A close encounter with the Solar Eclipse in Scorpio on 11/23…

Hi dear readers. I had a mental close encounter (deep thinker I am sometimes) of what this new moon eclipse in Scorpio means, and I came up with this in a nutshell:

Short, sweet, right to the point. I’ll just add a couple more things to dress this up:

• This new moon solar eclipse energy, that symbolizes taking action towards forming something new in our lives, is potent with the theme of change. And with the backdrop of Uranus (symbol of rebellion and unpredictability) in a tense alignment with Pluto (symbol of ending to begin anew) we are urged to transform some element or situation in our lives. We know what it is; I’m not going to be coy here. Nonetheless, we hold on to the status quo because we are afraid to take a leap of faith. Not a time for that now.
• One more thing. Because this eclipse is during a Mercury Retrograde, this is the time to chill out and reflect on what needs to transform, and how are we going to do it. Plant the mental seeds now, formulate a plan, and by mid-December it will probably be a good time to march forth into the land of, yes, unknown. But usually it is better than staying still in the land of unhappiness, stagnation, or death (in a figurative sense).

We all have the proverbial “fork in the road” now. Time to choose which way to go. Question: Do you feel change acomin’? What say you? Appreciate a post….

Contact me at Viktori Astrology Life Coach if you have any questions, comments, or just to say HI! Be Wise, Be Well!

Note to my subscribers: Sorry. You’ll be getting this post again. Please disregard the first one, some data was lost–which is typical of mercury retrograde 🙂

Jupiter in Gemini: the good, the bad, & the ugly

Ugh, when will it STOP!

Exhausted yet? From extra speed through the information highway to being misinformed about a tragic event, here are my close encounter headlines, in my opinion, that represent Jupiter (symbol of abundance, and making things bigger–for better or for worse) and Gemini (symbol of communications and short distance travel).  Halfway through this sojourn and…

The good:  the need for speed for our gadgets. Verizon doubles their internet speed to 300 mpbs/second, and cable companies band together to create CableWiFi.  We can connect with each other (or anything) from almost anywhere and faster!  Let’s not forget the iPhone 5 with 4g LTE speed.  Now I can talk to my cat, AND my phone!

The bad: speed racers and levitating airplane seats.  Anyone notice an uptick in negligent driving?   Moreover, my 88-year-old neighbor hit not 1 but 3 cars in my apartment parking lot.  Good old Jupiter always likes things to happen in a BIG way.  Glad the man didn’t get hurt.  Did you hear about the disconnected seats in 48 American Airlines’ jets?  This happened while one jet was in flight! Jupiter symbolizes recklessness as well.

The ugly: a parade of spin doctors and tricksters.  I have one word for this example:  Benghazi.  The terrorist attack (yes, that is what it was) of the US Consulate was fraught with misinformation.  There wasn’t any protest over an inconsiderate video.  Yet, we were we told otherwise.  People have been killed and the holes in the story gets bigger and bigger.  Jupiter also symbolizes reckless over-reaching.

Know and grow I say, so how do we handle the information overload that’s still to come for about the next 7 months?  Here’s a few pointers I found on WebMD:

1. Our concentration is zapped when we have too much information floating around in our head, and we get less work done. Try to avoid roaming thoughts and multi-tasking.  Make lists; write things down.  Avoid danger by talking on the cell without a bluetooth and texting.
2. Get some quiet time, or get stressed out.  If meditation is not for you, take a nap or just zone out on some relaxing music or a good book.  Turn off the phone and computer for a while and schedule times
   

   Ahhh, now this is what I’m talking about!

   to check emails.  If the call is unimportant, let it go to voicemail.  It’s ok to check out and refresh.  Some studies say you become more creative when you do.

And my suggestion…

1. When surfing the net for info, consider the source; even better, consider other sources.  Good research is not done in a day.  Besides, if the info you seek is important it probably is better to patiently read thoroughly one article at a time.

That’s it for now.  I report, you decide.  Are you feeling overloaded with info?  Share with me how you handle it.

If you want to read more about Jupiter in Gemini 2012-2013, visit Mood Swings on Viktori Astrology.

Close Encounters with the week of 7/16/12

Sadness at Century Theater

It is almost a month later. Ok, now I’m ready to have a close encounter with this glaring week. First, the astrological analysis…

I discussed in previous posts about the precarious astronomical event between Uranus and Pluto and how this alignment can be for good or ill. In case, dear readers, you have forgotten: Uranus symbolizes unpredictability, and since it’s transiting through Aries it could mean unpredictable aggression (Aries represents taking action). Pluto, on the other hand, symbolizes destruction to rebuild resulting in a transformation; and when transiting in Capricorn could mean gaining power over others through exposure to fear and imminent destruction.

During this week these two heavyweights formed the first exact square alignment (astro jargon for “energy tension” and we have 6 more to go). In addition, Mars in Libra joined this duet adding fuel to the fire by forming a T-square. T-squares can produce combustible unconscious energies in some people–especially those who are lost souls. Unfortunately, when these people get caught up in this energy all hell can break loose setting off some powerful disruptive shocking events…

• 7/17/12 – At a shooting rampage in a bar in Tuscaloosa a suspected gunman, identified as 44-year-old Nathan Van Wilkins, has been charged with 18 counts of attempted murder and other firearms offenses, (Tuscaloosa News)

• 7/19/12 – A medical technician was charged with spreading hepatitis C to 30 New Hampshire hospital heart patients by allegedly reusing syringes he stole to inject himself with a potent narcotic, the U.S. attorney announced this afternoon. (USA News Archives)

…and the most glaring event…

• 7/19/12 – A gunman clad in black SWAT gear came through an emergency door at a movie theater in Colorado early Friday, hurled two canisters of an unknown gas and opened fire on the stunned audience, killing at least 12 people and wounding 59 others who were watching the midnight premiere of a new Batman film. Police identified the suspected gunman as 24-year-old James Eagan Holmes….(Washington Post)

These atrocities symbolize the energies of the Uranus/Pluto combo at its worst. However, believe it or not, something good can become of this. But what could this be? Perhaps it is time for a transformation of how we handle dangerous borderline mental illness or personality disorders. Mark my word all three of the above people displayed abnormal characteristic behavior way before they acted out. Unfortunately, I believe people who knew them, who saw some signs, turned a blind eye and didn’t say a word. Sometimes we just don’t want to see; this is not good.

Take for instance James Eagan, who we are now learning could have schizophrenia which is an illness that can cause one to have a psychotic break with reality and hear voices. He was seeing a psychiatrist who was treating him for this disease; and now she is stating that she did warn the college threat-assement team of his dangerous mind. Why didn’t they take her seriously? They chose to ignore her; a very unfortunate choice indeed.

You see sometimes senseless destruction of this magnitude has to happen to then give birth to new ways of thinking or handling situations. Kind of like the Phoenix rising from the ashes. This is the positive energy that comes out of the Uranus/Pluto combo: destroy out-dated thinking, methods, ideals, etc., through shocking events.

My sympathies go out to the victims of all of the above cases. I hope these events are lessons we can learn from and begin to heed the warnings. Those who remain blind just refuse to see.

BE WISE, BE WELL!

Victoria is not only the founder of ViktoriAstrology.com, but also has a Masters in Forensic Psychology and has worked with mentally ill offenders and youthful offenders.

News Alert! Happy Mother’s Day..Mother Earth!!

I Love Mommy Earth!

Greetings! Your friendly close encounters correspondent is a little late posting about Earth Day, which was April 22, 2012, but I have been totally immersed in publishing for ViktoriAstrology.Com. You see, my job is to also keep people enlightened and empowered by giving them insights about the energies that surround us each month. Anyway, moving right along….

But why should I feel that I’m late writing about Mother Earth? Should we only recognize her on Earth Day? I think not–especially since we are inhabiting and enjoying her every living moment of our lives.

So, here’s my ode to Mother Earth especially since we will be approaching an Earth Grand Trine this weekend. A Grand Trine, in astrology, is when three planets are in harmonious sync with each other thereby allowing us to take advantage of some very opportune moments indeed. The players in this Grand Trine are the Earth signs: Mars in Virgo, Jupiter in Taurus, and Pluto in Capricorn. In honor of our great planet, I’ll interpret this abundance of energy as follows:

• Mars in Virgo: Since Mars symbolizes our assertive energy and Virgo symbolizes staying healthy let’s push information about how healthy it is for us to include nutritional goodies our Mommy Earth has given us, like our yummy fruits and vegetables, in our diets. And what about our water and air? If that’s not clean (Virgo also symbolizes “cleanliness”), we can’t stay healthy.
• Jupiter in Taurus: Jupiter represents all forms of growth and Taurus symbolizes appreciation of beauty. Take a break and smell the flowers that grow on our planet. Nurture and appreciate nature, and all of its creatures big and small. These are the miracles born from Mommy Earth!
• Pluto in Capricorn: Pluto represents change as a result of getting rid of all that which is no longer necessary for further development–like anything that’s toxic on our beloved planet. Being in Capricorn, which is the sign of responsibility, hopefully we will continuously strive to preserve a holistic organic lifestyle. I definitely taste the difference when I munch on some organic meats and vegetables. Why are we munching on hormones? How did we get so irresponsible?

So, Happy Mother’s Day Mother Earth; and to all of you mommies be wise and be well. Happy Mommy Day!!

Any comments about how we can appreciate our planet? Please post….

News Alert! Supreme Court, Obamacare, and Mars Retrograde

Oh boy. Not even our President can escape the lessons of Mars retrograde which is to avoid inadvertent transgressions towards others while it is in effect. His assertive blunder against the Supreme Court Justices was a perfect example of a big no, no when this energy is in play….

“I’m confident that the Supreme Court will not take what would be an unprecedented, extraordinary step of overturning a law that was passed by a strong majority of a democratically elected Congress,” President Obama

Ooops! Your humble close encounters correspondent will explain why this is a faux pas…

In astrology, Mars symbolizes our assertiveness and our will to take action. When it is retrograde, (which means from our vantage point on earth it appears to be traveling backwards because earth is orbiting faster around the sun) the energy promotes looking before leaping into assertive actions. It behooves us to be hesitant and examine our impulses before acting upon them.

This could be why the President’s quick criticism (retro mars is in Virgo, the sign of the critic) of the Supreme Court resulted in backlash….

• According to Jeffrey T. Kuhner of the Washington Times: “Mr. Obama’s comments are false. It would not be “unprecedented” or “extraordinary” if the Supreme Court overturns Obamacare. For more than 200 years, the high court has struck down countless laws passed by Congress or state legislatures…”

• After many legal scholars were shocked over the President’s remarks, Attorney Gen. Holder had to show humility by telling a federal appeals court that President Obama respects the Supreme Court’s power to rule on the constitutionality of the nation’s laws.

You know what, I also find it uncanny that reviewing the details of a law that can have profound and far-reaching effects on our healthcare system is happening now. Retrograde means “to go back”; and Virgo symbolizes health.

Well my fellow constituents, I will end with the lesson of Mars retrograde with this: Basically, when you are feeling angry, or frustrated because you are not getting your way, before you lash out, take five, and ask yourself why the anger, or why the attack. The aggressor rarely wins during a mars retrograde. Remember, the more we know and understand the energies that surround us, the wiser we will be. So… be wise, we well! At least this retro will be over on April 14th.

Anyone experiencing an inadvertent attack or criticism from someone since mid-January? How did you handle unnecessary criticism? Your comments are welcomed.

Visit ViktoriAstrology for more insightful content. Peace!

Close Encounters News Alert! Oh no..too much Aries energy!

Wow! Last week was like “sudden impact” due to the plethora of Aries energy: New moon, Uranus, Mercury (retrograde no less), and the Sun was all in this snap, crackle, pop sign. No offense my Aries buddies, but when there is too much of a good thing…well, it’s not good anymore. Too much of this type of energy, if used unwisely, can lead to our exposure to rash, dangerous behavior. Then we might feel vulnerable like our pal Mr. Bill…oohh, noo!

Yes, a little humor is good amid the negative vibes of last week…..

• The very unfortunate Trayvon Martin case. Everyone needs to help cool this thing down. Why? A premature arrest could have a legal technicality rendering a not guilty verdict when impetuous Mr. Zimmerman goes to trial. Then what? Can you imagine how the crowd will react if this occurs. Best to calm down and allow the legal process to proceed. It’s not the best system and it’s not flawless. Look at Casey Anthony? Anyway, it’s all we have.
• Mohamed Merah terrorist horror in France. All of a sudden he was swept away by his “dark passenger” and decided to execute people, including children no less. I wrote about Uranus in Aries in my “The Costa Concordia Disaster” post (see recent posts). However, this is the worse I have seen because this involves children!
• My personal close encounter with two cyclist of the cycling club that I’m a member of. It’s very sad to mention that those two members collapsed and died suddenly while cycling last week. Hindsight is 20/20 but perhaps these two gentlemen rushed to take a ride that they didn’t train enough for, or was not healthy enough to do. Sad indeed.

Dear readers, please take note of the common thread running through each event: uncontrollable emotions which led to unpredictable, sudden behavior without forethought. Try not to fall into this trap.

Instead embrace the positive mood of all this abundance of Aries energy: sudden inspiration followed by plans to make your dreams a reality!
Does anyone have anything inspirational they would like to share? Please post! We could all use something inspiring now anyway…

Know what’s happening to you and around you….be wise, be well!

The hidden enemy – 12th house and the demise of a song bird.

“I can be my best friend and my worse enemy…..”. (Whitney Houston)

A month later, I finally had my AHA close encounter moment when I remembered her saying that to Diane Sawyer.

I immediately knew that I was witnessing Whitney Houston’s inability to deal with her 12th house. I was right. Let me explain….

Astrology can be used to gain profound insights into both our positive and negative characteristics within our personality. What strengths or weaknesses does one have? When an astrological birth chart is created and interpreted, we can glean what area(s) of life these themes can play out and hopefully evolve. These areas of life experiences are called Houses in astrology lingo (there are 12 houses/life experiences).

The 12th house represents our hidden talents and hidden self-destructive tendencies. You’re familiar with the picture of the imaginary guardian angel and the devil sitting on either side your shoulders, right? The 12^th house symbolizes inherent hidden gifts (angel) we use to go beyond ourselves to serve society; and our hidden fears of these gifts. If we choose to fear them, we might fall into the abyss of self-destruction and despair (demons). Whitney, unfortunately did this.

Whitney was born with Saturn (represents responsibly learning life lessons) in her 12^th house. Her lesson: to go beyond her ego and serve society through her gracious talent. You see, lifting up the masses with her astounding voice and powerful energy without giving a damn about failing was the responsibility she was to bear. However, being a Leo with relentless ego could not withstand the pressure of failure. As soon as she envisioned herself falling off the pedestal, she would become her own worst enemy. At that point escaping her hidden demons was necessary; she couldn’t tolerate listening to the voice telling her, “you are not good enough”. And what better way to escape–just constantly live in a drugged-out state.

Kevin Costner knew about her dilemma, for he quoted at her funeral, “She had a lot of doubt..It made her great, but yet made her stumble in the end.”

Of course she had an abundant amount of positive energy in her birth chart. However, that goes beyond the scope of this post which is to give a general astrological understanding about how one can become their own worst enemy. And it is through examining the 12^th house to understand how we can avoid that.

We all have our own ways of embracing our hidden talents, while also realizing what can trip us up. And you know what, this is the real goal of astrology to me: to gain further insight into our character to enable us to live more wisely and well right here on Earth. The choice is ours, and it’s wonderful that we can have a better understanding of how to choose. Did you ever have close encounters with your hidden talents and/or enemy? What planets/signs are on your 12th house? Comments and/or questions are welcome. Or you can contact me at Victoria@ViktoriAstrology.com.

BE WISE, BE WELL….

For monthly insights, and the story for each sign, visit www.ViktoriAstrology.com

Uranus in Aries reared its ugly head – The Costa Concordia Disaster

...her last voyage

Uranus travelling through the constellation of Aries has been the talk among astrologers due to its tendency to sometimes have grave impacts.    Ever since this astrological phenomenon started sometime last year, I too have personally witness its negative impact:   an increase in reckless driving (what happened to using directional signals?), witnessing people having angrier outburst, rude emails, etc.    Unfortunately, my list can go on.    Nevertheless, for you astrology newbies let me explain why some of this, I believe, is occurring.

Aries represents, among other things, spontaneous, ego-centric energy.  In its most negative state we witness the following:  people choosing to display inconsiderate imprudent behavior.    Moreover, Uranus negative energy can represent shocking rebellious behavior that could lead to lack of common sense, and adhering to one’s opinion while trying to force it onto others.

I could go on, but I think you get the picture.   Moving along to the Costa Concordia and Captain Schettino.

According to CNN…”It also has been widely suggested Schettino may have been “showboating” when he sailed the luxury cruise liner so close to the island of Giglio, where submerged rocks the hull…Schettino came close to Giglio to salute Mario Palombo (a Costa Cruise commander), and as a gesture to the only native on board (the ship), chief steward Antonello Tievoli”

Is this not a foolhardy attempt to attain prestige?

He could have chosen another course of action (no pun intended) if he wanted his 15 minutes of fame.

First:  Forget the saluting thing…that was totally ridiculous.

Second:   Although an admirable gesture towards his chief steward (Antonello) who was a the only native of the beautiful island of Giglio, it lacked forethought and common sense due to Captain Schetinno’s intractable ego.  He could have told the officer to alert his family because they will be passing the island shortly, giving his family time to get to the docking area to see the ship passing by.  Pictures could have been taken, and Antonello could have called them from his cell phone while looking out towards the island (“hi all I can see my beautiful home from the Concordia!”).

I believe this would have had the same endearing effect for Antonello, and it would have been safe for everyone on board.   My alternative plan is the positive use of the Uranus/Aries combined energy: to motivate oneself (Aries) to be intellectually creative, and show others how to do things, while keeping in mind what’s best for the group (Uranus).

Unfortunately, Schettino chose to embrace the negative energy.

A captain in deep trouble....

Let us be mindful of this tragic lesson, and avoid this kind of impetuous behavior ourselves.

Comments, thoughts?  Please post.

When too much of a good thing goes very bad…the James Ray Story and the Sweat Lodge Ceremony Deaths…

James “Self-Help Guru” Ray at trial

I just don’t get it.   How can someone who wants to motivate and bring out the best in people, literally destroy them instead by leading them to their death?

I remember hearing about the deaths of the 3 people in the make shift sweat lodge a couple of years ago in Arizona.  I thought to myself how and why would people do that (expose themselves to unbearable dangerous heat).    Then I learned that it was part of a spiritual retreat that was led by a man who guaranteed that the participants will achieve the ultimate spiritual experience.   This is just crazy!  In order to achieve personal and/or spiritual growth, there must be danger?!  I immediately erased the story from my thoughts  because I was so appalled by it.  The story recessed further into my mind—until recently.

Not too long ago, I watched on the news a man receiving a prison sentence for negligent homicide for the Sweat Lodge deaths.   As I was watching the story, it starting coming back to me.  Again, I was horrified.  But this time I heard the name of the person who had the ability to convince these 3 people to participate in such danger.  His name: James Ray.   But who the hell is that!   No doubt, my curiosity led me to research.

Then I was alarmed when I found out.  He was on Oprah promoting the book, The Secrets, because he was the main speaker in the documentary.     Jeez!!   I watched The Secrets a while ago when it was in vogue, and I now recall this very charismatic speaker.  His motivational dialogue about ridding oneself of negative thinking was appealing and made a lot of sense to me.   After realizing who he was I became angry, and disappointed.  Why would this positive person with this uplifting dialogue be so irresponsible with his charismatic skills?

The obvious is simple: money.    After more research,  I found out he wanted to become the first self-help billionaire.   In effect, the people who died paid approximately $10,000 to be led to their untimely death!  In fact, around 60 people—all who paid around $10,000–attended this horror show for spiritual growth.  Some of whom, due to the dangerous heat, sustained injuries as well.

Why am I writing about this you may ask?  Because each sign has positive and negative attributes.  We of course have the choice to bring out the best, or the worse, of what we are born with.   You see, when Mr. Ray was born his birth chart (which lists the planetary lineup at the time of his birth) displays a plethora of Sagittarian energy, or should I say, attitude.  The foremost positive trait of Sagittarius is aiming for astounding heights; to transcend boundaries with open-mindedness and share this expansion with others.   Sagittarius represents the teacher of truth who will impart upon us positive knowledge and ideals.

Unfortunately, James Ray’s greed led him to adopt the negative attitude of Sagittarius which is extreme expansion and pushing the envelope to the point of careless recklessness.   No matter how boundless we feel, we should be responsible enough to incorporate boundaries.   His laissez faire attitude towards his unrestricted power led to danger and death.    No doubt his ego became way  too expansive for me.  Check this out:

James Ray Audio as presented by the prosecution: “I am God. If you talk to God for any reason, you immediately die… It’s an experience that, I promise you, might very well be one of the most difficult things you’ve ever done with me, if not in your entire life.” (My FoxPhenix.com)

How sad….not for him, but for the 3 people who trusted his insane idealism that lead to their demise.

We all have free will to decide which road to choose no matter what sign we are.  Mr. Ray, because of greed, misused his astounding charismatic skill.  He transcended right into a jail cell, and will have to live with the horror of his misuse of power until the day he dies.

Any comments?  How do you feel about this?  Post if you like.

Les Miserable American Style?….Hell, I hope not.

A few days ago I was chatting with a neighbor who was versed in astrology.  Here’s the chat:

Neighbor: “What do you think will happen in 2012?

Me: “I have no idea, but I’m not worried about it….did you see what is happening down on Wall Street, and all over the world?  That reflects what Uranus and Pluto represent.”

Neighbor: “URANUS! That’s bad!!!”

Me: “Well…maybe it is, and maybe it isn’t.

Without a doubt, the disgruntled OWS (Occupy Wall Street) protesters are an example of the actions symbolized by Uranus in Aries and Pluto in Capricorn–two astrological phenomena that are simultaneously occurring now.   Oh, baby this planetary combo can be unfavorable indeed.   However, nothing is static.   I believe out of any challenge there’s opportunity for growth and new beginnings.

Astrologers are being watchful of the apparent actions represented by this combination.  They are analyzing the mix to surmise a possible outcome—or event.   And it appears that the revolutionary,
victimized, angry behavior, exhibited by the OWS, is the outcome of the combined symbolism of Uranus in Aries and Pluto in Capricorn.   Let me explain…..

Uranus in Aries represents sudden social upheaval that precipitates an uprising of individual rights and expression that challenges society’s rules, conventions, and authority.  The emphasis is on removing the shackles that have been imposed upon the individual for far too long—at least this is what is perceived.   The OWS protesters probably feel like David fighting Goliath.   According to astrologer Skye Alexander, the last time Uranus made a trip through the Aries constellation (1927 – 1935) WWII was happening, and the US and Europe were in the midst of economic turmoil.
Sounds familiar?

Pluto in Capricorn, on the other hand, symbolizes power and the miss-use of power by the outer authority; and the collapse of said authority.  The air is tense, and there’s an undercurrent of feeling fearful of  the powers greater than the self.  Perceived victimization perhaps?

It all looks grim, but maybe not. Why?  Because perhaps some of the OWS protesters (and all of us as well) will  look within and acknowledge our very own self-imposed traps that holds us back. We can break our inner shackles, and grasp our healthy inner power (become empowered…the slogan of Viktori Astrology).  With wisdom and courage, we can all (me too!) strive to do this in order to sustain a healthier way to live– instead of casting blame, and projecting anger and fear.

Your thoughts are welcome on this topic.   Share if you dare.  Post you later….BE WISE, BE WELL!