Today is December 21, 2013—the event is Winter Solstice.  The shortest day of the year with its extra moments of darkness guides us into stillness and darkness. Is such a thing possible in our modern world?  Our European ancestors honored this day with pilgrimages to holy sites.  They waited for the Sun to come up and give them the promise of new life.  We are busy with shopping, driving around in traffic, and with preparations for holiday festivities.  Can we take a few moments to feel the stillness? Can we pause and acknowledge our place in the Universe?  Maybe all it takes is lighting a candle. Maybe we sit in our car and feel patience and compassion for all the people rushing around. This time of year we are more connected with the center of our Galaxy.  Take pause and connect with being a conscious spark of Universal Intelligence. 

Meanwhile, back on Earth Plane!  Today the planet Venus moves into its retrograde phase until the last day of January.  Venus’s retrograde phase begins at 29 degrees of Capricorn.  Venus in the sign of Capricorn is not so warm and fuzzy.  It is material and matter of fact and values love that is durable and secure.  These next 6 weeks are perfect for reassessing what and whom we value.  We will look at life with more practical eyes.  Our attention wanders to budgets, long-range finances and practical purchases.  This is a good time to do the research on substantial, big purchases (like homes and cars).  It is not considered a great time to make a big purchase unless that operation is already planned and in motion. Since Venus rules relationships, some people will experience the deepening of a relationship.  Capricorn is known for durability, so some relationships may move into commitment by the end of this Venus retrograde transit.  Other relationships may end during this time.  The commitment may come undone. Venus in Capricorn brings up the practicalities of a union.  For example, does the relationship support my ambitions and goals? Is it working financially?  Is the relationship warm and affectionate or is it chilly and distant?

This day continues with the Moon visiting the sign of Leo.  Enjoy the fun but take a moment to light your candle and feel the stillness.  Let go of the past and prepare for a new day when the Sun comes up tomorrow.  With the Venus energy, try to remember that it takes time to build a loving relationship.