WHAT’S UP November 2008

Scorpio is the zodiac sign of release, death, sex and magic, in addition to more mundane matters like taxes and inheritance. All these disparate things have one commonality. Each one calls forth a surrender to what is. Scorpio, like autumn, is a constant reminder that life on this dimension is temporary.

Autumn leaves barely cling to their branches awaiting the next brisk wind to release a final hold. A bittersweet blend of beauty and contrast, their falling reminds us of cold days to come. Sun’s warmth ebbs as it transits through Scorpio skies.

Yearly, the first two days of November are considered sacred. All Saints Day on November 1st is a time of honoring the Enlightened Ones. All Souls Day on the 2nd is set aside to remember souls that may not have moved into the Light and need some assistance in doing so. These observances are appropriate to Scorpio, as this zodiac sign represents the capacity to see through the veils separating Earth and other dimensions. Scorpio is mysterious, deep and rarely content with surface reality or pat answers.

This year, Neptune supports a profound sensitivity and opening to alternate states of consciousness during its stationary phase October 29 - November 7 entering a direct phase on November 1st. Thus, the month begins with refined perception to the inner side of life. When Neptune is strong, some people turn to intoxicants to escape and numb emotions. However, most people experience Neptune as spiritually uplifting and expansive. Neptune currently transits Aquarian skies supporting the altruistic ideals of unity, freedom and equality.

Election Day Ends with Moon in Aquarius
A series of long-term planetary transits focalize on Election Day. Saturn, the planet of tradition, opposes Uranus, the planet of revolutionary change. Occurring exactly at 8:35 a.m., this is first of three oppositions between this dynamic duo. It is clear; the outcome of this election brings far-reaching adjustment into the planetary picture. The tension and momentum of this opposition has been building all year.

For better understanding, let’s consider Saturn and Uranus. Saturn is planetary ruler of conservative and traditional Capricorn. Uranus is planetary ruler of progressive, independent Aquarius. All indications show a departure from the past to break with tradition to pioneer a new future.

On November 4th, the day begins with the Moon in Capricorn, the foundation of tradition. At 7:01 p.m. the Moon enters Aquarius as the polls close on the East Coast. The remainder of the country has an Aquarian Moon to sign and seal the final results.

Additionally, 2009 begins with Jupiter, the planet of enthusiastic expansion, entering Aquarius. 2008 has been a year to review the past to prepare for the future. The election process has provided an excellent forum for this dynamic and essential process. 2009 promises a profound departure from the past.

SuperMoon & Letting Go
November’s Full Moon occurs in the early morning hours of the 13th. This is a SuperMoon, because the Moon also is at its closest approach to the Earth. Be prepared for the intensity of this lunar phase. SuperMoons exert strong gravitational pulls, and are known to effect weather and geomagnetic conditions. Humans relate to these forces impulsively, with stronger emotional reactivity, but keeping your wits about you can avert most potential problems.

Neptune is in stressful aspect to this Full Moon. It may be quite difficult to see things clearly, much less get to the bottom of things. Clarity is not to be forced, but coaxed gently from the deep recesses of genuine humility and inner connection. This lunation can take its toll on relationships. Differences surface in attitude, philosophy, value, finances and sexuality.

It is a volatile time - a time to be patient and release what is not working. November is a month of letting go. Those last few autumn leaves have nothing else to cling to. And, after a difficult year of political campaigns, the collective sigh of relief is audible.

The emotional intensity of Scorpio gives way to the exuberance of Sagittarius by mid-month. Several planets enter Sagittarius. Mars on November 16, Sun on November 21 and Mercury on the 23rd. Sagittarius is the zodiac sign of celebration.

Get to the Essence
Holiday preparations are underway and luscious smells permeate the kitchen. The New Moon of Sagittarius is exact on Thanksgiving Day at 11:54 a.m. We can be grateful for a New Moon, a time to plant new seeds of inspiration for weeks to come. This New Moon is unusually active, enthusiastic and passionate.

Another matter is the movement of Mars through Sagittarian skies, November 16 - December 26. The stress of recent months gives way to clarity and stimulating conversation. Mars in Sagittarius can be blunt, and speak out of turn without consideration for others. Mars will fight for what it believes to be true.

Election results will be on people’s minds, and many a conversation will turn to this topic. Considering the extreme polarity, projection and animosity of recent months, it is helpful to remember the delicate art of conversation. It is time for the country to come back together. Some will take the high road while others may linger in dissent. Either way, change is in the works.

New Pluto Cycle
By November 26, Pluto enters Capricorn where it will remain until 2023. The huge shift we are experiencing this year is due, in part, to Pluto’s entrance into Capricorn skies. Whole generations and mass consciousness are defined by Pluto’s long cycles. Its effects cannot be denied, and its results are far reaching.

Since 1995, Pluto in Sagittarius began to undermine, reveal and transform many of the old beliefs and philosophical agreements that have dominated human consciousness for a very long time. Throwing caution to the wind, the global trend has been to spend and expand as if there is no tomorrow. Well, tomorrow is today and Pluto in prudent and practical Capricorn brings us down to earth with a thud. This is a necessary phase as Pluto reveals subconscious patterns.

Wherever it transits, Pluto exposes the underbelly of humanity. Karmic conditions are exposed for the overall evolution of the human species. Now entering Capricorn, Pluto will expose the hidden side of government and business. The writing is on the wall. Over the next 14 years, humanity will have a chance to address all Capricorn issues.

Pluto in determined Capricorn will break down and transform the authorities and institutions that have held a vested interest in controlling humanity with the old structures. During the new phase of Pluto, a grand re-structuring and redistribution of wealth and power on the planet are inevitable. Very rapidly, over the next several years, we will see society pivot away from conspicuous consumption to conservation and stewardship of resources.

Mayan View
Mayan astrology dovetails with western astrology, and provides another point of view. According to Mayan scholar Carl Johan Calleman, planet Earth is completing a very difficult phase called the 5th Night, November 18, 2007 to November 12, 2008. This indicates more reasons why November is a pivotal and powerful month.

On the day of the Full SuperMoon, the “6th Day” begins. Continuing through to November 7, 2009, the 6th Day is a new era supporting humanity in moving toward a more sustainable, wise and global society. Economic, government and corporate structures will be transformed over time.

Add to this is Jupiter’s entrance into Aquarius on January 2nd. We will see a tremendous upswing into a higher vibration over the next four months. Enjoy!

Belinda C. Dunn is a professional astrologer with more than 30 years experience. Her approach is healing with an emphasis on personal/spiritual growth, relationships and current trends. She is available for consultation in person or by phone. Please call: 828-684-7713 or toll-free 888-215-8595. Check out her site for more articles and information, including a free e-newsletter.