Much of the time when we plan a course of action or initiate a project, we focus on the results we want first, and then plan how to get there. However, I question if that is the best approach for someone seeking to live in harmony with the flow of life? By focusing on the end result, we may easily take actions that are not in alignment with the greater good. The end, it has been said, does not justify the means.

Haven’t many of the ways we chose to find oil to maintain our dependence on fossil fuels been unhealthy to the planet and those living on it? Focusing on the results we want (more oil) has overridden the wisdom of how to get there and raises the question of whether the greater good is served.

Seeking results includes rationalizing that if we do such and so, we will have a certain result. Another way to say it is that we think we know what will happen – surely action A will produce outcome B. However, has anyone ever intended something, acted upon it and then had to face an unintended result?

It is also possible that we may never see the result we are working toward. I am reminded of the initial suffragettes who began the struggle to establish a woman’s right to vote. They never lived to see the result they sought, which took 72 years. Because they were passionate about their purpose, they kept going without any evidence of success.

In the process of writing my book, I realized that more important than focusing on an outcome – how many books sold or the amount of income – is keeping my purpose in mind. When considering purpose, I move into the realm of the heart – that personal inner space where desire, passion and motivation is found. Following the heart is the way to find harmony, joy and fulfillment.

When you act from the heart’s desire or calling, specific results are unimportant. What is relevant is the impulse to express and act from your inner urge. You are then acting for the sake of “soul expression” and that is never dependent on outcome. It just IS. That is when you can feel truly inspired, empowered and even ecstatic. The results take care of themselves.

Conscious Footsteps was written over the last six plus years. Depending on how long you have been a newsletter reader, you may be familiar with some of the ideas in it. The inspiration to gather my thoughts into a book came to me powerfully last summer along with the needed focus (in part due to a snow-bound winter) that has resulted in its recent publication.

The book is a sharing of my “conscious footsteps” toward more joyful living in the fullness of every moment. My wish is that it will land in the hands of those who need encouragement to find their way to joy and fulfillment. Beyond that I have no idea what the results will be – but I am willing to follow the bread crumbs (last month’s theme) wherever they lead.

If you live in the DC area, I hope you’ll join me at the Book Launch Party celebration on Sunday afternoon, September 19 in Alexandria (register for a free ticket HERE). Say “hello” and get your autographed copy.

If you are can’t make the party, but are thinking about buying a copy soon, you’ll never get a better deal than if you buy it on September 21. Specifically that day over 50 well-known thought leaders are helping me launch my book nationally by offering their own downloadable gifts to all who make a purchase. You can go to http://www.consciousfootsteps.com/ that day to order the book at $16.52 plus tax/shipping and claim many hundreds of dollars worth of free gifts. Your participation will help the book become an Amazon #1 bestseller and give it a greater chance of reaching everyone who needs to hear its message in the future. 

Regardless of what happens, it was my great joy to write Conscious Footstep. And it is my joy to continue to express my purpose by offering encouragement for joyful living through this monthly newsletter.

What is your heart calling you to? Find your inspiration and venture forth. Don’t let the search for results keep you from doing the purpose that your heart calls you to. The world needs your unique purpose to be fulfilled.

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A Quote of Note

“Don’t ask yourself what the world needs; ask yourself what makes you come alive. And then go do that. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive.

Astrological Events

NOTE: These days contain strong energies that influence everyone to a greater or lesser degree. For more specific personal information, consult me or another astrologer.

Wed Sep 8, 6:30 AM ET – NEW MOON at 16 Virgo, Venus enters Scorpio

This is the first New Moon in Virgo for the past couple years that is clear of the burden of Saturn, whose departure to Libra in July has surely lightened the life of most Virgos. Those with Sun, Moon, or Ascendant in Virgo are encouraged to make a wish to open up new possibilities using the maturity you have gained. Venus enters Scorpio where it will retrograde from Oct 8 through Nov 18 so complete remodeling projects and purchase your fall wardrobe before then because esthetic tastes tend to dull during retrograde Venus. Venus last retrograded in Scorpio Oct/Nov of 2002. What were your relationships like then? How did you feel about you money supply then? You could be revisiting some issue that is related.

“If you wish upon the New Moon (within 3 days before or after), you have the possibility of fulfillment by the time of the Full Moon. Virgo New Moon wishes relate to: physical health/ diet/ exercise, work/job, efficient organizing, clear discrimination, helpfulness, order, and relaxing perfectionism.

Thu Sep 9 – Jupiter retrogrades back into Pisces, Mars in Libra trines Neptune retro in Aquarius

Jupiter’s re-entry into Pisces will bring it to a second conjunction with Uranus (9/18) and awaken the impulse to create grand dreams and inventions. Mars with Neptune add fuel to the creative urge today.

Sun Sep 12 – Venus in Scorpio sextiles Pluto in Capricorn, Mercury stations direct at 6 Virgo

Emotions are intense when relating to both lovers and friends. If single, you could meet someone significant. Yet, with Mercury standing still, what is spoken will have to be tested as true after Mercury moves more quickly forward. Knowing that communication glitches and perceptions will now begin to clear up is cause for a sigh of relief.

Sat Sep 18 – Jupiter conjoins Uranus at 29 Pisces, Mars in Scorpio sextiles Pluto in Capricorn

Last time Jupiter and Uranus met was at 0 Aries, but now back at 29 Pisces we get to revisit hopes and dreams. Brilliant solutions to current problems are possible since this pair knows no limits. The last time they met in Pisces was 1334. The possibilities for breakthroughs and invention are greatly multiplied.

Tue Sep 21 – Sun in Virgo opposes Jupiter and then Uranus

A practical Virgo Sun is helping to ensure innovations come down to earth. Your grand idea just might get a disheartening shot of reality. Use the information to tweak your plans, not bring them to a halt.

Thu Sep 23, 5:17 AM ET – FULL Moon at 1 Aries/Libra

The intense alignment of Jupiter/Uranus opposed to Saturn and squared by Pluto is touched off today, but this time the axis of the Moon’s Nodes joins Pluto creating a grand cross aspect. Will there be a revisiting of some event or the fulfillment of an action begun in late July/early August? Something is coming to completion now.

Sat Sep 25 – Sun in Libra squares Pluto in Libra

You may have to account for yourself with people in authority. Be self-honest enough to let go and listen to what needs to change. You may discover you benefit. Resistance causes trouble in the end.

Thu Sep 30 – Sun in Libra conjoins Saturn

It’s a good day to say “no” to social invitations in favor of work that has been piling up. Though you may not feel very enthused, remember slow and steady can win the race.

Fri/Sat Oct 1-2 – Mercury in Libra opposes Jupiter and then Uranus

As Mercury sweeps past both planets within hours, your mind will be open and inventive new approaches could inspire new actions. If you want to brainstorm new options, invite an out-of-the-box thinker to join you. In fact, keep your mind open as you engage in conversation over these two days because a simple comment by someone else may just provide the answer you were looking for.

Sun Oct 3 – Venus in Scorpio conjoins Mars

When passion (Venus) meets action (Mars), they inspire creative expression such as art, sex and babies. Make sure you are doing what you love today.

We have almost passed the influence of this summer’s major astrological events that have been causing stress, know among astrologers as the Cardinal Climax. Like the fairytale characters Hansel and Gretel, we may be feeling more and more lost in unfamiliar territory. Where we are going as society, country or planet is not clear. What is clear is that we can’t go back to “business as usual.”

In so many ways, the past has been exposed as dysfunctional. Even if we wanted to return, the sources of past security are just not there anymore – secure jobs, proven investment strategies, etc. Still, with each uncertain step we must move forward since the flow of life is always forward.

My strategy for these uncertain times – or for any time in fact – is what I call “following the bread crumbs.” What do I mean?

As I go through my daily life, I watch what shows up and use that as my guidance system. By using this approach, the present moment becomes a “conversation” with life in which I am fully engaged. Sometimes what shows up inspires me to make changes and other times it confirms that I am on the right path.

I act and life responds with what comes afterward. Do I need a course correction? Life will let me know when I have gone down the wrong path and urge me to change my agenda, often because of pain or discomfort. This is what has been happening for our whole society. Life has been shouting that we need to rethink what we value and where we are heading in almost every category of our existence.

Ah, but exactly what changes are needed, what solutions are being called into existence? In my opinion, many of the innovative solutions may not appear until the Uranus square Pluto aspect tightens briefly in mid-2011 and then directly for seven times (an unusual number of times) from 2012-15. That will encourage the experimentation, exploration and chaos that accompany evolutionary change.

For all the wisdom we think we hold and with all the power of intention we think we wield, we are actually always moving through unfamiliar territory. We can hold a vision, do our affirmations, do our goal-setting, but then what really happens is out of our hands.

I am not saying you should avoid visioning and live passively in a random way. What I do suggest is that by “following the bread crumbs” you will remain alert to the conversation you are having with life and find intuitive guidance to take the next step with confidence.

“Following the bread crumbs” is what has led me through the process of writing and publishing my book and what moves me forward as I promote it by having a book launch party in September and a nationwide email special to which you are invited (see Calendar).

May your “bread crumbs” lead you to more and more joy and fulfillment as well!

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A Quote of Note

Sell your cleverness and buy bewilderment; Cleverness is mere opinion, bewilderment is intuition.

~ Jalaluddin Rumi

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Astrological Events

NOTE: These days contain strong energies that influence everyone to a greater or lesser degree. For more specific personal information, consult me or another astrologer.

Mon Aug 9, 11:08 PM ET – NEW MOON at 18 Leo, Venus in Libra opposes Jupiter retro in Aries

A New Moon in Leo emphasizes self-expression, having fun and exploring romance. There are no aspects to this New Moon suggesting that there are no obstacles to promoting and being just who we are. However, when Jupiter stretches Venus’ desires, there is always a chance of over-indulgence. So rein in any urge toward extravagance.

“If you wish upon the New Moon (within 3 days before or after), you have the possibility of fulfillment by the time of the Full Moon. Leo New Moon wishes relate to: love and romance, creativity, generosity, celebration and play/fun, determination, and tempering arrogance.

 Tue Aug 10 – Venus in Libra squares Pluto retro in Capricorn

Intense emotions can arise due to feeling out of control. Not a bad thing during passionate relationships encounters, but be cautious about letting them lead to jealously or manipulation.

 Fri Aug 13 – Uranus retrograde back into Pisces

After only a brief stay, Uranus is returning to Pisces until it re-enters Aries on March 12, 2011. Hopefully, Uranus in Pisces will generate the creative ideas needed to solve pressing problems while it is in Aries for the next eight years.

 Mon Aug 16 – Jupiter retro in Aries opposes Saturn in Libra

At the opposition of Jupiter/Saturn, we get a second call (last call on March 28, 2011) to balance our urge for expansion with the need to remain cautious and devoted to the status quo. What is the status of these two energies within your life? Are you cautious and fearful of the future? Are you itching to expand and oblivious to the pitfalls? Balance is needed and will probably be played out through what comes up in your relationships.

Fri/Sat Aug 20-21 – Sun in Leo opposes Neptune retro in Aquarius, Mercury stations retrograde at 19 Virgo, Saturn in Libra squares Pluto retro in Capricorn

It could be a very confusing time (Neptune) due to misunderstandings (Mercury SR) and miscommunications. As Mercury is retrograde until September 12, we once again need to delay major purchase and signing of contracts or face the consequences from lack of attention to details and miscommunications that the “Trickster” Mercury provides. The third and final square of Saturn/Pluto emphasizes the blocks in our way and encourages making changes to the status quo, but may produce frustration and conflict. What a great time to be on vacation! How frustrating can it get floating in a pool or watching the sun set?

Tue Aug 24, 1:05 PM ET – Full Moon at 2 Pisces/Virgo

This empathic and imaginary Moon is polarized by practical service-oriented Sun – the need to balance the real and the unreal. Mix in easy aspects to Pluto for laser clarity of how to do this and a quincunx to Jupiter as a warning against arrogance and ambition for a day of mixed energies.

Thu Aug 26 – Sun in Virgo trines Pluto retro in Capricorn

That which has been hidden may come to light and the will to act with integrity is also available. Let creative approaches and a sense of purpose guide the outcome.

 Sat Sept 4 – Venus in Libra trines Neptune retro in Aquarius

Love is in the air and conversations flows with ease. Dreaming and creating makes more sense than evaluating or producing. Leave your left brain at home and take your favorite date out for a splendid meal and a show.

Have you found yourself worried about what the future holds? Perhaps you’ve decided you can no longer tolerate the negativity spewing forth from the media like an eruption of darkness in the Soul of humanity? When the list of worldwide problems gets longer than a sane person can tolerate, what can you do? How can you find peace and calm?

We are under the influence of a hugely stressful planetary alignment that I have been writing and speaking about for some time. With the fiction of no less than seven planets sparing with each other from the end of July to mid-August, clearly, as Bob Dylan proclaimed in the 60s, “the times they are a changin’” again for us in 2010s! The same planets active in the 60s are involved now…and more.

It seems clear to me that we have come to a profound time of change – a time to reclaim our collective shadow (found in government, corporations, banks and more) and create a new story. However, the new story is not ready to be written until the Uranus/Pluto square tightens in late 2011-2015. Meanwhile, we are faced with the work of reclaiming our collective shadow.

What do I mean by “reclaiming the collective shadow?” According to C.G. Jung, our individual shadow is created when uncomfortable feelings, traumas, and difficult experiences are denied or resisted due to fear. These unprocessed energies then go into the subconscious and form our shadow. Humanity’s shadow contains the collective subconscious material of all of us that lies below awareness, yet strongly influences our collective beliefs and behaviors.

This summer the issues that are arising and will appear could be seen to be bubbling up from our collective unconscious. The bleeding earth which is gushing oil deep below the Horizon drilling platform is a perfect metaphor to awaken our consciousness. We may see other events appear that bring to light currents of past corruption, deception and greed. But, as I wrote last month, it isn’t about punishing the guilty (for we can all share that). It is about noticing what isn’t working, so we can create solutions.

How then can we find calm in the midst of chaos? Stay rooted in the truth that “all things work together for good.” The opportunity to make positive changes is alive and strong as long as we don’t fall prey to cynicism and blaming. That path is the path that leads to unhappiness, fear and powerlessness.

In your personal life, remain flexible and willing to innovate in whatever way your current circumstances suggest. Do not hold on to the way things were, because that will only cause suffering. Innovation means trying something new, like making purchases based on core values, not based on your egoic needs to prove your worth or sooth your unhappiness. Notice what you take for granted and be grateful for what you have.

When all around you is oscillating, the calm you see can be found within you. Remember to go within to find peace. Knowing who you are – your Divine, eternal nature – and connecting regularly to Spirit, ensures that nothing will knock you off your center because you are rooted in something deeper than any chaos can upend. Yes, you can find calm within the chaos!

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A Quote of Note

The universe is holographic, which means the whole is present in every piece. Therefore, as we address the shadow within us, we are addressing the shadow of the world.

~ Marianne Williamson, Everyday Grace

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Astrological Events

NOTE: These days contain strong energies that influence everyone to a greater or lesser degree. For more personal information, consult me or another astrologer.

Sat July 11, 3:40 PM ET – NEW MOON/SOLAR ECLIPSE at 20 Cancer, Sun in Cancer sextile Mars in Virgo, Mercury in Leo trines Jupiter in Aries

With only harmonious aspects, this Solar Eclipse may open up creative flow and a feeling of inner connection. Mars here aids by energizing and focusing the Sun’s desires and intentions. If this connects specifically to your chart (like it does mine), it is time to let go of insecurities and recognize the need to find balance between your giving and receiving. With the launch of my book, I can no longer hide behind silly egoic fears and still be a good steward of the message I carry. How about you? Where have your insecurities prevented you from giving your gift to the world?

“If you wish upon the New Moon (within 3 days before or after), you have the possibility of fulfillment by the time of the Full Moon. Cancer New Moon wishes relate to: home/family, safety, growing, intimacy/caring skills, feelings/moods, nurturing, and releasing insecurity.

Wed/Thu July 21-22 – Saturn re-enters Libra, Sun in Leo sextiles Saturn in Libra

After earlier tip-toeing into Libra and then retrograding back into Virgo, Saturn is back to stay until October 6, 2012. As it returns, it completes the cardinal t-square and ups the pressure of change. While in Libra, Saturn will test our relationships. Are we happy with our relationships? Do we need to bring more balance and harmony to them? Saturn’s aim is to bring more structure and stability to our relating with others.

Fri/Sat July 23-24 – Sun in Leo trines Uranus retro in Aries, Jupiter turns retro in Aries and squares Pluto

The Sun/Uranus aspect suggests unexpected opportunities for fun and entertainment. Even Jupiter’s station increases optimism and expands possibilities. But because Jupiter soon after squares Pluto, beware that pushing your opinions on others may cause power struggles. Have fun and chill.

Sun July 25, 3:37 PM ET – Full Moon at 3 Aquarius/Leo

Harmoniously aspecting most of the planets in the cardinal t-square, this lunation is all about higher mind and higher self. Look to reason and intellect to be strong.

Mon July 26 – Mercury in Leo opposes Neptune retro in Aquarius, Sun in Leo trines Jupiter retro in Aries, Saturn in Libra opposes Uranus retro in Aries

This is the final opposition (struggle) between tradition-loving Saturn and Uranus, the “change agent.” This does not mean we will now be stress-free, however, since Uranus will pull closer to transformative Pluto by mid-2011. In addition today, Sun/Jupiter opens up opportunities for success and enjoyment, while Mercury/Neptune suggests some foggy logic. Or is a secret being kept?

Sat/Sun July 30-31 – Mars conjoins Saturn in Libra and opposes Uranus

Fast moving planet, Mars joins the cardinal t-square just long enough to heat up the tension. Watch out for tempers to flare and be cautious of potential accidents. Earthquake and tornado activity could be in the mix.

Tue Aug 3 – Jupiter retro in Aries squares Pluto retro in Capricorn

This is a second meeting in little over a week. Whatever scandals arose before may still be in the news and/or additional economic revelations may leave us further disgusted with Wall Street.

Wed Aug 4 – Mars in Libra opposes Jupiter retro in Aries

Feeling pulled between two opposites could leave you stressed out and frustrated. Try to find some moments of peace or you will run the risk of over-taxing your body and your mind.

Sat/Sun Aug 7-8 – Venus in Libra opposes Uranus retro in Aries, Venus conjoins Saturn in Libra

The weekend calls for balancing your commitments to others with an urge to find new and more interesting company. Why not encourage your regular partner to do something wild and out of the ordinary?

As days and weeks have passed since an explosion of an offshore platform in the Gulf, we watch with horror the continuous stream of brown/black oil spilling into the water on a video feed. With local wildlife threatened for unknown years to come and fishermen’s livelihood on the line, if you are not feeling sad, you may be numb or an extreme environmental naysayer. Feeling helpless? I am here to tell you, you are not!

Anger and sorrow are natural responses to this man-made disaster. Unlike the Haiti earthquake, this one was preventable. But before our human-minds focus on identifying blame (BP, the rig owner, the President, or anyone else), let us remember two things: blaming never solves anything…AND if you follow the thread of blame far enough, it will land at our personal doorstep.

Our civilization’s needs (or are they wants that we’ve turned into needs?) drive our dependence on a natural resource that is becoming harder and harder to find. Our expectations of ready supply have led to corporations behaving as they do. Is it corporate greed or is it our own greed for a certain lifestyle that leads to a disregard of its affects on the environment or, worse yet, do we justify our power to take all we need because we are humans?

I know most of you are conscious of environment issues but may feel helpless to make a difference short of going to the Gulf States to do physical cleanup. That’s great and I commend you for that, but what about the rest of us? Must we sit by idly and weep?

Remembering that “Spirit” is fully present in all physical matter and matters, we can take actions in our inner world to hasten the arrival of a solution(s). Here are some thoughts of how you can be of service in this circumstance.

Let go of the anger, blame and sorrow since Spirit sees only wholeness and perfection. Holding onto these negative emotions will prevent you from connecting with Spirit.

Replace with feelings of compassion and unconditional love for everyone and everything that has been impacted by this event (e.g. those who died in the explosion and their families, dead wildlife, those whose livelihood has been interrupted, the engineers who are desperately seeking an answer, President Obama and government officials, anyone whose lives are or will be affected, etc.).

Visualize (imagine) the affected area as restored to balance and harmony, which may be different from what it was. Eventually, the Gulf will heal and, though no one knows how long, you will be helping the entire ecosystem renew by tuning into a vision of its wellness and include a vision of humanity’s shift to a lifestyle that works for the benefit of all species of life, not just humans. You are all potentially powerful visionaries and you are definitely needed to do this work.

This 9/11 event for the environment, which happened on the 40^th anniversary of Earth Day, just might have been created to serve as a wake-up call so we will profoundly change our relationship with “our mother” in a more holistic direction. In that regard, you are not helpless. You have the power influence that change.

I invite you to not only read the quote to the left, but to visit David Spangler’s website to read his thoughts, which have been the impetuous for my writing this month.

On another topic, I have a request. As my new book will soon be released, I ask that you surround me and the book with the Light of God/Goddess so that it and I will reach those who can truly benefit from the message of joy, love, and fulfillment that the book contains. Thank you for being a loyal reader and for holding me in the Light. If you are inspired, I hope you’ll take advantage of the special price that is being offered only to readers of this newsletter (and their friends). May your lives be blessed!

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A Quote of Note

Perhaps we might see this oil spill as Gaia spilling her blood to effect a transformation in our consciousness that we may learn … to care for the world that sustains us. If so, my prayer is that this sacrifice is not being made in vain.

~ David Spangler (www.lorian.org)

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Astrological Events

NOTE: These days contain strong energies that influence everyone to a greater or lesser degree. For more personal information, consult me or another astrologer.

Sat June 12, 7:15 AM ET – NEW MOON at 22 Gemini

A New Moon in the sign of the twins and challenged by Saturn in Virgo suggest that with a multitude of possibilities and directions to go, Saturn is raising doubts and requiring the use of discrimination before any action. Venus harmoniously aspecting this same Saturn enjoys stability in relationships and good solid values.

If you wish upon the New Moon (within 3 days before or after), you have the possibility of fulfillment by the time of the Full Moon. Gemini New Moon wishes relate to: motion/activity, learning, communication skills, logic/cleverness, social ease, positive daily interactions, and calming mental anxiety.

Mon-Tues June 14-15 – Venus enters Leo, trines Uranus and trines Jupiter in Aries

Watch for the possibility of unusual or excessive appetites. It certainly is fun to try new foods, clothes or friends.

Sat June 19 – Sun in Gemini squares Saturn in Virgo and trines Neptune in Aquarius

While your dreams are front and center, it may not be the time to move forward because some barrier, real or perceived, requires better planning.

Mon June 21 – Sun in Cancer squares Uranus in Aries

This is a day for expecting the unexpected. If what you had planned doesn’t get done, you just might find something more exciting happens instead.

Wed June 23 – Sun in Cancer squares Jupiter in Aries

Though you could feel quite optimistic today, you could also be filled with unrealistic expectations which leave you feeling disappointed when they don’t manifest.

Thu June 24 – Mercury in Gemini squares Saturn in Virgo and trines Neptune retro in Aquarius

The day’s focus is likely to be on details and serious matters. However, Neptune’s presence will encourage the expression of compassion no matter what is happening.

Fri June 25 – Mercury in Cancer squares Uranus in Aries

Could the concerns that monopolized your thinking yesterday get solved by the flashes of insights that are possible today? Quite possibly.

Sat June 26, 7:30 AM ET – FULL MOON/LUNAR ECLIPSE at 5 Cancer/Capricorn, Mercury in Cancer square Jupiter in Aries and opposed Pluto in Capricorn

With this powerful lunar eclipse conjoined to Pluto, we have every major outer planet linked expect Neptune. For me this initiates the so-called Cardinal Climax (a t-square with Pluto in Capricorn square the Saturn in Virgo opposition from Uranus and Jupiter in Aries) or what some might call the “Summer of Discontent.” I have written about it before so I will simply say, “Stay awake, but do not despair.” Change cannot happen without discovering what isn’t working and feeling compelled to change it.

Mon July 5 – Uranus in Aries turns retrograde

Ever since Uranus moved into Aries, there has been a lot of energy in the air, stirring up change and producing chaos. It could be a welcome outcome if the weird energies of the last week diminish.

Thu July 8 – Venus in Leo opposes Neptune in Aquarius

Feelings and desires for romance may leave you vulnerable. Enjoy sublime experiences as their reality may get tested tomorrow.

Fri July 9 – Mercury in Cancer sextiles Saturn in Virgo and trines Uranus in Aries

Don’t take for granted any original ideas that arise today. There is sufficient encouragement for making them practical, which suggests a beneficial outcome.

SOLAR ECLIPSE ALERT:

Sun July 11 – NEW MOON/SOLAR ECLIPSE at 20 Cancer

This is a Total Solar Eclipse signifying that those who are affected may be seeing an ending while also discovering a new beginning in the area of your chart where it falls. As this one directly affects the writer’s chart, there is likely to be interesting things to write about in the next newsletter.

At this New Moon/Solar Eclipse in Capricorn with Mars retrograde, it is a fine time to consider the topic of ambition – a strong desire that motivates our actions.

Many of my friends say they no longer make New Year’s resolutions. They prefer creating intentions for their year ahead instead. I guess if you call it an intention and it doesn’t manifest, perhaps it is less guilt-producing than if you make a resolution and it fails. Either way, you are setting your compass for a desired outcome, which is an ambitious act.

So…what are your ambitions?

Most of us are seeking personal happiness though professional achievement, relationship harmony, financial independence, etc. Once these are achieved, it is common that satisfaction wanes, disappointment sets in and some way to find happiness steals our focus.

While there is nothing wrong with seeking personal happiness – I am with you – aren’t we are missing something? As we grow more aware of our interdependence with all life, shouldn’t ambitions for others, our community, our country and our planet awaken?

In fact, when we become aware of our interdependence with others, it is likely the nature of our personal ambitions will change as well. The desire for a stylish, luxurious but gas-guzzling sedan morphs into a hybrid, for example.

Regardless of where you are on the continuum between self-interest and total awareness of the interdependence of all life, you can lend your vision, intention and ambition to creating a better future for all of us.

The recently-released Avatar movie is a powerful experience, both entertaining and thought-provoking. Set on the beautiful mythical planet of Pandora, it contains fast-paced adventure, dramatic love, stunning special affects, and most of all, an important lesson. I came away from it more devoted than ever to take personal steps to make Earth a better place.

Yet, according to an article forwarded by a friend, some viewers of the movie are blogging about being so distraught because life on Pandora was painted so much lovelier than Earth that they were considering ending their life. Now that’s distraught!

What about taking personal steps to make Earth more Pandora-like? Each of us has a role to play in creating a better future.

Though the challenges of the next few years are likely to change life as we know it, what the future holds is our responsibility, individually and collectively. We need to create the breakthroughs that will lead to a better way to live on Earth, living interdependently.

I encourage you to be ambitious for the future of all of us. Don’t give up or sit idly by as things change. Pick whatever big or small role that you can, lend a hand and create a better future for all of us.

Be a mosquito (see the Quote of Note) for the future of us all!

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A Quote of Note

If you ever think you’re too small to be effective, you’ve never been in bed with a mosquito!

~ Wendy Lesko

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TELECLASS: Flip Negatives to Positive – Tools for Thriving in an Uncertain World

Do you fear an uncertain future? Whether you are facing welcome or unwelcome change, you can learn strategies to confidently navigate the road ahead. Learn nine tools for navigating uncertainty and managing change in your life. Class includes a 52-page e-book on the same topic.

“Dianne’s knowledge and inspiring guidance set this workshop apart from others. It was filled with useful information; the activities and personal reflection brought me powerful insights.” ~ Mary Kay

Wednesdays, February 10, 17 and 24, 2010 – 7:30-9:00 PM EST

Three consecutive tele-classes

Call in detail provided at registration

Limit: 10 participants  

Fee: $75, until Feb. 3; $90 afterward

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Astrological Events

NOTE: These days contain strong energies that influence everyone to a greater or lesser degree. For more personal information, consult me or another astrologer.

Fri Jan 15, 2:11 AM ET – NEW MOON/SOLAR ECLIPSE at 25 Capricorn

This is a Dragon’s Head (North Node) eclipse in Capricorn, significant for being the longest since 1992. This powerful eclipse brings the strength to push through obstacles, let go of old structures and create something new. Time to plant new seeds and diligently work toward accomplishing your goals.  What was happening in your life in 1991? Related to an eclipse then, you now have greater wisdom to address something similar in your life.

If you wish upon the New Moon (within 3 days before or after), you have the possibility of fulfillment by the time of the Full Moon. Capricorn New Moon wishes relate to: future security, handing responsibility, reaching goals, success/recognition, management skills, authority figures, and releasing controlling tendencies.

Sun Jan 17 – Jupiter enters Pisces

Expansive Jupiter moving into the sign if its rulership expands our awareness of Spirit and increases altruism, creativity and innovation, promising more options, opportunities and offering hope. At least until June when it moves into Aries, Jupiter increases our spiritual connection – the unfolding divinity within us – and compassion so needed in the world.

Fri Jan 22 – Venus in Aquarius trines Saturn retro in Libra

Recommit to someone or something you love for your sense of appreciation is strong. It is also a good day for addressing financial matters with an eye to stabilizing them for the future.

Sun Jan 24 – Sun in Aquarius trines Saturn retro in Libra

Got a project you have been putting off doing? You can use your time constructively with a beneficial Sun/Saturn connection and press on, even if hard work is involved.

Wed Jan 27 – Venus in Aquarius opposes Mars retro in Leo

With this sexy connection between Venus and Mars, you are likely to be feeling quite frisky. Be sure you have a favorite squeeze nearby.

Fri Jan 29 – Sun in Aquarius opposes Mars retro in Leo

People around you may be a bit feisty with simmering anger or outright acting as if they are cruisin’ for a bruisin’. Keep cool and leave discussion of sensitive topics to another day.

Sat Jan 30, 1:18 AM ET – FULL MOON at 11 Leo

A fiery Full Moon containing the Saturn/Pluto square raises aggression and challenges us to use the energy wisely. We are asked to balance the urge for self-direction (Leo) with the need to be conscious of fairness and justice for all (Aquarius). This future emphasized because Mars hugs the Moon and Venus hugs the Sun. This is a false dichotomy because self-interest and other’s interests are the same when you recognize our inherent interdependence.

Sun Jan 31 – Saturn retro at 4 Libra squares Pluto at 4 Capricorn

When the immovable object (Saturn) meets the unstoppable force (Pluto) – second of three exact alignments – tension is high something’s got to give. It is yet another opportunity to surrender anything that is no longer serving us. Anything we are holding onto (control, fear) will be challenged by what is necessary and practical to move forward on evolutionary path

Sat Feb 6 – Mercury in Capricorn sextiles Uranus in Pisces, Jupiter in Pisces sextiles Pluto in Capricorn

Tactical wisdom and strategic vision together are the ingredients for success, business or personal. Make the best of it.

Mon Feb 8 – Venus conjoins Neptune in Aquarius

Not yet Valentine’s Day, you will be preparing for it under this romantic, idealistic and creative energy aspect. All forms of creative expression are highlighted. You could fall in love with everyone you meet.

Fri Feb 12 – Mercury in Aquarius trines Saturn retro in Libra

Got an important decision to be made? Open discussions with others and focused thinking lead to great decisions.