GREGG BRADEN GREGG BRADEN - Earthstar

As Mars, the enigmatic red planet,has only just resumed forwardmotion after 2-1/2 months in retrogradeas of January 30th, moveahead cautiously with plannedactivities and ventures. Don’t jump out there toofar, too soon. Desires and emotions are highlystimulated and it will be all too easy to get carriedaway on a rip-tide of enthusiasm. Above all,remain forthright and accountable in all activitiesthat you engage in now.A mystery-making conjunction between Mercuryand Neptune occurs on February 2nd, when dreamsand meditations could provide helpful and timelyinsights. Creative imagery practices can also befulfilling now. However, from a purely practicalstand point, it may not be easy to separate realityfrom illusion so avoid signing important papers ormaking important decisions till after the 3rd.February’s progressive Aquarius new moon on the6th is also an annular solar eclipse, favoring goalsetting, and planning for the future. Be a visionaryduring this inspiration-laden lunar cycle, allowyour creative imagination free rein. Flashes ofpure genius could inspire bold, new objectives.Consider technology upgrades and innovationsthat could help you to be more productive. Lookfor seeds sown now to bear fruit during the summeror early fall.february - march 2008After two fire-ruled years in succession, theChinese New Year of the water Rat begins at sunriseon February 7th. Traditionally a year of opportunityand potential gains from well-planned businessventures, when long-term investment plansare also favored. Rat years can indeed bring successes,though unnecessary risks should be avoided.The charm and personality ascribed to the Ratcontribute in no small part to one’s potential forsuccess this year. Water Rat years enhance theintellect and favor creative problem solving.However, be discriminating with what or whomyou become involved. Further your education atevery opportunity.When the sun aligns in conjunction with mysteriousNeptune, ruler of Pisces, on the 10th, strike a balancebetween addressing your own needs, and yourobligations to others. Don’t take on more than youcan comfortably handle. Avoid speculation. Workingalone brings greatest satisfaction now.Fun loving Venus enters the unconventional realmof Aquarius on the 17th till March 12th in searchof exciting, and perhaps unusual, social experienceswith kindred spirits.After three long weeks in retrograde and to therelief of many, Mercury, planet of choices anddecisions, resumes direct motion on February18th, in 09° Aquarius, signaling the “all clear” tosign important documents, make travel plans, or tomove ahead with new projects—cautiously at first,as an element of impulsiveness may still prevailuntil the winged messenger gathers forwardmomentum.The sun glides out of the airy, intellectually stimulatingenvironment of Aquarius and enters theethereal waters of tropical Pisces mid-evening onFebruary 18th. During this reflective four-weekcycle, tune in to your dreams and meditations forguidance or inspiration. Balance what you put “outthere” in helping others with some quality quiettime by yourself. Dance, film, and myth can alsohave greater appeal and meaning now.18 EARTH STAR FEBRUARY / MARCH 2008 www.earthstarmag.com