Alacazem: Astrology & Metaphysics

Alacazem           by Cynthia Zehm       March 7 to 14, 2013

                 Visible Planets:Morning: Saturn  Evening: Jupiter 

  The Pisces New Moon alpha and Omega: Surrender and Let Go

Sometimes I have a hard time letting go. Whether it is a many-years-old birthday card from my no-longer-here-on-Earth Mother, written in her distinctive cursive script, or a stack of yellowed Telluride Times newspapers containing some of my first and oldest astrology columns, I find it difficult to throw them in the fire or take them to the dump.

I live in the human world of form and structure, emotion, sentiment and sensation. I can see, hear, touch and feel. I have watched my physical body change over time; pounds gained and lost, a wrinkle here and there, sun-spots on my once model-perfect hands, my naturally blonde hair slowly morphing to white. Whatever the manifestation, I am aware that life is an ever-changing constant - nothing stays the same - and just like rafting the river, I must go with the flow.

This week we approach the end of our last lunar cycle and embark upon the last new Moon of the natural astrological year. And, as always, as we move through the last sign of the tropical zodiac, the last month of winter, we pay homage to Pisces – the alpha and Omega, the end and the beginning – and we must surrender and let go. Pisces calls upon us to transcend our three dimensional realities, drop the ego and merge with the all-pervasive oneness of spirit. It is here we can imagine and fantasize, travel through time, dream and create. Pisces takes us into transpersonal territory, far beyond logic and the limits of the rational mind. It is here we see magnificence and experience magic, swim in the amniotic waters of the cosmos, dive in to the depths of all possibility and illuminate the mysteries of heart and soul. Mysticism and quantum physics join force in this realm, nothing is solid, but rather an amorphous cloud of intention and desire, hope and faith.

In psychological terms, Pisces represents the collective unconscious, the archetypal and primordial realms of spirit, dreams and dream-states, as well as the full range of human emotions, from madness to ecstasy. Neptune, the modern planetary ruler of Pisces and the mythic God of the Sea, provides an excellent metaphor for the fluid, ethereal energy of the zodiac’s twelfth and final sign. Like a drop of water, we eternally emerge and merge, dissolve and separate, freeze and melt, flow and evaporate. Oceans, like emotions, are calm, stormy and everything in between, constantly changing. Feelings ebb and flow. Grief and joy come in waves. We are often lost at sea. And when the fog rolls in, we must navigate with intuition.

So as the March 11^th Pisces new Moon rolls in, take time to relax and let go. Check your ego at the door and join the party of One. Get down on your knees, surrender and pray. Count your blessings, see the beauty in and all around you. Plant your dream seeds in the fertile embryonic soil of the cosmic womb. And then prepare for rebirth. Spring equinox is just around the corner – March 20^th – when we will need all the strength and courage we can gather. But for now, take a deep breath and go with the flow. May the Force be with you.

Aries (Mar. 20-Apr.19) Take a deep breath and be sure to exhale! Letting go of the past, living vibrantly in the present and moving forward one day at a time is the only way to go. In synch with the Universe, laughter and gratitude are essential tools for good health – body, mind and spirit. The Pisces new Moon encourages spiritual wellness. Say your prayers, count your blessings.

Taurus (Apr. 20-May 20) As the last zodiac month of the natural year draws to a close, take a good look around you. Projects and passions abound. Seeds for actual and metaphorical gardens blossom and ideas for making your life and environment a more beautiful, aesthetically enriching experience are everywhere. And what better person than you – Mother Earth's natural born artisit – to do it? Yes!

Gemini (May 21-June 21) You may find yourself thinking of aspirations, goals and fairy tale dreams as Mercury retrograde and seven planets in Pisces dance in the mystical, creative magic of fantasy and imagination. Surrender to the process and see what comes. Relax in the abundance of your multi-faceted self as you recognize each talent as a gift to share. Give with patience, share with joy.

Cancer (June 21-July 22) The Pisces new Moon offers Moonchildren exceptional opportunities for profound insights, deep healing and major shifts in consciousness. Taking place in your solar 9^th house of higher mind and higher self, the cosmic door opens wide for those willing to travel beyond the physical limits of conventional 3D reality. Open your mind, explore and discover.

Leo (July 23-Aug.22) The Sun and Moon come together in late Pisces this week, giving birth to the final new Moon and last lunar cycle of the celestial year. Filled with emotion and imagination, fantasy, ecstasy and dreams, this Neptunian lunation provides the Lion with the passion, seduction and desire necessary to transcend mundane reality and fly high. Pack a parachute.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sep.22) Insanity and madness, divinity and ecstasy, transcendence, altered states, dreams and imagination are all Piscean realms. It is here boundaries, identities, forms and structures dissolve into One. We recognize the primordial essence of who and what we are, particles and pieces of the same cosmic stuff. Let go of delineation, discrimination and distinction. Relax.

Libra (Sep. 23-Oct. 22) The numinous waters of ethereal Pisces wash spirit with light and self with sensation as you feel the emotional heart of the collective soul. Wandering through the forests of past lives and present life you see the shimmer and shine of future hopes and possibilities. Intention and desire are powerful tools of manifestation. Clarify motives and purify intentions.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 22) Zodiac Pisces gives birth to last new Moon and final lunar month of the natural astrological year. Spring glistens on the luminescent horizon of the ever-turning seasonal wheel. Take advantage of this very fortuitous time of year and turn inward, feel your heart and soul. Buried treasure lies within, seek it. The gold of spirit is eternal and everlasting. Dig deep.

Sagittarius (Nov. 23-Dec. 20) Pisces, the 12^th and final sign on the celestial wheel, represents the return to the Source. It is the rich amniotic fluid of gestation, the primal point of impending rebirth, where God and spirit are One. Tap into the boundless creative power of Mother Nature, Father Sky and the Great Spirit. You are one and the same as all Creation. Live free, let go of fear and fly high.

Capricorn (Dec. 21-Jan. 19) The Pisces zodiac month opens doors to the luminous, amorphous celestial realms of primordial essence and cosmic consciousness. As one who lives and thrives in the physical, earth-centered world of focus, action and manifestation, this energetic can feel insane. But creation is your game and you understand how it all works. Set intentions, plant the seeds.

Aquarius (Jan. 19-Feb. 18) Cosmos and spirit dance in the creative game of life and death, birth and rebirth. And, now, as your birthday year waxes into its second solar month, it is time to join the dance and co-create. Accepting responsibility for the condition of your life, relationships, situation and circumstances is an awesomely powerful act. Happiness is an inside job. Success is what you make it. It’s up to you.

Pisces (Feb. 18-Mar. 20) Soul and spirit unite in the advent of this week’s Pisces new Moon. Tap into the awesome power of the celestial realms as the universe presents you with fertile cosmic soil in which to plant the seeds of your personal hopes and dreams. Examine thoughts, feel desires and identify intentions as you prepare the earth and plan the garden. Blessings and good luck.

Alacazem         by Cynthia Zehm    February 28 to March 7, 2013

                  Visible Planets: Morning: Saturn  Evening: Jupiter 

   "As Above, So Below"- Hermes Trismegistus, The Emerald Tablet 

Now that Mercury has gone retrograde [Feb.23-Mar.17], I can forgive myself for missing my self-imposed Thursday night deadline for posting Alacazem on Telluride Inside and Out, as well as my own alacazem.com website.

Funny how astrology works. It seems to give us a synchronistic and uncannily resonant justification for events, situations and circumstances around the world – things that appear to have no direct connection or relationship to us personally – as well as those very personal experiences, emotions and events that take place within our individual hearts and homes. Mystical, metaphysical and mysterious - “as above, so below” - the ancient astrological dictum.

Years ago, a very bright student and budding professional astrologer asked me how I wrote my weekly columns. She was toying with the idea of writing one herself and couldn’t quite figure out where to start. I quickly responded.

“I simply take one significant astrological event of any given week - the retrograde station of Mercury, a new or full Moon, the entrance of a planet into a new sign or a major planetary aspect – and focus on that as it constellates through each sign of the zodiac. It’s easy.”

“Really?” She looked a little baffled. “That’s it?” “Yeah," I answered. "That's it."

Mercury retrograde is an ancient and time-honored astrological phenomenon, and by no doubt the one made most popular in the hallowed halls of pop-astrology. Many people in the western world – and certainly all of those who follow Sun-sign astrology - are familiar with the term. One of my best cowboy buddies even bought a little Mercury retrograde calendar card to put in his wallet so he had advance warning of what he had identified as “rather challenging celestial times.”

I think of astrology as a combination of Mother Earth’s natural seasonal cycles, cosmic electromagnetism, quantum physics, mythological folklore and ancient metaphysical wisdom. The planet Mercury was identified in antiquity as the god of commerce and communication - including divination, medicine and magic - travelers, tricksters and thieves. He was also the guide of souls to the underworld. When Mercury is retrograde, remember the prefix “re” and use it as often as possible. Relax, review, revision and rethink. Regenerate, recharge, return and repeat. These periods actual favor wrapping up what we’ve started, returning to places and spaces that require a second or third look and – perhaps most importantly - reminding ourselves to slow down, take a deep breath and appreciate the magnificently magical world surrounding us.

p.s. Planet Saturn - the serious disciplinarian and Master Teacher of the heavens - is also retrograde [now until early July] - but that's another story for another day, another week...and in the meantime, relax!

Aries (Mar. 20-Apr.19) The station retrograde of Mercury in numinous Pisces kicks in as a few ghosts from the past come back to remind you of where you’ve been and how you arrived at where you are today. Healthy, happy, living and thriving is the place to be. Banish fear via faith in truth, integrity and virtue. Make living amends as you embrace the goodness within. Be here now.

Taurus (Apr. 20-May 20) Serious Saturn and mental Mercury retrograde may feel like a period of deja vu. You are standing still and moving forward simultaneously. The universe favors focus on existing relationships and the issues you may have avoided or postponed in the past. The time is now. Rekindle, revise and reinvent. Work on what has been started rather than starting anew.

Gemini (May 21-June 21) Mercury retrograde periods are fabulous for the multi-talented, multi-faceted Twins, as they provide these often-restless spirits a chance to rest, relax and catch up on much-needed sleep. Take an inventory of your ambition and the projects you have created in your mind. Determine how many are realistic. Prune the bush and, remember, for fast relief, slow down.

Cancer (June 21-July 22) With so many planets in watery Pisces, you may feel oceans of emotions splashing upon the shores of your body, mind and spirit. Naturally attuned to the rhythm of the seas, the rising tides and fluctuating lunar phases, you are comfortable with feelings. Dive to the depths of psychic impressions and intuition. Relax and surrender. Accept what comes.

Leo (July 23-Aug.22) Is it March that comes in like a lion? Yes. Embrace the raging tides of change that lap upon the shores of waking consciousness and shift the subconscious sands of sleep. Surrender your desire to control the cosmos, let go and let God. Relax rigidity, look within and discover the jewel of inner peace. Seek uplifting spiritual teachings and follow the light.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sep.22) The recent full Moon illuminated issues of self and others, sharing and pairing. Now, it’s time to let the luminous waters of experience wash over you, body and soul. Swim in the light of wisdom and honor the truth within. Tap into your own personal reservoir of self-knowledge and do what is right for you. It’s the best thing you can do for the world.

Libra (Sep. 23-Oct. 22) You may feel more reticent and introspective than usual, less social or willing to entertain, showboat or perform. Take a well-deserved break from being “on” and focus on the art of self-nurturing. Saturn retrograde in Scorpio puts focus on the deep inner work necessary to realign your life with your core essential values. Relax, refresh and recharge the spirit.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 22) Master Teacher Saturn is now retrograde in Scorpio and will remain so until early July. This presents you with a prolonged period of self-review and self-appraisal, when you are actually focused and attentive to the deep inner voices of heart and soul. Relax in the process, trust your intuition and know that the answers lie within. Good luck and God bless.

Sagittarius (Nov. 23-Dec. 20) Pisces, the final sign of the celestial wheel, constellates the last month of winter, when restless spirits rumble to escape the traps of cabin fever. As usual, the Archer loves the journey; exploration and discovery are your middle names. This season, however, you may find yourself taking care of business and attending to responsibility. Work now and play later.

Capricorn (Dec. 21-Jan. 19) A feeling of stasis may emerge as ruler Saturn retrograde in Scorpio redefines and redirects the focus of your hopes and dreams. Inspiration is an elusive muse, found in the most unexpected places. When she’s gone, she’s gone for good reason. Cultivate inner peace via acceptance and patience as you nurture your innate creative imagination. Relax.

Aquarius (Jan. 19-Feb. 18) With 60% of the planets in water signs, including Saturn and Mercury retrograde, you may feel submerged in a sea of confusion or dysfunction. Why can’t people work efficiently and effectively, take pride in a job well done? You’d think with all our technology things would be better, not worse! Maybe not. Don’t empower negativity; it will only bring you down.

Pisces (Feb. 18-Mar. 20) Water signs rule as oceans of emotion roll across the ethers in the shape of incidents, experience and circumstance. You may find yourself being called upon to make sense of the confusion and disarray found in every crack and crevice of our reigning 3D reality. But politics, economics and religions make no sense. Of course, you know life is a mystery. Do your best.

Alacazem           by Cynthia Zehm       February 21 to 28, 2013

           Visible Planets: Morning: Saturn  Evening: Mercury, Jupiter 

       The Luminous, Numinous Virgo/Pisces Full Moon

Full Moons bring light to dark. They illuminate what has been hidden or flying beneath the radar of our awareness. Often deep issues of self and soul emerge as we look into the chasm of our experiences, circumstances and relationships. Somehow, we can see better, break through illusionary fear and doubt and clarify the real problems, the ones that we can actually do something about. Solutions come via self-truth and honesty, courage and the open-hearted willingness to accept what we see.

Every full Moon delivers the power and potential for enlightenment. The areas of illumination come in the energetic imperatives of the two opposing zodiac signs of each lunation. Our most recent Jan. 26^th full Moon took place in Leo/Aquarius, shining light on issues of personal ego vs. collective will. We were asked to balance our individual passions and desires [Leo] with those of the greater whole, i.e. humanity [Aquarius], in all its colors, shapes and sizes. Friends and groups, shared hopes and dreams danced with images of our own special uniqueness. A sense of camaraderie and fellowship was in the air. Perhaps you found yourself gravitating toward places of connectedness and interaction, wanting to be with people whom you felt a kinship or common bond. Maybe you felt the desire to give more of your creative self and spirit to the world and universe.

If you were recently awakened to seeing yourself as an integral and important part of the whole, affecting the actual evolution of humanity and the planet, congratulations! You’re in synch with the cosmos! Leo/Aquarius wants us to recognize how individually important we are to big picture, and give it our best, for the good of all concerned…

And now, it’s on to the full Moon of Feb. 25^th in the Virgo/Pisces polarity. This is when and where the individual ego [Leo] evolves to a place of [Virgo] service via self-betterment. Hubris and vanity dissolve into the ethers of humility as we acknowledge the divinity and grace of virtue. Being healthy, helpful and assistful have more value than being the life of the party or the belle of the ball. It is here that we see deeply into our own self-essence, identify what needs bolstering or improvement, self-nurturing and self-care. Virgo is a process of purification and refinement, practice in perpetuity and the focus on progress rather than perfection. And please take note: This is important! Perfection is a Virgo ideal and it can be a dangerous, life-threatening Virgo trap. That’s where Pisces comes in.

Pisces, the last and therefore most spiritually evolved sign of the tropical zodiac, constellates as the grand finale on the celestial wheel. It is the place where all things merge into One…the alpha and the Omega, the end and the beginning, the proverbial heaven and earth place. It’s the point when and where we are out-of-body, in synch with the universe, enlightened, formless and free. Pisces is where and when we turn it over, let go and let God, go with the flow, cultivate faith and accept ourselves and others exactly as we are - divine work in progress.

The gift and opportunity of this full Moon is to see and experience the eternal connection between earthy Virgo matter [mater, Mother] and numinous Pisces spirit [God, the Cosmos, Creation], and then embrace it. Discernment, analysis, assessment and critical examinations are tools in the Virgo function of working to make the world a better, healthier place in which to live and thrive. Acceptance, compassion, forgiveness and surrender are found in the Pisces toolbox. Themes are relationships and feelings of being either a victim or saviour, the real vs. the ideal and the critic vs. the creator. Both signs join hands in the grace of humility and the ultimate integrity of spirit.

May you walk in beauty, live in gratitude and dance under the light of the numinous, luminous Pisces/Virgo full Moon.

Aries (Mar. 20-Apr.19) Emotional sobriety is a theme as the Moon in virginal Virgo opposes the Sun in compassionate Pisces. Balance feelings with facts and refrain from any and all impulsive acts. Examine the habit of making assumptions, and recognize how it works against you. Stay in the present, focus on what you are doing and let the future take care of itself. Be here now.

Taurus (Apr. 20-May 20) Mental Mercury goes retrograde and remains so until mid-March. Welcome the opportunity to review, rethink and reassess your feelings over the last few months. Identify particular habits and behaviors that work against your own happiness, health and well-being. If others are involved, look at your part and improve it. After all, you’re in charge.

Gemini (May 21-June 21) This week’s Feb. 25^th full Moon lunation heralds a major point of reckoning and recognition for the Twins. A powerful planetary line-up in empathethic Pisces amplifies intuition, emotion and compassion, while Jupiter in Gemini prompts questions regarding fundamental beliefs. Truth is relative and information is not knowledge. Cultivate balance.

Cancer (June 21-July 22) Rivers of feelings and oceans of emotion ebb and flow as the Virgo full Moon comes to fruition and mental Mercury goes retrograde in watery Pisces. This translates as a prolonged and favorable period to get in touch with feelings, identify fear-based behaviors and cultivate faith in the face of adversity. Practice acceptance and harvest the wisdom of experience.

Leo (July 23-Aug.22) Full Moons bring light to dark and illuminate what has been flying below the radar of awareness. As courageous kings and queens of the zodiac, cultivate strength of heart and the integrity of spirit as you examine the layers of conditioning imposed upon us all by parents, religion, culture, race and ethnicity. Sift the truth, stand up and live by it. Lead by example.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sep.22) Major shifts of emotion and consciousness arise as you feel yourself turning upon the proverbial cosmic wheel. You are halfway through your annual journey around the Sun, entering the second half of your solar year. This heralds a time of connecting, interacting, sharing and pairing. Embrace the art of relationship. Be the partner you want to have.

Libra (Sep. 23-Oct. 22) Numinous Pisces rules this week as a posse of planets align in the sign most noted for compassion, surrender, forgiveness and transcendence. Soul and spirit unite in a dance of divine grace, pulling you toward the deep inner work that ultimately liberates and enlightens. Tap into angelic presence via silence, solitude, meditation and prayer. Cultivate peace, inside and out.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 22) Friends and lovers, lovers and friends. Great inspiration surrounds you in the shape of friendship and fellowship, brotherhood and sisterhood. Get out and discover the people and places that kindle a sense of heart, ignite passion and encourage creativity. You have unique and special gifts to give the world, explore avenues of stimulation and options of expression.

Sagittarius (Nov. 23-Dec. 20) A strong punch of Pisces power delivers a week of major awakenings regarding your personal sense of physical security and emotional sobriety. Family of origin, domestic environment and issues of nurturing emerge in a dance of who, what and where. Cultivate the art of stability and practice accountability. Happiness is an inside job. Do the work.

Capricorn (Dec. 21-Jan. 19) You may find this week’s powerful Virgo/Pisces full Moon lunation to be one of harmony and sustenance as planets align in support of your hopes and aspirations. The power behind the pain and the mystery of transformation emerges. Seek out wise teachers and spiritual gurus as you embrace the wisdom of humility and the grace of surrender.

Aquarius (Jan. 19-Feb. 18) The February 10^th new Moon in Aquarius comes to full in Virgo this week, delivering an out-of-sign fruition that mandates an overdue adjustment in perspective and attitude. Take a step sideways, elevate your view or simply cultivate an objective assessment of a person, place or situation. Emotional detachment is an Aquarian forte. Release expectation. Let go.

Pisces (Feb. 18-Mar. 20) As the Moon comes to fruition in Virgo, take an extra-long look at where you are and what you are doing – right here, right now. Examine roles and performance in relationships and consider how you might improve the way you show up for others. Resentments are poison emotions. Accept responsibility for how you feel and make amends via love and compassion.

Alacazem           by Cynthia Zehm        February 14 to 21, 2013            Visible Planets: Morning: Saturn      Evening: Jupiter

                                      Keep It Together In the Family

"Keep, keep it together. Forever keep people together. Keep it together in the family. They're a reminder of your history. Brothers and sisters, they hold the key. To your heart and your soul. Don't forget that your family is gold."   Madonna, "Keep It Together" from                                                                                                                                                    the CD Like a Prayer

My mother died on Easter Sunday 2003. My father died years earlier, in May of 1986. I think of them often, of course, like all children do – young and old.

Last week I made the 700-mile round trip journey to Denver, the city of my birth, youth and young adulthood. My father’s younger brother, Neil, had passed on in December 2012, before Christmas, and I hadn’t been able to make the trip up for his funeral mass – missing a great opportunity to see my cousins and relatives, including Aunt Darlene, Neil’s wife, my godmother. I also had not made it up to visit my brothers and sisters, nieces and nephews over the holidays, and wanted to see them. I had a few gifts to give, and things to do in the big city, but most of all, I needed a family fix.

I looked at my calendar and planned a trip in early February. I could leave and be back before Valentine’s Day. Perfect. Driving to the Eastern Slope is always therapeutic, and at times even cathartic. It gives me a chance to get in touch with where I am at any particular point in time – where I’ve been, where I’m going; who I have been and who I am today. It’s a feeling. Illuminating. Deep.

Families are like mirrors, they reflect back the memories and images, experiences and events, places and spaces, emotions and directions of one’s life journey. Sorrow and pain, loss, joy, happiness, failure and success. The polarities of existence; an opening and closing fan of potential and possibility, choice and destiny.

The weather was great, the roads good and my time in Denver divine. I met up with Aunt Darlene and her beautiful, sweet daughter – my cousin Dana – for Saturday evening mass at Holy Ghost Church in downtown Denver - the night of the Aquarius new Moon. Cosmic. My brother Jeff, his wife Mary and their grown up kids – Devan and Blake – made the date as well. I slipped in through a side door just after the mass began. There in the front row – in candlelight, under magnificently arcing beams, stained glass windows and miraculously painted frescoes – I saw six people who seemed to be suspended in time, reflecting back my origins, my history, my story of life and death, birth and rebirth. Organ music flooded my ears, a young Asian woman sang in a voice that could have won on American Idol, and the altar looked like it came out of a competition for the Ten Best-Dressed Altars in the World.

We smiled, listened, heard, contemplated, sat and sang, knelt and prayed. At one point, we all held hands; a line of energy, transmitting and feeling our connectedness. Love and peace, hope and faith. Together forever, in life and afterlife. Forever and ever. A moment of grace; magical, mystical, eternal.

A couple days later, I got together with my older sister Pam and younger sister Karla at Jeff’s house. Pam brought down several dozen butter cookies she had baked for us to decorate. She’s a cookie maven, the queen of cookie cutters and making cookies, with a case of tips, icing bags and colors for tinting. She has started a new family tradition: baking and decorating cookies for Christmas, Halloween, Thanksgiving and, yes, Valentine’s Day. So, there we were, sisters and brother - along with Audrey [an Aquarius], one of Pam's best and oldest high school friends - spending time together - again - creating memories, sharing life. Family – late nights, long talks, shopping, eating, playing, creating and just being. A week full of family, for me today, is a week full of love. Happy Valentine’s Day! May you feel the love...

Aries (Mar. 20-Apr.19) The last hug and kiss of the Aquarius zodiac month takes place this weekend as the Sun enters Pisces Feb. 18^th. Enjoy the St. Valentine spirit of camaraderie with laughter, love and joy. The radical, sweeping changes, which have been part and parcel of your revolutionary awakening, bless you with the gift of rebirth. Embrace the present, it is yours to keep.

Taurus (Apr. 20-May 20) The greatest opportunities for growth and happiness lie in your ability to accept responsibility for the condition of your life and relationships. Understanding the power of personal choice is simply the most empowering thing you can do. Identify how you are creating suffering for yourself and others. Then stop the cycle by changing the behavior. Good luck!

Gemini (May 21-June 21) Valentines Day remains a day of fun and frivolity for the Twins. With so many suitors, jokers and jesters, you may feel overrun by wit and wisdom, love and laughter. Keep it light, stay calm and be cool. Don’t buy into social pressure when it comes to shoulds and coulds. Flowers and chocolate, hugs and kisses. Enjoy the fragrance and smell the roses.

Cancer (June 21-July 22) A series of water sign trines uplift and encourage you physically, mentally and emotionally. Doors open to higher-self experience and growth. Seek out teachers, gurus and avatars as guides on the journey of awakening and enlightenment. Take it easy, go with the flow. Forcing solutions on problems only creates more problems. Be kind, give love.

Leo (July 23-Aug.22) Voluptuous Venus in your solar 7^th house of commitment and marriage decorates the relationship stage with hearts and flowers, love and affection, paving the way to the boardroom, boudoir or – heaven help us – altar. Enjoy the passion and feelings of attraction as the cosmos deliver a series of happy sharing and pairing. When things get deep, dive in. 

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sep.22) You may feel a subtle but major shift of focus, desire and priority as motivational Mars in numinous Pisces aspects Saturn and Pluto in water and earth. The stars align in a dance of encouragement and commitment regarding yourself and others. Communication is a theme this week. Be extra conscious of what you say. Clarify intentions, express desires.

Libra (Sep. 23-Oct. 22) The hearts and flowers, chocolate and sweet intentions of Valentine’s Day rarely live up to its billing or hype. This year, be loving, accepting, giving and forgiving when it comes to partners, lovers and friends. After all, it’s an Aquarian holiday, one that favors platonic, altruistic relationships and ideals. Practice random acts of kindness and feel the joy.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 22) Mars dances with Pluto and Saturn this week shortly before Saturn goes retrograde in Scorpio. This translates as a chance to forgive yourself and others, make amends, embrace personal power and transform the world. Then, it’s time to do buckle down and do the inner work. These are days of great personal growth and restructure. Prepare, process and practice.

Sagittarius (Nov. 23-Dec. 20) Planetary shifts and cosmic coincidences take place this week as home and family agendas move and, as a result, improve both your attitude and aptitude. Embrace the power of focus as you consider commitment and delineate choice. You are the ultimate decider when it comes to where you go and how you feel. Take responsibility and do the inner work.

Capricorn (Dec. 21-Jan. 19) You may find yourself highly motivated to express your opinions or communicate your visions, dreams and ideals this week as mover Mars prompts responses and encourages comments. Write down ideas, sketch projects and carve out agendas. You are capable, competent and careful when it comes to accomplishment. Help others as you lead by example.

Aquarius (Jan. 19-Feb. 18) When it comes to love, it is attraction rather than promotion and sweet rather than sour. Others see you as outrageously handsome, undeniably beautiful and seductively sexy. Enjoy the attention, and practice humility as you feel the amazing abundance of life on this awesome planet earth. Gratitude is truly the path to grace. Inner peace is a gift of grace. Give thanks.

Pisces (Feb. 18-Mar. 20) With personal power and physical energy running high, you may realize just how much you can do and see this week. Follow your heart, listen to your intuition and take positive action whenever and wherever you can. As you prepare for a prolonged period of spiritual work and ultimate awakening, take care of the physical and material. Get ‘er done!

Alacazem           by Cynthia Zehm       February 7 to 14, 2013

       Visible Planets: Morning: Venus, Saturn  Evening: Mercury, Jupiter 

     Chinese Lunar New Year of the Snake 4711

I so love a starry night. And this week, the stars have been phenomenal.

Down here, in the wild West End of San Miguel and Montrose Counties, there is no light pollution and plenty of deep, blue-black sky in which to observe the heavens. Orion the Hunter is stellar for most of the night with brilliant planet Jupiter leading the way west and the faithful, bright white giant “dog star” Sirius trailing behind. In the still, quiet hours of darkness before dawn, the magnificent Scorpion shimmers low in the southeast, its distinctive heart-star Antares glowing yellow-orange and the enigmatic “cat’s eyes” of the scorpion’s tail reflecting the mystery and magic of the cosmos.

This very morning, a delicately waning crescent Moon hovers above the eastern horizon, its hidden fullness painted with ‘earthglow” and the lights of tiny Norwood shining below. I know that over the next two days the Moon with virtually disappear. Tomorrow – Feb. 8^th – the crescent will be significantly slimmer. The following morning, Feb. 9^th, it will be too thin to see. Then, in the hour just past midnight on Saturday, Feb. 10^th, the Sun and Moon will come together @ 21º 43’ Aquarius in the conjunction aspect of a new Moon. Herald Chinese Lunar New Year of the Snake 4711. It’s time to celebrate life!

As many in the Western world know, the Chinese zodiac is comprised of twelve animal signs that follow each other around an eternally revolving wheel. Each animal in its turn is given rulership over the lunar year of a 12-year cycle, which begins and ends with the annual lunation of the Aquarius new Moon - and therefore - according to Chinese legend – shapes and influences the energy and characteristics of the year.

In Western astrology, the cycles of the twelve Chinese animal signs coincide with the 12-year cycle of planet Jupiter. This works well, as each child born under each animal sign experiences the beneficial “effects” of their birth animal the same year that they experience the overall goodness, growth and positive energetics of the tropical zodiac’s “great benefic” – jovial, giant planet Jupiter.

For those who want to explore the various traits and characteristics of the Chinese zodiac, as well as how to determine your own birth animal, go online. There are tons of links and information available. I have had a good time researching myself this year, but the funny thing is that all my surfing led me to the myth of Medusa, the human gorgon-monstress who could turn her enemies to stone just by a look. Wow!

And for those who are seeking a little ancient Chinese wisdom, here’s something I ran across on the Internet: This is the year of the water Snake, and all things will be possible. Saving money and being thrifty should be your top priorities. Delusion and deception are common in the year of the Snake. Stay alert! To gain the greatest benefits of the year, you must control spending and use your talents wisely. If you are planning to get married or to begin a business partnership, be sure to thoroughly investigate the other person’s finances and background before you legalize the alliance.

Chinese New Year of the Snake 4711 begins here in Colorado at sunset on Sunday, Feb. 10^th. Good luck and may the wily wisdom and crafty cunning of the Snake help you negotiate your journey this year. Slither and slide, have a good ride! Gung hey fat choy.

Aries (Mar. 20-Apr.19) Chinese New Year 4711 crowns the Snake king as the Sun and Moon come together in late Aquarius in the wee hours of Feb. 10^th. This translates as a lunar month and coming year of heightened focus and purpose. You now understand the power of your word, the freedom of honesty and the rewards of virtue. Wisdom is your ally.

Taurus (Apr. 20-May 20) The Aquarius new Moon literally opens your home and heart to people, places and things that awaken and inspire you. The world is a reflecting mirror of who and what you are today. Pay attention to internal dialogues consider whether they are positive and healthy. Monitor your emotional reactions to others. What are you here to learn? Who are your teachers?

Gemini (May 21-June 21) Uplifting and optimistic, the Aquarian lunar month perennially opens intellectual and spiritual doors of awakening and enlightenment. It’s time to explore the world, discover fresh insight and consider new paradigms.  Get out and about; seek out unique and unusual people and pastimes. Consider change. Achievement is a theme. Do your best and get ‘er done.

Cancer (June 21-July 22) The sixth sign of the Chinese lunar cycle, the Snake is characterized as focused, constant and full of purpose. Endowed with wisdom and mystical by nature, this energy favors a strong will in tandem with a compassionate heart. Practice the art of focus, self-responsibility and sacrifice when it comes to accomplishment. Prune the bush, water the garden.

Leo (July 23-Aug.22) The Sun and Moon come together in fellow fixed and opposite sign Aquarius this week, initiating Chinese lunar New Year of the Snake and awarding you with the fortuitous opportunity to start fresh in your relationships. However, a square to the lunar nodes in Scorpio/Taurus insists on focus, perseverance and depth when it comes to others. Do it.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sep.22) Chinese New Year 4711 has enlisted a battalion of planets in Pisces to hearken the message of compassion, forgiveness and surrender for us all. Also in the ethers, are themes of change and challenge. It is time to face fears head on, go deep and bring darkness to light. To what and whom have you given your power? Reclaim it as yours and go forth with grace.

Libra (Sep. 23-Oct. 22) Chinese lunar New Year of the Snake offers you another, more realistic and ultimately fruitful start on 2013. The stars align in fortuitous support of creative, enlightened personal change. Where are you not fully walking your talk? What are you longing for? What are your feelings and your body telling you? Retrofit and restructure your day, one day at a time.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 22) As philosopher, theologian and political wizard of the Chinese zodiac, the Snake awakens us to lunar year 4711. Celestial music favors focus, patience and prudence in matters of romance and finance. Utilize a common sense approach, evaluate situations, avoid unnecessary risk and carefully manage resources. Then count your blessings; enjoy the miracle of life.

Sagittarius (Nov. 23-Dec. 20) Uranus - modern ruler of Aquarius - aspects the Sun and Moon in a dance of awakening and change as Chinese New Year 4711 begins. The cosmic imperative dictates a brave, new era, one that necessitates a break from old, outworn gender-based paradigms and power-plays. It’s all about equality, equanimity and truth. Honesty sets you free. Live and breathe it.

Capricorn (Dec. 21-Jan. 19) In Capricorn, we develop integrity, self-discipline and stewardship. In Aquarius, we strive for equality, collaboration and progress. As you abdicate the celestial throne to your renegade companion, embrace the freedom of letting go. Open your body, mind and spirit to the paradigm of enlightened change and go with the illuminated flow. Live in the light.

Aquarius (Jan. 19-Feb. 18) As rebel and revolutionary of the celestial realm, gather your courage and strengthen your heart in a dance of enlightened change. It’s time to challenge dictatorial authority, restructure governments and renew hope. Use your brain in positive, productive disciplines and practices. Reform what is unfair and unsustainable. Lead by example. The time is now.

Pisces (Feb. 18-Mar. 20) This week’s fortuitous new Moon in revolutionary Aquarius squares the Scorpio solar eclipse of Nov. 13, 2012, urging us to remember the messages and feel the feelings evoked during that lunation and incorporate them into our present lives, now. Deep emotions and inspirational visions result in magic and magnificence. Produce and evolve.

Alacazem           by Cynthia Zehm     January 31 to February 7, 2013

        Visible Planets: Morning: Venus, Saturn  Evening: Mercury, Mars & Jupiter 

      The Legacy of Loving, Living and Leaving Planet Earth

Lately, I’ve been thinking about the weather. And, why not?

With temperatures way below freezing from Christmas Eve through most of January, and then a sudden, radically quick January thaw – first inches of slush and then rivers of water, followed by lusciously thick brown mud and almost springlike conditions – I couldn’t help but ponder the much debated and hotly contested issue of global warming. And then, our President Barack Obama actually said the words “climate change” in his inaugural address. Wow! It's out of the closet.

Of course, I’m poignantly aware of our Mother Earth’s fast-melting polar ice caps and the sad, inevitable by-product of decreasing habitat for the planet’s awesome and amazingly majestic polar bears, along with the rapidly rising sea levels. Floods, tsunamis, hurricanes, tornadoes and earthquakes rock the world, devastating people and places, shifting tides and reshaping lives. The collective consciousness lays in wait, an amorphous force, in synch with the cosmos, battered and beaten by death and destruction, uplifted by grace and moved by beauty, hopeful and hoping for miracles, magic and the magnificence of goodness, wondering whether to fight or surrender, gather up arms or lay them down.

In the Arthurian fantasy novel The Once and Future King, written by T. H. White, the central theme is an exploration of human nature in relation to and regarding power and justice, good and evil. As the boy Arthur becomes King and attempts to quell the prevalent “might makes right” and awaken his people the more enlightened paradigm of “right makes might” he discovers his own pitfalls of passion and power, the irony of justice and the elusively thin, shape-shifting line between right and wrong. Why must "right" forever have to be "enforced" by "might"? Isn't that an oxymoron? Is it ever possible to make the ideal real?

Today, we are faced with incredible changes and challenges in our personal, social, political, professional and familial lives. We are being called upon to do what is right, what is morally just, environmentally aware and spiritually conscious. And we are trying to survive and thrive, keep the planet alive and well, healthy and happy.

As January gives way to February and the Aquarian zodiac month takes hold, try on your humanitarian spirit, look for your higher self, seek out equanimity and forgive yourself for not being perfect. We are all here together, brothers and sisters, a fellowship of men and women, loving, living and leaving a legacy of whatever we do, whatever we feel, whatever we touch, whatever we say. Reach out and lend a hand, open your heart, say something kind, smile and laugh, cultivate gratitude and do the next right thing. Blessings and peace, and may you walk in beauty.

Aries (Mar. 20-Apr.19) Jupiter goes direct in early Gemini this week, changing the flow and shifting the tide regarding communication and travel. Brothers, sisters, neighbors and friends are suddenly busy and active. You may take a short trip to visit family, call upon relatives and find yourself engaged in lively conversations and laughter. Enjoy the moment, live the journey.

Taurus (Apr. 20-May 20) Masculine Mars and feminine Venus change signs and Jupiter goes direct this week, mixing the pot and shifting directions in matters of love, money, friends and family. Good things come to those who maintain an emotionally detached, open and curious worldview. Equality, tolerance, honesty and compassion are themes. Simply do your best, it’s the best you can do.

Gemini (May 21-June 21) A change of heart envelopes body, mind and spirit as you experience the magic and freedom of living fully in the present. Where you are is a direct result of where you’ve been, but it is actually possible to change the past via how you live today. Jupiter now direct in your sign surrounds you with positive, protective golden light. Follow the glow, stay on the path.

Cancer (June 21-July 22) Motivational Mars moves into fellow water-sign Pisces this week, opening your eyes, head and heart to the multi-faceted possibilities and exponential potential of our ever-expanding Universe. Reality is a combination of experience, programming and perception. It’s time to get in synch with the cosmos via research, exploration and exposure. Happy trails!

Leo (July 23-Aug.22) The Aquarian zodiac month continues to shower you with a bounty of options regarding partnership and commitment. Are you really ready to settle down and sign the dotted line? With Venus now joining the party, you might hold off from binding agreements and contracts, especially if they limit movement and/or freedom. For now, think positive and enjoy life.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sep.22) Expanding career possibilities and good fortune opportunities are themes as you experience a change of momentum regarding personal achievement and professional direction. Stay open and honest when it comes to work related activities and commitments. Sit down and take a good look at what is both practical and inspirational. Proceed accordingly.

Libra (Sep. 23-Oct. 22) You may feel suddenly motivated to improve or amend your diet, work out and get in shape as motion-happy Mars moves in to your solar 6^th house of personal self-improvement. Body, mind and spirit rejoice in a daily practice of physical exercise and good health routines. Pay attention to what you put in your mouth, as well as what comes out. Do your best.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 22) Possible challenges at home may have you dealing with family or domestic issues, but all in all, it’s good and getting better. Love planet Venus has just entered the scene, plumping the pillows and setting the table for a feast of sweetness, grace and gratitude. Count your blessings and embrace the good. You are here to share your love and life. Do it.

Sagittarius (Nov. 23-Dec. 20) The Aquarius zodiac month is one of support and encouragement for the Archer. Themes of freedom, equality and the pursuit of happiness resonate heart and soul. However, your inherent enthusiasm and natural excitability may have you all over the map, attempting to do it all. You must embrace Aquarian wisdom. Get real, calm down and focus on progress.

Capricorn (Dec. 21-Jan. 19) Management skills and leadership abilities come easily to those born under the Capricorn mantle. Others look to you for guidance and direction, creative ideas and practical wisdom. Good news, you are capable, competent and willing. Tap in to your highest self and most compassionate spirit guide as you take the reins and ride the range.

Aquarius (Jan. 19-Feb. 18) Happy birthday to the zodiac’s most intellectually enlightened but spiritually stubborn sign. Well informed, inventive and uniquely qualified for the most unusual pastimes and positions, others see you as one-of-a-kind anomaly and genius of sorts. And with Venus now a resident roommate, expect plenty of love and attention from the masses. Enjoy!

Pisces (Feb. 18-Mar. 20) Motivator Mars enters Pisces Feb. 1^st and remains there until mid-March. This heralds a prolonged period of heightened physical energy and poignant personal desire. You may find yourself pursuing people and projects that inspire and uplift you, accomplishing and acquiring. Enjoy the ride but be sure to rest and relax along the way. Sleep is good.

Alacazem           by Cynthia Zehm       January 24 to 31, 2013

          Visible Planets: Morning: Venus, Saturn  Evening: Mars, Jupiter 

  The Leo / Aquarius Full Moon Dance of Me and We

The Leo/Aquarius full Moons – there are two in every calendar year – are traditionally what I refer to as our bi-annual “party” Moons. The individual and the collective are electro-magnetically pulled toward each other in a dance of "me" and "we". The self is reflected in the mirror of the many, one heart becomes One Heart and the world glimmers with the shimmer of romantic, platonic, intellectual, physical and spiritual love.

Leo is, of course, the Lion of the zodiac - passionate, courageous, loyal and strong. As the king or queen of beasts, this fixed fire-sign serves as a benevolent ruler of the jungle, forest and plain, entitled and indulgent – especially where love and family are concerned – but also willing to fight for right and go for broke in all matters of heart and soul. Feisty, quick to anger and not-so-quick to forgive, this creative, dramatic energy is linked to our primal essence and essential spirit, and ruled by the source of light and life, our Sun.

Aquarius, the cool, detached air sign that constellates an opposition to fiery Leo, acts as a balance and ballast for the Lion’s unabashed potential to rant and rage, wage war and engage the ego in battles of self-centered obsession, vainglory and self-indulgence. The third and most evolved air sign of the zodiac, Aquarius presents us with a multi-faceted jewel of humanitarian ideals and possibilities. It is here we consider the collective whole; the absolute effect of the individual upon the masses, the quantum mechanical equations of interdependence and inter-connectedness, and the unique and special gifts we each have to give the world.

Co-ruled by taskmaster Saturn and freedom-loving Uranus, Aquarius is a combination of sharp focus and unbridled liberty. A champion of the underdog and disciple of equality, Aquarius is determined, committed, electric and explosive when it comes to righteous causes and common interests.

Aquarius follows Capricorn, the sign of hardcore physical reality and resource. In Capricorn we learn to utilize, use and manifest via authority, responsibility, rule and regulation. In Aquarius we discover the rebel and revolutionary, the one who thinks outside the box, invents ingenious solutions for age-old problems and joins force with others in the spirit of friendship and camaraderie, for the good of all concerned.

When these two highly spirited astrological signs align in the celestial opposition of a full Moon, sparks fly. Fireworks ignite. Fun happens. Freedom reigns. Traditional festivities are laced with unconventional and electric people, information, encounters, food and fanfare. Expect the unexpected as you explore the world outside your door.

Happy Leo/Aquarius full Moon! [Jan. 26^th @ 9:38 pm MST] May your lunation be filled with the romantic, heartfelt love of Leo and the wild, enlightened spirit of Aquarius.

Aries (Mar. 20-Apr.19) The Aquarius/Leo full Moon is one of the year’s two “party” moons. Free-spirited, friend-loving Aquarius engages passionate, heart-felt Leo in a dance of fun, fiesta and flirtation. Wherever you are, whatever you do, be aware of the great potential for goodness surrounding you. Reach out to others in humanitarian, compassionate ways. Smile and be happy!

Taurus (Apr. 20-May 20) Aquarius represents the development of group consciousness via interactions with others. We move from personal ego, gender, race, religion and social strata identity to the highly evolved understanding of human equality. We are all the same; animal, species, planet. Move from individual focus to global reflection; i.e. get in synch with the cosmos.

Gemini (May 21-June 21) Uplifting and free-spirited, Aquarius inspires the Twins to seek, explore and discover. It is comforting to know you are not the only one who suffers, achieves, excels, fails, loves and laughs. We are all in it together, living and breathing as a human intergalactic force. Embrace your brothers and sisters in the dream of now and dream a new dream.

Cancer (June 21-July 22) The persistent theme of yin and yang, masculine and feminine returns in the full Moon conjunction of planet Uranus, the Aquarian ruler, with asteroid Pallas, the ancient goddess of courage, creativity and the healing arts. This favors a unique balance of head and heart, intuitive awareness and the willingness to reach out and touch the world. Share the light.

Leo (July 23-Aug.22) The Aquarius/Leo lunation reminds us that we are each a glittering spark of divine creation and an inseparable part of the ever-evolving cosmic web. We all have a special gift to give and role to play, but doing it alone is lonely. Connect with others and share the love of life, the joy of passion. Become a synergistic whole far greater than the sum of its parts.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sep.22) Asteroid Vesta, goddess of the hearth and symbiotic vestal virgin and sister to Virgo, stations direct just 12 hours prior to the peak of the Jan. 26^th full Moon. This translates as a rekindling of the sacred work that you are here on Earth to do; the work of healing, helping and improving the world. Embrace your calling, feel your heart and follow your intuition.

Libra (Sep. 23-Oct. 22) Libra hearts soar in Aquarius. Days grow longer and more direct solar rays warm the spirit. The first faint impulse of spring is in the air. Freedom, liberty and equality are Aquarian ideals, but they are also foundation stones in the Libra ethic. Sharing and pairing must be balanced and fair to be rewarding and successful. Be the partner you want your partner to be.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 22) Aquarian ethics pull at Scorpio heartstrings as the outer world pulls you outward. Comfortable and cozy in your own cave and kingdom, you realize that everything happens, as it should. Yes, it is time to get out and about, explore the neighborhood and discover the world. Balance yin with yang in career or professional responsibilities. Remain calm and follow the light.

Sagittarius (Nov. 23-Dec. 20) Jovial Jupiter retrograde in your solar 7^th house of long term and important relationships may have you revisiting previous involvements. This time, you have the knowledge, experience and wisdom to do it right. As the Sun and Moon oppose each other this week, examine roles and responsibilities in your commitments. Focus on your part and make it good.

Capricorn (Dec. 21-Jan. 19) As you move into the first zodiac month of your solar year, be prepared for plenty of self-directed, self-fueled self-referral. Happiness is an inside job and it all takes place within. Are you focusing on what others are doing or saying and attempting to change or control them? If so, stop and return to a place of inner peace. Freedom

Aquarius (Jan. 19-Feb. 18) As your Happy Birthday month continues, surrender to the light. Body, mind and spirit dance in celebration of another revolution around the Sun. Get out and walk, explore your neighborhood and be authentically you. Do what makes you feel good, nurtures the soul and shares the bounty. Look for good, count your blessings and focus on gratitude. 

Pisces (Feb. 18-Mar. 20) The final month of Pisces solar year 2012 anoints you with humility and grace. Everything is exactly as it should be in this moment. Struggling against the present is like struggling against the entire Universe. Acceptance is the answer to all your problems today. If something or someone disturbs you, surrender and let go. It is what it is. God bless.

Alacazem          by Cynthia Zehm       January 17 to 24, 2013

         Visible Planets: Morning: Venus, Saturn  Evening: Mars, Jupiter 

  Fire, Flames and the Inspirational Light of Life in Aquarius

I always love it when the Aquarius zodiac month begins. Days are noticeably longer and solar rays are more direct. I feel uplifted and optimistic, inspired by the light. Of course, Aquarius is my north node – the way out of this incarnation – and it makes total sense that my soul and spirit find resonance in the energy of the Aquarian season.

I saw my first azure-blue mountain bluebird in the West End lowlands last week – a certain signal of the impending Aquarius sun-time – and had to smile. Especially when well-below zero temperatures made going outside at night seem dangerous. Fortunately, we have plenty of oak, pinon, aspen and cedar firewood to keep us warm.

The aromatic smell of juniper and the crackle of aspen remind me of my first days on my own, long ago. Living in one of my Grandfather’s log cabins in the mountains outside of Idaho Springs, hauling water from a spring and cooking on a beautiful cream and sage enamel woodstove, I experienced the comforts and companionship of fire, the solace of flickering flames and the peace and quiet of being alone with spirit. The hope and wonder of a life laid out before me, young and idealistic, like all of us, a little scared but full of courage, a diamond in the rough.

Later, when I moved to Telluride, and met my future husband, I was awed by the enormous woodpile stacked outside his front door. He lived in an old miner’s shack up on North Aspen Street – infamously nicknamed “the rat cave” – and he used to throw gigantic log rounds on a roaring fire in a rock stone fireplace with a mouth as big as me. Snowdrifts were higher than the one-story roof and behind the door of an ancient root cellar, a winter’s cache of elk meat lay in wait. He, too, cooked on a magnificent black and nickel Monarch wood cookstove. I was in awe. This guy had figured it out. How to live in a fledgling ski town, ski every day, work in Alaska and still be the proud owner of a tiny, broken down old Victorian high on the sunnyside of Telluride, with plenty of boys and girls as friends.

Come to find out, he was born during the Aquarius sun time, like my own father - uh-oh! – and I was doomed. Destiny has a funny way of showing its enigmatic face at certain times year, at certain times of life, and we follow the call. 

And here we are. Good luck and may the inventive Aquarian spirit be your inspirational guide and loyal, free-spirited amigo. Happy trails.

Aries (Mar. 20-Apr.19) As the Sun enters free-spirited Aquarius this week, political polarities, U.S. Constitutional rights and liberties take center stage. The connection between personal responsibility and freedom is huge, it’s a direct equation. Balance desires with reality as you work with established systems, rules and regulations. Identify what works and what does not.

Taurus (Apr. 20-May 20) Ruler Venus in your solar 9^th house of higher education and spiritual expansion favors relationships with teachers, mentors and enlightened leaders. Remain open to opening your mind as you seek answers, research options and discover fresh intellectual territory. Career motivation stimulates achievement. Hang in there and maintain focus.

Gemini (May 21-June 21) Ruler Mercury enters revolutionary Aquarius to join motivated Mars on Jan. 18^th and is quickly followed by the Sun the next day. This macho maverick combination favors humanitarian efforts, unconventional solutions and education by experience. It’s impossible to describe the ocean if you have never seen it. Walk your talk and share your knowledge.

Cancer (June 21-July 22) Voluptuous Venus traveling through your solar 7^th house of longterm relationships, commitments and marriage favors the sharing and pairing of both responsibility and pleasure. It’s simply not possible to have one without the other. Identify your part in each and every circumstance and situation in your life. Choice is a fabulous tool. Make them magnificent.

Leo (July 23-Aug.22) You may feel yourself move from a self-orientated, self-consumed perspective to a more relationship-based understanding of life and all its magic. Sharing peaks and valleys of this earth walk is what you truly want, but the partner must be worthy. Identify special interests and pursue associations with people you find inspirational. Follow intuition.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sep.22) Personal creative expression, romantic pastimes and artistic inspiration fuel the heart-fire as the Venus love-light illuminates your personal path of dreams and desires. Balance idealistic hopes with realistic action as you work toward your achievable goals and objectives. Identify the steps and strategies that will get you there. Stick to the program, one day at a time.

Libra (Sep. 23-Oct. 22) The Sun and Mercury move into fellow air-sign Aquarius to join excitable Mars this week and illuminates all matters of the heart. Love, romance, art and beauty inspire you emotionally, mentally, spiritually and physically. You may feel highly motivated to create and discover new avenues of self-expression. Embrace the moment, seize the day, create!

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 22) Home life is the best life now as several planets gather in the cozy comfort of your solar 4^th house of domestic pleasure and security. Take a good look at how well you are self-nurturing your body, mind and spirit. Self-esteem is directly related to self-care and happiness is an inside job. How amazing to recognize the effect you have upon your own life! Show up.

Sagittarius (Nov. 23-Dec. 20) You may suddenly notice the effects of your highly active mind and feel restless, curious and communicative. Seek out people that are willing to listen and discuss, consider and contemplate. This is an excellent time to write, explore and travel. Make contact with teachers and students, research schools and explore options. Remain open, get out and about.

Capricorn (Dec. 21-Jan. 19) With sweet planet Venus in still moving through your sign, you may be feeling the rosy glow of romantic love or enjoying the simple pleasures of life. Beauty is all around you, indulge and appreciate it whenever and wherever you can. Others also see you as attractive now. Rest and relax, identify personal values and work toward the perfect alignment of your goals.

Aquarius (Jan. 19-Feb. 18) Your happy birthday month begins on Jan. 19^th this year. Congratulations on another revolution around the Sun! A posse of planets in Aquarius guarantees plenty of action and excitement. Be extra aware and careful when it comes to anger issues and ego-based agendas. Mars encourages passion, motivation and desire. Channel energy in positive ways. Be kind.

Pisces (Feb. 18-Mar. 20) As the Aquarius zodiac month begins, you may feel like taking a long winter’s nap. Follow your intuition and pay attention to what your body tells you. If you feel tired, rest. If you want to relax, do it. Your annual solar year is drawing to a close and it is much like the embryonic period of gestation. Take it easy, recharge, regenerate as you prepare for rebirth.

Alacazem           by Cynthia Zehm       January 10 to 17, 2013

Visible Planets: Morning: Venus, Saturn  Evening: Mars, Jupiter 

  The Yin and Yang of the Mother/Father Capricorn New Moon

New moons mark the beginning of new cycles and present us with the energies and opportunities that carry the power and potential to spiral us up and forward toward the next level. Capricorn, the third and most “evolved” earth sign, deals with the highest levels of the physical plane. It is here that time and space dance with everyday, earthbound realities. Natural resources are factors in financial equations and the effective, efficient management of the tangible and tactile is paramount to both individual and societal survival, sustenance, satisfaction, success and security.

Capricorn is an inherently conservative archetype and strives to manifest, produce, protect, use and utilize. It is all about goal-setting and focus, patience and perseverance. Power and control are threads woven throughout the Capricorn fabric and issues of authority – who’s the boss? – are stamped on every yard.

As December festivity gives way to January austerity, we clean up the messes and pick up the pieces of the holiday season. Christmas trees and decorations come down, boxes are repacked and stored in quiet repose, gifts are used or returned and for all, it is a time to contemplate and consider our plans, hopes and dreams for the coming new year.

On January 11^th at 12:44 pm MST, the Sun and Moon come together @ 22º Capricorn to form the exact conjunction aspect of a New Moon. Also in Capricorn at this time are planets Mercury, Pluto and Venus, along with the asteroid Juno. This translates as a highly fortuitous time for carving out the size and shape of things to come by identifying our highest hopes, best intentions and most cherished goals. The combination of Venus, Juno and the Moon – all feminine goddesses – with the Sun, Mercury and Pluto – powerful, primal, playful, passionate masculine gods – serve up a multi-dimensional plate of practical, paternal possibilities laced with the beauty, sensitivity and magic of the maternal. We are being directed toward a more holistic, natural, creative approach to energy and resources. We must consider the wisdom of our choices, the resounding effects of our actions and the ultimate karmic imprint of our envisioned successes.

This new Moon calls us to revision and transform our definition and relationship to power, recognize the superficiality of money, prestige and dominance and remember our ultimate connection to and dependence upon our own true mother, the Mother Earth. It is about caring for and caring about, nurturing, sustaining, providing and providing for. It’s about taking responsibility for the condition and circumstances of ourselves, our planet and our relationships and doing the next right thing to improve it all. Capricorn is a cardinal earth sign and that means grounded, practical action, so let’s take good action and do it right. Here and now.

Blessings and peace. May your new year and fresh lunar cycle be filled with a balance of yin [feminine] and yang [masculine]. Here’s to both sweetness and success, aka sweet success.

Aries (Mar. 20-Apr.19) The week’s powerful Capricorn new Moon sets the stage for great achievement and accomplishment, but it’s imperative to set the goals, map the strategy and stick to the program. Naturally impatient, Aries wants it now. This year – take note - focus, patience and perseverance pay unbelievable dividends. There is simply no other way. Stay the course.

Taurus (Apr. 20-May 20) Expansion and exploration are means to enlightenment this year. Strong planetary power pulls you in directions that open you to the unlimited possibilities of the Universe. Abstract thinking and spiritual pursuit are not your normal cup of tea, but for some reason, these days you find them at the table. Seek out wise teachers and competent confidantes.

Gemini (May 21-June 21) The numinous waters of soul and spirit entice and intrigue you as several synchronistic events stimulate curiosity and encourage investigation. Act on intuition in cases of mystery and question, but do not avoid the facts. Balance equations as you research options and possibilities. Combine realistic, pragmatic thinking with heart-felt feeling and compassionate action.

Cancer (June 21-July 22) Your solar 7^th house of long-term relationships and important others is loaded with celestial planets and earthbound interactions as the year begins. Issues of commitment, marriage and partnership top the list of priority and attention. In the process, be aware of your personal responsibility to yourself. We teach others how to treat us. Lead the way.

Leo (July 23-Aug.22) With a posse of planets in Capricorn, along with a new Moon and lunar cycle there, be extra attentive and highly receptive to programs of self-improvement and self-betterment. New Years resolutions are par for the course for all, but the Lion is perennially high on the list of successful candidates when it comes to sticking to the program and getting it done.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sep.22) The manifestation of your most cherished hopes and dreams is a possibility this year if you start now. Make lists and organize priorities. A fresh lunar cycle provides plenty of cosmic oomph when it comes to setting goals and orchestrating strategies. The most important factor in the equation, however, is you. Clarity, commitment and focus are essential to success.

Libra (Sep. 23-Oct. 22) You may find yourself stuck at home or simply consumed by all the work you have there as the week, month and year begin. Whatever the manifestation, it is all happening in your immediate environment. You need not go far to find meaning and purpose. Focus and accomplishment are allies. Look inside, use self-referral and simply do the next right thing.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 22) Internal and external dialogues take center stage as you contemplate, consider and process thoughts and ideas, plans and strategies for the coming year. This is an excellent time to make lists, start a journal and give shape to thoughts via the written world. Pay attention to what you hear and say. Keep your mind and heart open to all concepts and information.

Sagittarius (Nov. 23-Dec. 20) Personal responsibility is an important, reverberating theme for Archers as the year begins. Who you choose to be with and how you spend your time is totally up to you. Once you may have wanted to blame others for frustration, ailment and confusion, but now, no more. Embrace the awesome power of self-responsibility and set yourself and others free.

Capricorn (Dec. 21-Jan. 19) The Capricorn birthday month awards us with a fresh new Moon and lunar cycle, carved up especially for you. Capitalize on cosmic wealth via celestial mergence and acceptance. Everything is exactly as it should be in this moment, even if you don’t like or want what or how it appears to be. You are blessed with charismatic personal magic. Embrace grace and do good.

Aquarius (Jan. 19-Feb. 18) Angels, saints and spirits gather in blessing and grace as 2013 begins. Look for omens and see the signs on your personal journey of self-awakening. Somehow, the crack between physical 3D realities and spiritual, ethereal realms has opened wide enough to become one and the same. You are now operating with the force of opus Magnus. Good luck!

Pisces (Feb. 18-Mar. 20) People, places and personalities abound with inspirational ideas and agendas as you move through the first few weeks of 2013. Good things come to those who maintain contact with a universal spirit while operating on the physical, material plane. Cultivate self-discipline and focus, but keep in touch with your muses. Open the door and let them in.

Alacazem           by Cynthia Zehm       January 3 to 10, 2013

Visible Planets: Morning: Venus, Saturn  Evening: Mars, Jupiter 

     Peace on Earth?  Prospero Ano Nuevo 2013

Our emotional, psychological and spiritual worlds shift with the advent of each new calendar year.

The entrance of the Sun into philanthropic Sagittarius in late November coincides with Thanksgiving and the beginning of the holiday season. We are encouraged to cultivate gratitude and feel the grace of our blessings, share the harvest and open our homes and hearts to those less fortunate than ourselves. December brings us Hanukka, the Jewish Festival of Lights, winter solstice and Christmas. Giving and receiving run rampant, yuletide gatherings and holiday traditions carry us through days and weeks of increasing spiritual generosity and good-hearted, loving kindness. 

By December 31^st – New Year’s Eve – the Sun has moved into Capricorn. Over-the-top spending, eating and indulging is no longer in vogue. If we do happen to drink or party too much as we break in another year, we pay for it handily the following day; New Year’s Day, January 1st.

Capricorn is all about our hard-core, physical reality. And in the aftermath of so much happy-hearted loving and giving, it can feel cold, austere and, at times, downright lonely.

But, have no fear. Accomplishment is on the horizon! This is the time of year that favors the clarification and identification of our goals, hopes and visions. We are naturally in synch with the cosmic flow, Old Man Winter guides us down the crystalline path of well-intended self-reflection and new direction in the name of self-improvement. It’s all about personal responsibility and self-honesty, daily practice and ultimate perseverance.

Congratulations on another revolution around the Sun. May you be blessed with the manifestation of your highest hopes and most creative dreams. PEACE ON EARTH? Happy New Year 2013. Prospero Ano Nuevo!

Aries (Mar. 20-Apr.19) The material world changes when the New Year begins. The frivolity and indulgence of the holidays have passed. It’s time to look at our lives and ourselves in the clear light of day. Embrace the power of Capricorn and move forward with self-discipline and calm reserve. Be realistic regarding yourself and others. Patience and perseverance are allies in your quest.

Taurus (Apr. 20-May 20) The Bull is inherently accepting, calm and persevering, especially when it comes to setting goals, pursuing and achieving them. The tenants of Capricorn are therefore in natural harmony and support of Taurus energy, this time of year embraces all that you are and can ever hope to be. Go ahead and make those resolutions, as you are likely to keep them.

Gemini (May 21-June 21) 2013 continues 2012’s theme of expansion and opportunity as benevolent Jupiter’s recurring 12-year cycle through Gemini opens doors both literally and metaphorically. And with so much going on in your heart and head, you may feel overwhelmed, over-committed or over the top in general. Focus the present, slow down, make lists and do your best.

Cancer (June 21-July 22) As the Sun moves in to zodiac Capricorn on winter solstice, Moonchildren move into the second half of their solar year. This heralds a coming-out of sorts, when you feel more social, open and willing to engage with others. You may even find yourself looking for a partner or in the market for a long-term commitment or mutually exclusive relationship. Enjoy.

Leo (July 23-Aug.22) Motivation to be with or coming from others is likely this week and month as passionate Mars moves into your solar 7^th house of one-to-one relationships. Getting out and about with a partner, sharing both pleasure and responsibilities with another appeals to you now. It’s actually a great time pair up on projects and work toward mutual goals. Good luck!

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sep.22) With the Sun, Mercury and Pluto in Capricorn, you may feel the poignant pull between amorous desires and situational realities. When it comes to romance, it’s time to stop looking for perfection and accept others exactly as they are. Are you in love with the person or the potential? Happiness is an inside job. The only thing you can change is you. Let go and let God.

Libra (Sep. 23-Oct. 22) 2013 is a year ripe with opportunity regarding personal goals and professional agendas. The expansionary influence of Jupiter in your solar 9^th house of higher self and higher mind opens a variety of multi-faceted doors to dream manifestation. The challenge now is in capturing and channeling this wildly positive, productive energy. Use your magic wand!

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 22) Good news is that you are finally at the wheel, driving your own car and sailing your own ship. Taking full responsibility for yourself, your life and your relationships is where it’s at. Recognize the awesome power of choice and commit to making good, realistic choices based on facts and faith rather than fear and loathing. You can do whatever you want, just do it.

Sagittarius (Nov. 23-Dec. 20) Voluptuous Venus in Sagittarius gifts you with more love and luxury than you may be used to. Accept it with grace and focus on gratitude. 2012 initiated a period of expansion, good luck and good will regarding significant, important others. 2013 continues the trend and awards you the chance to make them progressively better. Improve yourself, improve the world. 

Capricorn (Dec. 21-Jan. 19) Happy birthdays continue as candles are lit and cakes are cut. With the hustle and bustle of the holidays finally over, you can now focus on you and your goals. Examine personal and professional agendas as you move through the week. Serious commitments to self-improvement, coupled with an open, loving heart does it best. Transformation continues.

Aquarius (Jan. 19-Feb. 18) With motivational Mars still fresh and newly situated in your sign, take advantage of your good health and ample physical energy when it comes to getting things done. You are in an excellent position to set goals and pursue them, especially when it comes to creative projects and artistically oriented ideas. Release the artist within and manifest your dreams.

Pisces (Feb. 18-Mar. 20) As Neptune continues moving forward through the early degrees of your sign, tap in to the mystical force of the creative and channel it via daily practice and self-discipline. You are inherently artistic and romantic, a dreamer of dreams. Now it is time to manifest your visions via focus and commitment. Cultivate productivity via productive people and influences.

Alacazem       by Cynthia Zehm   December 27 to January 3, 2012

Visible Planets: Morning: Mercury, Venus, Saturn   Evening: Mars, Jupiter 

Taking our First Steps into La Era Nueva...a new era

Here we are, living the last days of the Julian calendar year 2012. The Mayan End Time date of 12.21.12 has passed. We are walking upon a new road, taking our first steps in to the Era Nueva - the new era - a transitional time of awakening and enlightenment, when personal truth and rigorous self-honesty unearth the hidden treasure buried deep within our hearts and souls.

Making first tracks in a field of freshly fallen snow, we can still feel the searing pain of death and destruction. The brutal slaughter of innocent children in class at a Connecticut elementary school, the lives changed and lost by the whim of a mentally deranged gunman at a midnight theatre premiere in Colorado, the radical losses of property and possessions in the wake of Hurricane Sandy - along with extreme political polarities, economic inequities and social hierarchies - fabricate a patchwork quilt of the 2012 here and now.

But, there are also patches of hope, joy and love sewn in. Courage, fortitude and good faith show up in each and every tragedy, natural and unnatural disaster. People are strong, people are resilient. People are compassionate, kind and generous of spirit. We help each other. We lend a hand to the suffering, lonely, hurt, abused and needy, the ones less fortunate and weaker than ourselves. Even when there are those who do not.

And thus, the battle of good versus evil continues. Life is a mystery. Life. Intriguing, challenging and enchanting. It is all we really have.

I find it wild that the notion of the world actually, literally ending on winter solstice, Dec. 21, 2012, was shared collectively around the globe. It says a lot about human evolution and the power of rapidly spreading, highly accessible information. The idea that some cataclysmic cosmic event would take place on that specific day – an asteroid colliding with Earth, the explosion of the Yellowstone caldera, the world flipping on its axis or a Pacific Ocean Ring of Fire earthquake so strong it would engulf the planet in sea water and reform the shape of continents - was and is phenomenal. And, on the flip side, if something apocalyptic or cataclysmic did NOT happen, we would be free and clear, past the deadline, out of harm’s way. Safe and A-OK.

It was only 13 years ago that we rolled the clock and ended a millennium. With Y2K and all the hype, it was a bit like this. Nothing happened of significance on the last day of 1999 or the first day of 2000. There was a collective sigh of relief. But something very big took place on Sept. 11, 2001.

It is important to recognize that our attempt to pinpoint time via prediction is a huge cosmic joke. Astrology comes closer to this than anything I know, except possibly intuition, and both are subject to personal interpretation. Prophecy is something different. Prophets and mystics are real. The Mayans – just like most civilizations and humans in general - kept time via celestial cycles and events. Isaac Newton’s mechanical universe and physical laws of space, time and motion defined this for the Western world. Einstein’s theory of special and general relativity went a bit further. Today, with quantum physics, the material world and time-relativity seems irrelevant and illusionary. It’s all about energy.

But, once again, here we are. Moving through time and space, living and breathing, full of energy, dreams, intentions and ideas. Each day a new beginning, each day a fresh start. One day at a time, step by step. Into the ethers we go. Carving out an emerging new reality, a shared collective consciousness that effects the veritable evolution of our planet Earth and all life upon it. Onward Cosmic Travelers. Let’s make la Era Nueva a GOOD one. Blessings and peace…

Aries (Mar. 20-Apr.19) As ruler Mars moves into humanitarian Aquarius, you may feel inspired to be a better person and friend to the world. Hope fuels opportunity and seeing the best in others moves you closer to discovering the underlying joy and goodness within us all. Gratitude leads to grace, and a positive, pro-active approach to problems guarantees success. Be and do your best.

Taurus (Apr. 20-May 20) The Capricorn zodiac month is one of down-to-earth optimism and expansion for the Bull. You see the glimmering horizons of life and understand that getting there means traveling one step at a time. Patience, perseverance and steadfast effort are allies. Goal accomplishment rewards you as even more goals are set. Press on.

Gemini (May 21-June 21) A rather jolly Jupiter continues to present you with a screening of passions, ideas and unfinished projects from the past. What happened to this, why did I lose interest in that? You are fine with where you are today, but are somehow haunted by your own potential. Connect and interact with people who are doing good work. Rediscover inner joy.

Cancer (June 21-July 22) You may be thinking about others, exploring options in commitment and actually traveling about in the name of relationship, but in your heart, there are still many questions about how far and how deep you want to go. Take a little more time for yourself and focus on self-care. Happiness is an inside job. Crown the New Year with integrity, be authentically you.

Leo (July 23-Aug.22) Voluptuous Venus in Sagittarius stokes the fire and keeps the flame of love burning brightly in your heart as the New Year begins. Temper and pace yourself when it comes to celebrations of indulgence. While you enjoy being the life of the party, it’s important to know when to say when. Old friends return in body and spirit. Greet them with kindness.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sep.22) The Cancer full Moon brings light to issues of friendship and aspiration as you see and experience the connection between who you are with and what you do as a result. Surrounding yourself with positive, productive people is a good investment in your future. Identify qualities in others that you admire and choose them as associates. Research career options.

Libra (Sep. 23-Oct. 22) Happy New Year celebrations resound with gratitude and grace as you count your blessings in the Sun, the Moon and stars. Wanting what you have guarantees a happy heart and healthy body, mind and spirit. With a smile on your face, love and laughter as allies, the world is at your feet. Onward Cosmic Traveler; explore the unlimited potential of our ever-expanding Universe.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 22) With motivational Mars now moving through air Aquarius, you may feel more concerned about what you are doing and how you are doing it. Goals and goal setting take center stage as you consider the year ahead. Know that you are at the helm, driving the vehicle, making the journey of life. Understand the resounding power of choice and simply make good ones.

Sagittarius (Nov. 23-Dec. 20) You feel capable and competent as the New Year begins. Another revolution around the Sun awards you with the power of what you’ve done and accomplished, for the good of all concerned. Attentive to your impact on your neighborhood and in the world, simply be the best you can be. Others love and admire your fortitude. Go forth with goodness.

Capricorn (Dec. 21-Jan. 19) As you light the candles and cut the cake on another birthday year, take a look at your personal life equations. Physical, emotional, psychological and spiritual; what are the factors that add up to what you do on a daily, weekly basis? Now is the time to get real, focus on what you value and adjust the numbers. Come up with a daily practice. Balance is the key.

Aquarius (Jan. 19-Feb. 18) Motivational Mars has just moved in to your sign, plump the pillows and prepare for several weeks of action and attention regarding what you want and how you go about getting it. Channel energy in positive, productive ways, remembering that others may not be as enthusiastic about your personal agendas as you are. Rightly so. Temper desire with patience.

Pisces (Feb. 18-Mar. 20) With numinous Neptune now moving direct in the early degrees of your sign, remember to embrace spirit in whatever you do and wherever you go. The long transit of this ego-dissolving planet serves as a vehicle of higher mind, divine will and collective consciousness. Relax in the process. As they say in spiritual circles, let go, and let God.

Alacazem           by Cynthia Zehm       December 20 to 27, 2012

Visible Planets: Morning: Mercury, Venus, Saturn  Evening: Mars & Jupiter

Winter Solstice 2012: Mayan End Times & Cosmic Consciousness  

Well, here we are. Winter Solstice 2012. The End of the World. Apocalypse, End Times, Armageddon, the Rapture...

I'm writing these words on Thursday, Dec. 20^th and by the time you read them, the exact moment of the Sun conjunct the Galactic Center as it moves into zodiac Capricorn @ 4:12 a.m. Dec. 21^st - Winter Solstice 2012 - will have passed. Are you still here?

Lately I’ve been watching the many TV shows created in anticipation of the Mayan Calendar end date of December 21, 2012. The Discovery Channel has been exceptionally rich in this venue, but I have come across something on 12.21.12 on just about every other cable channel and network available. And it has been incredibly entertaining.

Doomsday prophecies and prophecy in general; Hopi, Navajo and other Native American Indian shamans, Tibetan monks, Mayan elders, Australian aborigines, Catholic priests, scholars, psychics, archeologists, astronomers, physicists, historians, cosmologists, astronauts…you name it. Seems like everyone was willing to weigh in on the myriad of multi-faceted possibilities this ominous date represents.

Humans love to romance the future. Apocalyptic fantasies have always been popular, even before the Bible and what we understand today as “religion.” It comes from the deep, instinctive knowledge that we, as humans, are simply not in control. That we are weak and powerless in the face of natural disaster. That we can be extinguished in an instant by an asteroid colliding with Earth or the eruption of the Yellowstone caldera. Giant tsunamis and enormous earthquakes lay in wait, cataclysmic events have taken place before in history and are certain to happen again. How about the dinosaurs?

There are many, many, many forces stronger than the human force. No matter how hard we try to be, or pretend to be a stable, permanent fixture here, the simple fact remains: we are on Earth as a temporary experiment of cosmic evolution, a seed of life that was planted and took root, nourished and grew strong, reproduced and spread to the furthest reaches and most inhospitable climates of the planet. We have survived. Survived, thrived and multiplied.

No matter how long this experiment goes on, there is one thing for sure. The world as we know it ends on 12.21.12. The Earth’s alignment with the Galactic Center puts us in the position of a celestial eclipse, a position of cosmic reception and transmission, aka the eternally evolving Cosmic Consciousness. The Earth is now conjunct the birth canal of the Milky Way Galaxy. Cosmically charged particles - invisible to the naked eye, but log-rhythmically powerful and as real as the force of gravity or the ground upon which we walk – are washing us with electromagnetic information, knowledge and light. It’s much like being in the eye of a hurricane, with no ocean below or sky above. It’s a vortex filled with the energy of eternity; the infinite, boundless evolutionary force of creation and destruction, birth, death and rebirth, carrying the DNA of the ages - past, present and future - in its core. It is a force that seeds every part and particle in its path. And we are the wombs in which the embryonic new era is being created.

Welcome to the Aquarian Age. Onward, Cosmic Travelers…may you open your hearts and carry the light.

Aries (Mar. 20-Apr.19) You may feel driven toward excess or indulgence as pleasure-loving Venus opposes boundless Jupiter and sets the stage for a holiday week of fun, food and fiesta. Be aware of Aries’ default impulsive behaviors and slow down when it comes to eating, drinking, spending and speeding. It’s all about adjustment, correction and balance. Take your time. Be safe.

Taurus (Apr. 20-May 20) Winter solstice marks the longest night and shortest day of the year. Christmas is perennially associated with the season of light and returning light. For the Bull, it’s a time of spiritual generosity and openhearted giving. Your natural ability to provide for yourself and others sustains the light of love and life in the world. It’s a wonderful gift to share.

Gemini (May 21-June 21) Voluptuous Venus makes an opposition to jovial Jupiter in your sign this week, presenting you with some rather lucrative, seductive possibilities you thought had passed you by. You may experience a sense of déjà vu or recognize familiar territory. Delve deeply into soul and spirit, feel feelings and emerge from darkness. Your heart knows the way, follow the light.

Cancer (June 21-July 22) Winter solstice marks the halfway point through your solar year, when you move from months of individually focused, self-oriented activities to those of a more social and interactive nature. You may feel open and willing to engage in partnership and commitment, see the merits of cooperation and the joys of sharing. Show up and enjoy the show.

Leo (July 23-Aug.22) As fellow fire-sign Sagittarius morphs into Capricorn and winter begins, the Lion roars with love and hope. The season of returning light is upon us and you are brave, courageous and strong. Helping others help themselves, leading by example, is the way to go. It’s difficult to find people we can look up to, role models and leaders. Be one of the few.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sep.22) Heartstrings play beautiful music of love and hope as the Christmas spirit comes knocking at your door. In the midst of chaos, sorrow and suffering, we must still carry the light for those less fortunate than ourselves. No matter how many or few presents are under the tree, remember that an open, loving heart is the most precious gift of all.

Libra (Sep. 23-Oct. 22) As the grand cardinal cross in orb continues to transform and morph our collective global realities via radical awakening and revolutionary change, Libra worlds must also adjust and adapt. Who you are and what you do is being reborn. Give birth to the artist within. Create the beauty and live the magic.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 22) Winter solstice 2012 has come. The world is still turning on its axis; the sun still rises and sets. Energetic shifts are both dramatic and subtle. Take a look at your life, the way you feel, your overall awakening and awareness. Can you say you have not changed? Embrace the magic of transformation and shape shift through the season of light. Shine on.

Sagittarius (Nov. 23-Dec. 20) While the Archer is the archetypal optimist of the zodiac, filled with hope and generous of spirit, there are times when even the most positive souls must say no more. Polarity shifts and consciousness changes shine with light and shimmer in darkness. Maintain goodness and focus on solutions.

Capricorn (Dec. 21-Jan. 19) Your happy birthday month arrives with its customary yuletide feasts and festivities. Rather than resent that it’s not all about you, give with the grandeur of the Christmas holiday spirit. Share the beauty and experience the bounty. Release the desire to control outcomes, immerse yourself in the hustling bustle and go with the flow. Surrender to enlightenment.

Aquarius (Jan. 19-Feb. 18) Goodness and grace go hand in hand, whether it’s the middle of summer or the prophetic winter solstice of 2012. As planets collide and worlds come to an end, so too, we start anew. Birth and death are forever and always, it’s how we emerge and evolve. There is nothing to fear but fear itself. You are capable and competent, willing and able. Go forth and thrive.

Pisces (Feb. 18-Mar. 20) The culmination of the Mayan long count calendar comes on winter solstice 2012. So, here we are. Living and breathing, thinking, feeling, doing and undoing. More than anyone, you know the value of friendship and camaraderie. Common interest for the good of all concerned is a mantra and slogan for now. Embrace the new era and live from the heart.

Alacazem           by Cynthia Zehm       December 13 to 20, 2012

Visible Planets: Morning: Mercury, Venus, Saturn  Evening: Mars, Jupiter 

Whatever a man soweth, that he shall also reap...

When I think about the odds of my birth – or the birth of anything or anyone – I know they are just about as good as winning last month’s $587,500,000 lottery. And yet, here I am. Living and breathing, thinking and feeling. Life is a miracle.

That said, and therefore accepting the miraculous gift of life, I often wonder about guardian angels and the numinous world of spirit. Are we protected and guided by those who have come and gone before? What happens to us when we die? Is it true that energy can only transform, that as our physical bodies stop working, the spirit remains? Does it simply dissipate into the ethers as interactive molecules of oxygen, nitrogen and carbon dioxide in a process of diffusion or does consciousness somehow trump the random dissolution of what was once a lifetime experience of cause and effect, action and consequence?

One human Earthwalk - the perception and definition of reality, and the choices we make along the way - carves out a path of karma, a journey through the jungle of life. What we do and how we do it manifests our fate, our destiny. And from start to finish, we have the gift of choice, free will, the right to choose.

It’s easy to understand the Biblical dictum: Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. We all know what happens when we plant seeds. Just like a mathematical equation, the quality of intention at the time of planting and the quantity of attention given during its gestation, growth and harvest equal our success or failure. Of course, there are always the X factors: accidents, tragedies, losses and natural disasters, but, ultimately, we reap what we sow.

Does our karma then live on in some sort of afterlife? Or, as in Eastern spiritual traditions, do we reincarnate to another physical life and pick up where we left off? Oral tradition, repetitive themes, fairy tales, cross-cultural archetypes and universal, common human experiences weave a fabric of consciousness that shrouds the planet with an invisible cloak of shimmering, glimmering light. Life and afterlife are beautiful, magical mysteries. The threads of human consciousness unite us all in an evolutionary journey through time, aka Eternity.

On Winter Solstice - Dec. 21, 2012 – a day of prophecy will dawn upon planet Earth. This week, we are all waiting and watching, bonded together in a bubble of human cosmic consciousness. We are being given the opportunity to seed the Universe with our most enlightened, joyful, spiritually generous, compassionate, good-hearted intentions, hopes and dreams. Let us count our blessings, walk in beauty, look for the angels and follow the signs. Embrace life - carpe diem - seize the day.  Peace, love and joy.

Onward cosmic travelers...through the veil.

Aries (Mar. 20-Apr.19) This is one of the most important and impactful lunar months of your life. What you think, say and do will have rippling effects upon your reality for years to come. Therefore, be extra conscious, awake and aware. The radical changes of which you have been a part continue and amplify. Make the right choices, be honest and true, beautiful blue.

Taurus (Apr. 20-May 20) As the Dec. 13^th new Moon initiates the last lunar cycle of 2012, gather your forces and resources to take a giant leap of faith into what you know is good for you and others. Philanthropic desires fuel spiritual fires, so follow your heart. Helping others help themselves is where it’s at. Research programs and explore options. Share your goodness with the world.

Gemini (May 21-June 21) This new Moon, month and year mark a momentous turning point in our spiritual, emotional, physical and psychological evolution. As we end a 26,000-year precessional cycle and give birth to a shimmering new era, awaken to the awareness of an entirely different world. Polarity and duality morph into unity and divinity. Embrace the cosmos, go with the flow.

Cancer (June 21-July 22) Forever and always sensitive to lunar cycles and movements, you may find this week’s powerful Sagittarius lunation one which stays with you for eons. It’s time to reach for the best within, discover the soul of service and give your special gifts to the world. Compassion, nurturing and care for yourself and others is a path of goodness. Stay on the path.

Leo (July 23-Aug.22) Just a few hours following the conjunction of the Sun and Moon in Sagittarius, planet Uranus ends its yearly retrograde phase and stations forward in fellow fire-sign Aries. This heralds a major point of departure and breakthrough for the Lion. Gather the best within and move forward with courage and heart. It’s a quantum leap of consciousness into the now.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sep.22) Being of service, improving the world and maintaining a daily spiritual practice are means to a virtuous, rewarding life of goodness and grace. And yet, how easy one can stray from the path. Today make a commitment to follow your heart and stick to your word, no matter what. Responsibility, accountability and credibility are allies. Just do your best.

Libra (Sep. 23-Oct. 22) The fairies and flowers of a sparkling new era shimmer and shine behind the superficial façade of the material world. Look behind the greed and grief to find the magic of heart and travel upon its golden path. Whatever you do, wherever you go, carry the serenity of inner peace within you. Light the way for others by your calm, compassionate example. Yes.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 22) Fear and loathing have no place at this week’s cosmically illuminated magic table. A shimmering Sagittarius new Moon initiates a lunar month and year of hope, optimism and faith. Count your blessings and take the high road on your travels. It is all about bringing darkness to light and demons to death. Look for angels, carry the torch and follow your heart.

Sagittarius (Nov. 23-Dec. 20) Happy birthdays continue as a fresh lunar cycle in your sign bestows you with a golden crown of good luck, good will and good fortune. Others are willing and wanting to help, assist and guide you toward the manifestation of your dreams. The most important ingredients for success: knowing what you want and being willing and ready to commit.

Capricorn (Dec. 21-Jan. 19) A silvery December new Moon delivers a fresh lunar cycle and a cosmically illuminated path to a sparkling new year. As the Winter Solstice 2012 End Times approach, prepare for a brave new world of evolving consciousness and spiritual light. Higher intelligence, innovation and liberation impel a giant leap forward. Embrace the times, join the party.

Aquarius (Jan. 19-Feb. 18) As a bearer of higher knowledge and enlightened thinking, gather your forces, sources and resources and prepare to wage war upon ignorance, prejudice, violence and abuse. You know the difference between right and wrong, good and bad. Now, more than ever, you are being asked to rally the troops and carry the light. Be the change and lead by example.

Pisces (Feb. 18-Mar. 20) More than any other sign, you may be the one that feels the most and understands the many. Compassion is your ally and empathy is your companion. Now is perhaps the most important time to unleash them both upon the world. With so much suffering, there is also a great wealth joy. Nurture the goodness in yourself and others and experience the miracles of love.

Alacazem           by Cynthia Zehm       December 6 to 13, 2012

Visible Planets: Morning: Mercury, Venus, Saturn  Evening: Mars and Jupiter

The Moon, Venus, Guadalupe and the Woman of the Apocalypse

The waning Moon rises near dawn this week, each morning moving closer to the Sun. On Dec. 9^th and 10^th, expect to see a delicate lunar crescent hanging close to brilliant Venus in the predawn, deep-blue turquoise twilight. Then on Dec. 11^th, watch as these two celestial goddesses – the archetypal nurturing Mother and magnificent, beautiful child - come together in an embracing planetary conjunction above the breaking light of dawn. Once again, a cause to pause and take in the awesome, stellar beauty of recurring planetary cycles in our ever-evolving Universe.

Nights are deep with darkness, it’s the time of the “Black Moon” and the end of 2012’s last eclipse cycle. Starry skies sparkle as the Milky Way maps the River of Souls across the heavens. The cosmic womb is open and waiting, a fertile field in which to plant our hopes and dreams.

I see the magnificent, magical synchronicity of these celestial events against the backdrop of the cosmos in this very poignant, powerful and potent week. On the evening of Dec. 11^th, people all over Mexico and the Americas celebrate the appearance of Nuestra Senora de Guadalupe – Our Lady of Guadalupe - at Tepeyac Hill on Dec. 12, 1531.  It’s an evening of dancing, feasting, luminarias, fireworks, reverence and prayer for the Great Mother, Santa Maria, the Mother of God, la Virgencita, the Mother of the Americas, the Mother Earth, the Mother of Us All. As the Moon and Venus come together in the heavens, so do mothers, fathers, sons and daughters, children old and young - all over America and the world - embrace in love, laughter, compassion and joy. 

And this year, el dia de Guadalupe takes place on a date of prophetic numerical symmetry – 12.12.12. – much like 12.21.12 - Winter Solstice 2012 - the prophesized end of the Mayan Long Count Calendar, and for some more dramatic types, “the end of the World.” Many call Guadalupe the Woman of the Apocalypse[1] and look to her for guidance, protection, succor, salvation, strength and courage in these rather “apocalyptic” times.

 For me, it’s all about trust and a giant leap of faith, dance and prayer in celebration of the Mother - yours, mine, the Mothers of us all, everyone has a Mother - however one sees, feels, knows and needs her - and the maternal gifts of life, liberty, love, peace, gratitude and grace. Guad bless…

[1] From the New American Bible, the Book of Revelation: 11:19 Then God’s temple in heaven was opened, and…there were flashes of lightning, rumblings, and peals of thunder, an earthquake, and a violent hailstorm. 12:1 A great sign appeared in the sky, a woman clothed with the sun, with the moon under her feet, and on her head a crown of twelve stars…

Aries (Mar. 20-Apr.19) The last quarter Moon wraps up a rather intense lunar cycle this week, encouraging deep travel in to the inner workings of soul and psyche. What lies beneath the physical manifestations of our behaviors? Are you hiding or disguising the truth? Working with therapists and spiritual advisors help unearth the buried treasure of health and healing. Try it.

Taurus (Apr. 20-May 20) Partners and partnership issues continue to dominate the scene as lunar light wanes and personal planets dance in your solar 7^th house of primary relationships. Maintain inner peace and equanimity when you interact with others, focusing on your part rather than theirs. Philanthropic motivation has you giving from the heart. It’s all good.

Gemini (May 21-June 21) Messenger, magician and trickster planet Mercury moves into Sagittarius this week to join the Sun in your solar 7^th house of longterm relationships, putting you in touch with others via both physical and virtual worlds. Whether it’s a greeting card, phone call, visit or email, communicate with and touch the ones you love. Happy holidays!

Cancer (June 21-July 22) The romantic nostalgia of the holiday season evokes feelings of love and hope. Memories and emotions flow freely as mental Mercury and loving Venus move through your solar 5^th house of the heart. Busy with holiday preparations, find time to bless the simple joys of home and hearth. Share time with people you like, get out and see the lights.

Leo (July 23-Aug.22) Homelife is the best life now. A crackling fire, a comfy couch and a little Christmas cheer generate feelings of gratitude and grace. Amidst the holiday hustle and bustle, carve out some quiet nights and quality time with those you love. Inner peace is the key to happiness and giving from the heart is most precious. Have fun, touch the spirit and feel the joy.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sep.22) As early December winds its way toward Christmas, pace yourself and your spending. Recognize your own self-worth and the deep meaning and true value of heartfelt giving. Time and attention are the most precious gifts you can give. Make your home a place of beauty and grace via cleanliness and godliness. Love is sweet, share it and feel it.

Libra (Sep. 23-Oct. 22) Mercury and Venus in your solar 2^nd house of self-creative talents and resources may have you crafting gifts, making cards or beautifying your home in the spirit of Christmas. Peace and harmony are your allies this holiday season. Be the calming influence that helps others experience the joy of universal love. Sweet and kind, you are beautiful and blessed.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 22) You may find yourself busy, busy and running in an effort to “get ‘er done.” Rather than stress, enjoy the hustle-bustle energy of the holiday season. Slow down. Joy, love and beauty surround you; take a look and see it. Shimmering lights, happy faces and festive decorations abound. It’s really all about love and peace. Be the change and live the magic.

Sagittarius (Nov. 23-Dec. 20) As your birthday month continues, candles flicker and cakes are cut. Sharing your nativity with holiday festivities is a combination of good luck and cosmic timing. Tap into your own inherent motivation to explore spirit and give from the heart. Take the high road on your travels through December. Carry the light and illuminate the path.

Capricorn (Dec. 21-Jan. 19) As motivator Mars continues marching through your sign, tap in to the high spirit of self-fueled, right action. Waning moonlight favors a path of heartfelt giving. Follow the road less traveled through mystical lands of soul and spirit. Tap into the mystical, divine, angelic forces of the universe by listening, seeing and feeling. Good luck on your journey.

Aquarius (Jan. 19-Feb. 18) Good things come via professional or social interactions. You may reap the benefits of financial reward for years of work, commitment and responsibility as deal close and payments are made. Patience is a virtue and perseverance furthers. You have both and now experience the benefits. Compassion and forgiveness are allies in moving forward. Go forth.

Pisces (Feb. 18-Mar. 20) The Sagittarius sun time is one of goal achievement and recognition for the Fish. Sewing, crafting and gift-making elucidate creative, artistic skills and award you with self-satisfaction. It feels good to be productive. Friends help motivate you to get out and about, socialize and share the holiday spirit. Intimate nights are sweet, indulge in love!