Think on liberation for all, and how we may each be instrumental in amplifying the voice of the marginalized. Think on our own souls, and how each day we live is a testament to our soul’s divinity.
For weeks, there has been an upsurge of energy directed toward whatsoever things are right, humane, and compassionate. People all over the world have come out in support of immigrants seeking refuge in this country, who have been criminalized, separated from their families, and subjected to atrocious treatment that is symbolic of this country’s history.
There has been an upsurge of energy directed toward the poor and disenfranchised under the Poor People’s Campaign spearheaded by Rev. William Barber, a man, who late one evening after a full day of worship over the holidays, mentored me and a handful of fellow activists about the wounds of this world, and how all healing is intertwined.
There has been an upsurge of energy directed inwardly too, in attempts to address our own codes of ethics. As we enter another dark moment in time, how will we show up for those on the margins? What does it say about our standards and expectations?
This upsurge of energy is imbued with Aquarian zeal for freedom, idealism, rebellion, nonconformity, innovation, and philanthropy. Mars, the planet of action and motion, has been transiting the sign of Aquarius since May 16th, composing a whole host of events around the globe that demand our humanitarianism.
Mars in Aquarius inspires the abandonment of the status quo; we must think outside the box to envision a future we wish to create. Aquarius is known for its genius, birthing ideas often considered farsighted and even farfetched (think Steve Jobs and Oprah Winfrey, both Aquarius, and ahead of their time).
This sign is fiercely independent – the true lone wolf of the Zodiac – with an instinctual understanding of how to be in this world, but not of it. Since Mars entered Aquarius, we have witnessed moments that continue to test our humanity, like the protests in Pittsburgh, PA over the murder by police of Antwon Jones.
Or the utterance of testy words by Canadian Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, who stood up against imperialist bullying by Donald Trump.
Or the murder of 55 peaceful protesters in Gaza by the Israeli government, while foreign diplomats celebrated an occupation of a people just miles away.
Or the overwhelming excitement for women in Saudi Arabia who, in 2018, have just been given the right to drive.
Or the outpouring of commemoration for rebels Kate Spade and Anthony Bourdain, innovators for whom death came too soon.
We too must bravely confront a slew of moral conflicts, and this week brings a shift as Mars stations retrograde, reversing much of what we have seen play out on a large scale and in our personal lives.
A planet that is retrograde gives the illusion of orbiting the Sun backwards. In the process, what that planet represents undergoes obstacles, delays, and setbacks. Mars in Astrology incites us to act. But while retrograde, our efforts become blocked and thwarted.
In Aquarius, Mars retrograde brings delays around innovation. All that is humane will be re-evaluated, whether it is the temporary protective status of immigrants from Haiti who came to the U.S. after their country was destroyed during the earthquake of 2010, or Medicaid funding that supports the welfare of our elderly citizens.
With Uranus’ new transit of Taurus the Bull, what we value when it comes to democracy and the laws of the land will be up for questioning too. Uranus, after all, rules the sign of Aquarius in Astrology. In its mutual reception to Mars in Aquarius, conventional norms will be challenged.
For each of us, a revised course of action in our own individual contributions to society is soon to be underway as well. Libra and Libra Risings will consider creative talents, and how collaborative efforts bring out their most authentic gifts that benefit all.
Gemini and Gemini Risings may dare to leave the comfort of what is familiar, setting their sights on higher aims that broaden their purpose in society.
Virgo and Virgo Risings may reconsider what projects and opportunities require their time and detail, especially if in service to others.
Pisces and Pisces Risings will find themselves in deep contemplation, as they consider new perspectives and attitude shifts that bring revelations and determination for a better humanity.
The transit of Mars in Aquarius, including its retrograde period, will quicken our overall evolution. What must we unlearn to step into who we truly are as individuals, as a society, and as a people?
How can we give of ourselves in ways that benefit mankind, fiercely marching in unison to the beat of drums that stir the passion in our hearts, and inspire ingenuity that makes each of us unique contributors to all that is good?
How can we come together as a collective – one nation, one world, under Goddess – revolutionizing our spiritual experience as human beings on planet Earth.
Whatsoever things reflect the answers that we seek, let us think on these things.
Mars will be retrograde from June 26th through August 27th, leaving the sign of Aquarius on November 15th. Check your horoscopes to see what's in store during Mars Retrograde, and remember to read for your Ascendant sign too.