Saturn enters Virgo on September 2, 2007 and will be in the 6th sign until October 29, 2009. (For a few months in the spring/summer of 2010, it will retrograde back into Virgo for one last visit). Known for being serious, authoritative and delivering consequences, the ringed planet is concerned with maturation, integrity and professionalism. Interested in tangible results, under a Saturn influence many feel overwhelmed. Nevertheless, it's time to fix the hole where the rain gets in.

Saturn's visit in a particular sign aims to hammer it into better shape -- it exposes the sign's weaknesses in order to take the steps necessary for improvement. While Saturn was in Leo, the entertainment industry faced the realities of decentralization. With the Internet and other ways for people to reach the public, there was a constriction in popular culture. Instead of putting forth riskier or progressive projects, the focus was on being able to maintain profits. Therefore, much of the music and movies tended to rely on tried and true formulas. Indeed, the amount of sequels or retreads released from 2005--2007 was staggering. Many of them (for example: King Kong, Bewitched, Dukes of Hazzard, Charlie's Angels, Herbie and Starsky & Hutch) echoed the mid to late 1970s, the last time Saturn was in Leo. Saturn does pertain to the past and this cycle did make many wonder if original creativity was extinct.

Now Saturn moves to Virgo -- sign of health, self-improvement, activities of daily living, service, details, methods, analysis and all forms of craftsmanship. There is a natural accordance here as both Saturn and Virgo are earthy in nature. Whereas Saturn smothered the fire of Leo, the relationship with Virgo is far more complementary. However, there is a range (from gifts to challenges) to how this connection can play out.

Clearly, the realities of a broken health care system is only going to get worse and require attention. Unfortunately, many may feel an increased burden of beaurocracy and poor care, which hopefully will instigate a course of action. Virgo does have correlates with the impoverished -- with Saturn here, the underpriviliged may feel even more squelched by those in power. One of the pitfalls of Saturn in Leo is institutional arrogance. With the shift to Virgo, the realities and consequences of that arrogance will impact commoners. With the shifting economy, specialization is becoming more and more prized. Saturn in Virgo wants to develop a trade that can be marketable and useful. Expect many youngsters to opt for a specialized education rather than the broader liberal arts option.

Saturn in Virgo is time to roll up the sleeves and fix the things that are broken. It insists upon competence and precision. Those who have those attributes are the ones who will be making a difference and hold positions of authority. The promise of this Saturn chapter is collective healing through humility, accountability and a willingness to make reparations. Watch the tendency to be overwhelmed, self-critical and pessimistic.