Astrological Insights for 15 November 2009

Welcome to Today. And what a day it is.

Today is the first of the three Pluto/Saturn squares with the subsequent ones occurring on February 1 and August 21 of 2010. This energetic pattern began to crystallize in September and will evoke its influence throughout next Fall.

Saturn is the creator of structure. It instills a honoring of the natural laws necessary for crystallizing form, for making things “come to life.” It’s focus, on some level, is continuity.

Pluto is the master of transformation. It requires us to let go in order that we may uncover the depths and the powerful resourcefulness of who we are.

These two planets seem, on the surface, to be at odds. After all, Saturn likes the as-is while Pluto cherishes the that which will become. Saturn is known for holding on and appreciating a sense of certainty. Pluto, on the other hand, inspires us to give in and release control, having faith that the Phoenix will rise from the ashes.

This alignment can evoke tension. Saturn may exert its rigidity and hold back Pluto’s natural processes while Pluto may cause a breakdown in the structure that Saturn worked so hard to create.

Yet, Saturn and Pluto can work gracefully as well. Saturn can provide a container that can help to give true form to Plutonian transformation. Pluto can breakdown some of the Saturnian rigidity that may have restrained the expression of joy and individual authenticity.

While this planetary influence will be palpable throughout the year, today seems like a very auspicious day to work with these energies to help inspire our graceful unfolding (in addition to today’s Pluto/Saturn square, we’re on the cusp of tomorrow’s Scorpio New Moon, a great time for planting seeds for the future). Yet, with Saturn and Pluto, it may not necessarily be a “walk in the park”: after all, they do make us face the hard questions, the ones we may like to turn a blind eye to. Yet, Saturn is known for “bringing the goods” and so if we do the work required, we will be greatly rewarded.

During this Pluto/Saturn alignment, consider, for example, whether there is any aspects of your life—situations, relationships, attitudes, habits, et al.—that you are tightly holding on to but which you know, in your heart of hearts, don’t really serve you. You may be holding on to it because of comfort, because of fear, because you identify yourself with it. Whatever the reason, assess whether it truly aligns with your inner joy and sense of being. If it doesn’t, see how you may release it so that you can make space in your life for something that better matches your authentic self. This Plutonian change need not be quick nor rash. In fact, it’s important to honor Saturn here and be thoughtful and diligent in your approach. This will help assure that the changes you make are lasting ones that help to inspire your sense of personal empowerment.