Honoring the first month of the astrological year, it is appropriate to discuss what every Aries faces – the paradox of “enlightened self-interest” – self-interest depends on the well-being of others.
One of the first things to learn about astrology is the meaning of each zodiac sign. From Aries to Pisces, each sign holds a significant piece of the puzzle of life. It is also important to understand that the opposite sign holds a gift which must be integrated to find happiness.
Aries-influenced people are independent, self-determined, and ready to act. Often, however, they carelessly disregard the interests of others. Like a bull in a China closet, they may recklessly forge through life on their own personal quest while not noticing how they harm others along the way. I know because my Sun is in Aries. Fortunately, life has taught me many lessons in this regard and my chart has other moderating planetary influences.
Librans are the polar opposite of Aries. They carry a special sensitivity to others. Because they value harmony and balance, they are always paying attention to others’ needs, often negotiating peace between the conflicting interests of others. Too often, they leave their own interests out of the equation and forget that their opinion also matters.
Clearly, Arians need to develop more sensitivity to the needs of others and Librans need to become more self-aware. However, lest you think this message is only for the Arians and Librans, let me remind you that those two energies are found somewhere in everyone’s chart whether you have a planet there or not.
In truth, no person is an island. We live on an increasingly-populated planet, which requires us to learn how to live with others. It is not enough to just tolerate others. If we accept the premise that all of life is interdependent and interconnected, realistically, we cannot find peace and happiness while others suffer or live in fear. Our self-interest is tied to the well-being of others.
Living in a high-rise condominium, I have many opportunities to appreciate this truth. All owners share the use of common areas like the parking lot and the laundry room. One person’s behavior can make it quite uncomfortable for everyone else when, for example, a car alarm sounds in the middle of the night or clothes are left in the dryer for hours.
Going a step deeper, when the couple next door is fighting, I sense the vibes and feel upset. When anyone has lost a loved one, expressing my condolences for their loss is an act of recognizing my own potential for loss. It is easy to see how this works in our intimate relationships, because when one spouse is depressed the other is unlikely to be dancing with exuberance. Haven’t you learned of a natural disaster – Haiti is a current example – and felt a deep sadness? That is the power of our interconnection and interdependence with others.
In the transformational times ahead, regardless of what the future holds, it will be vitally important to all of us and the planet that we increase our awareness of the well-being of others. In so doing, we enhance our own self-interests. Those who work supportively in community with others will thrive regardless of outer circumstances.
Care for yourself and maintain a focus on your own needs … AND also remember that your happiness, in a real sense, depends on the well-being of others.
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A Quote of Note
When I do not know who I am, I serve you. When I know who I am, I am you.
~ Indian Saying
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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.
Wed Apr 14, 8:29 AM ET – NEW MOON at 25 Aries
Under an Aries New Moon we can find inspiration for a fresh start and energy for a new adventure. The Saturn/Uranus opposition (exact in a couple weeks) suggest that we are still dealing with conflicts between the old and the new and the need to balance both. This New Moon squares the New Moon/Solar Eclipse of mid January. If that eclipse was active in your chart, you may find an event around this time provides new insight to the initial issue.
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. Aries New Moon wishes relate to: new beginnings, self-focus, innocence/authenticity, self-discovery, independence, courage, disengaging self absorption.
Sat Apr 17 – Venus in Taurus sextiles Jupiter in Pisces
This is a Saturday for self-indulgence. Why not enjoy a loving partner (a congenial date), some good food and drink, and a good movie? Indulgence doesn’t have to be over-doing it.
Sun Apr 18 – Mercury stations retrograde at 13 Taurus, Sun in Aries sextiles Neptune in Aquarius
Mercury does an about-face for the next three weeks, eventually turning direct on May 11 at 3 Taurus. Watch out for miscommunications that lead to misunderstandings. Since our attention is drawn more inward, we are just not paying full attention to details. Therefore, the usual caution is not to sign contracts, make major purchases (especially mechanical devices and computers). All details need to be double-checked for clarity. The gift of this time is the opportunity to revisit, revise, restore and retreat into a slower, more peaceful space for a few weeks. Don’t push forward, relax and enjoy it! Soon enough you’ll be scurrying around again, after May 11.
Fri/Sat Apr 23-24 – Venus in Taurus squares Neptune in Aquarius, sextiles Uranus and then trines Saturn
This time is all about relationships. What dreams do we have? What do we want to create? How can we add some excitement and yet honor our commitments to others? Celebrate love, but remember real love includes taking out the trash, literally and figuratively.
Sun Apr 25 – Mercury retrograde in Taurus squares Mars in Leo, Sun in Taurus trines Pluto in Capricorn
You could act impulsively, perhaps in the heat of an argument, but the end result is likely to bring about a positive change or solution.
Mon Apr 26 – Saturn retrograde in Virgo opposes Uranus in Pisces
This ongoing conflict of energies (4th of 5 exact aspects) can be seen in the tug of war between tradition and change evident since Obama was elected. In our personal lives, many of us have been feeling the inner conflict between the risk of moving forward into new possibilities and the call to maintain the safety of status quo. By the last pass the end of July, you will know what you must do.
Wed Apr 28, 8:18 AM ET – FULL MOON at 8 Scorpio
Feisty Mars challenges this emotionally intense Full Moon while the Saturn/Uranus conflict continues. Look for a burst of energy, aggression and the conflict between the old and the new in some way. Courage and personal power is needed to process this energy and learn from it, rather than attack. It is also okay to be reclusive for a day to avoid it.
Mon May 3 – Mercury retrograde in Taurus trines Pluto in Capricorn
Clear thinking and deep introspection are possible today. How could you use this laser-focused mind? Review and restructure your finances?
Tue May 4 – Sun in Taurus squares Mars in Leo
Determination and aggression share a fine line today. The energetic, courageous and productive nature of this combination can be useful or combative – your choice.
Tue May 11 – Mercury stations direct at 3 Taurus
Once again we welcome the return of forward momentum in projects, decision and communications. It is still wise to wait a couple days before signing major contracts or making large purchases.
