Astrology Instruction Manual, or How to Get the Most Out of This New-Fangled Blog

So, I can understand skeptics' issues with astrology.

"You're saying that the movement of enormous balls of rock and gas, literally light years away, have some sort of symbolic meaning and effect on my life?"

In a word...yes. If I could tell you why it works — if anyone could, definitively — there would be no need for this post, and people would consult their horoscope the way they consult a weather forecast. Which is exactly how they should be used! 

Astrology, in my view, is not fatalistic. You wouldn't walk into a snowstorm wearing a Speedo, and I wouldn't approach my boss with a problem on the day Mars (energy, action and willpower)  is opposing (agitating the hell out of) Pluto (the powers that be.) Or if I had no other choice but to handle it that day, I'd expect power struggles and know that I needed to be extra-prepared to stand my ground. When someone asks me how I think astrology works, I think about how we're more than seventy percent water, and we know how the Moon affects the tides. Is it so outlandish to speculate that nearby planetary bodies exert a similar pull on us?

Is this all Greek to you? (It's actually Roman, if we're going by the planetary monikers — ba dum tiss! OK, I'm sorry. Don't give me that look.) I'd advise tracking your horoscopes and seeing how they have, or haven't, paralleled the events in your life, and make your own determination.

Or, if you have never had your birth chart done, you can order one through me at madeleinesmither@gmail.com (shameless plug!), and get fifteen to twenty pages all about you, calculated down to the minute and meter of where you were born. Almost everyone knows their Sun Sign, but did you know you have a Moon sign, and one for every planetary body in the solar system? Putting all these pieces together makes for a much more layered, comprehensive examination of you.What I'm saying is, it will tell you a lot more than, "Oh, you're a Scorpio. You're intense."

You'll get some keen insight into your personal strengths, and you'll be called out for incredibly specific behaviors such as power plays or daddy issues. Or order a compatibility chart for you and a partner, friend or family member. Pointing out each other's good and bad behaviors can make for a fun evening. As long as neither one of you is an Aries. Just kidding. ^__^

Written in the Stars - Week of February 20

Mars and Venus in Aries — Powerful magic occurs when the planetary polar opposites link up in the sign of the conqueror. Impulsive desires, dynamic demonstrations and daring displays are likely now. Express! Just don't explode!

ARIES

March 21 — April 19

Keep the big picture in mind this week, Aries, no matter what distractions may come up. If that big picture is looking a little intimidating or complex at the moment, you can benefit hugely from input from your closest loved ones and partners. Resist the urge to keep whatever you consider to be "flaws" to yourself — your humility and sense of humor take you a long way this week and your stars say that your trademark honesty will serve you better than any slick obfuscation. Be clear, reach out and accept help. You can't lose.

TAURUS

April 20 — May 20

A change is coming over you, Taurus, and you're already feeling it. Soon you'll be seeing the changes in concrete ways around you. Have your friends been looking at you differently? Or has your view changed? Whatever the case, you must trust yourself above all others this week. Your intuition is keen now, and if you combine this with your usual perceptiveness, you can get a handle on the big choice that's coming up for you. Where are you going and who is going with you?

GEMINI

May 21 — June 21

It's not just about what you say, Gemini, but also about how you say it. It's forecast that you'll be getting some close contact with some powerful figures this week and your way of relating to them could have long-term effects. Whether you're pitching an idea to the boss, seeking investments from backers or leading a team, a little extra charm and panache will take you a long way. Mars and Venus are lending you equal parts of spark and charm, so make the most of this astrological Spanish Fly!

CANCER

June 22 — July 22

It's time to raise your standards, Cancer, and remain true to them no matter what strange or sudden events come up this week. (And they will.) You'll likely be held up as an example to others this week in one way or another, so the more you adhere to your highest ideals the whole way, the better you will fare. Underhanded or hidden motives tend to come out under this influence, but so do hidden rewards! Keep yourself on the straight and narrow, and be sure others do the same. The future looks bright — keep plugging away.

LEO

July 23 — Aug. 22

You're on fire this week, Leo, and your brightness can be seen from miles away. Your powers of attraction are on high, so don't be surprised when it seems like everyone wants a piece of you — even a star like you might get a little dizzy from the spotlight. The secret to your draw is the increase in energy and motivation you're feeling — the planets are paving the way for you to create and share what only you can. Don't allow yourself to be rushed. Planning for the future will pay off in a big way — chart your new course!

VIRGO

Aug. 23 — Sept. 22

Don't be so hard on yourself, Virgo — nobody's perfect. It's possible that you could over-extend yourself this week, or find yourself disappointed your progress, or someone else's. Refuse to fall into a rut of negativity or blame — this is actually an opportunity in disguise. If your methods aren't producing the desired result, reconsider your approach. You have great financial fortune coming down the pipeline, and whether you know it or not, the events are already in motion. Trust yourself and your allies — share your load.

LIBRA

Sept. 23 — Oct. 22

Time to put your money where your mouth is, Libra. No, really. Your stars indicate that major financial gains come to you now when you "get serious" about communicating. Saturn's roosting in your House of Expression, insisting that you focus and cut the proverbial fat. If you strike while the iron is hot, you are sure to grow by leaps and bounds. Do your actions all have deep meaning for you? Interview yourself this week — what are your desires? Where do you see yourself when you imagine a perfect future? Make it so.

SCORPIO

Oct. 23 — Nov. 21

Temptation is tough for you to resist at times, Scorpio — because, after all, why would you? Right now you may be tempted to coast on your skills, since you can make it look so easy. However, when your chart is looking this great, and life can go this smoothly, it's actually the best time for you to take the bull by the horns and capitalize on your progress. Continue to play it cool for now and keep your aspirations close to your chest — but it's definitely time to get in the driver's seat and go after what you truly want. 

SAGITTARIUS

Nov. 22 — Dec. 21

Consider your circle of friends, family and associates, Sagittarius. Are any of them rubbing you the wrong way lately? For the next week, I'd like you to try an experiment. Regard everyone who comes into your sphere as a perfect teacher — whether they appear to be or not. The Universe is sending you messengers, allies, conflicts and attractions — it's going to be a social week without a doubt. Increased wealth and resources are forecast when you trust your intuition and act on it without fear. Plan your work, work your plan and accept the help that arrives.

CAPRICORN

Dec. 22 — Jan. 19

You have a more widespread influence than you know, Capricorn, and you should start taking advantage of it now to see the kind of rewards you would like. There's been so much electricity in the air lately that it's been easy to become sidetracked or weighed down, but with the Nodes of Destiny riding through your personal House of Destiny… the importance of the actions you take now can't be overstated. As a matter of fact, everything you do now holds weight and promises legacy. How do you want to be remembered?

AQUARIUS

Jan. 20 — Feb. 18

How do you feel about the phrase, "An eye for an eye," Aquarius? Your cool head can sometimes run a little cold and regrettable words or actions are often the result. Jupiter is stumbling through our House of Partners, indicating that you might be experiencing some discordant interactions, or some envy. Despite what others do, your stars implore you to take the high road. You're in your high cycle, so everything you say and do is amplified. You have more powerful allies than enemies — invest your energy there.

PISCES

Feb. 19 — March 20

What are you waiting for, Pisces? The Universe has done everything but provide you with a written invitation to get moving and "put yourself out there." You're more of an authority than you give yourself credit for — in what ways are you limiting yourself? Are you critiquing your project before you allow it to even come to fruition? Take action this week that you know will create positive, concrete results. Every good step you take now comes with an extra dose of momentum. Learn from the past, but keep moving forward.

Written in the Stars - Week of February 13

Venus in Pisces — When the planet of love lights the way for the sign of the dreamer, our world is painted in watercolor and written in poetry. Immerse yourself in art, music and love to tap in. Trust your intuition and look for messages in dreams.

ARIES

March 21 — April 19

Quality over quantity, Aries. That's your goal and your mantra for this week. As much as you may want to kick the door down and announce yourself, you'll benefit from some extra time tweaking your work. Between you and the Universe, you've been working some behind-the-scenes magic and by the end of this week, bountiful Jupiter will give a mighty push to your creative and playful endeavors. Be wary of sending your Martian energy in too many directions — "a stitch, in time, saves nine." It's nearly your time.

TAURUS

April 20 — May 20

You can shoulder a brunt silently like no one else, Taurus — and you may note that with some pride. However, this week, it's essential that you express exactly what you want, especially with regard to your home, family and closest loved ones. You may be having a hard time getting a recent spat or slight out of your head — all the more reason to share your feelings. Don't let the situation get blown out of proportion. Use some of this electric energy to take initiative at work or on personal projects — you might surprise yourself. 

GEMINI

May 21 — June 21

How often are you asked for your expertise, Gemini? (Astrologers know you're the one to inquire with — you know at least a little bit about everything.) This week, you're due for some recognition of the highest order and it's likely that it will have to do with your ability to teach. Sharing your abilities and insights, and especially your "out there," inspired ideas can do a lot to improve your station now. Not only will you be recognized, but you'll be improving your own workload. "Teach a man to fish…"

CANCER

June 22 — July 22

Give yourself just a little more time, Cancer. Big changes have characterized your chart over the last year and not all of those transitions were smooth. As a matter of fact, you might be "feeling" the weight of all that stress in your body. Slow down. Take a breath. I promise you'll make up for lost time — you're about to get a huge boost from three planetary power players – bountiful Jupiter, beautiful Venus and take-charge Mars. You're looking quite good despite the exhaustion — and you'll glow when the rewards start rolling in next week.

LEO

July 23 — Aug. 22

Oh, happy day, Leo! Big, beautiful Jupiter has finally stopped reclining and gotten his lucky butt into gear in your House of Personality. You are shining and your efforts to improve yourself and your sphere have not gone unnoticed. As a matter of fact, you're getting noticed in all sorts of ways — romantically, as well as at work. There's a budding partnership that needs your nurturing and attention. New wealth and resources are forecast when you put your heads and hearts together with others. Open up!

VIRGO

Aug. 23 — Sept. 22

You're spinning your wheels, Virgo — but are you getting anywhere? Forward momentum is forecast for you in the very near future, but only after you finish considering where you've come from, and how far you'd like to go. Your ruler, Mercury, has nearly finished its revision — soon things will be moving along nicely. Until then, use this time to gather your thoughts. You'll be quite emotional this week and it's possible you could lose your head. I know — it doesn't sound like you. But practice patience anyway.

LIBRA

Sept. 23 — Oct. 22

Nobody loves love like you, Libra. You'd love to be all things to all people, giving everything you have to offer. In a perfect world, when you did that, you'd be filled up by others in return without fail. Period.  However, there are some people and partners in your life that aren't doing or saying exactly what they appear to — are you giving so much away that you feel used, even by your closest loved ones? If there's a problem, Libra, look in the mirror first. Offer your support and love to yourself, and choose your actions from a place of fulfillment rather than need.

SCORPIO

Oct. 23 — Nov. 21

Rewards are rolling in for you this week, Scorpio, though they may not come from the corners you desired or predicted. The Universe has a way of leveling the playing field, no matter whether the players are following the rules. As lucky Jupiter leaps forward into your House of Career, it's time for you to step into the "big shoes" others know you're capable of filling. All courageous chances you take now are favored — you may not see the returns for another month or two, but you will see some encouraging movement. Follow your heart honestly.

SAGITTARIUS

Nov. 22 — Dec. 21

You're a happy-go-lucky sort, Sagittarius, and one of your best qualities is your optimistic willingness to go along for the ride, even when you have no idea where it's going. However, it benefits you to take time for a little meditation this week. You don't have to cross your legs and chant "om," unless that floats your boat. Simply take some time to seek your own wise, internal counsel. If you're busy hopping on other people's bandwagons, you might miss your own ships that are coming in. Ask yourself what brings you true joy and cultivate it.

CAPRICORN

Dec. 22 — Jan. 19

What if memories had weight, Capricorn? Which would you deem worth carrying and which would you choose to leave behind in order to forge the path ahead? It's not about revisionist history — what is done is done and some painful memories can temper us into better people. Your focus now belongs on yourself. Others may pester you, and you may even urge yourself to greater heights, trying to improve life for others. Save some of that energy for yourself. Personal fulfillment brings external rewards. Continuing to serve two masters with very little sleep will only leave you depleted.

AQUARIUS

Jan. 20 — Feb. 18

There's no doubt that you're the "cool kid" of the zodiac, Aquarius. You don't mind being the outlier, and people are very attracted to that confidence and charisma. This week, expect to practically have your door beaten down by friends and would-be lovers looking to bask in your energy. You have the opportunity to be an inspiration to others this week, to use your powers for good and show them how to lift themselves to higher places — and the sweetest part is, what goes around comes around. Give now to get more later.

PISCES

Feb. 19 — March 20

It's time to be a little extra kind to yourself, Pisces. Your chart indicates that you've been doing a lot of giving to other lately. Some people will go out of their way this week to make sure you know you're appreciated. Yet there are those in your circle who would gladly keep taking your help and offering little more than a smile in return. It's not about money or payback for you, Pisces, I know. But there is a life lesson here. You welcome more abundance into your life when you pay yourself first, in energy and resources. Your generosity will be rewarded, but your self-investment will pay dividends.

Written in the Stars - Week of February 6

Sun Opposition Jupiter — More, more, more! When the planet of personality is energized by the planet of abundance, we want it all, and then we want seconds. Our urge to grow is strong, but so is our indulgent streak. Pace yourself!

ARIES

March 21 — April 19

No one hates waiting like you, Aries. Yet you’ve probably experienced the disappointment that comes with, say, pulling a dish out of the oven too soon. Some can be salvaged; others are more delicate and can be ruined. Absolutely take your time now, particularly with work-related and creative endeavors. You’ve got something nearly ready to present — nearly. Your ruler, Mars, is still being distracted by dreamy Neptune and Mercury is still befuddling your group communications. Concentrate. Be patient. Tick tock.

TAURUS

April 20 — May 20

Though you may be experiencing a period of inaction, Taurus, things are definitely happening for you. You could be feeling frustrated now, as your ruler, loving Venus, is squaring off with stony Saturn in your House of Allies. You may have the sense that things are never going to move forward and that even some of your closest associates don’t understand your situation. This, too, shall pass. Take this time to focus on re-working aspects of your home life that could use improvement. You’ll see far-reaching returns.

GEMINI

May 21 — June 21

It is really, truly happening for you, Gemini. The lucky link-up of Venus and Mars is lighting up your House of Career and Destiny, saying the higher-ups see you as both a team-player and a go-getter in one. Your peers and partners respect you, and see you as quite serious about your commitments now. Make sure that you don’t oversell an incomplete product. You’ve got some great components and plans, but retrograde Jupiter in your House of Communications asks you not to overestimate yourself. You won’t need to — you’re golden.

CANCER

June 22 — July 22

You’ve been feeling a bit of pressure, Cancer, to make adjustments to some of your daily habits and routines. It’s no accident that stern Saturn has moved into your House of Work and Health, and suddenly you find yourself “cutting out” some unnecessary or unhealthy ways of being. The healthy adjustments that you make now are forecast to help make room for newer, more lavish enjoyments — Jupiter is sailing backward through your House of Wealth, just getting some room for his running start. Get your house in order now to receive rewards.

LEO

July 23 — Aug. 22

Have you gotten any strange looks from your inner circle recently, Leo? You've been making a lot of changes internally and you're likely re-assessing your relationships now — the way you are treated and what you contribute. Is it possible that you could care more about being liked than being true to yourself? Appropriately, you may be overlooking a great financial prospect if you treat your personal worth as something that can fluctuate, depending on the company. Discipline can be fun, too. Declare that you will meet and embrace your best self now.

VIRGO

Aug. 23 — Sept. 22

You've probably always been considered “grown up,” Virgo. Even as a child you were likely praised for your maturity and manners. With Saturn, the planet of life lessons, coming to roost in your House of Home, elements of your past and upbringing arise now and over the coming months. Whether relatives resurface, or you stumble upon a box of old photos, a re-assessment of this sector is due. In what ways have your roots supported and fed you, and in what ways might they hold you back? A discerning look will help you progress personally and professionally.

LIBRA

Sept. 23 — Oct. 22

You can be quite a dichotomy, Libra — a product of those swinging scales. You’re known for being idealistic and independent, willing to step outside societal boundaries in the name of justice. Yet for all your single-minded diplomacy, you’re not very single minded. Imagine what would happen if you placed the focus and love you have for your partners on yourself. Don’t take my word for it — try it. Give yourself a week of unbridled self-love,  served with a healthy dose of me-first. Ironically, you’ll come out a much better friend.

SCORPIO

Oct. 23 — Nov. 21

You may be questioning the worth of some things now, Scorpio. With Saturn moving through your House of Resources, you may be feeling a bit stifled or slowed — the stellar hermit is asking you to assess your money and the way you make it. Does your work serve you, or do you serve it? Right now, with Pluto blessing your House of Communication with gravitas, when you speak, others listen. If you want change, sometimes you must ask for it directly. You can only hide in the shadows so long. Come out and find your true partners.

SAGITTARIUS

Nov. 22 — Dec. 21

It’s an intense personal revision you’re going through right now, Sagittarius, and you are being acknowledged and rewarded for this spiritual house-cleaning. Solemn Saturn is in your House of Personality, helping you decide which parts of you are still relevant, and which may be hindering your growth. Your social sphere is getting a nice boost from the Sun and quizzical Mercury — are you planning a trip with family? Warmth and support are forecast, along with a revolutionary creative endeavor. Keep digging — you’re sure to hit pay dirt.

CAPRICORN

Dec. 22 — Jan. 19

What a year it’s been, Capricorn, and how far you’ve come. Somber Saturn is traversing your House of the Past and Unconscious, bringing up old memories, childhood programming and other secrets that might feel better left buried. But you, like no other sign, are willing to face the truth and go forward whether because of it, or in spite. Pluto is blessing you with a take-charge (and take-no-prisoners) approach. You’ve earned the respect you’re given, so remember to act with integrity — it’s easy to strong-arm others with this power.

AQUARIUS

Jan. 20 — Feb. 18

As independent as you are, Aquarius, so much of your identity is tied to your relationships to others. Uproarious Uranus is wreaking revolution in your House of Communication, and with Saturn cleaning up your House of Groups and Associations, a certain re-ordering of your social structure is in order. Look at your friends and partners as mirrors (because they are) — do you like what you see? Beauty, fun and gifts are forecast for you this week — bask in the love!

PISCES

Feb. 19 — March 20

Looking good, Pisces! You’re looking very good and you may not even know what to do with all the positive attention you’ll be receiving. Pace yourself. Things are coalescing behind the scenes and your keen intuition may be feeling it. Assume nothing, expect great outcomes, and welcome all gifts with joy and gratitude. Your stars say something magical is coming down the pipeline, and with Mars and Venus heating up your House of Personality, along with your ruler Neptune, well, “It’s good to be the king” — or queen.