Across the Galaxy, Toward the Solstice

Dear Friend and Reader:

This week the Sun aligns with the most important deep space point, the core of our galaxy. You will not read much about this on other websites because the Galactic Core has a way of disappearing. But it is very much there, influencing our lives and our experience of astrology.

	Due to our location out on one of the Milky Way Galaxy's spiral arms, when we look toward its center, we're viewing its dust and stars edge-on. This photo of the Milky Way was taken from Summit Lake, West Virginia, by ForestWander (under CC 3.0).

While the exact alignment is on Thursday, Dec. 19, we are under its influence now.

We're also under the influence of something much more immediate, which is today's trine of Jupiter and Uranus. On its face, this would seem like a positive aspect. The thing to remember about trines is that they are resources for anyone to use, no matter what their agenda. The chart for 9/11 has a spectacular trine as well.

While "love is the law," it also seems that the universe bends to will and desire. Obviously many unloving things happen. The rise of this strange form of Brexit-Trump "conservatism" in the UK with last week's election of Boris Johnson is an example. Clearly, he has an agenda.

Under potent trine energy like this, you must focus your plan. You must have your goals. Jupiter is also square Chiron. The square is separating but it's still there. That is an action-oriented aspect, a bit more provocative than a Jupiter trine. Squares push us. Trines say "use it or lose it."

A Supermassive Black Hole

At the center of the Galactic Core is a supermassive black hole that is 4 million times the mass of our Sun, but smaller than the planet Uranus. If that doesn't make you put down your coffee and stare out the window in bewilderment, I don't know what will.

So what is the energy of this thing? Well, it is big. Its influence bends space, time and gravity in all directions.

It's so high, you can't get over it. So low you can't get under it. So wide you can't get around it, as the old hymn goes. Our Sun is placed about halfway out between the core and the edge of the galaxy. Just like the Sun has a habitable planetary zone where the oceans don't boil away or freeze, so too does the galaxy — and we are in it.

	Greetings from the galaxy next door: the Andromeda galaxy, or M31, is our Milky Way's largest galactic neighbor, spanning 260,000 light-years across. Photo by NASA/JPL-Caltech.

The Galactic Core in many ways defines the cosmic quality of Sagittarius: that sense that there is something going on behind the scenes, some connection to another place and time; that sense of Sagittarius, the Visitor from Afar.

Think of it this way. As one approaches the Galactic Core, the stars concentrate under the incredible gravitational influence of the supermassive black hole. As you get closer, the stars become so dense that it is light both day and night: by day from the local star, by night, from all the other stars.

Stars orbit the galaxy like planets orbit a star. As you get closer to the core, the velocity of stars around the core increase, and they are whipping by. It is incredibly turbulent, yet blindingly beautiful.

Sound like Sagittarius?

If you're curious about the Galactic Core, Planet Waves did a special edition focusing on it way back in 2007, when Pluto was crossing over the core.

At the end of this week is the solstice: the Sun's ingress into Capricorn, exact at 11:19 pm EST on Saturday, Dec. 21. (For European readers, the Sun's ingress occurs early on Dec. 22.) It's the shortest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere, a natural time to slow down and conserve energy — yet this year, it leads directly into to a pair of eclipses.

We'll be covering both the solstice and the eclipses later in the week. For now, be aware that the Sun's ingress into Capricorn is another step along the way to the grand conjunction of Saturn and Pluto on Jan. 12. All but Mercury will be in place. We are well on our way — to what, exactly, we have yet to discover.

With love,

PS — I will be returning to the weekly horoscope next week. Thank you to Amy Elliott for covering this week.
What the World Needs Now is Respect

Dear Friend and Reader:

I trust this finds you well, amidst all the swirling lunacy of the planet at the moment. We're in one of those times when the world is bursting in our pockets: the news feeds keep going off and the phone keeps vibrating. I have the feeling that a good few people want to crawl under the covers right now.

These days, I'm ever more grateful to do what I do: keep a flow of reason and sanity moving into consciousness, and provide a safe space to think about your life.

I'm making excellent progress on RESPECT, your 2020 Planet Waves annual reading. This is my 22nd time at the rodeo: annual editions started this time of year in 1998. My plan is to deliver a few days after the Capricorn solstice.

Why This Reading is Called Respect

The word "respect" means to see again. The RESPECT readings are part two of your 2020 astrology; part one was released earlier this year, in an epic written project called INTELLIGENCE. This is my second detailed study of astrology in the year of two major conjunctions, Saturn conjunct Pluto in January, and Jupiter conjunct Saturn in December.

And there is one other reason. As you know, I avoid over-hyping aspects, because I don't want to set up expectations, negative or positive. My intention is to leave you space to move around inside your astrology; the space to make up your own mind.

However, I will say this: the astrology we experience in 2020 calls for respect: for the moment we are all in, for where you are in your life, and for the uncertainties that we now face.

Respect is an idea that is evaporating. It seems inconvenient, superfluous and even irrelevant to many. This may be a Pluto in Capricorn thing: a gutting of tradition and protocol, on every level of society. But we have the power to honor dharma.

In 2020, we experience two conjunctions; one is a five-time-per-century alignment, and the other about three times per century (a little less). When you have two rare alignments in one year, that indicates deep, potent movement. In astrology, rarity bestows significance.

Consider this: The last time Jupiter and Saturn aligned in Aquarius was in 1405. The last time Saturn and Pluto aligned in Capricorn was in 1518 — well before what we consider the "modern era." And now both are happening within 12 months of one another.

This Calls for Special Handling

The purpose of getting an astrology reading is to help you align yourself with the current energies and the circumstances they present. It is rare enough to find sound guidance in any field, particularly something so potentially complex as astrology.

	This is the basic kind of chart I use for RESPECT; each sign gets one. I consolidate data from many different sources into this shorthand presentation. I read various kinds of planets and points, including classical planets, centaurs, Kuiper belt objects, hypotheticals and asteroids. I read points not visible in the chart; I just know they're there. My chart mainly serves as a prompt. I would not call what I do "channeling," but once I get rolling, the reading comes through.

Your RESPECT readings offer clear, concise and loving guidance to help navigate the situation of our world.

My idea of success is founded on healing and meaningful participation. My idea of relationships begins with self-awareness and self-respect. My idea of work involves doing what is meaningful to you and of service to others.

I use astrology as a foundation for making these themes personal to you. My work is informed by A Course in Miracles and several of the best therapy methods I'm trained in, including Gestalt, Hakomi and Internal Family Systems. They all contain wisdom and an approach to the puzzle of consciousness.

There are times when it feels strange to call these recordings astrology readings, because they integrate so many approaches. Yet in truth, I make a chart, and I read the chart, using everything I know and all my experience.

I have had many astrology readings; I've never encountered work on the level of what I'm presenting in RESPECT anywhere else. I know this is unusual for a reading that does not depend on your birth time. But there are many ways to play guitar.

Description of the Reading

Around Christmas, I'll be delivering 12 audio readings of about 90 minutes each, in three sections. These cover out to the end of 2020, and are built on the INTELLIGENCE readings released earlier this year. These readings work for Sun and Rising Sign; they are also one integrated work of astrology. You may share them with your children and significant others (and you're invited to purchase them copies as a gift as well).

In late March, I will have a second presentation for you, which looks closely at the astrology of 2021 in a more visionary way. I am daring to be optimistic in all of this work. I am here to advocate for you, to encourage you, and to provide you with motivation. You will find these readings comforting if you are in difficult times, and affirming if you are looking to take charge of your being and make some decisions.

Each is presented with original music by Vision Quest, the Planet Waves ambient ensemble.

You may get all 12 signs of RESPECT here. You may get all 12 signs of both RESPECT and INTELLIGENCE here. Individual signs of just INTELLIGENCE are available here. Note, INTELLIGENCE is instant access and includes a 2019 reading as well. For all 12 signs of INTELLIGENCE, please use this link.

It's a privilege and a pleasure to do this work for you. Thank you for your business and for trusting me as your astrologer.

With love,

PS — If you would like to purchase by phone, you may call us at (845) 481-5616. If one of us does not answer, please leave a message and we'll get back to you soon. 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 main website. Sunday, Dec. 15, 2019 (The Day of Expansion) Your birthday chart indicates real opportunities to enhance financial stability through a combination of innovation and elbow grease. Now's the time to present ideas to higher-ups; just ensure you're focused and process-oriented in approach. The more willing you are to embrace unexpected changes on the job, perhaps involving travel or education, the readier you'll be to seize the day. Fortune favors the bold, so roll up your sleeves and go for it. Monday, Dec. 16, 2019 (The Day of Soaring Imagination) To pursue wisdom and frame perceptions in visionary, Big Picture terms is woven into Sagittarians' DNA. Those genes get activated this year, and you may feel drawn to fight for political or ideological principles with particular zeal. The challenge is discerning between seductive or confusing illusions, and genuine spiritual truth. Prioritize strategies and keep your feet planted on terra firma. You are a warrior on the path of knowledge. Tuesday, Dec. 17, 2019 (The Day of Earthly Chemistry) This is your year to focus an organized, methodical approach to career advancement. With an eye on long-term objectives, you're well positioned to build stronger foundations for personal and material security. Dedication, attention to detail, and skillful communication are key strategies for success. Hone your process to eliminate non-essentials and streamline efficiency. Stay alert to opportunities that arise — and be prepared to act on them. Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2019 (The Day of Mammoth Projects) Capitalize on supportive influences in your zones of profession and income by putting in the necessary hours to move a particular stage of work toward completion. You're in a cycle where discipline is more important than ever, and with intent you can turn that into tangible reward. Sharp intuitive instincts likewise can be applied toward practical advancement now. Let the cosmic wisdom you're dialed into inspire efforts on the ground. Thursday, Dec. 19, 2019 (The Day of the Hellraisers) Your mantra this year is: Verify. Assume there's more than you initially perceive or assume, where all communications are concerned — including those with yourself. Resist any tendency to create internal versions of events to escape uncomfortable situations. Certain relationship issues, or approaches to security, must transform in some way. Strive for maximum clarity, to pave the way for what will be a new era in your communicative style. Friday, Dec. 20, 2019 (The Day of the Generator) A welcome cycle of increased social activity can go a long way toward brightening your world this year. Big changes in how you engage with others are underway: a liberation from previously restricted mores or patterns that feels like a breath of fresh air. Proceed with eyes wide open, however. The potential for confusion, projection or outright deception in communications, perhaps in some family or home-related situation, calls for extreme awareness. Honesty and transparency are watchwords to remember. Saturday, Dec. 21, 2019 (The Day of the Great Enigma) Opportunities to heal emotional wounding patterns are available this year, but your active intention is necessary to take advantage of them. The rewards include more vibrant, creative agency over your own life and how you express yourself in the world. Something inside you yearns to be released, and the key to that door is found within your psychic depths. Honor the intensity of your true feelings and listen to what they have to teach you. Sunday, Dec. 22, 2019 (The Day of Continuity) Complex dynamics in your birthday chart signal an exciting year ahead. Resources, relationships, self-expression and a need to break free or experiment all weave together as major themes. Supportive allies can open doors to opportunity and offer a steady hand to help you navigate epic changes. Creative breakthroughs are possible, but remain conscious of your bottom line. You need some joy to spice things up. Just don't gamble what you truly value.

— By Victoria Emory Monthly Horoscopes and Publishing Schedule Notes

We published your extended monthly horoscope for December on Wednesday, Nov. 27. Your extended monthly horoscope for November was published on Thursday, Oct. 24. Please note: we normally publish the extended monthly horoscope after the Sun has entered a new sign. Aries (March 20-April 19) — Keep in mind the importance of generosity. Your astrology is focused quite sharply on your career and its advancement; it's worth bearing in mind that there are many types of aspiration, and those that involve being of service in some form have their own way of succeeding. Society may frown upon this idea, insisting that human worth is somehow attached to a number of dollars, though that concept does not seem to forward human happiness much. The fact is everyone has inherent worth by virtue of existing. Forget any thought of trying to distinguish yourself solely via your bank account. You know more fulfilling ways of making a mark on the world. Get your full Aries reading by Eric here.

Taurus (April 19-May 20) — We all have our ideals and visions, though it's not always simple to transform them into concrete plans and achievements. Something is simmering in your mind and evoking restless feelings; it would help at this stage to avoid the temptation to act impulsively. Think through each factor and get a clear analysis of the whole before taking any action. Examine all the facets of your own motivation in particular, though also the interest of others as far as you can make it out. Your ruler Venus entering your 10th solar house later this week will help you focus your understanding, and smooth the way to a more definite forward path. Get your full Taurus reading by Eric here.

Gemini (May 20-June 21) — You know who you are, and your mind this week resembles a diamond-cutter. You can slice through bullshit at the speed of sound. Given the prevalent stench of it these days, especially online, this is a crucial skill. That said, this is not the time to log on to social media and waste hours of your life grappling with professional trolls. You have more important uses for your incisive thinking, and you're well aware of it. Now is your moment to take up those tasks you've been putting off, organize and re-organize, and tackle any puzzling problems facing you. Minimize disruptive influences, then make a plan and stick to it for as long as possible. Get your full Gemini reading by Eric here.

Cancer (June 21-July 22) — Remember that your primary relationship is always with yourself; even if you're with someone, your personal growth and healing path is still valid. You owe it to yourself and everyone who cares about you not to lose the unique thread of your development in the flow of someone else's existence, however intimately you are connected. That doesn't mean you can't put plans aside temporarily in order to offer help, whether to a loved one or on a wider scale; just keep that back burner simmering away, so you can pick it up again whenever possible. Or, better still, figure out a way to integrate the two, so that your focus is maintained. Get your full Cancer reading by Eric here.

Leo (July 22-Aug. 23) — It may frustrate you that you've recently been obliged to overhaul, or at least review keenly, certain practices that involved you getting in your own way. If you think you've worked out a good routine that will help move things along, it can be extra annoying when a snag transpires. This may feel much like assembling a cupboard, only to find at the end there's a part or two left over and one of the doors is not quite hung properly. However, this phase of deconstruction and rebuilding slowly and carefully is of foundational importance. Provided you see it through, the benefits will be in proportion to the efforts, and you'll be in a much stronger position. Get your full Leo reading by Eric here.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sep. 22) — Your charts for this week describe the necessity to pull your focus inward somewhat, and not allow your time and energy to be dissipated by matters ultimately outside your control. Said another way, if you want to change something for the better, begin by looking inside yourself. Personal healing is often treated superficially, and it's certainly easier to pass judgment on others. Yet we all have to face who we are eventually, and this involves deep, serious and sometimes painful work. Creativity — that is, art of some kind, or anything that helps you think outside the box — is one constructive method of making progress on your healing. Get your full Virgo reading by Eric here.

Libra (Sep. 22-Oct. 23) — Many people are feeling increasingly unsettled by the continuing build-up of planets in Capricorn. Among other things, this sign (your 4th house) represents tradition in all senses of the word, and Saturn-Pluto is rendering much of that unrecognizable. Everyone is experiencing this to some degree, though for you in particular the sensation may center in home and personal roots. Avoid panicking; instead, take time to process what's happening, and try to gain a hold on what is worth preserving as well as what needs to change — in your own life, for now, not in the wider world. Cultivate the balanced understanding for which your sign is justly renowned. Get your full Libra reading by Eric here.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 22) — Quite a lot that's happening now is either somber in quality or rage-inducing, whether on the news or on social media. Both humor and good humor, in the sense of cheerfulness, may be of service in the coming weeks. At any rate, you might resist the temptation to join a rumble on your website of choice purely for the hell of it. Particularly with your ruler Mars in your sign, it's definitely wise to employ conscious diplomacy and watch your language. Remember that those with whom you engage are also human; they too have moods, and might not always express themselves perfectly. In the age of everyone being a public figure, we forget this too often. Get your full Scorpio reading by Eric here.

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Everyday Secrets: Sagittarius Astrology Studio

Dear Friend and Reader:

I have now published your Sagittarius Astrology Studio. It covers Jupiter's conjunction to the Galactic Core, a review of Jupiter in Sagittarius and a preview of forthcoming Jupiter in Capricorn. I focus on the Saturn-Pluto conjunction and many other exciting facets of your astrology. My readings are easygoing and easy to follow, and address real-life matters of life, work and relationships.

You may order here for $44 and get instant access. Gift purchases welcome.

Thank you for your business.

With love,

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Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 22) — Different people will react to you in different ways. That's part and parcel of living among an endless variety of characters, and there's also not much you can do about it. The part you can control is whether you let others' opinions have undue influence over you. True, you're a complex person, and sometimes an alternative view can work as a mirror, held up to a facet you didn't quite see so clearly before. Yet if you're receiving several contrasting impressions about who you are, and it's not clear which seems real, focus initially on what you feel, what you fundamentally believe, and your strongest passions. That will help anchor you to the truth. Get your full Sagittarius reading by Eric here.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 20) — What your astrology looks like at the moment resembles nothing so much as an introvert hosting a house party. It might be fun for a while to share a space with so many interesting personalities; perhaps you'll have a deep conversation with some of them; yet eventually you just want them all to leave you alone so you can read with the cat on your lap. You may feel busier than you have for a while, drawn in many different directions, and deprived of certain comforts you might have turned to in the past. Yet in all the bustle you are learning things about yourself — especially about your strengths — and this information is of significant and lasting value. Get your full Capricorn reading by Eric here.

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 19) — With so many planets in your sensitive 12th house, to say this moment is somewhat intense for you is probably an understatement. You've been doing important healing work, though when in the thick of such experiences it can be hard to remember the healing part is happening. There may be a particular idea you're finding challenging to accept, or one you want to cling to; that is the very thing you would benefit most from tackling at present. Be gentle with yourself, persist, and know that you are making progress. You're likely to notice what you've achieved in a more tangible way once Venus enters your sign early Friday. Get your full Aquarius reading by Eric here.

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) — A specific vocation or role in your community is making itself gradually known to you. The term "community" here can refer to your group of friends, your locale or something more widespread. You might, for example, be drawn into the position of counselor, or teacher, or soothsayer (literally "one who speaks truth" — presumably including truths others are unwilling to voice). Regardless of its exact nature, this task is one you've earned as a matter of trust, and I would advise treating it with solemn respect and gratitude. What you do in these next months may be a vehicle to future work, and to the next step in your personal journey. Get your full Pisces reading by Eric here.

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