This Week in Astrology – 29th April – 5th May 2013

A trine between Mercury and asteroid Angel on the 29th April seems to set a tone of ‘stop, look, listen’ this week. It feels as though every time you sense a wall in front of you, it’s a cue to go within and seek out that part of you that is connected to divine inspiration. If you believe in angelic beings or spirit guides, make time to talk to them – and also make time to listen to what they might have to say in reply. I once asked an Angel why they hadn’t answered me when I needed them. They replied that they were waiting for me to stop shouting! 😀

Black Moon Lilith dances back into Taurus on the 30th April, right on time to celebrate the Pagan festival of Beltane in the Northern Hemisphere.

Technically, astrological Beltane occurs when the Sun reaches 15° of Taurus as this is the midpoint between the Spring Equinox (0° Aries) and the Summer Solstice (0° Cancer). It is known as a cross-quarter day and is one of the four fire festivals.

But Beltane is traditionally celebrated on the night of the 30th April with May Day celebrations the following day. Our appalling weather in the UK has delayed much of the blossom this year (!) but normally, this is a time when the Earth is resplendent in flowers. This festival marks the beginning of Summer in the Pagan calender and brings together the horned God and the Goddess as a young couple. The Goddess in her maiden aspect is deflowered and impregnated. Cherry and apple blossom rains down like confetti, blessing all couples and every creative idea.

This is a time of fertility, both physically and metaphorically. Plant the creative seeds of intent. Light a candle to honour the Bel-fire. In the past, cattle were driven through the fires to cleanse them of disease. Traditionally this was also a time to dress wells and springs, honouring the source of all things. This is a time of fecundity and joy.

On the 1st May however, Mars opposes Saturn whilst Mercury jumps into Taurus. Mars then is pulled up short by Saturn. You may need to hit the brakes and let things move more slowly than you would like to get to where you want to be. It’s no use getting frustrated. Everything must grow in its own time. Heed Mercury and let your mind slow down, allow yourself a little bit of thinking time. Ponder the practicalities. With a trine between the Sun and Pluto on the same day, the go-slow approach may help you to feel stronger and more empowered for things to come.

The last quarter Moon occurs on the 2nd May at 12AQU12. We’re gearing up to a solar eclipse soon, so this is the time to consider the future and what you want to make of it. It’s also about your part in the wider community. The symbol for this degree is “A Barometer” so it’s wise to check the social atmosphere as to whether its receptive to your ideas. If someone is raining on your parade or putting you under pressure, simply put up a psychic umbrella and wait for a fairer day.

Lady luck, asteroid Fortuna arrives in Taurus on the 3rd May and she seems to echo the message of the last quarter Moon. In Taurus, Fortuna’s message is you make your own luck through hard work and careful planning. A sextile between the Sun and Chiron on the same day gives you a sense that you’re on track with your mission.

On the 4th May, Mercury creates a pretty sextile to Neptune which inspires you to formulate a plan. Alternatively you might use this energy to meditate and tune in to divine whispers. With Mercury in Taurus, meditation in a natural place or amongst trees may help you to draw up energy from the Earth bringing you in tune with the rhythm of the planet. Listen to your heart-beat.

On the 5th May, two strong transits create a push-pull effect. Mercury is facing Saturn in an opposition. Sometimes this may feel like a mental block or that someone out there isn’t listening and/or doesn’t want to understand. With Mars trine Pluto however, actions speak louder than words today. Instead of trying to force the point, go where the energy is moving. Stick with what’s working instead of trying to beat down obstacles in your path. Your efforts are best spent elsewhere.

There’s certainly an earthy feel to the aspects this week and despite the oppositions to Saturn from Mars and Mercury, on the whole it feels quite productive if you can be patient. In fact, those Saturnian oppositions may just give you some time to smell the roses.

Beltane Blessings to all.

Image is part of a painting by Nicolaes van Verendael