Last year Uranus formed a conjunction with the North Node in Pisces. This signaled a new astrological chapter -- please see the monthly feature for April 2007 for more information. In May 2008, Neptune and the North Node form a conjunction in Aquarius, another signal that the times are indeed a'changin.

As illustrated in the Uranus example, when planets form conjunctions with the North Node, new (conjunction), evolutionary (North Node) movement is ready to proceed, pertinent to the planet in question. The farther out a planet orbits, the longer these chapters are relevant. The next conjunction between Neptune and the North Node is not until 2025 (in Pisces). The Neptune/North Node chapters are roughly 17 years long.

Neptune last formed a conjunction with the North Node in Capricorn, in 1991. Spiritual matters are most relevant to Neptune, and the last 17 years has shown a marked increase in organized (Capricorn) religion and a rise in fundamentalism. Conservative (Capricorn) spiritual movements have had enormous influence within realms of politics and civic action. Neptune is an idealizing energy--when placed in Capricorn, traditional doctrine is glorified. Conservative spiritual factions have been successful in promoting traditional marriage (and other anti-homosexual ballot measures), as well as an impressive grass roots pro-life movement.

Now the tide is turning in an Aquarian direction. Instead of promoting divisive proposals, there is a newfound emphasis on holistic measures that potentially benefit everyone. Spiritual groups and organizations are starting to address issues of climate change and environmental awareness, overpopulation, AIDS and other diseases. In contrast to Capricorn, Aquarius is progressive and future-oriented, rather than being faithful to the past. New movements, largely populated by younger people, are showing that being spiritual does include saving the planet -- not just trying to have others adhere to a patriarchical model. The Neptune/North Node conjunction in Aquarius is another example that we are moving into a most revolutionary time frame. You can read more about the upcoming planetary cycles in my new book, Uranus: The Constant of Change.