Solstice, Eclipse, Conjunction: Everything, All At Once

Dear Friend and Reader:

We are now in one of those moments where everything seems to be happening at once. Times like this require special care: you have to take care of your responsibilities, take care of yourself, and manage not to get overwhelmed.

	Photo by Stonehenge Stone Circle/Flickr.

Several major astrological events are developing around the time of the civil holidays, which is adding to the pressure.

It's important that you sort out what might be some obligation (real or imagined) from the outside, and what you must take care of personally, for your own benefit and sanity.

The overarching event is, of course, the Saturn-Pluto conjunction on Jan. 12. That's the one with the longest story arc; you might be addressing matters that go back years. So you may be trying to resolve things that are not necessarily obvious on their face. It would be wise of you to figure out what they are. Bring the important stuff to the surface and deal with it.

Saturn-Pluto is emphasizing the need to prioritize the truly meaningful issues. Make sure you're taking care of them, and not getting lost in the sauce of things that really don't matter so much. Many issues that people have a tendency to push back are the very things that will be coming to the surface under the influence of Saturn-Pluto.

You are likely to have several significant opportunities to resolve old material, relationships and family matters. Remember, you're in charge of your life.

The winter solstice occurred overnight Saturday to Sunday in most time zones; the Sun is now in Capricorn. The solstice alone comes with a bit of a crux point: we're just coming out of that moment of maximum compression (in the Northern Hemisphere) and maximum stretch (in the Southern). So just that can apply considerable pressure.

However, we are also approaching an eclipse of the Sun in Capricorn. This is an annular eclipse, at about 4 degrees of that sign. Note that this will be the last solar eclipse in Capricorn for this cycle; the next one is in about nine years. So this, too, is talking about resolving what you need to resolve.

The eclipse is close to the South Node, which says that it's about releasing old material. It's also close to Jupiter, which is about expanding into new possibilities. Both are going on at once. You might think of this as an exchange process.

	May 10, 2013, annular solar eclipse — often called a ring of fire eclipse. The "fire" is really the sun's brilliant surface, shining behind the Moon in the far part of its orbit around Earth. Photo by Geoff Sims.

Consciously let go of what you don't want, and allow in what you do want.

One thing I've noticed from many years working as an astrologer is that people tend to fall in love with their problems. This includes the tendencies that surround their problems, but it's really all one thing.

The other tendency is to throw away what people don't want, rather than consciously addressing it.

But you want to take the time now to actually look through what you're getting rid of, and consider how you feel about it, before you toss it into the dustbin.

This is going to be an intense few weeks, and this week's Christmas holiday is sitting right on the bubble of a solar eclipse. You will need to use your spiritual mastery, or at least your training, to direct the flow of your life. Where family gatherings are concerned, I recommend directing your attention to children, cats and dogs — and stick to your one favorite relative. If political discussions ensue, you can save yourself trouble by not taking a position, and instead gently probing people, inquiring how they know what they know.

You will hear some entertaining things.

Note, the monthly horoscope is scheduled for Thursday, Dec. 26. Check your email then.

With love,

PS — I return to writing the weekly horoscope this week. I've greatly appreciated the time off. Thank you.

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. 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. Monday, Dec. 23, 2019 (The Day of the Groundbreakers) You're at the threshold of reclaiming something of fundamental importance to your genuine identity. At first this opportunity may take the form of a painful activation of what is now buried history, but that's just to get your attention. Gently peel back a few layers and feel around. An invitation to deep healing is at hand this year, and courageously expressing more of your unique individuality is the key. Tuesday, Dec. 24, 2019 (The Day of Complex Emotions) Some of history's great revolutionaries have taken birth under your sign, contra the Capricorn cliché that limits your tribe to standard-bearers for the status quo. A signature of creative rebellion stands out in your birthday chart: an invitation to break free of conformity or limiting self-concepts. Bold self-expression and a bit of excitement are in order. Inspiration, when followed, can lead to liberation beyond what you'd imagine. Wednesday, Dec. 25, 2019 (The Day of the Supernatural) Capricorns need to identify with some kind of 'Great Work' to feel satisfied: personal objectives that inspire total commitment. Whatever outstanding issues must be resolved to clear the decks for the future you envision — that's your priority this year. A degree of reverence is appropriate. Approach closures with appreciation for lessons learned. Focus on where you know you must go, so tying up old business feels less like a burden and more like exciting preparation. Thursday, Dec. 26, 2019 (The Day of the Indomitable One) A New Moon eclipse on your birthday indicates big changes ahead. But more than that, it's an opportunity to reset patterns and trajectories. Where you point your canoe is of utmost importance; put yourself in the stream that flows in the direction of your intent. Take steps right now, no matter how modest, that line up with your aspirations. Your attitude is your greatest asset this year; believe in yourself and others will too. Friday, Dec. 27, 2019 (The Day of the Clever Contributor) You've reason to be optimistic about the year ahead, especially if you take the moment seriously and bring a disciplined game. Jupiter conjunct your Sun in your birthday chart signals a major cycle of growth and opportunities to broaden your horizons in far-reaching ways. A key factor in taking full advantage of this powerful year is your willingness to receive the gifts of deeper self-knowledge being offered. Reach out to supportive allies who share your ideals. Saturday, Dec. 28, 2019 (The Day of Simple Sophistication) You're right on the verge of a light-bulb moment. Something lurking in the shadows of your awareness, or information you need to move forward, should soon become clear. This may tie in with an apparent conflict between security and freedom, or questions about assessing risk factors in some speculative venture. Keep an open mind and work it through step by step; this will help you line up with the potential available to enhance personal resources. Sunday, Dec. 29, 2019 (The Day of Preeminence) Prepare for the tempo of your life to accelerate this year. Communicative skills play a central role, and with good time-management you'll minimize the potential for overwhelm. An opportunity to significantly deepen your awareness is at hand: to tap into a source of wisdom and healing that's been buried. This may initially appear in the form of a conflict between your self-concept and wounds from past history. Your psychic depths hold treasure. Go there.

— 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) — The Sun is entering the career zone of your chart in grand style — in the formidable presence of Jupiter and many of the small, potent new planets. And then there's the eclipse in a few days, and the grand conjunction on Jan. 12. All of this tells you it's time to engage your highest aspirations. "Eventually" has arrived. However, you want the feeling of shifting through the gears (if you've never done so, imagine the feeling). You start with a lot of leverage but only a slow to moderate speed. Then as you gain momentum, you also gain velocity. Right now you have considerable traction; you can even move uphill if necessary. And as you proceed, there will be unexpected openings; you must know them when you see them. Please don't let your anxiety or insecurity get in the way. To succeed implies change. Change means facing the unknown. The game is rigged in your favor. Get your full Aries reading by Eric here.

Taurus (April 19-May 20) — You may have to give up something to gain something else, though I suggest you not think of it as a sacrifice. Rather, this is about you doing your part, which means taking leadership in a world where there is a troubling crisis of accountability. At this time, your choices count for more than usual. There are cyclone-force winds blowing many places. People are struggling. And many in positions of power lack any and all sense of duty. Let yourself be driven by what you know is the right thing, even if it's inconvenient. Stay just slightly detached from your goals, and do the right thing because it's the right thing to do. It's likely numerous other people are involved, and that you are in some kind of key position. Your great strength is your knowledge, and your ability to apply it. Do not be distracted by emotions — yours or anyone else's. Focus and proceed. Get your full Taurus reading by Eric here.

Gemini (May 20-June 21) — You may feel overwhelmed, as if everyone you know is trying to get a piece of your action, or have their way with you. This could involve some of the most sensitive aspects of your life. It is, however, essential that you set limits and boundaries, and establish your independence. I assure you this can only come when you are fully in charge of your finances, and divested of those who would attempt to control you with money. This problem has very old roots, going back to your childhood and your relationships with your parents. These will transplant over and over again until you decisively take full ownership of your life. That's what this is about. Yet what may stand in the way is guilt you might feel in response to claiming your existence, your freedom to choose, and ultimately, your power over your life. This is an important topic, though till you understand it, don't let it stop you. Get your full Gemini reading by Eric here.

Cancer (June 21-July 22) — The astonishing collection of planets in your opposite sign Capricorn tells us that plenty is moving in your life. Important events are developing; there are significant people around you and many options are open. You need to focus your priorities and not be overwhelmed. The two go together. Feeling like you cannot handle your affairs is a matter of focusing on what is important first, and on what only you can do. Be mindful of that; you have enough people around you to spread out some of the work. Yet you cannot delegate your own intelligence. You must keep setting the agenda, and revising it day by day as you proceed. At the same time, seek the counsel of those you trust the most, and factor their opinions and observations into your own decisions. Organize a consultative process, and remember you're the one who is ultimately responsible for your life and your business. Get your full Cancer reading by Eric here.

Leo (July 22-Aug. 23) — You must take care of yourself. You have a lot to do and more than your share of responsibility, and it looks like you're loving that about life. Yet it's essential that you make sure you manage your time and nourish your body. I'm not talking about "life/work" balance. Fuck that noise. I am talking about maintaining yourself like you're a high performance sports car in the midst of a road race. Keep everything oiled and keep your fuel tank full, by which I mean: eat actual food. Get as much actual rest as you can. And manage new commitments: you have your hands full. If you get some fantastic prospect but you know you'll be stretched, tell them to call you in two months. There is certain pressing business you have to complete, and that will lead you in certain new directions you were not expecting. Leave room on your dance card and don't feign monogamy. Get your full Leo reading by Eric here.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sep. 22) — We all live at a rest stop along the Information Superhighway. Yet with Neptune on its long trip across the relationship angle of your chart, you must be on the lookout constantly for what is not true. I don't mean be suspicious. I mean be aware. I can offer you some tips from my life as an investigative reporter. One, notice when you're believing something. I'm not saying the belief itself is good or bad. Rather, it's dangerous for being a belief. Go right to questioning the basis for your notion. Two, notice when you want something to be true. That does not make it any more or less likely to be true. You need to identify your bias, and make sure you compensate for it. Three, fear is not an argument for truth, though it's treated like one. Our current cultural equation is: the more frightening something is, the more credibility it has. Learn to see the rank absurdity of this point of view. Get your full Virgo reading by Eric here.

Libra (Sep. 22-Oct. 23) — You live on shifting ground. We all do, though you're most keenly aware of the situation. For some this will feel like being in a quake zone. Others will feel their foundations settling in. Others will get the message to "keep it moving." Pay attention to what signals you're getting, and see if you can parse them by filtering out your fears. Rather, try to use all information in a constructive way. Times like the ones we are in afford opportunities to those who are enterprising and a little courageous. Sometimes it even pays to be foolhardy, particularly if you don't fall for the notion that something is impossible. One thing that may be shifting is your relationship to your family. You cannot depend on them like you used to, nor is it healthy for you to do so. That means standing on your own feet, on your own ground, with (at least) a room of your own. Get your full Libra reading by Eric here.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 22) — You may not know what you think, or how to think; there may not even be time to think. However, it's essential that you settle down and ponder any situation that calls for action. The stitch in time that saves nine is having correct information pertaining to any decision you must make. That includes working with several viable options and never allowing yourself to feel like you're boxed into having no choice. This may involve one specific matter that might seem like all or nothing as the next few weeks develop. Any time someone appears to claim power over you, or to exercise your choices for you, stop the show. Be bold about asserting your right to make the decisions that affect your life, and to have some say in anything that might so much as potentially affect you. You must tell yourself again and again that you are an adult, willing to fully take on adult responsibilities. Get your full Scorpio reading by Eric here.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 22) — You must get your finances organized, which can start with something as basic as knowing your bank balances and how much you owe. This becomes the beginning of your financial master plan. Then you want to know the bottom line on your overhead costs, and your probable income — and set about fixing any disparities. Whatever your situation, you have the power to turn it around, turn it to your advantage, or work for radical improvements. Yet you have to know your situation as you stand today. And it will be beneficial if you have someone you can work with who far exceeds your knowledge and experience. The next month may prove to be a turning point you benefit from the rest of your life, if you have the awareness and devotion to make it so. There is a book going around called Know Your Worth. That's one thing; you also have to establish your worth. Get your full Sagittarius reading by Eric here.



This Is a Moment Like No Other

Dear Capricorn or Cap Rising:

What you’re experiencing now has never happened before, and it will never happen again. While the astrology in Capricorn may be challenging, it’s also presenting you with opportunities that are indeed once in a lifetime.

	Eric Francis.

How well you do at this crucial juncture may depend on how well you understand the astrology that describes it.

In addition to your annual reading, I’m doing an edition of Astrology Studio for Capricorn (formerly, the birthday reading). This is a 75-minute reading in plain talk. My role is to provide you with vital information, a new viewpoint on your life, and a source of motivation.

The world is up to its ears in cynical pessimism at the moment -- and I am having no part of it.

Your purchase will come with a tarot card reading (in a few months), as well as a special feature, Self and Society.

It will be difficult to get better astrology than this, even for 10 times the price. This reading is $33, and will publish soon after Christmas.

It will make a perfect gift for you or a loved one.

Thank you for your business, and for trusting me as your astrologer.

With love,

PS -- You may purchase by phone, by calling (845) 481-5616. We will answer or call your right back. No phone tag! Thank you again.

PPS -- If you want to understand how my readings work, please visit this link.

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Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 20) — With the Capricorn solstice, we are now officially, and celestially, in the zone of the Saturn-Pluto conjunction. What you may notice about this time is that events have a fated quality (as also emphasized, more immediately, by the solar eclipse in your sign this coming Thursday, Dec. 26). What you will notice, though, is that present events have roots that may go back 10 years, 20 years, or even longer. When sussing this out, pay particular attention to any connection with the summer of 2001, which relates to the present moment rather directly. It is, in part, events from that time in your personal history that you're in the process of resolving. What is pressing about this time is that from here, you must proceed on terms where you're fully responsible for your own affairs. There can be no more parental-type authority figures in your life. It's up to you to level out your relationships with anyone who would hold their power over you. Them days is gone. Get your full Capricorn reading by Eric here.

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 19) — The truly unusual astrology we're living through is calling you to search inwardly, rather than out in the world. The time to expand your horizons will come soon enough; before then, you must be fully aware of your psychological and emotional situation. You still seem to be working out some deep material, and you must take full ownership of that. Otherwise, it's likely to spill out into your intimate relationships and professional situations, in the form of projections. Do what so few people do, which is to assess and question their role in any controversies that may seem to enter from outside. Stick to "I statements," meaning, use language in a way that places you in the position of taking personal responsibility for your experiences. Work your stuff out inwardly, rather than on others, with them or through them. Your dreams will be particularly revealing of your true motives. Get your full Aquarius reading by Eric here.

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) — You are well situated to benefit from the same astrology (and related events) that have most people wondering how they are going to handle all the pressure. One benefit you have is that you can witness developments from a safe distance, but still close enough to see exactly what is going on. Be careful and conscious in your choice of what to get involved with, and where to lend your energy. Make sure you take care of personal business first, and pay particular attention to your closest friends and colleagues. You are in an especially brilliant position to establish new business plans, or to develop ones you've been working on. Yet your success will depend entirely upon your ability to work closely and cooperatively with people. Know who your friends are. Know who your allies are. Ask for their help when you need it. Keep an eye on adversaries, and remember: there's no time to hate. There is no time to wait. Get your full Pisces reading by Eric here.

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