The Stars This Week: June 18-24, 2012

A New Normal

Are you ready for more changes? Over the last several months, Uranus (the revolutionary) and Pluto (the reformer) have been moving toward a square -- and it's this week, on June 24, that these two major players finally connect! But before they do, a new Moon in Gemini on June 19 urges you to make use of all the information available to you. On June 20, set time aside to count your blessings as the Sun enters Cancer, a transit that marks the Summer Solstice. And of course, be sure to take advantage of all the support you've got once the Sun trines Neptune on June 23!

June 19: New Moon in Gemini
A fountain of information is available to you as the new Moon chart has Jupiter, Venus and the south node all in the same sign, Gemini. All you have to do is figure out what to pay attention to ... and what to let pass by. Cast a wide net so you can increase your knowledge on a variety of subjects and options. What would be the most fun, fulfilling or intellectually enriching for you? A new Moon is always a time to begin again, and in this education-oriented sign, you'll benefit most by enriching your mind and helping others learn. So, why not join a book club, sign up for a language class or volunteer for a literacy program? This is the time!

June 20: The Sun enters Cancer
Each year, the Sun enters this sensitive, nurturing sign as we celebrate the Summer Solstice. And since expressing gratitude is always a good thing, this time around you'll need to be particularly mindful of showing appreciation as you face a few hurdles due to the Uranus/Pluto square that becomes exact later this week. Cancer is a security-conscious sign that rules home and family, so spending time right now with those you love will give you the strength and courage to pursue your goals.

June 23: The Sun trines Neptune
Idealistic, compassionate and imaginative, this fortunate planet combination offers faith as well as emotional support amid these changing times. Today you receive plenty of support for your dreams and ideas, as well as opportunities to implement them, so make sure you don't waste any of your valuable time and energy entertaining unrealistic goals and fantasies. Instead, take your best ideas and run with them!

June 24: Uranus squares Pluto
You and the world have seen plenty of changes over the past couple years, and it may seem as if things will never return to their old ways again. The truth is, they most likely won't. Don't fret, though! Is your life so perfect that you couldn't benefit from a few adjustments ... or even a complete overhaul? This square aspect represents a long-term trend of global, societal and personal change. Each month, as the planets travel through the Cardinal signs (Aries, Cancer, Libra, Capricorn), they will engage this square -- and when they do, you will face challenges. For you, this pattern may manifest as people who disagree with you, or even work against you. You may realize that a work or home environment, or even a relationship, has turned toxic, prompting you to exchange one way of life for another. Take heart, though, in the fact that we're all in this together. Do what you can to help others, and make thoughtful decisions for yourself. Most of all, embrace the changes that are occurring. If so, you'll be able to turn some of those lemons into lemonade.