Astrology for April 2005 by Susan Heinz, Astrologer
We begin April with three planets in fiery Aries opposing the planet of philosophy, in the sign of Justice, Libra. Since mid-March the planet of communication, Mercury, has heated discussion, fired up ideas while opposing Jupiter. On the 20th of March, Mercury went retrograde, calling for an extended review of our ideas of justice, interrelatedness and diplomacy. Fiery, passionate beliefs must be reviewed in the light of greater truth. A perfect example of this energy is what is happening around Terri Schiavo, reviewing her life/death situation through the question of what is justice for her.
The meaning of this planetary lineup is intensified because of Saturn’s involvement. As Saturn is in Cancer, we are dealing with foundational issues for ourselves. What is the basis for our existence and what is the truth about who we are and how do we support that? How do we come to this truth in our nation? With Saturn in Cancer we are challenged to become aware of what past assumptions motivate our view of life and our actions.
With Mercury retrograde until April 12th, this review is healthy and important. We want to move with Aries at this time of year, to create new forms, experience new perspectives. With Jupiter in Libra, we are continually asked to enlarge our vision, to take in a global/universal view, to find truth and justice.
Personally, review of plans, getting at deeper issues is positive. Study, preparation, and editing is excellent during this period.
With the Jupiter/Saturn square continuing during the year, we will experience the struggle between ideologies, ideologies of the future and ideologies based on past patterns and what current merits they have. This year will test the momentum of what began in 2000 and 2001.
A solar eclipse in Aries takes place on April 8th at 19 Aries. Be very thoughtful about power and impulse to push your agenda, desires and needs, and be aware that others may be caught up in pushing their point of view. There is a tension being held by Jupiter and Saturn to find balance in our actions.
Deep issues in America will continue to arise, as this eclipse aligns with the USA Chiron, the place of our collective wound. There is an unconscious place in slumbering America around our use of force and aggression. We are blind to our use of force and killing when it comes to people we do not view as important to our lives or when they are in our way, in terms of security and the stability of our wealth. This country is very reactive and ignorant to its inner motivations around security/wealth issues causing a projection in the collective about pro-life without a wholistic look at how we spread destruction to life throughout the globe. It is the destiny and karma of the USA to deal directly with these issues, so we can fulfill our true leadership role. This time is now. The Bush administration brings forward the old world view in order for an awakening to take place that will align with a global vision of unity rather that might makes right. April will be a very interesting month for these issues.
As Mars aligns with Neptune on the 12th and 13th, look for the deception of truth, or on a higher level we will see compassionate action.
The sun moves into earthy Taurus on the 19th, bringing the next unfoldment of spring. A way has been set, now we move with deepening it, grounding it, enhancing it.
On April 24th, a lunar eclipse will be visible, beginning at 1:00 am. This is a powerful time as it takes place on the same day as the Buddhist festival of Wesak, enlightenment of Buddha and Jewish Passover, celebration of liberation from slavery. The moon is in Scorpio calling for transformation. This eclipse aligns with Chiron in Aquarius, amplifying issues of wounding, health and healing. On a personal level be willing to see where you are reactive, fearful, negative and seek the root of that behavior because Chiron is also known as the bridge to wholeness and the way to reclaim our true spiritual heritage.
Twelve Opportunities:
Aries (Mar 20-Apr 19) This month holds tremendous energy for you. You feel quite confident in your outlook, but situations are delayed. Take time to review. Financial situations shift at the end of the month. Situations that have been stable and satisfying now will change because you are entering a new phase.
Taurus (Apr 20-May 20) Retreat into your imagination. Creativity and love express themselves only after deep retreat. You are coming to a time of fully bringing your passion into your life, but only with the letting go of other obligations for a while.
Gemini (May 21-Jun 20) The solar eclipse highlights tensions and changes in friendships or people you work with. Promise yourself not to react to mixed messages as they arise. Review the situation before speaking. You come to an understanding from a new perspective which brings success.
Cancer (Jun 21Jul 21) Follow what you love this month. Seek and feel what you are passionate about, make room for it. There is so much energy there for you. Dedicate yourself and your time to following it. You may get caught up in your role or work, but remember that underneath that is your purpose.
Leo (Jul 22- Aug 22) Change is up for you. Whatever happens this month see it through the context of movement to a new place. Be willing to let go of something, a way of being, a belief system. This month you are given a revelation.
Virgo (Aug 23-Sep 22) The question is how can you resonant with your partner this month? You will see an impulse that gets in the way of relationship. Be an open channel for love. Discover what that means for you.
Libra (Sep 23-Oct 22) Beware of intensity coming from others this month. Patience and acceptance of their energy, while staying centered in a bigger view of the situation brings success. Let yourself express this bigger view through your creativity.
Scorpio (Oct 23-Nov 21) The first part of the month you focus on work or accomplishing something. You restrain your impulses to move on to something else. You master what is in front of you. You reach your goals. Now prepare for something new.
Sagittarius (Nov 22-Dec 20) This month you are asked to take up leadership of a project. The situation is delayed due to difficult relationships. Communications need to be carefully reviewed. Listen for inner guidance in this situation for success.
Capricorn (Dec 21- Jan 19) Intensity from others seems to be coming your way. Don’t take it personally. Ask yourself what is your inner truth and center yourself through that truth. Then go have some fun.
Aquarius (Jan 20-Feb 17) Communications are the theme this month. Usually you are very diplomatic but the fire of Aries and Mars brings impatience and the need to cut through and get right to the point of things. Everything becomes suddenly very clear.
Pisces (Feb 18-Mar 19) This is a time to access your resources and connect with your talents. There may be a sense of disappointment this month but that can be a distraction to arriving at a new understanding of your possibilities. You are receiving a new vision.
Susan Heinz is a professional astrologer & teacher in Santa Cruz for 20 years. She brings together traditional & esoteric astrology, Indian Vedic astrology, tarot and Qabalah in her integration of astrological wisdom. For info on her astrology classes and personal consultations, call 831 476-5787.