October opens with Venus (in late Leo) applying to form a conjunction with Saturn in early Virgo. It will be exact mid-month before gradually separating towards the last few days of October. This combination, especially in work-oriented Virgo, speaks of relations (romantic, business or otherwise) becoming more serious and dealing with reality. It is a time to solidify committments and/or to ensure that the most responsible route is being taken.

After the extended stay in Leo this year due to retrogradation, Venus is ready to change clothes. The party has ended and now comes the time to clean up. As Venus pertains to ease, flowing contacts, art and pleasure, it often gets a bad rap in methodical, growth-oriented Virgo. Certainly the ego may prefer to stay up late drinking wine, living in the moment and indulging the senses. These are appropriate experiences to refresh and enjoy the goodness that life offers. Venus in Leo has every bit of evolutionary importance as Venus in Virgo -- however it does appeal more to our childish desires. The movement to Virgo is asking us to switch from a personality orientation to consider other processes that promote soul development, which may be less fun.

Venus conjunct Saturn in Virgo doesn't sound like a whole lotta fun does it? Well good! It's not supposed to! October is a time to make realistic appraisals about how relationships serve our development. Have the necessary discussion that has been avoided. Go to the workshop that will teach you new skills that will ultimately make things better. If you want relationship to be like a work of art, then you have to spend some time at the canvas. Who doesn't want a mature, accountable relationship where both parties teach other? This is a time to make it happen.

Or not. Without these sober intentions and clarity, this combination can feel like, well, a pain in the ass. Those that refuse to cooperate with this shift will be endlessly frustrated, annoyed with their partner (or associates, even friends) riddled with eye-rolling criticality and miserable about the state of the connection. Reality is coming home -- we can embrace it and find ways to work with it, or pout and stay in a less evolved way of being.

Saturn/Venus potentially has a sense of high class like gourmet food or a polished, professional piece of art or music. The word "classic" fits well here -- which combines time (Saturn) with appeal (Venus). Feeling this promise is how to navigate the formidable task of a most challenging relational pairing. Humility and accountability are the tools to sculpt a relationship into something classic.