June 20

     As this is a rest weekend for readers, I too am sitting back in my karmic recliner to recharge and integrate the information overflow.  You may benefit from reviewing log entries for the past few days.

     For Subscribers, I welcome comments on Forecast  #53 Part I The Timeless Mideast Bottleneck -- Ancient Karmas, published Friday.  I'll be working on Part II during the next several days, and as I am committed to honoring review by my three editors, publication will likely be toward the end of next week.

June 19

     This morning dawns with the Moon having slipped by Saturn, lifting the emotional drag.  Also, I failed to comment upon Mercury passing the Sun, also last evening, relieving this combustion (solar burning) of the intellect.  With the these two halves of the mind afflicted simultaneously yesterday, mental composure and objectivity about the recent Mars-inspired violence has been elusive.  Lots of people appear to have been overloaded, unable to process all the discord and emotional pressures in the world and in their personal lives.  Take this weekend to rest and recharge your batteries.  

     We're perched at the edge of a major shift in public perception.  With the more liberal humanistic side gaining credence after the long hiatus of neo-conservative dominance, those on that fear-based repressive side have become feverish in defending their lost position.  It's not just terrorists who feel and express seething anger, but also those far right.   Daily reports of scandal, new atrocities, more failings in the Iraq and Afghanistan wars... have irrevocably tilted public opinion, and the conservative right responds by insisting upon yet more revenge, demanding a no-holds-barred retribution against terrorists.  As this stubborn paranoia only discredits neo-conservatives further, the public memory reverberates to the McCarthy era of the early fifties and Nixon's downfall in 1974.  Unlike those former purgings of lower mind karma, when simply getting rid of a politician resolved the issue, today's strife is a long term cultural clashing reshaping all nations and partisan groups within them.  Like AIDs, we cannot cure this societal infection with the quick fix.

     Social transformation is always difficult in its dislocating individuals and rearranging entire institutions.  It is vital to allow detachment to enable some objectivity.  The May 26 Forecast, #52 The Jupiter/Saturn Conjunction  -- A New Twenty Year Era discussed this double-decade global transformation beyond the nation state model.  Yesterday's Forecast, #53 Part I The Timeless Mideast Bottleneck -- Ancient Karmas, looked at how that region is the pivot-point for this social and political evolution toward global unity.  Forecast #53 Part 2 The Timeless Mideast Bottleneck -- Iraq, Israel & Saudi Arabia, to be published next week, details the fate of these key-player countries as humanity confronts its past to determine its future.  While I am hopeful for evolution and not devolution of the society of man, it's not over until the fat lady signs.  (Note:  These Forecasts are exclusive to Subscribers.)  

     The Forecast Update on President Bush has been delayed, but I will state unequivocally that this leader, perhaps truly just a figurehead for a regressive group, is already washed-up on the shores of his fated life, in which the rise to power is followed by disgrace.  Take heart in this but be cautious too, for the violence is not over.  Terrorism, both abroad and in the US, by hysterical fundamentalists on both sides, will not soon subside.  I am particularly concerned about the first week in July.

     In closing for today, while each of has some role in social responsibility (spiritual citizenship), we also owe it to ourselves, families and friends to attend to personal responsibilities.  I not only filled up my car with temporarily less expensive gas, but I'm riding my bike, using care in spending, over-watching my personal associations and scaling back travel plans -- not out of fear, because I certainly will not allow either fanatical side to frighten me into submission, but rather to focus upon my personal responsibilities and have the resources necessary to fulfill them. 

June 18

     The perceptional Moon has moved into Gemini yesterday to be with Saturn and will continue there today and tomorrow.  Late Saturday evening, the Moon transits into Cancer and crosses Mars during the late evening.  See the June 15 log entry, below, to get a visual on these dispositions.  The Moon with Saturn deepens and saddens the emotions and also brings stubbornness.  The Moon with Mars, riles up the perceptional mind and stimulates anger. 

      This lunar passage across Saturn and Mars accounts for the uproar about the 9-11 Committee's report, the intense revisiting of that disaster and the administration's refusal to take blame.  These struggles will continue today and tomorrow, and it may be best to sit on the sidelines and witness the strife, rather than becoming subsumed by it.  Also, use care in social activities Saturday evening, for the Moon with Mars stimulates alcohol consumption.  While only some will be affected in this way, it's the other driver who may not be in control.  Emotions will calm somewhat after the Moon passes Mars, but Sunday will continue to be an emotionally stressful day.  Spiritual practices will be helpful then, as will gardening, the latter because the Moon, Mars and Cancer all relate to agriculture.  The mother will also be a focus, and discord is possible.  

June 17

   As Mars is now past the critical two degree mark, the predicted violence and discord it stimulated is moderating.  Still, caution is appropriate today.  There are additional concerns in this Mars transit through its fallen sign of Cancer, which continues until the end of July.  Mars signifies landed property and Cancer the home, which is negative for the real estate.  This may signal the end of the real estate boom and is not the best time to buy a home.  Prices may drop, suggesting waiting a while will be to purchasers' advantage.  Destructive Mars will also cause problems with existing homes and other fixed assets -- like vehicles, computers...  Anything worn out may break during this interval.  

     As Mars' aspect to Ketu causes problems with oil and gas (see yesterday's log entries) energy will continue to be an area of conflict, including terrorism.  Gas prices will be pushed upward, SUV sales must plummet and higher energy prices will put a brake on the economic recovery. This Mars aspect will be close by degree during the first week in July, maximizing its impact.  At that time, the Sun (government) will be increasingly restricted by Saturn.  As the Iraq government turnover is slated for June 30, this does not bode well for that transfer, either for Iraq nor the US.

     Sometimes Mars can be an influence for good, a public advocate.  Mars in transit is in my tenth house of the public, ruled by the Moon, bringing a public conscience.  Below is my e-mail letter to Dennis Miller objecting to his advocating torture.  As indicated in the top sentence, I copied this e-mail to all the news show e-mail contacts, hoping to wake someone up.  Here's the link if you too are dismayed that NBC permits supporting the horror of torture.  http://moneycentral.msn.com/Content/CNBCTV/TV_Info/email.asp  While some may argue that prisoner torture has prevented terrorist attacks, this is both morally wrong and can only backfire by stimulating even more attacks by outraged extremists.

     Although these log entries are a service to Subscribers, and temporarily the public until June 30, readers may benefit from knowing my consultation fees, below.  These are unchanged since 1999, for I anticipated the economic downturn beginning in 2000.

June 16

     Mars is already beginning to show its teeth in the still new transit into its fallen sign of Cancer.  This morning, Mars is at one 1 1/2 degrees, and it will be fully powered-up when it attains two degrees early tomorrow morning.  Keep in mind that the Mideast is a half day earlier.  Mars throws an aspect to Ketu (oil and gas) in Libra (partnerships).  Mars/Ketu can be described as seething anger, for Ketu's otherworldly spiritual quality clashes with Mars' worldly discord.  Both are Pitta, which translates to fiery, making results from their combination sudden and explosive.  This accounts for the impasse in Congress on the energy bill and the blowing up of two Iraq oil pipelines.  Ketu is also a most devious influence, bringing internet problems.  There was an internet attack on major websites yesterday, and the entire web was affected all day.  (I wouldn't be surprised if Dennis Miller's chimp bites him on his CNBC program, or even that Miller, to stay in character, bites back!)  See the following articles:

     There are lots of other unusual events, disclosures and aggravations going on, but the above are instructive highlights.  All serve to unveil the natural consequences of the neo-conservative's failed agenda, further turning the public against this recurrence of fascism. This is an enormously positive result to which we can be grateful, even as we also despair for the injurious discord and violence. 

     While some readers choose not to pay attention to world events, these do give useful clues and alerts as to how the planetary energies impact individual charts.  Of course too, events like the the Iraq oil pipeline sabotage and internet attack inevitably trickle down to the personal level.  I took advantage of lower pump prices to fill my gas tank yesterday in expectation of prices going up again; also, I wasn't able to purchase internet security software yesterday to replace the Norton programs Mars destroyed.  Still this morning, my internet service continues to cut out, delaying publication of this Celestial Wheel.

     On a personal level, then, some continue to experience computer problems, and other machine-related breakdowns occur in Ketu's unexpected and devious way.  As this difficult Mars/Ketu combination is in the sign of Libra, both business arrangements and romance are similarly afflicted.  So, hold on to yesterday's emerging Venusian gains, especially the perception of contentment and ease, to both preserve the benefits and help carry you through Mars/Ketu inspired aggression today and tomorrow.  Venus' compassion can be particularly helpful.  You may want to gas-up too.  I'm going to try again to purchase internet security software, for Ketu/Mars threatens my computer with a virus, or worse.

June 15

     The inevitable relationship strife and loss of contentment brought by last week's Venus transit across the Sun appears to have eased off.  See the June 11 log entry.  Here are three e-mail reports from this morning:  S. D. in New Hampshire, I have quieted myself somewhat on that over the past few days.  K. Z. in Illinois, a lot of relationship stuff lifted and things started feeling much lighter as of yesterday.  S.W. in Phoenix By the way, I slept through the entire night for the first time that I can remember in recent history.  M.M. in Sedona stopped by yesterday, encouraged that she processed an intense breakup that occurred on June 8, the exact date of the Venus/Sun transit. 

     These reports give some insight as to the true nature of the Venus transit, which many hoped would signal a rebirth of Venusian grace and love in the world but which Vedic Astrology interprets as affliction to Venus.  Keeping in mind no one alive witnessed the last Venus/Sun transit, intuition and downright guessing replaced actual experience with this astronomical event.  Yes, there is some Venusian resurgence here, but it comes at the price of the Sun's hot rays having first burnt Venus.  It's also interesting how the public, Americans at least, viewed Ronald Reagan's passing, for nestled among wholesome sympathy were also sentimentality and nostalgia, both of which are traits of an afflicted Venus, regretting something that cannot be regained.

To the right is a chart drawn for today displaying the dispositions of the planets within the signs.  Not only has the hot Sun transited away from Venus, but the planet of love also enjoys Mercury's charm and the Moon's nurturing.  Venus greatly benefits from these benefic influences, giving credence the above favorable reports from across America.        The chart also shows how the Sun is conjunct restrictive Saturn in Gemini, and Mars is in Cancer.  At about one degree for each, both are gaining some strength, restoring energy and confidence, which was lost during their change of signs these last few days.  This further explains why people feel better today.  However, neither Sun nor Mars has fully powered-up, and Mars in particular brings its ferocious energy early in a transit, when it attains about two degrees.  I use the word ferocious because Mars is in its fallen

(weakest) sign of Cancer, the negative influence of which I discussed in yesterday's log entries.  The point here is to enjoy the current advantageous planetary configuration and be lulled into pleasant passivity.  Use caution and temper your responses during the next couple of days.  In this way, recent Venusian gains may be preserved and reversals avoided.  These are touchy times, and the goal is to thread the needle without pricking yourself.

     While I experienced Mars weakness related computer problems, these were resolved yesterday with a return of some Venusian grace.  Others, notably J. C. in Sedona, reported a complete computer break- down, but her great Venus promises to rescue her.

     Reviewing all these Vedic observations, it's provocative to contemplate how much free will we have, how much fate guides out lives and how Vedic Astrology can empower free will by casting some light upon the karmic path.  Life is a journey through planetary influences both favorable and harmful, and progress is measured by how well we use the positive and deal with the negative.  Only in this way is personal growth a true wisdom gained. 

   Note for Subscribers:  With the computer problem resolved, you will no longer receive duplicates of your e-mailed Celestial Wheel.

     Note for the visiting public:  Two weeks remain on this free trial period The Celestial Wheel.  Take advantage of this complimentary service and forward The Celestial Wheel to friends and acquaintances.  I invite your Subscription as you find the daily log entries of value and would also be interested in the in-depth Forecasts included in Subscriptions.  The latter bring longer range information for better planning your life, for dancing with the stars.

June 14

     Jupiter, the planet of higher knowledge, religion and philosophy, is finally getting away from a spoiling aspect by Rahu - the worldly cravings head of the serpent and an eclipse point.  Rahu's influence upon Jupiter degrades Jupiter's wisdom, promotes greed and brings conflict -- between doing what is morally right or succumbing to immorality.  So now there's a national debate about whether lowering our standards to approve prisoner torture) on the fear-based construct of preventing terrorist attacks) is right or wrong, moral or immoral.  We can find an answer here in Mars, the planet of war.  Mars has been the big planetary player Mars since 9-11; Mars cares only about the end, not the means; Mars is thereby the liar of the solar system; Mars is courage but also fear; Mars symbolizes animals, including our close relatives, chimpanzees, known for their aggression.  We have the choice of allowing our continued descent into animal-pack mentality, fearfully protecting our lair with whatever violent means available -- or we can reclaim our humanity through the courage of moral action.  Prisoner abuse is a ticking time bomb scandal that, unless defused, will bring more harm than all the terrorist car bombs.  Do unto others as they would do unto you is not just a Christian creed but a belief fundamental to all religions and civilized societies.  (Note: Mars also holds higher-mind significations of the courage to do the right thing -- moral courage.  Mars is particularly potent here if associated with Jupiter, bringing brave leadership.  John Kerry has this in his chart.)

     Dennis Miller's program on CNBC is a case in point.  Miller with his potent Mars, was a football sports announcer, has been unwavering supporter of the Iraq invasion and is now a leading justifier of prisoner abuse.  He even suggested last night that it would be great if Saddam Hussein's guards slug him a few times.  He deserves it!, Miller said.  The live audience roared its approval, like chimpanzees do to celebrate a beating.  Miller's sidekick is a chimpanzee.  Will Miller bemoan our timidity if prisoner abuse is rejected, or will he back down to acknowledge that a moral society is one of laws, not men.  Unfortunately, Miller just loves his chimp.  Too bad Miller doesn't extend this affection to his fellow man.  Miller's views are distasteful, but checking his TV show can give insight into the direction of America's moral compass.

     The Sun and Mars continue their transit move one one sign to another, both now just barely into new constellations of Gemini and Cancer.  These planets will not, however, be at strength until they reach about two degrees on Wednesday and Thursday.  Confidence and power, but also desire and aggression, are shifting with this energetic switch.  The Sun is more favorable in Gemini, but Saturn's presence there checks its ability to influence.  Mars is at its weakest and worst in Cancer, its debilitated (fallen) constellation.  As the Sun is also government, and Mars of course, violence, expect aggression to build through midweek.  Also expect the military, symbolized by Sun/Mars to speak out.  This opposition has already begun as reported yesterday's lead story in Netscape News, Ex-Diplomats, Military Leaders Oppose Bush
http://cnn.netscape.cnn.com/news/story.jsp?flok=FF-APO-1131&idq=/ff/story/0001%2F20040613
%2F1709603633.htm&sc=1131&floc=NW_1-T   

     These influences from Mars and the Sun will be mirrored in our personal lives, suggesting we temper our actions, not with temper but with restraint.  The word temper holds both meanings, suggesting we can use our free will to choose the higher road, not the lower.  (There's an obvious connection here to the prisoner abuse issue.)   As the Sun is the heart and Mars is transiting into Cancer, symbolizing the heart, those with sensitive cardiac systems should be moderate in their actions and reactions.

     Notes to Subscribers.  My Mars-inspired computer problems included e-mail duplicates of this log during the last few days.  I apologize for that.  Also, the upcoming promised Mideast Forecast, entitled The Timeless Mideast Bottleneck -- Iraq, Israel & Saudi Arabia, is nearing completion.  I'm planning to include an Iraq national chart for the June 30 handover to give some insight about how this risky venture will proceed.  As the in-depth Forecast efforts have naturally evolved into seeking deeper insights about this historic period, I'm committed to review by all three of my editors.  This may delay publication until week's end.
 

June 13

     The waning Moon passes Rahu  (the eclipse point symbolized by the head of a dragon) today in fiery Aries.  Sensitive, even fearful or angry emotions result.  The Sun and Mars are both weak as they transit from one sign to another.  Physical energy, courage and personal power are all compromised.  Taking these two issues together, some will feel vulnerable, weak and powerless to handle situations.  As Sunday is the Sun's day of the week, empower your solar ego and soul through spiritual techniques.  See my June 11 suggestions.

     Mars is also machinery, due to its weakness, together with some tough planetary cycles in my own chart, my Norton AntiVirus program died last evening, and I'm in an endless loop between Norton support telling me to have Compaq fix the problem and Compaq not understanding the issue.  So, add machinery to vulnerable areas today.

June 12

     The May 26 Subscriber-only Forecast, #52 The Jupiter/Saturn Conjunction  -- A New Twenty Year Era, postulated that, As Saturn's existing structures collapse, new structures for an intern- ationalized world take their place.  This predictive effort was made because, while these double-decade cycles are obvious in retrospect, they are not identified until late in the cycle.  Without such early prediction, Jupiter/Saturn conjunctions become simply an academic astrological exercise in predicting the past.  The last such cycle, begun in 1980, ushered in the information age, but it wasn't until about 1994 that this era was recognized and named. 

     With the world focused on Iraq and the consequent political scandals in the US, it is easy to miss signals of upcoming internationalization, which can also be variously described as globalization or multicul- turalism.  However, the media is reporting a sea change in countries spotted throughout the globe.  The most recent is Spain's metamorphosis, as described in today's NY Times, Spain Engulfed in Vast Social Change  http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A35559-2004Jun11.html  Other countries in flux include India, Russia, China, Venezuela, Haiti, UK... even the US is beginning the shift away from hyper- nationalism.  My prediction for new twenty year era, then, appears to be on track.  As the inception of this vast and pervasive shift impacts us all, it's essential to pay attention.

     On June 3, I posted a log entry about Sai Baba's transformational Sadi Sati -- Saturn's crossing his birthchart Moon -- and also Ketu transiting his Ascendant.  I also noted these astronomical influences upon other public figures, such as John Kerry and Martha Stewart.  Yesterday, the BBC News announced its upcoming program, Secret Swami, to be broadcast June 17 in the UK.  http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/programmes/this_world/3791921.stm  The worldwide broadcast will follow.  As June 17 is the day Mars will transit at strength into its fallen sign of Cancer, which is Sai Baba's tenth house of career, status and reputation, Secret Swami promises to be a turning point in ex-devotee group efforts to unmask this God-man.  Mars is at its most cruel in emotional Cancer, which suggests public outrage about Secret Swami.  Judge for yourself whether this religious issue is part of the Jupiter/Saturn twenty year cycle signaling a new era.

     Note: I often cite mainstream media like the NY Times and Washington Post because these almost always use authenticated information and offer consensus views.  However, internet-based newspapers like Truthout and Counterpunch, and even The Drudge Report, often alert to topics only later picked up by mainstream media or buried on back pages.  For international news, probably the best source is the International Herald Tribune, originally designed for expatriate Americans and Britons. 

     In closing, keep in mind that both the Sun and Mars are transiting signs now.  See yesterday's discussion, below, about this influence.

June 11

     With Venus now five degrees away from the hot Sun and fast approaching Mercury, there is a real, albeit temporary, lifting of love, compassion, sympathy, wealth, creativity and pleasures of all kinds.  Take advant- age of this welcome and needed respite from this spring's relentless grinding of discordant and violent planet- ary karmas.  Many spiritual seekers, hopeful that the Venus transit signals a rebirth of feminine harmony and an elevation of consciousness, are doubtless gratified.  Here's a NY Times letter expressing authentic hopefulness.  

     The April 22 Forecast, #49 A Celestial Tumult, mapped out fourteen astronomical events with potent astrological consequences that are indeed fulfilling their promise to shake up the world later this spring and summer.  We are working our way toward the end of the list.  The next astronomical event is #12, when Mars transits at strength into its fallen sign of Cancer on June 17.  However, we should use caution in our current optimism, for both the Sun and Mars will be transiting signs from tomorrow through June 15 -- these signal governmental weakness and vulnerability to fear-driven antagonisms.  The Moon's waning toward new Moon on June 17 accentuates unease.  

     Personally, we may feel like we've physically run out of steam, some will experience confidence issues, others will feel a withdrawal of Venusian grace.  As the Sun's (ego and soul) favorite activity is meditation, it is important to maintain spiritual practices now.  The Sun also responds to the color dark red, sunlight and mountains.  Bringing these into your lives will be restorative and comforting.

June 10

     My June 7 prediction for terrorism violence on Tuesday actualized in Iraq, where many terrorists now operate.  Other news events -- Bush's European trip, Reagan, the G-8 Summit and UN Iraq resolution -- crowded out this reporting.  That the Mideast is a half day earlier also and inevitably brings some confusion as to which day events happen there.  The Washington Post article, Insurgents Step Up Attacks in Iraq, describes four serious attacked on Tuesday.  http://www.washingtonpost.com/ac2/wp-dyn/A23858-2004Jun8   Today's NY Times article, Rebels Launch an Array of Attacks Across Iraq, describes a continuation of Tuesday's violence.  http://www.nytimes.com/2004/06/09/international/middleeast/09CND-IRAQ.html 

     Note also that the administration effectively distracted the public from deterioration in Iraq by pushing above-listed news items.  However, there is little true substance in the European trip, the G-8 Summit and the UN Iraq resolution, and already pundits are backing away from deifying Reagan.  At this karmic junction, Bush can only claim victories which are then revealed to be hollow, while his previous misdeeds press upon him -  Re: my yesterday log entry about Attorney General Ashcroft.

      On a more positive inspiring note, an example of the truth in my first Vedic teacher's statement that, when astrology works, it really works!  Here's a real life story from a client, whose Vedic chart shows government causes her financial losses.  When she asked me about IRS filing for this first year of operating her own business, I focused on how to thread the needle -- to turn loss into gain, paying particular attention to when Venus passed safely away from the Sun.  This gain will advance her intention to relocate to the East Coast.  As free lance writer Sadie Thorndike likes to call me Swami, I really Swamied this one.

     There's a caveat here, for K.B. has effectively employed Vedic remedies to uplift her Jupiter (wealth) and Sun (government), and her success is testimony to the effectiveness of mantra and gemstones in uplifting weak or afflicted planets.  The truth, then, is that while the astrologer can provide guidance through remedial techniques and event timing, changing our lives is ultimately up to each of us.  Still, I have to smile a little for having Swamied this one.  When astrology works, it really works!!

June 9

     The Venus transit across the Sun is, of course, completed, and because Venus is retrograde, these planets are separating rapidly.  This morning, they are already two degrees apart.  Regarding my thoughts for this transit:  last evening's NBA game was indeed a long-scoring and graceless struggle until the last few minutes, I ate the rest of the chocolates and the expected terrorist violence has not yet occurred.  Yet, the planets remain unstable.

     Note that Attorney General Ashcroft angered Senators in the Armed Services Committee yesterday by stonewalling on the prisoner abuse issue.  Ashcroft's recent prostate surgery indicates an injured Venus, and the Venus transit put him in the hot seat.  Other events yesterday overshadowed this critical impasse between Congressional oversight and Executive authority, which must reverberate throughout society.  See,

 http://www.nytimes.com/2004/06/09/opinion/09WED1.html 
  http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A24867-2004Jun8.html  

    As proof that one never knows exactly how karma will manifest, yesterday a Lake Worth, Florida man had beekeepers remove 700,000 bees from the tower above his breakfast nook.  He liked the honey dripping down, but when the bees began descending and stinging, he had them evicted.  Venus is sweets. 

June 8

Today, of course, is the much heralded and eagerly anticipated Venus transit across the Sun.  Spiritual seekers the world over herald this as a rebirth of Venusian qualities in the world and a shift in con- sciousness.  I don't share this view, as any planet crossing the Sun is burnt by its hot rays and is thereby inauspicious.  Yet, it is only through challenge that we grow as we encounter, and either yield to or overcome, the karmic attachment signaled by the astronomical and astrological influence.

      That astronomers are excited about this rare event, when Venus passes exactly in front of the Sun, has added to the excitement -- just as last summer, Mars' closest approach to the earth in thousands of years stimulated public astronomical and astrological interest.  I leave it to you readers to interpret the meaning of events during this transit.   Following are my observations:

      1.  On June 3, I wrote about the effects of Sadi Sati  (Saturn crossing the Moon) in Sai Baba's chart, suggesting loss of reputation or even confinement.  This morning, I learned of a documentary about Sai Baba entitled The Secret Swami, to be aired on BBC2 June 17.  Here's the direct link, http://www.bbc.co.uk/pressoffice/proginfo/pdfs/tv/week24/bbctvwk24_adds2.pdf   This follows a Danish TV expose a couple of years ago.  Sai Baba is running his Venus planetary cycle (Dasa), making this Venus transit difficult for him.

     2.  As with Sai Baba, Venus in our individual charts determine the subjective reality of this transit.  People blessed with a supportive Venus in their charts are inclined to be hopeful about this transit, for Venus is not just love but also receptive energy.  Those with weak or afflicted Venus's (like me) will be skeptical, even negative.  Last evening, I bought a bag of chocolates (Venus is sweets) and ate more than I should have, and also, my very Venusian Mayan Healer friend left for a healing trip to Florida.

     3.  Also on June 3, I quoted a friend/client with a spectacular Venus her belief that the Venus transit will help Martha Stewart and issue in a period of feminine energy.  Yesterday, Martha Stewart received a delay in her sentencing hearing, which suggests her lawyers may be able to convince the judge to grant her a new trial.  Martha Stewart is Libra rising (Venus), and her powerful Venus in the eleventh house of gains propell- ed her to great success.  Perhaps it will also be her salvation?

     4.  Yesterday I wrote about the gracelessness demonstrated in last Saturday's NBA finals game between the Lakers and the Pistons, attributing this to Venus' grace being combust.  Tonight is the second game of that series, and this should be influenced by the Venus combustion to an even greater degree.  It's fascinating to be able to directly witness Vedic astrological influences.  Let's see how the game goes tonight.

     5.  Also yesterday, I issued a supplemental log entry predicting terrorist violence today and suggested this will harm President Bush.  While Venus is a player here, so are the other planets, and this reminds us to balance the influences of all the planets, not focus just on one of the karmic indicators.

     6.  The outpouring of love by many for Ronald Reagan can also be related to the Venus transit.  Al- though many spiritual seekers reject Reagan out-of-hand for the neo-conservatives' association to him,  the matter is much more complex.  There was a lot of heart-warming Venus energy in the man, compared with charming insincerity of Bush's hard-hearted Saturn-chilled Venus.

     7.  Venus is inherently peaceful in its receptive energy, compared with warrior Mars' opposing pro- jective energy.  Venus recoils from violence and suffering.  Yet another front page damning article on prisoner abuse in today's Washington Post, Memo Offered Justification for Use of Torture reminds us to stay focused on objective reality and not fall prey to Venus-lazy thinking that love alone will somehow magically rescue the world.  http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A23373-2004Jun7.html  This news is confirmed in today's NY Times  http://www.nytimes.com/2004/06/08/politics/08ABUS.html?hp  

      8.  Venus is a significator of wealth.  Yesterday I succumbed to my economics background to write about how Reagan correctly applied price elasticity and supply-side theories to lift the economy and  how Bush has excessively and wrongly used these tools.  Since then, I spent some time editing this effort further to make these abstractions more accessible to readers.  I invite your visiting this log entry again.  To add a concurring but also contrasting view, I reference economics professor Paul Krugman's today NY Times editorial on the same topic  http://www.nytimes.com/2004/06/08/opinion/08KRUG.html  It is vital that we educate ourselves about the dishonest economic terrorism war Bush has launched against America and take action against it.  Ignorance is never bliss.

     I've hidden the rest of the Venus-addiction chocolates from myself -- as a test to determine if I can be responsible.

     In closing for today, a note to subscribers.  Your participation funds both my subscriber in-depth Fore- casts and this experimental daily log, The Celestial Wheel, which is also viable free to the public on the website.   I understand my own Sadi Sati delays recognition for predictive efforts until the fall.  However, while the public has embraced The Celestial Wheel by more than doubling website traffic (and visits continue to increase), this effort has yet to increase subscriptions.  At the same time, I find  The Celestial Wheel is so absorbing that in-depth Forecasts are delayed, and this reduces value to subscribers.  To rebalance this inequity, I plan to remove The Celestial Wheel from the website at the end of this month, thereby making it exclusively available to subscribers via daily e-mail distribution.

June 7 - Supplemental 3 PM
     This morning's terrorist warning against airlines, western interests and Saudi Arabia is fueled by the stress of Venus (vehicles, wealth and contentment) being burnt by the hot Sun. Also, Jupiter (wealth, luck and religion) is now exactly aspected by toxic Rahu (foreigners and airplanes) from Mars ruled Aries.  This brings violence about wealth and religion via airplanes or poison.  Jupiter also remains closely aspected by Saturn, constricting further Jupiter's ability to protect.  Ketu (the mystical and dissolving tail of the dragon) aspects Saturn bringing intense religious focus.  Tomorrow, Ketu will aspect the emotional Moon.  Ketu/Moon is mental derangement.  

     These several planetary influences together give weight to the terrorist warning.  Mars would trigger terrorism tomorrow in the US, for Tuesday is Mars' day of the week.  Tuesday in the Mideast begins a half day sooner.  President Bush is particularly vulnerable, although harm is weighted toward his reputation rather than physical danger.  Paralysis is indicated for the latter.  The G8 economic summit tomorrow is a focus, as the Moon will be in Shatbhisha, indicating shorelines and alienating supporters.

June 7

     Regarding the upcoming Subscriber-only Forecast update on Bush, Counterpunch.org reprinted a June 4 article in Capital Hill Blue entitled, Bush's Erratic Behavior Worries White House Aids.  Here's the link, http://www.capitolhillblue.com/artman/publish/article_4636.shtml  Thank you Subscriber K.M. in Merced, CA for the heads-up. 

     I'm not vouching for or endorsing this news article -- it paints a picture of a fanatical and desperate president, not unlike Nixon in his final days in office.  Yet, the article follows evaluations in previous Bush Forecasts, both to his character and to the pressure he's now under.  The upcoming Forecast update on Bush will unveil the specific karmas and timing that may surprise in dovetailing with this article.

     Relating to the May 26 Forecast, #52 The Jupiter/Saturn Conjunction -- A New Twenty Year Era, is Tom Friedman's column in Sunday's NY Times, entitled Think Global, Act Local.  This is a clear and insightful explanation of India's recent surprising turnabout election.  Recall that the conservative alliance which has spurred India's amazing economical development was soundly defeated by a more leftist group, and the world was befuddled by this change.  http://www.nytimes.com/2004/06/06/opinion/06FRIE.html  (Note:  As with the Washington Post, you may be asked to register when you go to the article, but again this is free.)  Friedman's is an important exposition, for it reveals a fundamental globalization issue and suggests a future affirmative path ahead in this risky but predestined business of uniting a disparate and fractious world.

     Venus is the planet of the arts, compassion, sensitivity and grace.  This is the grace of God, which is different from Jupiter's luck and fortune.  With Venus' transit across the Sun imminent, another aspect of grace, that of gracefulness, is also burnt by the hot Sun.  We can see these in sports.  Last evening's first NBA finals game between the Lakers and the Pistons was a study in gracelessness -- shot after shot bounced off the rim by shooters from both teams, but especially by the suddenly clumsy Lakers.  Shaquille O'Neal scored well but this because the giant can literally shove the ball through the hoop.  This low-scoring game ended 87 --85.  In tennis, another sport requiring gracefulness in skillful execution, upstart Gaston Gaudio upset seasoned Guillermo Coria in the French Open finals. The Washington Post said the fans were, subjected not only to extremes of tennis, from sublime strokes to outright chokes, but also to great theater, with Gaudio flinging his racket into the cerulean Paris sky after the victory and the dejected Coria bashing his racket into the court, then breaking down in tears during his post-match interview.  We see again gracefulness injured by Venus' combustion.  In addition, there was a breakdown in the other aspect of Venusian grace, that of  the graciousness we associate with this traditionally courteous game.

     I offer a final thought about Ronald Reagan, this concerning economics, that may not be well under- stood.  As an economics major at Bucknell University, two economic fundamentals have been haunting me, and Reagan's passing is the perfect opportunity to present them.  Reagan applied two fundamental economic principles in lowering tax rates and running deficits.  First, lowering choking tax rates applied the concept of price elasticity to tax revenues.  For business, elasticity means that if prices are too high, then discounting prices by a percentage will stimulate sales by a greater percentage.  Higher revenues and profits result.  For government, price elasticity means that cutting too-high tax rates by a percentage spurs the economy and profits by a greater percentage, which then generates higher tax revenues.  Second, Reagan's supply-side economics was unique only because the concept of deficit spending to stimulate the economy had historically been a tool by Democrats like F.D.R., not Republicans.  The latter traditionally avoided deficits as part of the traditional conservative view of not borrowing, and they labeled Reagan's tax cuts as voodoo economics.  The concept here is for the government to deficit spend (increasing debt) for a short period to spur a weak economy.  The resulting economic rebound would increase taxable profits enough to bring a surplus to pay off the debt.  Reagan applied both principles at the right time and the right ways, and the country benefited. 

     President Bush has excessively and wrongly applied these two Reagan-era tools to the current economy, believing erroneously they would yield the same economic bonanzas we saw during the eighties and nineties.  First, price elasticity includes the flip-side concept of price inelasticity.  For business, this means that dropping prices too much results in lower revenues and profits. Similarly for government, reducing already low tax rates by a further percentage must result in a lesser percentage economic growth.  Thereby, tax revenues fall instead of grow.  The neo-conservative's demand to continuously cut tax rates is nonsensical, for it inevitably results in decreasing tax revenues.  Bush is also dead wrong about his use of supply-side economics deficit spending.  As John Maynard Keynes, the British economist who created the concept stipulated, deficit spending must be applied only as a short term economic stimulus -- otherwise, the resulting economic growth could not generate enough tax revenue for the greater surpluses needed to pay off the larger debt.  Bush's deficits are not of short term kind that bring later surpluses but are rather long term shortfalls which cannot be overcome.  There is no end in sight for deficits.

     Bush's errors here are fueled by his reliance on the neo-conservatives' ideology, not sound economic theories, and worse, the two errors compound.  Falling tax revenues and increasing deficits are a one-two combination wrecking the economy over the long term.  What is amazing here is that as a graduate of Harvard Business School, Bush was taught the principles of price elasticity and supply-side economics.  Choosing to cast aside his economics expertise for ideology is absolutely irresponsible, for he must know his policies can only fail.  

June 6

      Recent news reports reject that the full Moon has any affect.  Below is the Sitemeter report for my website, which includes The Celestial Wheel.  These results prove otherwise.

     This was an emotionally tense full Moon, as discussed June 2.  As the Moon is perception, the public and the benefits in life, we can see additional full Moon results in George Tenet's resignation Thursday and yesterday's the passing of Ronald Reagan.  

     Not yet discussed in the media, is the potent symbolism this first conservative anti-tax President presents in his death.  In fundamental ways, Reagan is the father of America's conservative revival, which has at its heart smaller government and the expansion of freedom, although he is not at fault for its later corruption into neo-conservatism.  The endless recitations of Reagan's accomplishments inspire responsible Republicans and Democrats alike.  It's vital to remember that Reagan cut taxes that were at truly burdensome rates, although this also stimulated huge deficits which were only later corrected by Bill Clinton, another great optimist.  There's a lesson in the importance of Jupiter-inspired optimism, hope, benevolence and faith (in the American people).  Reagan and Clinton shared this Jupiterian judgment, which brought such great achievements to their bipartisan administrations.  Both were necessary for America's progress -- as Reagan expressed in TV commercials during the 1950s, At General Electric, progress is our most important product.   

     This is diametrically opposed to today's fear-based neo-conservative agenda that intentionally polarized America with mean-spirited and selfish partisanship.  Ronald Reagan has obviously been ready to leave this incarnation for many months, and choosing this pivotal time to highlight his positive message is Reagan's final great gift to his country and the world.  In his leaving, he inspires us again to bipartisanship-- integral to an honorable democracy.  See today's Washington Post article, Republicans, Democrats Hail Reagan's Optimism   http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A19168-2004Jun5.html   (Note: If you are not registered with the Post, you can easily do so when you go to the article, and registration is free.)

     With Reagan's passing, it is provocative that yesterday I forwarded to Subscribers a poem entitled, Death Is Our Best Friend by Vedic Astrologer, Jeffrey Armstrong.  Several Subscribers have e-mailed me expressing their appreciation for this wisdom.

   In closing for today, I note that Reagan used astrology to time and guide his actions.  Perhaps we can again look up, to attune ourselves to the universe so that we may dance with the stars. 

June 5

     Today seems to be relatively calm, and perhaps a restful weekend may follow.  With the spring/summer celestial tumult continuing for another month or so, it's important to rest and recharge our batteries when we can.  Spiritual practices are supportive.  With so much pressure and discord in the world, it seems that each day has brought a new exposé, and these have accumulated to the point of overload for many.  As our minds resolve issues during sleep, we also integrate information during rest periods.  Then, as world events and our individual experiences intensify again next week, we will be empowered to absorb the information and put it into perspective without perceptional upset..

     While some turn away because events are unpleasant, even offensive, we all are citizens of the world and need to continue to pay attention during this historic time -- to fulfill our obligations, both within the community of humanity and personally.  Early signs that (humanistic) liberalism is becoming fashionable again are encouraging, and as this is a major shift in consciousness rejecting politicians' fear-based agendas, we have an opportunity to save ourselves from ourselves.  As Vedic Astrology is truly about time, and timing is a critical element in all endeavors, the message here is to take care of ourselves and pay attention.  There is no escaping wheel of karma.  

June 4

     On the May 24 Celestial Wheel, I excerpted from the March 30 Forecast, #46 The Times They Are A Changin, a listing of astronomical events this spring and summer promising to shake up the world.  Here again is this schedule.  It's a handy checklist for monitoring and anticipating your personal karmas, as well as world events.  Subscribers can find interpretations of these events in the April 22 Forecast, #49 A Celestial Tumult.  

     Kala Sarpa Yoga, also explained on May 24, appears already to be reaping karmas (actions) previously taken -- significantly for the Bush administration and already for George Tenet's resignation as Director of the CIA.  (Recall that Bush has Kala Sarpa in his chart.)  The approaching June 8 Venus transit across the Sun (which burns Venus) contributes here because Venus in Bush's chart signifies his friends, who are his top advisors.  Expect further harms for other administration officials.  Bush also experiences problems with other Venus significations in his chart, and he thereby experiences: shifting goals, achievement failures, problems with groups (especially foriegn), inability to charm and vehicle problems.  Personal issues for Bush are his daughters and cardiac system.  The exact transit date of June 8 is very inauspicious for Bush.

     For individuals, Venus' combustion by the Sun harms: wealth, vehicles, daughters, relationship, the repro- ductive system, kidneys, creativity, the arts and compassion.  Pay attention to these areas of your life to minimize harms.  A Subscriber in Phoenix reported traffic like bumper cars in a carnival and damage to her own vehicle.  As transits bring results as they apply (approach), Venus difficulties will build through June 8 and then end.

     Coming up for Subscribers are two Forecasts  -- one an update on Bush and a second on the national charts of Iraq and Israel. 

June 3

     Regarding the upcoming Venus' transit over the Sun, a client/friend with a spectacular Venus asked,

     Although any planet crossing the Sun is engulfed by the Sun's heat, Shareina's view is a compelling contretemps.  As world tensions and violence subside, Venus' femininity, compassion, gentleness and    grace may once again envelope the ego and sooth the soul. 

     And from editor V. Fazio, about the May 31 log,

     Of course, he's right.  Vince also has a wonderful Venus, which belies this otherwise critical comment.

     Glen Meloy in California has long been an advocate of children's rights in the much discussed pedophilia by self-professed God, Sai Baba.  Glen's efforts have also been on behalf of the many Sai Baba former devotees who have seen their faith destroyed by actions they report by Sai Baba.  Barry Pittard in Australia also lead this effort to stop the molestations.  Although I do not associate with any groups, spiritual or other- wise, at the request of  clients who were also ex-devotees, I undertook an analysis of Sai Baba's Vedic chart  in September 2000,  Sai Bab's Vedic Chart Summary --The karmic ebbs and flows of a man who would be a god.  This interpretation confirmed the accusations against Said Baba and predicted his downfall.  A month later, I composed, Sai Baba's Astrocartography  -- How the man influences others geographically.  This effort sought to help those now adult victims understand why they were susceptible to Sai Baba.

     I took these interpretations off my website after six months or so because I felt they had served their purpose and diverted attention from the website's positive message.  The interpretations were posted on various ex-devotee websites, there was discussion about them and occasionally, someone would ask me for copies.  Many print articles and some TV programs discussed the ex-devotee abuse claims.  The issue faded into the background of my other work until recently, when Glen Meloy again picked up the standard of protest.   Glen now reports URGENT NOTIFICATION: U.S. STATE DEPARTMENT HAS ISSUED NEW CRIME INFORMATION REGARDING SATHYA SAI BABA.  Below is my reply to Glen,

     We can see for this unfolding of Sai Baba drama that the planetary karmas I described in April and entitled, A Celestial Tumult, have implications far beyond the focus upon Iraq and President Bush.          It is indeed true that The Times They Are A Changin.  Subscribers are encouraged to revisit these Subscriber-only Forecasts as the planets whirl through this season of change.

     Below is part of Chapter 16 Outwitting the Stars from the 1946 Autobiography Of A Yogi by Paramhansa Yogananda.  I happened upon it yesterday in my computer files.  This chapter is an informative, encouraging and entertaining exposition on fate, free will and astrology that seems fitting to post on today's full Moon.  Gemstones remedies are explained as empowering free will.  Readers will notice that Yogananda's liver illness is the example topic.  Jupiter is the liver, and its wisdom, philosophy, religion and judgment are central issues today.  Jupiter is also faith and optimism -- valuable qualities to hold now.

     (Note: Yogananda was the first Indian Yogi to bring his teachings to America.  His guru, Sri Yukteswar, was a famous Jyotishi -- astrologer.  My spiritual teacher in Florida gave me this book in 1995, just a few months before I had my first Vedic reading from a neighbor, a famed American Jyotishi, who then became my Vedic teacher.  I didn't know it then, of course, but this wonderful book was truly my first Vedic text.)    

     "Mukunda, why don't you get an astrological armlet?"
     "Should I, Master?  I don't believe in astrology."
     "It is never a question of belief; the only scientific attitude one can take on any subject is whether it is true. The law of gravitation worked as efficiently before Newton as after him. The cosmos would be fairly chaotic if its laws could not operate without the sanction of human belief.
     "Charlatans have brought the stellar science to its present state of disrepute.  Astrology is too vast, both mathematically and philosophically, to be rightly grasped except by men of profound understanding.  If ignoramuses misread the heavens, and see there a scrawl instead of a script, that is to be expected in this imperfect world.  One should not dismiss the wisdom with the 'wise.'
     "All parts of creation are linked together and interchange their influences.  The balanced rhythm of the universe is rooted in reciprocity," my guru continued.  "Man, in his human aspect, has to combat two sets of forces -- first, the tumults within his being, caused by the admixture of earth, water, fire, air, and ethereal elements; second, the outer disintegrating powers of nature.  So long as man struggles with his mortality, he is affected by the myriad mutations of heaven and earth.
     "Astrology is the study of man's response to planetary stimuli.  The stars have no conscious benevolence or animosity; they merely send forth positive and negative radiations.  Of themselves, these do not help or harm humanity, but offer a lawful channel for the outward operation of cause-effect equilibriums which each man has set into motion in the past.
     "A child is born on that day and at that hour when the celestial rays are in mathematical harmony with his individual karma.  His horoscope is a challenging portrait, revealing his unalterable past and its probable future results.  But the natal chart can be rightly interpreted only by men of intuitive wisdom: these are few.
     "The message boldly blazoned across the heavens at the moment of birth is not meant to emphasize fate -- the result of past good and evil -- but to arouse man's will to escape from his universal thralldom.  What he has done, he can undo.  None other than himself was the instigator of the causes of whatever effects are now prevalent in his life.  He can overcome any limitation, because he created it by his own actions in the first place, and because he has spiritual resources which are not subject to planetary pressure.
     "Superstitious awe of astrology makes one an automaton, slavishly dependent on mechanical guidance. The wise man defeats his planets -- which is to say, his past -- by transferring his allegiance from the creation to the Creator.  The more he realizes his unity with Spirit, the less he can be dominated by matter. The soul is ever-free; it is deathless because it is birthless.  It cannot be regimented by stars.
     "Man is a soul, and has a body.  When he properly places his sense of identity, he leaves behind all compulsive patterns.  So long as he remains confused in his ordinary state of spiritual amnesia, he will know the subtle fetters of environmental law.
     "God is harmony; the devotee who attunes himself will never perform any action amiss.  His activities will be correctly and naturally timed to accord with astrological law.  After deep prayer and meditation he is in touch with his divine consciousness; there is no greater power than that inward protection."
     "Then, dear Master, why do you want me to wear an astrological bangle?"  I ventured this question after a long silence, during which I had tried to assimilate Sri Yukteswar's noble exposition.
     "It is only when a traveler has reached his goal that he is justified in discarding his maps.  During the journey, he takes advantage of any convenient short cut.  The ancient rishis discovered many ways to curtail the period of man's exile in delusion.  There are certain mechanical features in the law of karma which can be skillfully adjusted by the fingers of wisdom.
     "All human ills arise from some transgression of universal law.  The scriptures point out that man must satisfy the laws of nature, while not discrediting the divine omnipotence.  He should say: 'Lord, I trust in Thee, and know Thou canst help me, but I too will do my best to undo any wrong I have done.'  By a number of means -- by prayer, by will power, by yoga meditation, by consultation with saints, by use of astrological bangles -- the adverse effects of past wrongs can be minimized or nullified.
     "Just as a house can be fitted with a copper rod to absorb the shock of lightning, so the bodily temple can be benefited by various protective measures.  Ages ago our yogis discovered that pure metals emit an astral light which is powerfully counteractive to negative pulls of the planets.  Subtle electrical and magnetic radiations are constantly circulating in the universe; when a man's body is being aided, he does not know it; when it is being disintegrated, he is still in ignorance.  Can he do anything about it?
     "This problem received attention from our rishis; they found helpful not only a combination of metals, but also of plants.  Most effective of all -- faultless jewels of not less than two carats. The preventive uses of astrology have seldom been seriously studied outside of India. One little-known fact is that the proper jewels, metals, or plant preparations are valueless unless the required weight is secured, and unless these remedial agents are worn next to the skin."
     "Sir, of course I shall take your advice and get a bangle. I am intrigued at the thought of outwitting a planet!"
     "For general purposes I counsel the use of an armlet made of gold, silver, and copper.  But for a specific purpose I want you to get one of silver and lead." Sri Yukteswar added careful directions.
     "Guruji, what 'specific purpose' do you mean?"
     "The stars are about to take an unfriendly interest in you, Mukunda.  Fear not; you shall be protected.  In about a month your liver will cause you much trouble.  The illness is scheduled to last for six months, but your use of an astrological armlet will shorten the period to twenty-four days."
     I sought out a jeweler the next day, and was soon wearing the bangle.  My health was excellent; Master's prediction slipped from my mind.  He left Serampore to visit Benares.  Thirty days after our conversation, I felt a sudden pain in the region of my liver.  The following weeks were a nightmare of excruciating pain. Reluctant to disturb my guru, I thought I would bravely endure my trial alone.
     But twenty-three days of torture weakened my resolution; I entrained for Benares.  There Sri Yukteswar greeted me with unusual warmth, but gave me no opportunity to tell him my woes in private.  Many devotees visited Master that day, just for a darshan, and neglected, I sat in a corner.  It was not until after the evening meal that all guests had departed.  My guru summoned me to the octagonal balcony of the house.
     "You must have come about your liver disorder." Sri Yukteswar's gaze was averted; he walked to and fro, occasionally intercepting the moonlight.  "Let me see; you have been ailing for twenty-four days, haven't you?"
     "Yes, sir."
     "Please do the stomach exercise I have taught you."
     "If you knew the extent of my suffering, Master, you would not ask me to exercise."  Nevertheless I made a feeble attempt to obey him.
     "You say you have pain; I say you have none.  How can such contradictions exist?"  My guru looked at me inquiringly.
     I was dazed and then overcome with joyful relief.  No longer could I feel the continuous torment that had kept me nearly sleepless for weeks; at Sri Yukteswar's words the agony vanished as though it had never been.
     I started to kneel at his feet in gratitude, but he quickly prevented me.
     "Don't be childish.  Get up and enjoy the beauty of the moon over the Ganges."  But Master's eyes were twinkling happily as I stood in silence beside him.  I understood by his attitude that he wanted me to feel that not he, but God, had been the Healer.
     I wear even now the heavy silver and lead bangle, a memento of that day-long-past, ever cherished -- when I found anew that I was living with a personage indeed superhuman.  On later occasions, when I brought my friends to Sri Yukteswar for healing, he invariably recommended jewels or the bangle, extolling their use as an act of astrological wisdom.
     I had been prejudiced against astrology from my childhood, partly because I observed that many people are sequaciously attached to it, and partly because of a prediction made by our family astrologer:  "You will marry three times, being twice a widower."  I brooded over the matter, feeling like a goat awaiting sacrifice before the temple of triple matrimony.
     "You may as well be resigned to your fate," my brother Ananta had remarked.  "Your written horoscope has correctly stated that you would fly from home toward the Himalayas during your early years, but would be forcibly returned.  The forecast of your marriages is also bound to be true."
     A clear intuition came to me one night that the prophecy was wholly false.  I set fire to the horoscope scroll, placing the ashes in a paper bag on which I wrote: "Seeds of past karma cannot germinate if they are roasted in the divine fires of wisdom."  I put the bag in a conspicuous spot; Ananta immediately read my defiant comment.
     "You cannot destroy truth as easily as you have burnt this paper scroll."  My brother laughed scornfully.
     It is a fact that on three occasions before I reached manhood, my family tried to arrange my betrothal. Each time I refused to fall in with the plans, knowing that my love for God was more overwhelming than any astrological persuasion from the past.
     "The deeper the self-realization of a man, the more he influences the whole universe by his subtle spiritual vibrations, and the less he himself is affected by the phenomenal flux."  These words of Master's often returned inspiringly to my mind.
     Occasionally I told astrologers to select my worst periods, according to planetary indications, and I would still accomplish whatever task I set myself.  It is true that my success at such times has been accompanied by extraordinary difficulties.  But my conviction has always been justified: faith in the divine protection, and the right use of man's God-given will, are forces formidable beyond any the "inverted bowl" can muster.
     The starry inscription at one's birth, I came to understand, is not that man is a puppet of his past.  Its message is rather a prod to pride; the very heavens seek to arouse man's determination to be free from every limitation.  God created each man as a soul, dowered with individuality, hence essential to the universal structure, whether in the temporary role of pillar or parasite.  His freedom is final and immediate, if he so wills; it depends not on outer but inner victories.