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Astrology for October 2003 by Susan Heinz, Astrologer

As the Libra time of year envelopes us, we reorient ourselves, adjust and balance, pulling back our energies from the outward thrust of summer. Here we must pause, objectify and consider the relationship between the outer and inner lives, between self and other, before we drop into the growing darkness of Scorpio, encountering Samhein, the ancient Celtic ancestor of Halloween, when the connection with the subtle and invisible realms is strongest.

Saturn’s influence is now palpable, demanding accountability and responsibility. Solitude is the key to the clear alignment Saturn demands. Saturn as the lord of Karma, forces confrontations with what we have created and what we want to create. Saturn’s gift is the intelligence of discrimination, bringing mental clarity to the many influences and conditionings that pull us this way and that. We are now being asked to consider, focus, limit and work practically, thereby setting foundations for the future.

Yet Neptune is also strong at this time, calling for expansion of consciousness, imaginative wonderings, finding union rather than differentiation, attuning to spirit rather than the needs of matter. October is a time of walking this edge in a creative manner, balancing practicality with spirituality, confronting truths while moving with creative impulses. We know when we are out of alignment when we obsessively organize or seek escape from any responsibility.

Our country is now under the influence of Saturn, as is the President. His past actions and motives will continue to be scrutinized publicly and his desire for unobstructed freedom to pursue his plans will not take place. How he responds to criticism and accountability will clearly show his true character. He focalizes the challenge between the old and the new, which allows the values that are emerging to be more clearly defined. Watch the beginning of October and November to trigger Bush’s defensive, impatient behavior.

With the full Moon in Aries on the 10th, practice calmness to balance the diverse needs of the moment. The new moon on the 25th is an excellent time to set intentions to transform deep attachments, forgive old wounds, then swift progress toward healing can be made.

All this leads beautifully into the dramatic planetary lineup occurring on November 8th with the lunar eclipse in Taurus, 5:13 pm. The Sun, Chiron, Mars, the Moon, Saturn and Jupiter align in a six-pointed star during the powerful eclipse. This formation lays out the grid for the higher energies to penetrate lower consciousness and for collective consciousness to be integrated at a higher level. It exists as a seed point and a time of collective healing if we ask for it. Group meditation is highly beneficial and needed at this time.

The Twelve Opportunities:

Aries (Mar 20-Apr 19): This month gives you the opportunity to see how much you’ve grown as situations with family and relationship test your ability to stand back from immediate emotional reactions. You have the potential to build much more awareness about how you choose to create your life.

Taurus (Apr 20-May 20): Though at this time you work steadily, you have the desire for freedom, to wander and experience beauty and nature. You are moving toward transformations in relationships that can quickly move you into new places. Find stillness and courage.

Gemini (May 21-Jun 20): Creativity and risk taking bring a refocusing in your life, leading to working in a new way or change of job. The pressure of Saturn/Neptune polarity will increase scatteredness unless you make an effort to center yourself.

Cancer (Jun 21–Jul 21): A public role for you allows new consideration for who you are and what you choose to be responsible for. Focus on your creative expression will bring enjoyment and inspiration in unexpected ways.

Leo (Jul 22- Aug 22): This month calls for quality time to retreat and reconsider direction. You are engaged in learning and sharing your art and/or knowledge. Rearranging your home has the potential for bringing more intimacy into your life. Old issues drop away.

Virgo (Aug 23-Sep 22): Careful consideration of your relations and reaction to others brings insights into very old patterns. Holding back from initial responses will support moving into higher levels of consciousness and release old issues. Communication and expression is highlighted. Walk with no blame.

Libra (Sep 23-Oct 22): The Libran feels the call to retreat from their usual social world. It’s time to redefine your role out in the world, attending to your need for creative, contemplative expression, along with practical concerns. Pay attention to financial concerns, situations move quickly.

Scorpio (Oct 23-Nov 21): Relationships are highlighted and gives you the opportunity to clear your subconscious projections about the way things should be. There is a power now to bring harmony into many situations. What you feel will be expressed.

Sagittarius (Nov 22-Dec 20): There is a tremendous amount of energy expressing itself through family, home and in work. Something has been cleared in the family and there is forward movement. At the end of the month take solitude in order to clearly define what needs to be let go of, then let it go.

Capricorn (Dec 21- Jan 19): You are involved in a careful balancing act between work, home and your role with others. Saturn slows you down to reconsider yourself and your relationships. Be careful not to take on too much at this time.

Aquarius (Jan 20-Feb 17): Commitments and the urge for freedom for yourself edge up against each other. Someone very interesting enters your life. Set intentions for new life directions. New talents are unfolding.

Pisces (Feb 18-Mar 19): This is an opportunity to focus your expression. You may feel that it isn’t flowing the way you want. Be patient. It’s going deeper. You are changing, engaging life in new ways.

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.

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