Down-to-Earth Astrology
by Phoenix Wolf-Ray

Times are tensing up now, folks. The Saturn-Pluto square has released its grip slightly, but the Saturn-Uranus opposition is tightening up, leading up to the big t-square (already in effect but not as strong as it will become). These are perilous times, even more so than usual, and all our cherished (and oppressive) structures are liable to be shockingly disturbed in unexpected ways. And Uranus hasn’t entered Aries yet—that will happen in May. Interesting times indeed!

The passing of the inadequate (if better than nothing) US Health Care Bill is an example of a shocking (yes, it IS a f*&$#g big deal thank you, Joe Biden) change in the structures we take for granted, as is the rabid reaction of the wing-nuttery. Locally, we find ourselves straddling the fine tense line between breezy optimism and hidden terror, and we focus on good works to help alleviate it. What else can we do?

Comox Valley April Forecast

Earth’s sign (always opposite the Sun’s sign) is given in parentheses. Read both, as well as the forecast for your Rising sign, for the full picture:

Aries (Libra): Your energy and drive is rising with the sap, but those you are reaching to for support are resisting. What’s up with them? You don’t want to fight; you just want to DO it!
Taurus (Scorpio): You take things very seriously, strive for balance and fairness, moving at your own pace. When pressured, you resist, but not to be contrary. It has to feel right.
Gemini (Sagittarius): There’s a party in your head! So exciting & confusing, things happening behind the curtain, you need a mirror to see it all. That’s what relationships are for. Trust.
Cancer (Capricorn): A new wave of energy enlivens your space, but it’s not helping you feel better. You wish to be up for new things, but you feel old and tired, even if you’re young.
Leo (Aquarius): You feel good about spring, but wish things would move just a little faster. Your keyword is desire; do let it move you forward but be aware that your baggage is heavy.
Virgo (Pisces): So close, so far away is the theme. Flashes of vision show what’s possible, but the real world isn’t ready for so much love. You feel alone and wishing to serve.
Libra (Aries): Yes, it’s a trick question. Every ‘yes’ has a shadow of ‘no’, you are split and undecided. Your heart is whole, but the jury is out and it’s hard to muster the motivation.
Scorpio (Taurus): Exquisite agony is pleasure, and you are a connoisseur. Such times may be hard for others, but you are at home in these deeps. You know that what’s coming is good.
Sagittarius (Gemini): On the surface, you’re a happy camper; the keyword is ‘distraction’. Nothing bothers you. This might be a worry, except, oh… look at the shiny thing!
Capricorn (Cancer): Your sense of destiny is especially strong now. You see the whole picture and you hold the keys, but—hey! Somebody stole them! Now you have to start all over.
Aquarius (Leo): Tense expectation increases; you can see release coming and it will be SO GOOD! Take care that your love is inclusive (and not exclusionary), or it could be SO BAD.
Pisces (Virgo): Murky times; your dreams have darkened but still contain the seed potential of hope. Your work seems unimportant, but it is crucial: dream a way through this mess.

Phoenix Wolf-Ray is an astrologer, singer-songwriter and metaphysician; she is available for private astrology readings by appointment, and for card readings at Winds of Change every Tuesday, Thursday and Friday between 12 and 5 pm. Email phoenix.wolfray,,,gmail.com to ask about astrology classes every second Monday at 7pm.