Testing, testing…
The Saturn-sextile-Neptune theme this month revolves around life’s tests that reveal how closely (or not) our reality is integrated with our spiritual beliefs and/or principles. The positive relationship between Saturn in Capricorn (the physical world) and Neptune in Pisces (the spiritual world) encourages us to express both practical and idealistic concepts. Their sextile aspect reflects harmony and the belief that we CAN build a better, more-just world if we simply apply our higher principles humanely to the tangled situations before us, both in our individual lives and as a nation.
However, there is also a difficult square all month between self-righteous Jupiter in Sagittarius and inspiring Neptune. An example of this is the distain expressed by Republicans belittling the “socialist” and humanitarian proposals of Democratic presidential candidates, which they find “elite”, irrelevant, unrealistic, or scary.
Whether criticism comes from the left or the right, challenges will force decision-makers back to the drawing board for more sober reflection. Tightening their focus on the issues, correcting any unsubstantiated ideas or vague language, these creative thinkers (and Presidential candidates) can amplify their effectiveness by working authentically to mold their visions in-order-to restructure their personal lives, or our apparently-fragile democracy, into better-functioning models. This back-to-the-drawing-board approach will serve them well in the long-term.
Venus/Sun
Venus is the 2nd closest planet to the Sun and never separates from it by more than 45 degrees. This August Venus-conjunct-Sun in Leo will be within 4 degrees all month, which radiates a light-hearted Leo vibe into our lives until August 24th when the Sun enters Virgo, calling for more rational, down-to-earth thinking.
Social gatherings of good cheer should prevail and personal magnetism will be strong for the first 3 weeks of this month. Men appear more handsome, and women tend to attract potential mates more readily than usual. Enjoy this boon while it lasts! Both genders should feel more artistic this month as well. Have some fun in August because after the 24th autumn chores and responsibilities will begin to demand your attention.
First Week
The first week of August is mixed. Venus trine Chiron indicates a quest for inspiration and healing, plus a desire for variety and freedom of movement. Health may improve for some as well. Income ideas may arise, especially around beauty, possessions and pleasure, thanks to Venus, which squares Uranus, possibly instigating an impulsive, or upsetting, OR EXCITING love affair – one that probably won’t last. Women could also feel blocked by men in unconventional ways, such as from the abhorrent abortion bans that can seriously alter women’s life choices.
Second Week
August 7th looks like a break-through day when a positive Grand Trine/Kite formation forms between the karmic Nodes, thoughtful Saturn, penetrating Pluto, sensitive Neptune and deep-feeling Moon. This facilitates realizations that blend creative ideas with deeply-held beliefs. Groups can come together sensitively and cooperatively to achieve meaningful progress this month.
From August 11th to the 19th Mercury trines Chiron, combining intellect with high standards. This may inspire a desire to search for new horizons – mental or actual. Coincidentally, on the 12th lucky Jupiter goes direct the same day that eccentric Uranus turns retrograde, just to further mix things up.
Third Week
Radiant Sun conjunct Venus trines happy Jupiter, which trines feel-good Moon, which squares restrictive Saturn. There certainly can be “good times” with this combination, but the square to Saturn is the testing part and suggests that somebody may arrive too late, or otherwise cannot participate. Two days later on the 21st as Moon conjuncts Uranus, disruptive actions can be emotionally upsetting.
Fourth week
As August wraps up, a series of dominant T-squares to Neptune and Venus lead to further deception, confusion, disappointment and stress as summer’s fun fades and reality “grabs you by the —–”.
Trump’s Mars Return
On August 2nd, one month after the July 2nd solar eclipse, the Sun briefly conjuncts Trump’s Pluto at 10 degrees Leo, triggering the exact degree as that last eclipse, which was about “security issues”. Trump may start the month feeling empowered, but expect his behavior to become increasingly excessive and out-of-control as the month progresses. This is due to an on-going bombardment of Trump’s natal Mars by transiting planets all month. Starting on Aug 12th macho Mars returns to its natal position on Trump’s Ascendant (the impulse to act rashly and to bully others), pushing his ego energies over-the-top! His despicable actions invite outrage, as he attacks “the vulnerable” loudly, crudely, and in an authoritarian, racist, and misogynistic way. If you are not “with him”, WATCH OUT!
Venus activates his natal Mars (angry women) on the 18th; the egotistical Sun (boastingly) hits his Mars on the 19th, while chatty Mercury/Mars activates angry outbursts on the 27th. The Moon joins Trump’s natal Mars (self-pity) on the 29th. “The Donald” will invent many reasons to become enraged, lashing out repeatedly during this, his “Mars Return” month. Be glad you’re not a staffer in the White House!