The Third Quarter Square on January 14 at 6:10 p.m. PT, with the Sun at 24° Capricorn and the Moon at 24° Libra, combines Capricorn’s grounded influence with Libra’s desire to relate with others. Known as the “crisis of consciousness” phase of the cycle, this alignment asks us to process the information we have accumulated over the past three weeks to gain a clearer view of current situations. This will make it possible to determine the most effective methods to move forward. Additionally, Mars is very potent, barely moving since it turned direct on January 12, underscoring the necessity of strategic planning aligned with our core motivations.
Saturn’s influence is strong in the Third Quarter Square chart. As the ruler of Capricorn, it governs the Sun as well as Pluto and Mercury, which are also in this grounded, systems-oriented sign. Further, the Moon is in a harmonious trine with Saturn at 23° Aquarius, suggesting we may take a more realistic approach with our feelings and relationships. Saturn asks us to receive feedback from the world and take responsibility for our actions. With the Moon in Libra, it’s a good time to discuss practical matters with others and hear what they have to say with an open mind and heart. Our prior actions determine whether their input is positive or negative. Yet Saturn asks us to view feedback as feedback rather than interpret it as personal criticism. We can gain clarity and insight by seeing things objectively.
The Sun/Moon square is closely aligned with Pluto, indicating an amplification of any issues pertaining to the need to take responsibility for how we affect others as well, as our own state of mind. Pluto asks us to know the very core of our being. Its forging quality requires pressure and heat to eliminate all that is not authentic so we can become who we are meant to be. As this intensifies over the week it will be increasingly important to be mindful of projecting onto others that which exists in our own nature. Coming into our own sense of empowerment is not achieved through controlling others to do what we think is right. We need only to focus on our own behavior and be the example of truth we want to see in the world.
Venus at 15° Aquarius is tightly squaring retrograde Uranus in Taurus, underscoring the need to let others be who they are so we can focus on our own role in the world. Taking a creative approach with others will allow for unexpected moments that bring insight and innovation. The potential for this is strong now as Uranus, which rules Aquarius, is at the degree it will station direct on January 22. Aquarius, known as a great networker, encourages us to expand our social circle, especially with people who let our imagination run free and help us recognize our inherent uniqueness.
Finally, retrograde Mercury is inconjunct Mars in Gemini, and the Moon in Libra is inconjunct Neptune in Pisces. Inconjunct planets are five signs apart without any relationship, but they must coexist. Adapting to situations requires holding two incompatible truths at the same time. When dealing with inconjuncts, if there is confusion around how to proceed, it is best to wait until more information is available, which may come soon now that Mercury is within the degree it will station direct on January 18. As we wait for right timing, we can do our best to make informed decisions, carefully commit to plans, and move forward with discernment and inner guidance.
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