Truth or Dare: Mercury Stations Direct

Did he doubt or did he try?
Answers aplenty in the bye and bye
Talk about your plenty, talk about your ills
One man gathers what another man spills

Dear Friend and Reader:

Wednesday, Mercury stations direct in Scorpio. Through the week, we will be in that moment of turbulence and revelation associated with Mercury changing directions. In Scorpio, this is connected to the deepest elements of the human condition and the mystery of existence. Anyone paying attention can learn something unusual.

	Photo by Lanvi Nguyen.

So ends the retrograde that astrologers will associate with the impeachment of Donald Trump, and takes us into the next stage of history.

Events in Washington, D.C. are not merely matters of national politics in the United States. We are in one of those "fate of the Earth" kinds of scenarios. Keep your eyes wide; the chance won't come again. What we are witnessing has never happened, at least in modern history.

The retrograde began the day that the House of Representatives opened the official impeachment inquiry. Public testimony from witnesses began soon after the Mercury transit of the Sun (the interior conjunction, which was a week ago), and testimony resumes on the day before Mercury stations direct (2:11 pm EST, Weds., Nov. 20, 2019). This is rich territory for students of astrology, no matter what level.

Considered personally, this planetary pattern reads like a game of truth or dare. What have you learned? What discoveries have you made? What have you finally decided is actually valid and real for you, and what is not? The retrograde, and its relatively rare transit of the Sun (the next one happens on Nov. 13, 2032), has been the "truth" part.

You are the Center of Your Reality

Mars ingressing Scorpio on Tuesday, Nov. 19 is the dare part. Do you have the courage to act on your knowledge, particularly that pertaining to yourself? This is the most important level of awareness that there is, since what we call self is the center of the reality we experience.

From there, deeper truths are accessible and, as is crucial at this time, must be grounded in personal reality — rather than being an abstraction. The trouble we are experiencing involves a lack of "self" to have any source of self-knowledge. Self is not what you "identify with." Self is who you are.

Scorpio is the sign most significant to sexuality, the emotional connection to sexual experience, hormones and their effect. We live in very strange times where sexuality is concerned. It is never just allowed to exist as it is; nearly all the forces of society want to get in on the game of regulating it, prohibiting it, banning the discussion, or selling it one way or another.

	Photo by Lanvi Nguyen.

That the whole topic has been made so unappealing by various religious and social forces is bad enough. That most people suffer from either personal violation, transgression, violence or ideas about them compounds things. And underneath all of that is the drive to create, to feel good, to express and to connect. This is true cognitive dissonance, which has a way of turning people into hypocrites.

The place to start is with not judging yourself or anyone else. Be honest about what is so. Acknowledge what you need to heal, and get busy taking care of yourself. Be honest about who and what you want, and don't want. This will relieve a lot of pressure. None of this is about villains; it is all about you.

One of the first things Mars does when it enters Scorpio is make an opposition to Uranus in Taurus. This is an illustration of the high-stakes situations extant now, and how delicate things might be. These are two high-energy planets, and their aspect is something that will give a nervous and edgy feeling to personal and collective events. Note that Mars represents the first, and Uranus represents the second. Track carefully your influence on, with or through any group situation — and apply your energy minimally for the result that you want.

Emphasis Shifts to Sagittarius

By the end of the week, the emphasis shifts to Sagittarius, which is already warming up nicely. The Sun enters the sign of the centaur at 9:59 am EST on Friday, Nov. 22. This begins the last sign of autumn in the north and spring in the south — we will be just 30 days ahead of the southern solstice.

	Photo by Lanvi Nguyen.

Then Sunday, Nov. 24, there is a truly unusual alignment between Venus, Jupiter, the minor planet Ixion and the Galactic Core. If we leave Ixion out of the picture, we have a chart that describes all the potential of the human race.

We have the two classical benefic planets, Venus forming a conjunction in Jupiter's domicile (sign of rulership). They are conjunct the Galactic Core (a contemporary factor), which aligns them with the homing signal coming from the center of the galaxy.

That is all wonderful. What adds the question mark is Ixion, who was the first murderer of Greek mythology; someone who attempted to rape Hera, the queen of Mt. Olympus; and one most famous for his squandering of second chances. (He was brought to Olympus for rehabilitation for murder; he then attempts to rape the most powerful goddess of them all. His plan does not succeed.)

Will the spirit of Ixion prevail, or will the influence of Venus, Jupiter and the Galactic Core be the quality of consciousness we focus on, grow and develop?

Do we honor the fact of having a second chance, or do we throw it away?

Adding what we are learning next door in Scorpio, do you consider your sexuality an instrument of violence, or one of connection and creation?

With love,
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, Nov. 17, 2019 (The Day of the Bridge) Ideas you offer this year can have greater impact than you realize. Educational pursuits and achievement have been ongoing themes for a while, and you've reached a stage where you might serve in a teaching or nurturing capacity to others in some way. You're approaching a major breakthrough, so stay on course. Let any emotional challenges or frustrations you may encounter be as dust in the wind. You have too much to gain and too much to give. Trust yourself. Monday, Nov. 18, 2019 (The Day of Temperament) Whether you realize it or not, you've retrieved a great deal of personal power that has been held hostage in the past. This is a year to draw those curtains fully aside once and for all, and put the finishing touches on integrating emotional material that's come to light. You're on the precipice of a series of breakthroughs that will enable you to express your will in the world like never before. Pay attention to what triggers frustration, and use that self-knowledge to hone your vision of what you really, really want. Tuesday, Nov. 19, 2019 (The Day of the Reformer) After a period of laying low, you're finally ready to emerge, take charge and put yourself out there. You can accomplish a tremendous amount this year, and make quite an impression on those you work with. Just don't be so assertive that you run others over. Take time to consider what you want to express, and keep your sensitivity radar tuned to the environment. Some kind of higher wisdom is trying to get through, so pay attention. What you receive can feed your soul, widen your mind and strengthen your sense of security. Wednesday, Nov. 20, 2019 (The Day of the Scrambler) Self-discoveries you make this year could be game-changing, and fill in some missing pieces on a project you've had in mind, or help you hone long-term goals. You're entering a high-energy phase, and steps taken now to further your interests may have far-reaching effects. Self-expression is highlighted: writing or educational prospects can bring a fulfilling sense of achievement. Do your own thing as much as possible, but give others their due. Respect and sensitivity with partners goes a long way. Thursday, Nov. 21, 2019 (The Day of Elegance) You seem to have completed a rite of passage of some kind, and emerged with greater self-awareness, and more of your innate power at your disposal. Whatever you set your sights on should be within your ability to achieve, but an element of community engagement is indicated. You have something to share that others need; friendships may have languished that you'll do well to rekindle. Balancing your fierce independence with social involvement will call for discrimination, sensitivity and discernment, but worth the effort. Friday, Nov. 22, 2019 (The Day of the Liberator) Know your bottom line: what you positively require to feel right about where you're going, and what you're willing to negotiate. This will be easier with some type of spiritual practice, anything that helps you feel more balanced and grounded. To find peace amidst the chaos is an act of power, and those able to hold that space for others are doubly blessed. Devotion and commitment to something greater then yourself can play a pivotal role in navigating whatever challenges may arise over the coming year. Saturday, Nov. 23, 2019 (The Day of Irreverence) Recent epic changes have prepared you to embark on this new cycle more secure in your own unique identity. Your path of self-actualization ties in directly with creative self-expression over the coming year. Keep your emotional radar tuned to the subtle, interior channels, and don't be afraid to examine whatever you pick up. Artistry requires honesty, especially with yourself. This is a year to stay connected: those who share your ideals might be key to bringing certain desires to fruition. Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019 (The Day of Contentious Conviviality) Intense and complex dynamics in your birthday chart signal a dramatic year ahead. You've every reason to be optimistic, as your hard work appears to have brought some cherished aspirations within reach. Jupiter's sojourn through your sign has been one of self-discovery, and to make the most of opportunities this has generated, remain vigilant in your commitment to self-awareness. Don't let resentment from the past sabotage your efforts; use that high-octane emotion as fuel to propel you forward, instead.

— By Victoria Emory Monthly Horoscopes and Publishing Schedule Notes

Your extended monthly horoscope for November was published on Thursday, Oct. 24. We published your extended monthly horoscope for October on Thursday, Sept. 26. Please note: we normally publish the extended monthly horoscope after the Sun has entered a new sign. Aries (March 20-April 19) — Pay attention to who benefits from any financial transaction involving you, and for that matter, any sexual one. It's not that you're looking for something wrong, or that anyone has necessarily been dishonest. That could go either way. However, you want to know the lines of influence involved, by which I mean who is influencing whom and in what way. You're in a stronger position than you think, though this is contingent on using what you know, which is based on paying attention to what you find out. If something gets your interest, pursue that line of inquiry. Ask people what is motivating them, and then track their words and their actions and see if they align. The thing to be mindful of is whether you actually gain an advantage in any situation of which you are part. "The greatest good for all concerned" includes you.Get your full Aries reading by Eric here.

Taurus (April 19-May 20) — Events in Scorpio, your opposite sign (relationships, personal associations), will liven things up over the next few days. Mars arrives overnight Monday, and Mercury will turn to direct motion on the 20th. It is fair to say that a new day has dawned, though that is true each and every day. While you're inclined to appreciate things as they are, under most circumstances, there are times when change is refreshing. The current change is coming in the form of what you learn about key individuals in your life, and appreciating the reasons that they are drawn to you. These days, we're conditioned to be repelled when people are direct about their feelings. The alternative is living in a cloud of haze and potential misunderstanding. You are strong enough and adventurous enough to meet people right where they are, rather than where you expect them to be, or want them to be. Get your full Taurus reading by Eric here.

Gemini (May 20-June 21) — The movements of Mars and Mercury this week are encouraging you to take leadership at work. The important thing is to act on what you know for sure, which implies that you will take the time and effort to find out. One risk clearly described by your astrology suggests you will make irrevocable moves before you actually understand what is happening in your environment. This could be personally dangerous to you, whether that comes in the form of animosity or conflict in some form, or emotional stress that impacts your wellbeing. Do your best to gather information quietly, and confirm or corroborate it before you take action. Not everyone will be forthcoming, though it's up to you to figure out who is being truthful, and what the basis for that truth is. You cannot merely take people at their word. You need to check their facts and check their logic. Get your full Gemini reading by Eric here.

Cancer (June 21-July 22) — Focus on connecting people, in whatever form that takes. It could be in your community, your home, or your online community — though the key is aligning around a mission or purpose that you are committed to. The way your chart is set up (with confirmation from the world in its current state), you are the one who is going to provide the initiative, as well as the creative leadership. This always amounts to being the person with a sense of adventure who is willing to take some kind of a risk with your imagination. It also means taking action. In that nutshell, you have the basic elements of leadership, as meaningfully defined in the 21st century. You get to be the one who has the idea and the initiative. Be grateful if you find collaborators, and jump for joy when you discover people who are willing to step up with some courage to even the basic challenges of life. Get your full Cancer reading by Eric here.

Leo (July 22-Aug. 23) — The Sun moving into your fellow fire sign Sagittarius will release some of the pressure you've been feeling. This is likely to restore some of the energy that's been drained from your batteries during the past three weeks of Mercury retrograde. If you feel certain you want to move in a particular direction, or like an idea is a winning one, take advantage of that and move while your motivation is hot and fresh. You may feel two different impulses, though — one of which is to take care of your most basic needs, and to play it safe; and the other to expand your horizons and stretch your limits. These are not competing interests. They are compatible, in the sense that you need grounding to do things that take you in new directions. So by all means look after matters of home and security, and let that facilitate some new adventure. Get your full Leo reading by Eric here.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sep. 22) — You will need to hold your tongue on an important matter for a short while, and let additional details come out in the wash. That may take a few days, even out to the end of the week. It will be worth acting in a meticulous way, taking notes and keeping track of the different viewpoints of those involved. But by my reading of your solar chart, it's essential that you not play your hand too soon — and you may be inclined to do just that. So keep a cool head, even if others are running hot and are not inclined to tell or accept the truth. In the end, the actual reality will be known and seen for what it is, though this is dependent upon you acting when the timing is right. You will know when that is; fairly soon, you will figure out that one discovery will lead to another, and again to another. Listen to as many viewpoints as possible, without letting on what you know or which way you are leaning. Get your full Virgo reading by Eric here.

Libra (Sep. 22-Oct. 23) — You are at the center of a gathering, though this does not mean it's about you. Rather, your role is to facilitate and to help coalesce a point of focus. An honest conversation, on any level, about any topic, would be a wonderful place to start. You might consider something like a small dinner party of some of your assorted odd and diverse friends. Maybe you could do something on the Friday after Thanksgiving — in person, of course. You are doing quite a bit better than some of the people around you, and in any event, I suggest you check in with your friends and neighbors and see if there is anyone who can benefit from your positive attention. You may be able to assist with ideas, resources, or at least someone to lean on for a little while. One of the best ways to find out how much you have is to share it; you can afford to be more generous than most others think they can be. Get your full Libra reading by Eric here.

---

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 22) — Two events of note take place involving your birth or rising sign this week: first, Mars ingresses Scorpio on Tuesday the 19th. Second, Mercury stations direct on Wednesday the 20th. Both of these have a "see what you've been missing" kind of feeling. However, until then, you will benefit from missing what you've been missing. That is to say, pay attention to what you don't know, what mysteries you may be confronting, and what you don't understand. It can take some skill and dedication to get clear about both the known unknowns and the unknown unknowns. One of the things I think defines a mature person is the ability to stand in the face of what you don't know. You have by now noticed the tendency to fill in the blanks with whatever information seems handy, and this is what I'm suggesting you do not do. Leave them blank for a while. Meditate on an empty bowl. Get your full Scorpio reading by Eric here.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 22) — You know you have to keep it positive and you want to, and you have plenty to be optimistic about — though something may be nagging at you. This is unlikely to be an external factor. Fortunately, your astrology is calling you into yourself and your feelings. You need to follow your awareness in, and not be overwhelmed by the prospect of doing so. You are, at the moment, unusually susceptible to fear. In the course of every person's life, if they are to be content with their existence, they learn how to deal with this most troubling emotion. Herein lies the challenge. There is one factor I can focus: what are you doing with a second chance you have received? It might be a reprieve, a do-over, a narrow escape, or someone being generous with you when they don't have to be. It is up to you to keep a positive outlook day by day, even if that is challenging. Get your full Sagittarius reading by Eric here.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 20) — You may be in dear need of additional resources, and by all indications, help is on the way. Yet it is up to you to maintain your integrity, whether you are in a state of abundance or one of scarcity. Keep doing the right thing, even if it is the more difficult one. It is easy to decide that you've been dealt some kind of a disadvantage, therefore anything goes. It is easy to make compromises to stay on the winning side, even if they suck away at your soul. It may feel like you are being tested now. That feeling is likely to increase as the next two months progress. In many ways, this is astrology that seems designed to bring out the best in you. But if you get into the space of compromises, shortcuts and half-truths, it could easily bring out the worst. Astrology this week and for the foreseeable future says to put your public image aside. Or perhaps in the words of Journey Truth, "Aim for being truthful instead of being right." Get your full Capricorn reading by Eric here.

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 19) — The soon-to-end Mercury retrograde is associated with a review of your professional prospects, and an assessment of how your career has progressed the past 12 months or so. Are you in alignment with the humanitarian and group-centered approach to life that is so often attributed to your sign? Or are you finding it challenging to get off of the hamster wheel or greyhound race, both of which would be taking you in a circle? Mars now entering your 10th house of professional aspirations will bring new ideas and a new surge of energy. Yet you must be mindful to place your values ahead of your ambition. If you succeed at anything, you will be doing a lot of it, and you will be making an impact. You will also be in a leadership role. Now is the time to ensure that this is all associated with ideals and values you can live with, rather than those you supposedly swore off years ago. Get your full Aquarius reading by Eric here.

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) — Your horizons are widening, and it will help you to stretch a little and see how far your imagination can carry you; notice how far your eyes can see; think of all you have not done, and want to do. It is true that the world is in a shambles, though this must not deter you. The condition of the planet can be a source of potential and of inspiration to make things better, in practical ways. But what it must not be is a deterrence against designing the life that you want to live. You may be noticing that certain elements of your current existence are coming to the end of their useful life. That suggests that their creative potential is also dwindling. But new opportunities are opening up fast. Make sure you are in sync with the transitions, know what you want, and keep an eye out for stepping stones as these eventful times develop. Get your full Pisces reading by Eric here.

---