Astrology: What's Going on in Egypt?

As astrologers often write, outer planets like Uranus and Pluto often correspond with world events. They posit that the Square (extreme tension) between these two planets is indicative of revolt (Uranus in Aries) (Aries ruled by Mars) against traditional, entrenched systems (Pluto in Capricorn) (Capricorn ruled by Saturn).
   I've been thinking about Egypt and changing events there, and now -- stalemate -- after massacres less publicized than the initial attention given to the uprising against Mubarak.  Some, though not all, analysts speculate that conditions in Egypt are unlikely to improve for a long while: that, in fact, it is worse politically, and life there far more dangerous for most Egyptians than when Mubarak was in power.
   Looking at this astrologically, the Uranus-Pluto square continues, though at times it is wider, and at others-- tighter: the latter making political conditions worldwide less stable and disruption more intense. Eventually, it is meant to dis-empower corrupt leadership and bring about a better planet. But in the meantime, it can cause violence and prolonged struggle.

Astrology:Saturn Return: Finding Your Path

     The two to three years of a Saturn Return often feel like wandering through a maze until the way out reveals itself.
        Saturn is in early degrees of Scorpio. This will affect you if you were born 29-30 years ago. A Saturn Return (when the planet Saturn returns to the sign it was in at the person's birth) first occurs at 29-30 years old.  At this time, monumental, life-changing events begin, usually baffling and disorienting the person. He/she is often unaware that these events are destined to align him/her with their life purpose. This includes career, but also character..
      In general, strong Saturn in a natal chart can bring accomplishment and success. And Saturn aspects are also present in long-term relationships. Saturn symbolizes responsibility, but it isn't known for warmth. The Saturn return usually exposes the person to harsh reality. A parent may become ill or die, or there may be other losses or career disappointments. But it also brings enlightenment and discovering new paths.
      I've written several posts about athletes and sports ( including 1/5/12, 6/5/12, and 7/24/13).  The first post began with the following:
      Has your favorite sport hero been accused of using performance drugs?
      Do you believe it? From Tour de France winners to football heroes, we never know when the      chosen favorite will quickly fall from a pedestal simply for being accused.... Does the Sun sign indicate a person who is, by nature of his/her natal sign disciplined? Is Virgo prominent in the chart and/or at least aligned with a significant planet? Where is Saturn?
       In the US major league baseball scandal, star athletes have met varying penalties, including suspensions, and had various reactions. Alex Rodriquez is suing, others have been suspended, including Ryan Braun. With the exception of the team owner, most who looked up to this Most Valuable Player have turned on him. Recently, there is speculation of a trade, which has, in turn, been attributed to rumor. This is where Saturn's return comes in.
     

Astrology: Observing From a Higher Perspective

Venus conjunct Saturn could be putting a damper on your love life, joy for life, and relationships.  You may find yourself feeling restricted in some way.  Scorpio is deep, so one solution may be mining the subconscious as a Jungian analyst might: by trying to explore the images and feelings you are experiencing and what they mean to you.  If the Square between these two planets in Scorpio and Mars in Leo are creating anger and tension, it helps to feel (Scorpio -- water sign) what situations (Mars -- action) in your early life made you feel angry and trapped.  For some people, this may reveal a way out (a door or window that was not there before). This is particularly true for those who have strong fire and earth planets in their natal charts.

     For others, the overriding tension of the current transits, particularly the Cardinal Grand Cross, could be frustrating.  It is a advisable to slow down instead of speed up.  Uranus (change) is battling Pluto (the status quo and political, financial, societal "powers that be") in the creation of a new world order.  The turmoil globally and personally is considerable.  

     In addition, cardinal planets are powerful. And in this week's Cardinal Grand Cross, Jupiter (expansiveness, higher principles) in Cancer (nurturing, home) is opposed to Capricorn (power, money, implacability).  Concurrently, Mercury in Libra (loveliness, music) is opposing Uranus (sudden change, brilliance) in Aries (swift archer-like action).  

     Needless to say, this is not an easy week.  But it helps to draw on the spiritual, creative beauty of Pisces and to move slowly and steadily like Taurus, bringing beauty to your surroundings (flowers, candle, fireplace), and lifting your spirits through music, dance, and meditation or prayer.  

     It helps to use the "observer position," imagining yourself and your life as a play. Stepping outside of ourselves can bring, at least, momentary detachment and connection with our own internal power, which we can otherwise easily lose sight of in our demanding, chaotic civilization.