AN ASTROLOGICAL NEWSLETTER
BY MITCHELL SCOTT LEWIS
AUTHOR'S NOTE:
Mercury continues its backward motion until September 2nd and you must continue
to use caution when traveling or dealing with business issues until that date.
This month has a number of potentially explosive aspects, several of which occur
around the time of the Republican convention, and involve Mercury. The potential
for an "event" either induced or accidental, which would severely
disrupt communications or transportation, is certainly present. Pay heed and
use common sense especially around those dates. If you are traveling use extra
caution and if you are driving, don't speed. The potential for accidents is
simply too high and there is no reason to tempt fate. The convention will most
certainly be disruptive to the city of New York, and considering the degree
of open hostility promised by different dissenting groups, there could be considerable
collateral damage if things get out of hand under these aspects. From the 23rd
of August until after the Full Moon on the 29th the slightest spark could fuel
an explosion.
The stock markets have been taking a hit due to several factors including the inflated price of oil. There will be a settling down for a while at the beginning for this lunar cycle because of the Jupiter Saturn sextile. Unfortunately this is a temporary rebound and probably will not sustain much growth. Not until the election on November 2nd will we really know which way the stocks should be heading. From now until then the markets will be manipulated consciously and by the collective unconscious. When emotions rule, the stocks can not be properly read, except, of course by a good astrological analyst who would be studying the motions of the collective and not the surface sentiment.
As we get closer to the election, many of us will feel a great tension in the air. The more in tune you are with the collective the more you will experience it. The aspects hitting America's chart that day are absurdly complex and powerful. I will be writing an analysis of that day later this month. This election will be one of the most important and defining of my lifetime so far. Not since America reelected Nixon with an overwhelming mandate have the people been so emotional. Of course the majority isn't always right. Look what happened to tricky Dick. The results this year will decide the direction of our country for the next decade or longer. Drilling rights, oil dependency, consumer rights, even the right to have an unpolluted food supply hangs in the balance. All professional politicians have one job and that is to be elected, and then reelected. They are all by the very nature of the system, corrupt. It is not a matter of personal ideology anymore; it has to do with which of the two political reflections of the collective you feel more in tune with. Whoever wins will be deciding the shape of the Supreme Court as well as countless lesser courts throughout the land. As I have said before, you do not win a revolution in this country in the streets; you win it in the courts.
NEW MOON:
This month New Moon falls on Sunday August 15th at 9:24 P.M. EST at 23 degrees
Leo 31 minutes, and then immediately goes Void of Course. All the New Moons
since April have been Void of Course, a pattern that will finally be broken
in September. When the New Moon is Void of Course it has made the last aspect
in the sign it is in until entering the next sign, and things don't work out
the way we had planned during that lunar cycle. Affairs take sudden turns in
directions previously unrecognized. Often projects either progress in unexpected
ways, or fail altogether. Since this has occurred continuously for 5 months,
it has been having a rather subtle yet intense effect on us all. Many things
in our lives have gone askew, including the stock market, the price of oil,
and other economic signals that if viewed properly and from a distance seem
to be pushing our society in an unattached direction, which is the exact definition
of Void of Course. Some things should settle down once again in September when
the New Moon will once again be aspected.
This being a Leo New Moon, this month will be best devoted to those things Leo
rules, including games, children, romance, the theatre and all things childlike.
This is the month to take your lover to the beach for late night skinny dipping,
romantic dinners and amusement parks. Just remember that although things may
work out, they won't go the way you had planned. The best advice is to go with
the flow and throw out all your preconceived notions. Often when the unexpected
arrives, if you are emotionally prepared, the results can be quite exciting
and pleasant. It is only by holding on too tightly to our usual way of doing
things that we miss many of life's delightful surprises.
JUPITER SEXTILES SATURN:
On Tuesday August 17th at 12:34 P.M. EST the planet of growth creates a positive
aspect to the planet of restriction. When these two sextile each other, there
is a rare opportunity to build something with both a strong foundation and tremendous
growth potential. This could represent a temporary firming up of the stock markets
and oil prices, though the world's aspects are such that there are more difficulties
in the near future. If this aspects a sensitive part of your chart it could
represent a new beginning in your life. Any new job, relationship or creative
project begun now has a better than usual chance of success. Long term goals
and projects will do better than fly-by-night schemes. Use this energy to prepare
for your future.
MARS OPPOSITE URANUS:
On Wednesday August 18th at 10:14 A.M. EST this potentially explosive aspect
occurs. Use caution while traveling and avoid direct confrontations, if possible.
This aspect tends to bring out the most assertive and rebellious side in us
all. It completes right before several other high-energy aspects, so find a
creative or physical activity in which to direct your ego energies. Sudden disagreements
are quite common, as are sudden affairs.
MERCURY CONJUNCTS MARS:
Also on Wednesday August 18th at 3:47 P.M. EST the retrograding Mercury, ruler
of travel and communication will conjoin Mars, the planet of ego and war. Obviously
you must be cautious while traveling. The combination of the backwards motion
of Mercury added to the Mars and Uranus energy is just right for accidents,
electrical problems, such as blackouts, and any other mishap that can make our
lives as difficult as possible. It's not that I think the planets are actually
plotting against us; it's more Voltaire's philosophy that "God is a comedian
playing to an audience that's afraid to laugh." When Mercury retrogrades
we almost always have excessive problems that can be directly related to that
planet. When these type of aspects occur during a retrograde, you can be sure
someone "up there" has a plan in store.
MERCURY OPPOSITE URANUS:
This aspect also occurs on Wednesday August 18th at 9:01 P.M. EST to complete
this trio of aspects. The combination of Mercury, Mars and Uranus in opposition
implies that activities and mishaps will involve others more than be self contained.
Drive defensively and avoid arguments when possible. Issues of personal freedom
will be strongly expressed, and anyone who feels they are being restrained will
tend to lash out. Be careful that you don't act inappropriately aggressive.
Besides the potential for a blackout or huge traffic problems, this combination
also lends itself to explosions of all sorts. There could be an attempted terrorist
attack, but since we can never know where or exactly when, why worry about it?
SUN ENTERS VIRGO:
On Sunday August 22nd at 2:53 P.M. EST we enter the mutable month of summer.
By the end of Virgo it feels much more like autumn, although we still have those
warm Indian Summer days, the air just feels different. This is a critical time
of the year when we pay more attention to details than in the frivolous early
summer months. Crops must be harvested, school begins and our consciousness
slowly moves towards acceptance of summer's end.
SUN CONJUNCTS MERCURY:
On Monday August 23rd at 4:51 P.M. EST that retrograding Mercury will get a
boost of energy as it becomes "combust", or conjunct the Sun. With
Mercury still going backwards in Virgo there are many things that need discussing.
Secrets and people's true agendas are often unveiled either while Mercury is
in retrograde or shortly after it begins its forward motion. Use this time to
get to the heart of the matter in all issues. Today should be one of active
communications; e-mails, phone calls etc. could be overwhelming. Be careful
with the usual Mercurial problems, such as travel.
SUN OPPOSES URANUS:
On Friday August 27th at 2:41 P.M. EST this once a year aspect returns. This
is a day of sudden and eventful activities. This can often herald a violent
move in the stock market, although it doesn't imply which way they will go.
You must look at the other aspects hitting at the same time. Since this is the
beginning of the Republican convention I wouldn't be a bit surprised by any
explosive actions taken now. I would avoid that areas of town anyway, and try
to stay out of harm's way in your own life. You don't have to be caught in a
shoot out to get into trouble on this aspect. If it is setting off your chart
you could be involved in an accident or personal situation that has upsetting
results.
FULL MOON:
On Sunday August 29th at 10:22 P.M. EST the Moon is full at 7 degrees Pisces
03 minutes. Emotions run high on the water sign Full Moons, and this one should
not be an exception. Coming on the tail of a heavily aspected Uranus the past
several weeks, there could be events that raise our passions to a dangerous
level. Empathy will be strong, but make sure you are giving your energies to
a person or event that truly deserves your attention. This is an interesting
week for the convention, and even if there is no outlandish Uranian event this
still represents the culmination of the first leg of a power struggle that will
conclude this November. We are rapidly approaching a cross roads in our destiny.
Which path to take? "…and I-I took the one less traveled by, and that
has made all the difference."
PLUTO GOES DIRECT:
On Monday August 30th at 3:37 P.M. EST the ruler of the underworld begins its
forward motion. Issues involving partnerships, sexuality and the unconscious
that have been delayed or misdirected will begin to make sense. If you have
been in a bad relationship but felt you didn't have the strength to leave, this
may help give you the impetus to move forward. Partnerships should not, if possible
be started while Pluto is in retrograde. Of course we can't always delay things
for months to suit the astrological timing, but now is the better time to begin
a personal or business association. Any psychological changes you have been
trying to implement should find their true voice now. Take this time to examine
your life and see what you have been missing in these areas, then plan your
moves. "All questions of philosophy are ultimately answered through action."
VENUS CONJUNCTS SATURN:
On Tuesday August 31st at 12:07 P.M. EST the planet of love and possessions
meets the planet of restriction and limitations. When these two get together
it is a time of restrictions of resources. Limitations will be pointed out and
caution in financial matters is advised. Any love affair begun with this aspect
will not have much fire and fury, but could have staying power and be able to
build a foundation. Passion fades anyway, maybe this type of relationship suits
you.
VENUS SEXTILES JUPITER:
On Thursday August 2nd at 3:15 A.M. EST this pleasant aspect occurs. Almost
exactly the opposite of the Venus-Saturn aspect mentioned above, this implies
growth, excesses and luck in love and money matters. A relationship begun now
will have potential for expansion, and project an optimistic and enthusiastic
image.
If this aspect sets off your chart this could be a day of good fortune. It certainly
will be more enjoyable than the previous few days. Plan an outing or party.
Just be aware that Mercury will go direct later in the day and watch out for
its pitfalls mentioned below.
MERCURY GOES DIRECT:
Also on Thursday August 2nd at 9:09 A.M. EST our mischievous little friend turns
around. Be careful for a day or so, as the world will attempt to make up for
lost time and things will move quickly. There are many accidents and Mercurial
problems while we get used to the different energy. Many of the problems with
retrograde Mercury occur as the planet is changing direction either way. Secrets
often come out while Mercury is doing its back and forth dance, so don't be
surprised by anything you hear. Governor McGreevey's sudden exposure (no pun
intended) is a perfect example. Just as Mercury began its reversal the news
hit the fan and he was packing his assets for other pastures. Now that Mercury
is changing direction again you can expect some more surprises from that front.
You may have a few surprises of your own, so be ready. If you must travel today
leave extra time and plan ahead. The Moon is Void of Course from 12:27 P.M.
EST until 8:16 P.M. EST, which could certainly add to the mixture and help create
problems. Try to relax toady and not take things too seriously.
VENUS ENTERS LEO:
On Monday September 6th at 6:16 P.M. EST the planet of love enters the sign
of romance and affairs. With Venus in this fiery sign love often displays an
outgoing and friendly face. But it is all fun and games. Enjoy this fun loving
aspect for the next few weeks, but give that new love affair time to prove itself
before you commit your everything. Once Venus enters Virgo in October you will
be more critical of things, especially where love is concerned. At that time
you will decide if a relationship has what you really need.
MARS SQUARES PLUTO:
On Friday September 10th at 12:01 A.M. EST this difficult aspect arrives. Tempers
run hot when these two co-rulers of Scorpio are in conflict. People have hidden
agendas, and tensions that have been held at bay tend to explode. There is the
potential for violence if this sets off your chart. Certainly be careful and
avoid dangerous situations and neighborhoods. Watch your own temper and try
to avoid confrontations with others. There is a lack of common sense and restrictions,
and people are apt to overreact. Find a release for the energy and this aspect
will pass as little more than a busy day.
MERCURY ENTERS VIRGO:
Also on Friday September 10th at 3:38 A.M. EST the direct Mercury reenters Virgo.
For the next few weeks we will all be in that critical state of mind we experiences
a few weeks ago. Watch your tongue and try not to be too serious about things.
You will be more attuned to details, just don't get caught up in the little
things and miss the big picture. That is one of Virgos short comings.
SUN SQUARES PLUTO:
On Saturday September 11th at 8:22 P.M. EST this twice a year aspect completes.
Just like the Mars-Pluto square mentioned above, things are apt to be tense
and people on edge. These aspects are only energy, and if directed constructively
you could get some hard work done. The problem is that our egos get in the way
and troubles could arise if the energy is just left to its own devices. This
is not the day to confront someone, unless you are actually looking for a fight.
If so, you will find it.
MERCURY OPPOSES URANUS:
On Monday September 13th at 11:54 A.M. EST this aspect hits once again. Because
of the change of direction of Mercury it will complete the series of aspects
that occurred while retrograde once again as it goes direct. The danger of accidents
and misunderstandings is once again present. Be careful and drive defensively.
Sudden communications, often with an angry or edgy tone, are common. You may
receive an unexpected letter or phone call. Try not to overreact no matter what
the subject.
DARK OF THE MOON:
Because the New Moons have been late in each sign the past few months, the period
before has been rather extended and more intense than usual. From Sunday September
12th until the New Moon Tuesday September 14th at 10:29 A.M. EST will be a low
energy period. Spend this time finishing up anything that is incomplete, don't
try to initiate new projects on a waning moon, it just won't work out. Once
the New Moon hits you begin new projects or attempt a new approach to an existing
problem.
People often misunderstand this time of the month. If you have been living in
a situation or involved in a relationship that is intolerable or has outlived
its usefulness this would be the proper time to move on with your life. If you
have been working on a project that is almost complete but you seem to lack
the energy for the finality, you must push during these low energy days to end
the matter once and for all. If you don't, when the New Moon arrives it will
bring this "dead" energy along with it and conflict with the newer
force being presented. Often people, ideas or situations remain long after they
have outlived their usefulness in our lives. Each month we are offered a chance
to clean house, so to speak. Take advantage of it by finalizing anything in
your life that needs completion.
The Moon is Void of Course from the time it makes its last major aspect in a sign until it enters the next sign. For example, if the Moon squares Mars at 27 degrees Aries and then has no more aspects until it enters Taurus it will be Void of Course for three degrees or about 6 hours. The aspects used are the conjunction, sextile, square, trine, and opposition.
All times are Eastern Daylight:
August 15th 9:24 P.M. - August 16th 9:49 A.M. *** moon is void all night
August 18th 3:15 A.M. - 6:09 P.M. *** moon is void all day
August 20th 9:39 P.M. - August 21st 12:37 A.M.
August 22nd 4:53 P.M. - August 23rd 5:08 A.M.
August 25th 7:13 A.M. - 7:47 A.M.
August 26th 10:58 P.M. - August 27th 9:08 A.M.
August 29th 5:23 A.M. - 10:33 A.M.
August 31st 4:28 A.M. - 1:46 P.M. *** moon is void all day
September 2nd 12:17 P.M. - 8:16 P.M.
September 5th 2:56 A.M. - 6:24 A.M.
September 7th 2:08 P.M. - 6:50 P.M.
September 10th 12:41 A.M. - 7:06 A.M.
September 11th 9:22 P.M. - September 12th 5:16 P.M. ***moon is void all day
Mitchell Scott Lewis
August 2004
New York City
(212) 726-3814
http://www.mitchastro.com
Copyright 2004
All Rights Reserved