2006 Year Ahead Report and Horoscopes for each sign. Maggie Kerr AAT APA

Introduction

Back in the ‘90s (yes it seems like ages ago already) a term emerged that has become part of popular vernacular…”the perfect storm”, which describes the convergence of a number of cell fronts at the same place, at the same time, to create a rip roaring event of memorable proportions. Well the place is planet earth, and the converging cycles come from our fellow planets in the system that manifests life as we know it on our little blue gem. We are now entering what promises to be the most eventful years ever known in history…the last several thousand that is. 2005 brought us tsunamis, hurricanes and earthquakes. 2006 will bring us more of the same, plus the possibility of a flu pandemic of global proportion.* The “War on Terror” situation is well fueled to escalate further due to the woeful lack of judgment by the American administration.

So it is a fool who continues to wear rose coloured glasses, which block the reality that we are all on call, to be alert and prepared in many different ways. We need to have a strong philosophy that underpins our ability to sustain ourselves and others whatever befalls us. We need to have physical preparedness in the form of spare water, food, a cash stash and so on…yes the “grab bag” known so well to yachties the world over. And I'm not being dramatic…just practical! We need to have an inner commitment to our planetary future that inspires us, to move beyond our comfort zone and find ways to participate in making the world a cleaner, safer place. We need to practice tolerance and compassion in the face of terrorism. And last of all…we need a sense of humour !!!

General planetary placements for 2006

Jupiter - opens the year in Scorpio which he entered in November 2005, and where he remains until early December. His primary ‘job' this year is to expand and develop areas of activity ruled by Scorpio such as: hidden and unconscious forces, the occult and metaphysical realms, life/death and regeneration, and the transformational process that takes us from the unconscious experience, to a more conscious relationship with our world. So the general population will be greatly transformed by various inner and outer forces (sometimes destructive) in 2006, with an outcome of renewal and regeneration. Expect an increase in general interest in occult subjects, as people recognise their need for deeper understanding of a more positive relationship with safe power. Areas like Archeology, Anthropology, Psychology…all the “ologies”… will be in the spotlight and experience major advances.

Scorpio is one of the money and resources signs, the other being the opposite sign of Taurus. Also as the year opens the activating and motivating planet Mars is resident in Taurus, forming an opposition to Jupiter. This then tells us much about the year to unfold being all about money and resources, and the power behind the scenes that owns and controls it. There is an obvious call here in the wake of the US Hurricanes, the war in Iraq, and the burgeoning US economic debt, that these planets are about to play their part in the necessary process about to unfold. More on this in the next paragraph.

Saturn - opens the year in Leo, which he entered in July 2005.* He is also part of the Jupiter/Mars equation, because his current sign of Leo falls in challenging aspect to both Jupiter in Scorpio and Mars in Taurus. If it wasn't for Saturn's involvement in this scenario, we could look at Jupiter and Mars as a dynamic and adventurous relationship that will bring great growth and development around resource/financial areas. Indeed it can, but once Saturn, the Lord of Matter and Karma gets in on the act we have a very different picture forming, with constraint and limitation becoming a feature in the dance about to unfold. Bearing in mind that by the time '06 begins, these 3 have already triggered their effect during November and December '05, and this will filter through into outcomes as the year unfolds.

Be prepared is my simple call for us all as 2006 unfolds. On a personal level we all need a skilful mix of positive expansion, with careful consideration and awareness of implications to all actions. This is the smart way to manage your affairs this year. Jupiter and Saturn are also the financial planets. They met in the sign of Taurus in May 2000 and opened a new 20 year cycle. So this is the first challenge/stress point between them in this larger cyclic process. This is a recessive not a progressive point in the cycle. Fundamental factors that used to underpin global economic principles are changing. The greed machine has much to be accountable for, and this year will really begin to see this factor reshape the very foundations of the global financial machine. Ethical, sustainable investment is the only way to go from here, and any companies/individuals who embrace this philosophy and build practical products toward this end will flourish in the years ahead. So invest in people and products who offer this. Political heads will roll as people become less apathetic about the outcomes of the power they give our leaders. Once again accountability is the key. But you can't just whine about what's going on any longer! You must be prepared to get involved with protests or become part of positive changes.

Chiron -entered Aquarius in '05 and will be here for the next 50 years. The “Wounded Healer” is set to bring many social issues to the forefront, which have been simmering since the last cycle in the 1950s. Racial prejudice, inhumane practices like slavery and mis-use of the animal kingdom will all become political platforms that galvanise individuals to participate in reform and change. Chiron in the sign of humanity offers us healing at a larger group/societal level, but first it has to expose the fact that humanity has yet to realise we are all in this together in the years to come. Anger and separation is the hallmark of an unconscious civilization.*

Uranus -is electrifying his way through Pisces, which he entered in 2003 and where he remains until 2010.* So far his revolutionary impulse has been very busy bringing us all kinds of natural cataclysms involving water (Pisces). We are in a water crisis globally…either too much or not enough it would appear. The War on Terror is also a very Uranian affair as we move into a new kind of global war experience. During 2006 Jupiter in Scorpio forms a “trine” or ease aspect to our Sky God. The unlikely mixture of electricity and water must be integrated here. Perhaps one interpretation is the synthesis of the realm of science/ideas/technology, with compassion and greater sensitivity to feelings and outcomes. In terms of weather and other natural phenomena this air/water mix suggests further outstanding activity, and Jupiter's tendency to extremes cannot be discounted. Jupiter/Uranus contacts carry the signature of explorer/adventurer people and times…”boldly going where no man has gone before”…that sort of thing!

Neptune -continues his slow glide through Aquarius where he has been resident since 1998 and will be until 2012…the magic date that marks the end of the Mayan Calendar.* This placement is responsible for the general call for increased conscious spiritual awareness of recent years. However the “fundamentalist right” is also on the ascendancy, and it would appear that the lessons of tolerance and unification are yet to be learnt. Neptune is opposed by Saturn in Leo from mid year, the half way point in their cycle that began in 1989…the year the Berlin Wall cam down both physically and metaphorically. Neptune governs the pressure within the ‘group psyche' toward a collective dream or ideal that is inclusive and non-separative. It is also the factor that allows groups of people to be easily influenced by a glamour or deception. Saturn impels the need for concrete systems of governance within a group or individual. At this opposing point in their cycle expect to see tension between these two divergent factors in both our individual lives and global affairs. “It is now possible to integrate the concrete and the transcendent, the practical and the ideal. We must find a new way of being broad, idealistic and inclusive (Neptune), while remaining at the same time clearly focused, definite and efficient (Saturn).” This factor will underpin human affairs for the next 17 years!!

Pluto - has been grinding his way through Sagittarius since 1993 where he remains until 2008 when he enters Capricorn, and initiates a huge transformation of the material world. His process offers death and renewal of people, things and ideas that have outlived their useful form. Sagittarius tells us that religion and belief has been the control trigger that has unleashed so much anguish and retribution as part of this evolutionary cycle. All of us continue to be challenged to renew our ability to find purpose and meaning in our lives, as well as seeking the middle path of tolerant understanding rather than polarized extremes. Jupiter rules Sagittarius, the sign that Pluto is passing through, and as he moves through Pluto's sign of Scorpio this year we experience a “Mutual Reception” i.e. they receive each other's energy in a pronounced fashion. So again we see the themes of international power being played out through religion, resources and money on a global level, and individually the potential for growth into a more empowered sense of purpose, meaning and belief.

Eclipses - this year fall in Virgo and Pisces. Both physical health (Virgo) and mental health (Pisces) issues will come to the forefront. Significant changes and re-orientation can occur under these 19 year cycles. Practical (Virgo) spirituality (Pisces) is also an outcome on offer here. Spiritual and health organisations will begin to flourish as the crisis in material values deepens, and we are compelled to return to a more wholistic understanding and lifestyle.

ARIES Despite the tension in the air as ‘06 opens, if you play your cards right and undertake appropriate re-structuring in January, you'll be set for yet another progressive and growthful year. One of the main differences between the very external and public phase offered in '05, and this year, comes courtesy of Jupiter who now passes through your “shared resources” sector. So that which you initiated last year now must be consolidated, as you invite both the man/woman power and their skills (and money) to help develop projects. You are not an island Aries…you need others, so your test lies in allowing them to offer input and resources while you take a quieter position. This is not a risky or speculative phase. In fact gambles do not feature…quite the contrary, as Saturn calls you to master your ego and practice the art of power and leadership without being pushy!! There's a serious flavour here which, if handled wisely heralds a fantastic 2007, when outcomes will be truly dynamic. Your involvement in group and team projects is highlighted so keep your inspiration clear, as others need you to help them find the courage they see in you. International contact and travel is featured, although it's about learning something, or from someone who brings wider concepts and ideas. Occult and metaphysical subjects will be of great benefit to you this year.

TAURUS The year begins with partnership areas under scrutiny, as you examine your commitments and quite what's in it all for you. In January your ruler Venus is in Aquarius, inspiring you to renounce old situations where you feel compelled or controlled in limiting ways. The question is can you ‘cut the ties that bind' gently or are there a few kicks required? Children leave home and physical dwellings shift under these influences. Just remember… changing the outside world doesn't necessarily change your inner world… liberating old fears does that!! Likewise career goals are up for grabs and you need to dream a new dream that allows your ideals to become part of the mix. Is it enough any longer to just earn those dollars without believing in the product or service you are peddling? Once you get clear on a few things this year can be loaded with opportunity if you believe in yourself! Jupiter announces partnerships and marriages can flourish in this mix. Partners are in progressive mode and as this reflects your own urges for growth use their inspiration to move up and out yourself, rather than pay out on them for not taking you along for the ride!

GEMINI After the hectic developments of '05 your heavenly hosts are calling you to slow down a little and organise yourself in 06. The expansionary trend from Jupiter falls in your “daily work and service” area until December. This can sound a tad tedious but actually offers enjoyment of the daily grind, and the ability to hone and focus your actions as you eliminate clutter and areas that waste your time and brain power. Your health also benefits from this placement, so cut the junk food and exercise regularly. You'll be feeling great by years end. All this comes courtesy of Saturn who is also leading you to partnership commitments that stabilise and enhance your life…without spoiling your fun! This year you'll see that your inner life is the key to happiness and success as much as your worldly outcomes. Self reflection allows you to re-structure your mental attitudes, patterns, habits, styles of speaking and ways of relating to others. It's time to learn that “emotional intelligence” is just as important as mental and verbal skills. The 2 sets of eclipses in '06 fall in your home/family and career sectors, so expect major changes in both areas. Will this happen with ease I hear you ask? Depends on whether you embrace the ideas I've outlined… or have to be dragged into greater consciousness through a few hard knocks!

CANCER Integrating two very different planetary combinations holds the key to your successful outcome during 2006. The more challenging flavour comes from Saturn, whose restrictive force has been at work since late '05. This has been at odds with Jupiter's drive to expand and enlarge your options, and this dance goes on for much of the year. If you are frustrated by your daily work and routines evaluate… and then eliminate anything that is not working. Finances may be tight, so again…calmly evaluate and re-organise rather than buy into feelings of lack or struggle. Liberation is at hand in the form of Jupiter's easy connection with the revolutionary Uranus, who always knows how to free up old ruts and invite the new. Thus you'll be receptive to sudden encounters with people and ideas that you would normally poo poo – experiment with art, dancing, drama, spiritual and metaphysical knowledge…anything that takes you beyond the old you…and just see what happens!! There are rich rewards in the feeling realm here also for lovers new and old, if you release fear and tension and learn to flow in your natural realm of water! Work areas open anew later in the year when Saturn offers fresh structures and financial pressures diminish.

LEO With Saturn in your sign for the year the opportunity exists to mature from a young wine into a fine vintage, if you can accept the challenge of living within the confines of the barrel! You opened this cycle from mid '05 as a new path started to reveal itself and you began to be confronted with your true potential. So now it's a matter of application and determination to see just what you can make of these rather challenging forces during most of 2006, especially in the early months when Mars in your career sector requires considerate action. Harnessing this impressive force, and applying yourself even when things feel a little overwhelming is the call from Saturn as the year goes by. Expansive Jupiter passes through your home and family sector all year… a once in 12 year breakthrough time, where developments will bring a much needed freshen up to domestic arrangements. Big changes as people and places come and go. This is a positive call and something to look forward to, so let go and prepare for a new and innovative phase! Meanwhile destiny brings significant partnership alignments both in love and business. If you meet others as equals and maintain mutual independence, then love and commercial outcomes can be rich and secure under these influences.

VIRGO Every year our psyche gets a kick start from the king of the gods Jupiter, as he enters a new sign and opens the possibilities that move us forward through life. 2006 brings him into your learning/communications sector and if you're clever enough to apply this correctly, quantum leaps are possible in a few different areas. The tricky part is to master Saturn's current position in your 12 th house of “solitude, isolation, spirituality and psychism”…and forge a constructive link back to Jupiter. So you will experience a push pull effect over the months, between the urge to expand your horizons and then pull back into solitude. The trick is to know when to do each! Educational areas are part of this growth, along with writing, traveling and generally increasing your awareness of how you fit into your world over the next few years. And while you're in retreat investigate all things including the word “psyche”, especially your own! Open to all things instinctive, clairvoyant, intuitive and creative at an artistic level. Meanwhile eclipses this year are in your sign indicating major new 19 year cycle openings. So expect shakeups in the home/family and relationship areas. Endings and separations are likely but you won't be shocked as events unfold…rather you'll feel relief as the wave of change sweeps through your life.

LIBRA Your growth phase this year comes courtesy of Jupiter in your “values” sector, and yes my friends this is your once in 12 year chance to grow your dollars and hopefully…sense (not cents!) I mention this because old Jove can also be Mr. Big Spender and is not known for thrifty ways. Lessons here come from Saturn in ‘hard aspect' urging care and consideration of true goals and lasting values, holding the key to your prosperity in 2006. But don't be stingy either, as these generous forces bring both possessions and people with influence toward you. Indeed you're a more serious character of late and your desires are more concrete than they were. So you'll want to form alliances and make commitments that reflect the deeper “you” who is emerging during these rather serious global times. Marriages, business partnerships and new homes are on the cards, along with a growing need for career moves that allow for greater freedom and originality. If this is all sounding a bit ‘plain' don't worry, as Uranus is injecting his unpredictable nonsense into the mix. He'll keep you on your toes with sudden shifts and opportunities that must be responded to quickly…yes sudden decisions Libra…even for you!

SCORPIO The general call from Jupiter in your sign this year is for global revision of the power systems that run our world. Many hidden forces normally screened from our view will be brought out into the open, and accountability will be a catch cry as the year goes by. So here's the big clue for your own growth in '06, as your power will emerge in greater measure the more you are willing to apply yourself in completely open and direct ways. Jupiter brings you motivation, confidence and enthusiasm to get on with life. Your career area is experiencing a once in 29 year achievement phase courtesy of Saturn…hence the accountability factor, along with commitment and your willingness to do the hard yards. There will be frustrating moments when efforts to open fresh paths feel stymied, so patience is your lesson and your timings will be the crucial factor. Heart trends are heightened and feelings run deep as your in built passion seeks new modes of expression. New lovers or new children come unexpectedly into your world bringing excitement along with increased responsibility. Learning to bend and flow is essential to managing the many factors at play this year, and perhaps the fact that these are not “normal” traits for rather stubborn you, perhaps this is the true opportunity on offer!

SAGITTARIUS Eclipses bring significant shifts and openings in both home/family and career areas for Archers in '06, although this is just a prelude to your new era in 2007 when Jupiter enters your sign. The trick comes in making moves for progress without high expectation for outcomes just yet, as you draw upon your intuition to “change what you can, accept what you can't and the wisdom to know the difference”! Learn to enjoy the gifts Jupiter brings as he passes through your gestative inner world as this will fuel your inspiration and vision for the future. Spiritual practices and studies enrich your ‘inner stillness' and offer calm in the face of external dramas, and retreat time can be spent writing and dreaming new dreams. Meanwhile as Saturn loiters purposefully in your ‘higher purpose' sector, your view of the world is becoming more practical as you apply yourself to the game of life, so seek knowledge and beliefs that reflect this without becoming a straight jacket! This can be a serious study, writing or teaching phase and some of you may be shocked as you realise you are now an authority figure, and no longer the perpetual student. It's time to start ‘getting on with it'…whatever “it” may be!

CAPRICORN You're in a progressive and pro-active phase as 2006 begins, courtesy of Mars bestowing his assertive and confident rays to your Sun. This sets the pace for a year of dynamic renewal if you hang onto this positive charge, rather than slip back to old familiar patterns! Namely, allowing other people's needs and influences to weigh you down. This is the year for your individuality to really emerge without restraint, and with Jupiter's blessing many new people, ideas and events are sweeping into your life opening you to a greater sense of participation in life and the world than ever before. Accept invitations and offers of friendship, especially with folks who carry positive, optimistic energy and drive. This will offset times of stress from your ruler Saturn as he hangs out in your “shared resources” arena. Outcomes here can involve partners in financial belt tightening mode so they can't provide their normal support. Or you both need to re-structure your material world and circumstances keep making this difficult. Outcomes imply relying on your own creative solutions, and transforming your ideas about money and how you use it. Not a year for get rich quick schemes, so opt for enjoying what you do have, rather than desiring what you do not.

AQUARIUS If you're feeling somewhat stalled as '06 opens don't despair! Planets are offering time for planning and consideration of the excellent year about to unfold. So here's the mix you need to master. Progressive Jupiter spends his once in 12 year cycle expanding your career possibilities offering positive and exciting developments. This must be integrated with the creative tension of Saturn in the partnership sector urging alliance with reputable, thrust worthy “others”. Add to this Neptune in your sign, fueling visions of individuals merging without loosing their independent expression! So you see there's a careful dance to be choreographed as the year goes by. Outcomes are positive if you test the waters slowly and allow for gradual development rather than expecting too much too soon. The bigger picture outcomes arrive in 2007. You can also apply all of the above to your personal love life during '06, as Saturn and Neptune herald the possibility of the reality of long term dreams coming true. Visionary water carriers instinctively know that relationships must allow “the winds of heaven to dance between two people”. You are the seed planters who herald the reality “that united individuals” is the way of the future. Your earning power grows well this year, as does your involvement in powerful group activity which unites and uplifts conscious planetary growth.

PISCES Confronting your inner dilemma between fact and fiction is part of your mission for 2006. A big reality check is looming on your watery horizon that allows you to define your true possibilities, and eliminate old illusions about your ability to manifest ideals and dreams into successful outcomes that can last! But this will all happen with relative ease from positive connections between Jupiter in your “new horizons” zone and Uranus in your sign. This is one of the best openings in many a year, and suggests sudden shifts and changes with an adventurous overtone. Creating useful results from these progressive sparks is the point, and brings me back to my opening statement! A major learning curve is also on offer from Jupiter in studious mode, so new knowledge and skills that bring you into the 21 st Century are a must if you are to survive and thrive from here. Saturn can then anchor these into your daily work in sustainable ways that bring real progress as the year unfolds. If you ignore these trends you may experience a frustration between your urge for change and events that appear to limit you. This of course is actually your own unconscious resistance to applying yourself in new and creative ways. The need for healthy autonomy continues as the trend in all relationships.

Maggie Kerr is a full time professional Astrologer with over 20 years experience.

She consults and teaches both in Australia and Internationally.

Phone Maggie direct on 07 5594 5959

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