The Stars This Week -- October 11 - 17

Week of October 11

Overview

This week may feature an extra dose of Mars as it aspects both the Sun and Mercury. Mars is a planet with a bit of a nasty reputation given its unfortunate (but not undeserving) historical association with war and violence. More generally, however, Mars involves the notions of action and assertion. Above all, Mars seeks to realize its will and act upon desires. Think Freud. In bad situations, it's a bully. In more civilized environments, it is a responsible executive power that takes initiative by making decisions quickly. So with two Mars aspects in the sky this week, there could be a greater urgency to act and react. The pace of life may feel a little more hectic than usual so be careful not to succumb to impatience. With all this assertive energy flying around this week, it may be tempting to push one's own agenda and disregard the interests of others.

By the weekend, the Sun and Mercury will conjoin and simultaneously enter sidereal Libra. Libra is all about connecting with other people, reconciling differences, and recognizing the role of social graces so this may be a nice time to refocus on people instead of tasks. The Sun-Mercury conjunction at the time of this Libra ingress is quite unusual and introduces a more communicative and intellectual flavor to the proceedings. This is a nice combination for the production of art and it may also enhance communications surrounding the aesthetic realm -- art galleries, film festivals, and youtube videos. This is a great time for creativity that builds bridges between people and which reflects the social nature of human life.


Aries (Apr 13 - May 14) As Venus moves away from Mars, you may find yourself shifting gears and getting down to business this week. The concept of authority figures prominently this week, as you find benefits from listening to elders and traditional wisdom. You may feel the greater need to seek recognition but it will be important to temper your expectations since crude displays of ego will generate resistance. By the end of the week, you may be more inclined to think things through. Encounters with young people prove valuable.


Taurus (May 15 - June 14) Life may be a little less frantic this week as truculent Mars has finally left Venus alone. You may find comfort in a more balanced approach here between enjoying life's pleasures and helping those who are in need of assistance. This is a good time to put your brain power and organizing skills to work and bring some resolution to a situation that needs fixing. A pleasant surprise is possible midweek that could reaffirm what is important to you.


Gemini (June 15 - July 14) You may feel lighter on your feet this week as Mercury has escaped from Saturn's deep, dark cave of pessimism. The people around you can now once again enjoy your witty banter and stream of consciousness about the world. With the Moon in your 7th house, the first half of the week will be a good time to mix and mingle. The pace may pick up towards the end of the week as demands on your time may get a little out of hand. Of course, in true Geminian form, you will be able to talk your way out of anything. You may get noticed more by "respectable" people on the weekend so don't be afraid to take the lead.


Cancer (July 15- Aug 14) This week may be a good time to put some new ideas out into the world. If you've done your homework, it may be time to go live and let the chips fall where they may. The early week could see you focusing on resolving some differences of opinion. Putting yourself in the other person's shoes is usually a good starting point. Your powers of persuasion are in top form here, so present your version of things with a soothing blend of rationality and empathy.


Leo (Aug 15 - Sep 15) With the Sun conjoining Mercury this week, you may be sharing your thoughts and ideas with more people than usual. Business is likely to improve here, especially involving education or communication as you impress those in positions of power. Some tangible benefits are possible by the weekend as all sincere efforts will be rewarded. Sometimes all you have to do is buy a ticket.


Virgo (Sep 16-Oct 15) Activity levels are likely to increase this week as the caution of Saturn is replaced by an injection of the energy of Mars. There may be moments when it gets to be a bit much (especially near Friday) so be careful not to lose sight of your plan and your ultimate goal. With Mercury moving towards a conjunction with the Sun, the week should finish quite nicely as you become a key player. Governments and father figures could play a more prominent role this week.


Libra (Oct 16-Nov 14) As Mars shuffles off into the sunset, you are in a better position to indulge your Venusian pleasures for people and objets d'art this week. Take the time to get in touch with any neglected friends and family and work your Libra charm on them. A nice midweek surprise is possible here from an unusual source. This may have the unexpected effect of allowing you to understand the plight of others less fortunate than yourself.


Scorpio (Nov 15 - Dec 14) This is a good week to have your eyes on the prize. Your hard work can pay off handsomely for you here especially if you have enacted a clear, methodical plan of attack. Resist the urge to go it alone and look for sources of support among like-minded people. A little sacrifice can go a long way. You may receive some welcome information at the end of the week that makes your objectives clearer.


Sagittarius (Dec 15 - Jan 13) This is a good time to take center stage as you are more likely to have an attentive audience. All your quirks and idiosyncrasies are more likely to go over particularly well this week as friends and colleagues are inclined to see the world through your eyes. This is a good time to channel any restlessness you've been feeling on the home front into creative projects that put your vision out into the world. The weekend looks good for exchanging ideas with workmates.


Capricorn (Jan 14 - Feb 12) Your ambition may be uppermost in your mind this week as you may spend more time pondering your goals. What do you want and how do you want to go about getting it? The universe should welcome these aspirations as the Moon enters Capricorn towards the end of the week. The goat rules! More mundanely, work matters should go well, especially those involving women.


Aquarius (Feb 13 - Mar 12) Money matters are likely to be responsible for some smiles this week as the Moon transits your 11th house of gains. Probably no major lottery wins, but don't be surprised to find a rolled up twenty in your fall jacket. Spouses and partners may also get a lot of your attention this week, as their activities are a focal point for discussion and admiration. By supporting and cheering them on, you can participate in their success.


Pisces (Mar 13-Apr 12) As Saturn recedes in the distance, you may find a renewed enthusiasm for life, especially in terms of working and relating with others. You may find fulfillment here by attending to the needs of people around you who are in a state of distress. With the Moon transiting your 10th house of status for much of the week, you are likely to be recognized for your good works. The weekend promises to bring some stimulating new people and situations into your life.