019 (The Day of Spirited Energies) You have an opportunity to commit to a particular path of growth, healing and self-discovery. This is in part based on work you've already done, which has perhaps bolstered your sense of personal freedom to stand out and make ripples. Your next step will likely be to consolidate what you've gained; there may be moments when you have the chance to express yourself more openly, or to take a discerning viewpoint in contrast with the crowd. All of this contributes to honoring who you are. Tuesday, Sept. 17, 2019 (The Day of Perseverance) Something fundamental would seem to be shifting within you, relating to the way you think about yourself, and about what is possible. You may be opening up to potential within you, of which you were unaware before. If pursuing this takes you outside your comfort zone, that could well be helpful. Dare to trust yourself; and if you have an aspiration you want to follow, especially one that feels unlikely, you might begin with the assumption that you can achieve it. Wednesday, Sept. 18, 2019 (The Day of Internal Mystery) As a Virgo, it's likely you have a number of friends who are constantly surprised at just how much you can get done. You have the ability to bring about profound changes in whatever area you choose to turn your mind to. This year, you could make considerable progress toward your long-term aims. That may require a big push at the beginning to get started, though once you're underway, the momentum should help fuel your efforts, and you'll find it easier to keep going. Thursday, Sept. 19, 2019 (The Day of Fine Appearance) Pretty much anything is possible with enough devotion and passion driving you. The dream, the desire, are just the beginning; though they also provide the motivation to keep going when you need it the most. What's important is that they are sincere. That is, you're pursuing your own plans, rather than what you're told or expected to follow. With enough determination, you can sculpt a whole new way of being from the raw materials of the present. Friday, Sept. 20, 2019 (The Day of the Managers) Who do you want to be? Who could you become? These questions are a fundamental basis for our highest aspirations. Any goal that involves bringing you closer to your full potential is a positive thing to strive for. Making this the cornerstone of your ambitions would probably help you immensely. If you decide you want something, perhaps consider your reasons, and where all that leads you in terms of self-development. You might benefit from taking a somewhat broader view. Saturday, Sept. 21, 2019 (The Day of Current Taste) You're likely to be busy this year, possibly spending a significant amount of effort on a longstanding project. This may well require some grit and determination, and a little chutzpah here and there; yet you can cover a lot of ground. Faith in your own powers is an important, and often underestimated, contributor to success. Likewise, knowing that you're getting helpful advice from others, as opposed to added confusion. Choose your companions and confidantes wisely. Sunday, Sept. 22, 2019 (The Day of Restless Drive) There is a time for work, and a time for play. You can surely rely on your innate sense of responsibility to carry out what has to be done. The chances are you would benefit from erring on the side of pleasure, hobbies and social contact. Make a point of setting aside regular periods to relax and recharge. Spend lots of time with friends who get you laughing from your diaphragm upwards and, if you so desire, lovers who bring you delight in even more places than that.

— By Amy Elliott Monthly Horoscopes and Publishing Schedule Notes

Your extended monthly horoscope for September was published on Thursday, Aug. 29. We published your extended monthly horoscope for August on Thursday, July 25. Please note: we normally publish the extended monthly horoscope after the Sun has entered a new sign. Aries (March 20-April 19) — You seem to be blessed at present with unusually clear insights into where you're headed and what you want. If you wish, you can pursue a fairly single-minded course and probably span a large distance in a short period of time. That said, it will be useful to double-check your route for any potential snags, especially where ethics are concerned. There may be more than one way to go about your business, and without capitulating to unreasonable demands, it helps to be considerate of other people's situation and feelings. If in doubt, look for a scenario in which everyone wins. This approach will benefit you in the longer term. Get your full Aries reading by Eric here.

Taurus (April 19-May 20) — Over the last few weeks you seem to have had something of a wild ride emotionally. This may still be happening, though it would appear the more intense turbulence has settled down. What these experiences mean for you, only you can determine. At least in part, however, one thing that appears to be emerging for you is a new understanding of your influence within relationships of all kinds. You may have previously underestimated the weight of your word or your desires. You might have felt invisible or as if you were shouting into a void. Now you know you are in fact clearly seen, heard, trusted and loved. That is as it should be; just keep it in mind. Get your full Taurus reading by Eric here.

Gemini (May 20-June 21) — Recently you've been undergoing a process of inward change, though this hasn't necessarily been recognizable as such. At times you've perhaps felt discomfort, as if suddenly discovering you're wearing ill-fitting clothes or sitting on a hard surface. You might also have noticed differences in your environment; yet these are likely to have emanated from you, as opposed to happening of their own accord. What this effectively boils down to is that you're having the emotional equivalent of a growth spurt, and your horizons are expanding accordingly. At some point, you will probably find you've adapted. In the meantime, be patient with yourself. Get your full Gemini reading by Eric here.

Cancer (June 21-July 22) — It's generally a highly useful rule of thumb in close relationships to be explicit about how you're feeling. True, not all partners or friends welcome this approach. There seems to be an ongoing expectation instead to bury our real sensations in order to keep things smooth, or that significant others should be able to second-guess our mood if only we drop enough hints. Part of this is often based in the fear that we'll be seen as selfish if we ask directly for what we want. Yet all that happens if you push aside something important to you is that resentment starts to build. A far healthier approach is to drop any pretense and just be honest about who you are. Get your full Cancer reading by Eric here.

Leo (July 22-Aug. 23) — If you need it, cut yourself some slack. So much these days seems to be a mad rush, though at least some of the time the rushing takes place in a maze, and then it's ridiculously easy to wind up facing three walls of privet hedge. If you get confused, I suggest you stop, check your bearings, and remind yourself what you're aiming to do. Don't be afraid to ask for help, or for a friend's perspective, if you want either. You may feel like you're expected to carry various loads for loved ones or colleagues, though you'll probably be pleasantly surprised if you ask them. In any case, it's important that you practice fairness to yourself, and be open to reaching out. Get your full Leo reading by Eric here. Virgo (Aug. 23-Sep. 22) — Though the world might not yet observe the difference, within yourself you've come a long way in the past month. Your next step is to make those gains manifest in the external world, and build on them. This will first require you to cement your understanding of what has taken place: what you've discovered about yourself, and what it all means to you. Then you need to ensure you don't forget it, and lapse back into old habits. One important facet of this is you now recognize more easily when other people's changes of mood and behavior are about them, rather than about you. As a result, you have a far clearer sense of your autonomy, and can use it accordingly. Get your full Virgo reading by Eric here.

Libra (Sep. 22-Oct. 23) — You may well feel as if you've lately taken part in a mammoth wrestling match with your own psyche, and are only now emerging. While the experience perhaps felt draining, you have learned a good deal and are on much more solid turf. It appears you've succeeded in breaking through specific habits of mind that were getting thoroughly in your way. This should make forward motion a lot easier, along with your new gravitas and added maturity. If you've previously lacked the chutzpah to follow your own path regardless of permission or approval, that will likely be a lot less difficult. There are only so many damns one can give, after all. Get your full Libra reading by Eric here.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 22) — Certain matters that may currently appear confusing or lacking all the puzzle pieces might appear in greater clarity if you shift your perspective somewhat. Recently, you've begun to see how you can do that, and approach the issue from directions you might not previously have recognized. Yet you've had quite a lot of practice lately in understanding how things are sometimes far from what they seem, and in holding space for unusual possibilities. During the next few weeks, you're likely to make significant progress in opening up your perspective. Keeping track of your thoughts will help. Notice when you change your mind, even in a small way. Get your full Scorpio reading by Eric here.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 22) — Subjectivity is often decried as a less valid method of looking at issues than objectivity; though in reality the former is all we have, and the latter may be impossible for humans to accomplish completely. Your reasoning about the world around you is almost certainly biased in some way. There's nothing wrong with this; all you need to do is acknowledge said bias and make allowances for possibly being mistaken. When it comes to your own life, conversely, your primary knowledge of yourself is usually the best indicator, as are your instincts. Others might offer good and useful advice; whether or not you follow it is your decision alone. Get your full Sagittarius reading by Eric here.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 20) — Your ruler Saturn has begun the final leg of its journey to connecting with Pluto, which will happen in January. For you this is likely to be the culmination of many, many months during which you've developed a better knowledge of yourself than some people ever reach. True, you can still surprise yourself; yet all the same, you've gained an invaluable maturity, especially in terms of understanding your potential. You now need to ensure you retain your awareness and continue to act in accordance with it. The time has long since passed when you could afford to trip yourself up. Now you have far more important calls on your energy. Get your full Capricorn reading by Eric here.

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 19) — Pay attention to your instincts, which are currently finely tuned to an unusual degree. Check in with them often, and especially when you encounter any scenario that may be unfamiliar or potentially challenging. You are likely to be one of the earliest to know when something is amiss, or when an element of your surroundings has changed. This is even more the case when it comes to your wellbeing, particularly emotional. Notice any time you feel more liberated and happy, and likewise whenever you feel drained or under the weather. Use the patterns you see to direct your energy and resources in a way that's optimally healthy for you. Get your full Aquarius reading by Eric here.

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) — One immensely useful tool for making relationships easier is tackling our propensity for projection. This is especially true if we are in the habit of idealizing partners: assuming that they possess specific qualities, or putting them on a pedestal. It is surely more helpful (and more accurate) to treat one another as rational, imperfect, equal human beings. The difficulty generally consists of letting go of agendas, owning up to the truth of your feelings, and recognizing that others have free choice whether to respond to you. Yet with sufficient effort and determination, it's possible both to make rapid progress and to understand the substantial worth of this approach. Get your full Pisces reading by Eric here.

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