Aries (March 20-April 19) — One reward of this time in your life will be new friends, new groups to hang out with, and new social patterns. If you find yourself among people you don’t know, go with it. However, this could be enough to cause panic among the younger generation, which prefers everything to be familiar and somewhat scripted. So if you suddenly find yourself among people you’ve never met, and don’t know much about, what do you do? Start by introducing yourself. Pick someone who looks friendly, walk up to them, and say hello, and tell them your name. You can even ask their name! It’s totally OK. Social circulation is good for the universe, and making new friends is good for you. A gathering may have a specific reason, though this is not necessary. No matter what the stated purpose, the underlying motivation is likely to be social. You don’t need an excuse to have fun.

Taurus (April 19-May 20) — This week’s solar eclipse in your house of reputation and achievement will wake you up to the role that you’re serving. Most likely this is through some professional activity, though it’s not necessarily associated with your formal role. It could be, though every person serves a purpose in a social environment. For example, if you answer the phone all day, you spread your vibes to everyone you talk to, and by extension, everyone they come in contact with. Locate yourself within the social network you contact through your profession, and notice the ways you can tune up the role that you play. If your work specifically involves messaging of any kind, whether sales, or politics, or media, you are part of establishing a new pattern of speech and thought. You may not see yourself this way — but then, you might want to look, in such a way that you do.

Gemini (May 20-June 21) — What is the future, really? Is it a thing that already exists, and we wait for it to reveal itself? Is it something we create, and aspire to? Or is it an experience that’s creating us right now, as we proceed in its direction? Every one of these possibilities is conceptual, and unproven. However, some have demonstrated that it’s possible to envision something, to aspire to it, and to have that thing happen. It’s also noticeable that many have a fixed view of the future, or seem to ride along a path that’s set down like train tracks. (Take the local, or take the express, but don’t get off till you find success!) This week’s eclipse of the Sun in Aquarius will shake up your concept of the future, and free some bandwidth and energy that will help you make decisions. More than anything, you need an open mind, and to be aware that you’re not living your parents’ life — therefore, you’re not subject to their beliefs.

Cancer (June 21-July 22) — A deal is a deal, right? Well, it is, if everyone keeps their promises. In the business world, that’s called good faith: everyone trusting that everyone else means what they say, is willing to come through, and is able to deliver. It doesn’t matter whether this is a verbal contract or is in writing; the sincerity of a promise is all that matters. On any pending business or financial matter, check in with yourself, and make sure that your promises are in good faith. Evaluate the track record of those you do business with, and size up their intentions based on what they actually deliver. In this realm, peer pressure usually comes in the form of blaming an organization for delays, lack of flexibility, or the failure to deliver. If you notice a shock to the system, or some unexpected change, take advantage of it. Utilize anything out of pattern, or where there is some disruption to the usual social order.

Leo (July 22-Aug. 23) — This week’s eclipse of the Sun takes place in your relationship zone, Aquarius. If you keep an open heart and mind, this aspect — a conjunction of the Moon, the Sun, Venus, Mercury and asteroid Juno — will teach you something about the potential of your relationships. The old Flock of Seagulls song “Modern Love is Automatic” describes the reality for many, who struggle with a seeming lack of choice, with incompatibility, and with lack of freedom. This may emerge from not seeing one’s options, or not choosing consciously. You’re being encouraged to open your eyes and notice who is available, and on what terms, and to engage in a real conversation. Beware of seeing yourself in others; make sure that the commonality you notice is not a projection. Pause before doing something you’re supposed to do, or that’s expected of you. You are free. Proceed in manual mode.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sep. 22) — The changes at work are coming on fast and furious. Yet you would be wise to slow down, and notice that what’s really happening is that new patterns are being established as the old ones break down. Rather than dealing reactively with the confusion, create something that works better, particularly on the human level. With so much activity in Aquarius (including Mercury, your home planet), one might make the mistake of thinking this is all about technology. But Aquarius is more about human design than it is about anything else: those group relationships that so often prove so challenging. The more you honor the voices of individuals, the less the group dynamic will dominate. And though we’re all drowning in technology, the world was, is, and will always be about people. So listen to what they say, and feel what they feel, and help create a world where everyone is welcome.

Libra (Sep. 22-Oct. 23) — A diversity of aspects, and worldly events, are conspiring to liberate you from the past, and open up the future. The main element of freedom from the past that you’ll benefit from is freedom from your insecurities. You’ve turned a corner here in recent months, as if you suddenly have a more stable foundation. Now you get to test that out. You may be familiar with the dilemma: do you do what you want because you’re making enough money, or do you do what you want, and figure out how to have that support you? These days, it seems like the second one is more valid for you. Time is precious, and you’ve crossed enough thresholds to prove that you can make progress toward your goals. At a certain point you have to claim that progress and seize an opportunity when you have it.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 22) — You’ve reached a point where it’s time to ask yourself how much involvement with your family is appropriate. Even asking this question can send shudders down the spine, which means it’s worth considering boldly. You may rationalize your involvement on the basis that they all need you, and if so, that’s the first thing to question. It makes a convenient excuse, in part because it may be true. However, do you need them just a little more? You may be trying to cover what you perceive as a psychological weakness that prevents you from being more independent in your choices. The way to heal this is not to cover the weakness but rather to reveal it for what it is, and get an understanding of how it may be serving you in some way. For example, do you use it as an excuse in any way? You want real confidence, not a substitute.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 22) — Mars in your sign, or anyone’s sign, would usually describe being in a self-serving and competitive mood. Yet due to the presence of other planets, you’re more in a self-sacrificing state of mind. This could inspire you to serve others, or at least to put their needs first. The world could use more of this, and it’s likely to be a dominant force in your character for a while. Just two cautionary thoughts, though: One is to pay attention to whom you’re serving, and to what end. The other is to make sure that you’re not avoiding intimacy, using work or service as an excuse. It’s one thing if you’re actually involved and invested and need to get a job done. It’s another if you’re avoiding something. You’ll have a better sense of this by next weekend, and can evaluate your situation then. It’s likely that you are, in fact, working for the good cause, not as a sacrifice but as a gift.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 20) — The theme of financial reorganization is all over your charts, and it’s going to happen one way or another. Get a grip now, while the gripping is good. Take charge, which begins with a breakdown of the numbers. Know exactly where you stand. As you do that, notice how you’re keeping track of both the figures and your documentation. This really is a paperwork question, though it’s ultimately about the framework of your financial life. There is a psychological element to this, and a maturity element. Freud said that challenges around money involved father issues. Jung said they involved mother issues. We can speculate and say that when we’ve resolved the lingering baggage of our parents, the matters of finance are both easier, and more personally meaningful. If at this moment you don’t have ease, go for meaning. Your income potential is significant; you have every reason to involve yourself in an improved approach to the subject.

Aquarius Birthdays 2018:

The Perfect Reading for Your Evolving Aquarian Life

“My takeaway from the Aquarius reading is a sense of PEACE. You really do UNDERSTAND what Aquarians are going through these days (and yes, because you do understand and explain the issues I am going through so well). Yes: you are an honorary Aquarian.”

— Eileen

Dear Reader with Aquarius Sun, Moon or Rising Sign:

When you look back on the last year (or listen to last year’s Aquarius Birthday reading), what do you notice most? Is it the difficulties you’ve struggled to overcome; or the new and creative ways you’ve approached life on your own terms; or the way you’ve interacted with those around you?

Life as an Aquarius is in the process of shifting: we’re between two eclipses that involve your sign; one of your ruling planets has changed signs (Saturn) and another one is gearing up to do so in May (Uranus). And Chiron is about to move into Aries, shifting the focus of your learning and healing agenda, and hopefully providing a little relief.

Both your inner experience and your outer reality are undergoing significant changes. Using his signature blend of astrological experience, therapy training, life coaching, and motivational speaking, Eric will cover these major changes to the sky (along with subtler points) in your upcoming 2018 Aquarius Birthday Reading.

You can still pre-order this reading for the lowest price we offer — you get two segments of astrology audio (at least 30 minutes each) plus a tarot reading for the year. It will be the perfect complement to your Art of Becoming annual reading (if you’ve ordered that, too): an intensive audio meditation you can download and listen to anytime, anywhere.

Wishing you a happy birthday season, and dynamic use of these eclipses.

Yours & truly,

Amanda Painter

P.S. If you know and love an Aquarian, show them by giving the 2018 Aquarius Birthday Reading as a gift!

P.P.S. If you’d like to review your year and check Eric’s accuracy as you head into The Eclipse Zone, please listen to last year’s reading, as a gift from Planet Waves.

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 19) — The bigger your plans, the more they may evoke your insecurities. This is typical even of high achievers, though you may want to gain some insight into the issue. Consider two possibilities: one is that you’re confusing your potential success with your self-worth. This is easy to do, in a world where little attention is paid to human factors (such as feelings), and much is paid to externals, such as the appearance of success. A related matter is whether you feel you’re of value to a spouse or other intimate partner. The all-too-sad truth is that many people do indeed value their partners based on success, which translates to how much money they make. If you can account for both of these factors (which involve confusing self-worth with success with financial success), what does it mean to “accomplish something”? What does it mean to make a contribution? Is that even important to you? This week’s eclipse in your birth sign is a fine occasion to sort some of this out.

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) — This week’s solar eclipse will let off some psychic pressure, which you may not have known you were even experiencing. You have plenty of responsibility at the moment, and a good few aspects of your usual life seem to have gone missing. So it’s not surprising that you would be feeling some tension. However, once you experience what looks like an equalization of your inner atmosphere, you’ll be able to breathe easier and have more room to maneuver. When the Sun arrives in your sign in about a week, you’ll feel even better. Start stretching out now — your body, your traveling range, and your mental outlook. Remember how much music helps lighten your spirits. You’re feeling restless, and your solar chart describes a classic case of cabin fever, which usually gets you this time of year. It’s true that the dark, damp winter is not especially appealing to someone who would rather be on a Caribbean beach, though this would be a good time to go out exploring and see what warm places you can find, wherever you can find them.

Aries (March 20-April 19) — Be courageous this week and speak up about what matters to you, no matter now secretive or sensitive the subject matter. You may feel fear around this, or tension, or some unnameable emotion, though you’re also being drawn to express your truth. You don’t need to do this in a public forum; it would be wise to keep the discussion to intimate spaces, with people you’re close to. You might, however, have an occasion to open up some discussion in a group forum. The temptation these days is to go right to the internet. With so much happening in Aquarius right now, the lure is extra strong. When you have something important to say, say it in person. The risk might seem greater, though in truth, the electronic realm is free of any risk and offers very little reward or potential for healing. Vulnerability is what you need.

Taurus (April 19-May 20) — Mercury, the Sun and Venus are streaking across the 10th house of your solar chart, inviting you to achieve great things. You define the term “great,” though the notion usually includes some kind of stretch beyond the ordinary. You’re likely to be doing just that; though this week, a series of aspects is inviting you to fully engage your awareness and recognize what you’re doing and why. You are tapping into a deep source of motivation and creativity, and you can bring that right to the surface of your mind — right to full awareness. That inner source is directly connected to much of what is pushing, stretching and twisting the world right now, and you’re dancing with it like it’s your best friend, the great python. We are living in a time when the entire universe is vibrating with the message: WAKE UP. You’re one of the people who is ringing that bell.

Gemini (May 20-June 21) — Your chart is lit right now. As an air sign, you’re especially sensitive to air-sign energy. And there’s a whole lot of that going on at this moment, with the Sun and many planets in Aquarius — and an eclipse on the way. This is a fancy way of saying that you’ve got it going on. You may be concerned that your plans are taking too long to manifest, though that won’t be a problem for long. In fact, it would be wise of you to gather your energy, focus your mind and get some rest before the pace of life picks up rapidly. One thing you can do is carefully size up whose fears (besides your own) have had a way of slowing you down. Do they belong to your mother, your father, both, or someone else? Who, if anyone, instilled a fear of achievement? Take the time to think that over, make some decisions, and clear your mind of what is not your burden. Or, said another way, clear the runway. You’re about to take off.

Cancer (June 21-July 22) — Last week, there was an eclipse of the Moon in your house of money, self-esteem and personal resources. The eclipse was conjunct Ceres, which came with two messages, both ongoing. One involves separating your self-respect from any negative attachments or opinions of you that your mother may have (or had in the past). The second is: respect your own ability to feed yourself. Make a conscious, daily yoga of being grateful for “the roof over your head and the sandwich in your hand,” as the old expression goes. On Feb. 15, there will be an eclipse in Aquarius, which is about shared resources and mutual respect. This is an invitation to up your game. You may feel like you need to proceed with extra caution; which is true, sure; eclipses are powerful. But you must also push the edge, be bold and be strong. Take the chance of standing your full height.

Leo (July 22-Aug. 23) — Eclipses are back in town. It’s likely that your life is still in some way reeling from the Great American Eclipse of last August — the really famous one, which was in Leo. I know that because the whole world is still shaking and quaking and wondering what to do. Last week, there was a powerful eclipse of the Moon in your sign, which had the effect of equalizing the pressure caused by the event last August. You are working your way to a new kind of equilibrium. This process will go on throughout the year, peaking once again with another solar eclipse in your sign on Aug. 11. You are going through an initiation. You may feel pushed to the edge of your abilities, your energy, your strength, your courage, and maybe your will to live. Ride it out. Take the trip. Focus on your one and only life, and remind yourself why you’re alive.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sep. 22) — Lots of interesting and potentially weird stuff is going on at work. It’s all leading to something, which you’ll know for sure around the time of the New Moon eclipse on Feb. 15. You’re delivering efficiency and effectiveness. You are a well-oiled machine. You have great ideas. Now it’s time to bring in some heart and soul. Your work-related house, where many events are developing, is Aquarius. That can be chilly or impersonal — or it can be boldly humanitarian. You can do everything you do, as well as you do, and fully honor the necessities of the human realm. Put yourself in the place of others. Listen to what they’re saying to you about their experiences. You know you’re destined for great things, and you provide an amazing service to others. Yet, without heart and soul, it’s all just wires, boxes and balance sheets.

Libra (Sep. 22-Oct. 23) — Roll and sway with your environment, even as it changes, minute by minute. The world is chaotic and churning, everywhere from Washington DC to Washington Heights to the back hills of Washington State. Our environments are full of interruptions and intrusions. The only way to deal is to adapt consciously. That means learning how to ride the waves; a kind of psychic surfing that, while not entirely free from risk, is a much better option than getting churned in the chaos. Your creative energy is bursting right now. You have nearly every other advantage, including being curious and restless. Some of the best astrological advice I ever got was from a surfer, who was wearing a tee-shirt that said, “Look where you want to be.” By that he meant that you steer with your eyes, by resting your gaze on your intended destination.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 22) — You can take a detached view from any family or household dramas — let yourself be drawn in by good vibes rather than chaos. People will figure out that’s the reward for your being there, especially if you tell them. You don’t need agitation; you will benefit from cooperation; you are just fine going on your own. Therefore, associate with people only when it serves your purpose or, alternately, when you know you can actually be of some tangible assistance. You are reassessing old patterns of relating that have their roots in your family. This is a rare opportunity to drop many of the dysfunctional ways of thinking and relating that no longer work. You want to listen for when people are acting in automatic mode, like robots. That’s your cue to wake up and step back, or to disrupt the scene in some minor way, to shift the energy — such as dropping a dish on the floor.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 22) — Society is now pretending to be embroiled in all the conversations it’s been avoiding since the last Women’s Lib protest in 1975. The thing is, very few people want to get the discussion to the depth where something actually moves, grows or changes. That involves taking a personal risk, which remains unpopular. You, however, are walking along the edge of feeling your entire emotional history in a keen and palpable way. There will be moments when the whole past comes back to you, with all its corresponding vulnerability. Work that energy for all it’s worth: like a performer on stage who is willing to bare all for the sake of an excellent performance, having no clue whether it’s even working, suspended between exhilarated and terrified. That’s the place where you can be real with yourself and with everyone around you. You will learn a lot about yourself, and everyone else.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 20) — Your sign is usually associated with doing things the old way rather than the new way, though at the moment you can bring the perfect blend of the two. In times of change, that’s an essential combination, the hybrid of tradition and innovation. There are ways the human condition changes, or seems to change, rapidly, and there are ways that it does not change at all. Look around you and see the difference. People still have an emotional need for affirmation and contact. They have a need to socialize together. We need to express common values and long to fulfill common needs. You have an unusually vivid psychic opening into the collective mind right now. You share many priorities with the people around you. Use this ability — it will serve you well, for any purpose you want. Remember that service to others moves spiritual energy much better than service to self.

Aquarius Birthdays 2018:

The Aquarius Eclipse Zone — and a Gift from Us

“Today I was listening to last year’s reading and I kept feeling that I needed to get this year’s reading; I’m so glad I did. It answered everything, or at least helped me to realize I’m okay and actually very excited.”

— Rhonda Benson

Dear Friend and Reader:

You’ve just experienced a spectacular “supermoon” and total lunar eclipse in your opposite sign, Leo. Leo is your “relationship sign,” and as such also holds information about other sorts of partnerships besides the romantic kind (including those that are not so amicable).

Not only that, but the corresponding partial solar eclipse will occur on Feb. 15 in Aquarius — making these next couple of weeks a potentially very fertile time for you to shift your life in a new direction. What would you like to see more of in your life in the next 6-12 months? And in what ways can you aim yourself in that direction over the next couple weeks?

Eric will be taking up this auspicious astrology in your upcoming 2018 Aquarius Birthday Reading. He designs these audio meditations to be useful for the entire year, long past your birthday month — which is perfect, considering that the eclipses take moths to unfold.

He’ll also be covering the major-planet sign changes that mark this year, two of which involve your ruling planets (Saturn, which is newly in Capricorn; and Uranus, which enters fellow fixed sign Taurus in May) — and much more.

You can lock in the lowest price we offer when you pre-order your Aquarius reading; that’s two segments of astrology plus a tarot reading for the year for only $33. Note: the price will increase as Eric nears publication of your audio reading.

Why should you get both your Birthday Reading if you’re already getting the Art of Becoming annual reading? Mainly because it covers your key astrology in a different, stand-alone format and has its own unique emphasis — born of the moment when Eric records it, capitalizing on his more intuitive, improvisational skills.

May you celebrate your birthday eclipse season with a sense of potential and empowerment.

Yours & truly,

Amanda Painter

P.S. If you know and love an Aquarian, show them by giving the 2018 Aquarius Birthday Reading as a gift!

P.P.S. If you’d like to review your year and check Eric’s accuracy as you head into The Eclipse Zone, please listen to last year’s reading, as a gift from Planet Waves.

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 19) — Planets are gathering in your sign, welcoming an eclipse of the Sun that takes place in about a week and a half. You have resources. You are moving energy. You are about to take a tremendous step in your growth and your maturity. It’s essential that you set aside both naïve views of the world, and cynical ones. Much of your purpose in life is the gaining of experience, which is the test of theory and, in fact, the ultimate test of reality. You’re being compelled to change in ways you’ve long resisted, which includes seeing the patterns that you follow, and doing whatever you can to change them. Put your mind into manual mode. Stay awake for every waking hour. Pay attention to your environment and every bit of feedback it provides. Look for patterns in the chaos. They are calling your name.

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) — Several unusual influences are simultaneously calling you deep into yourself, and at the same time calling you take action in the world. The order of operations would best be inner first, outer second. This of course necessitates your not getting lost in your inner reality like it’s the only one there is. Important responsibilities are calling on you to participate in the world. Yet you have the distinct advantage of inner guidance. This is a gift you must learn to use, and to trust. It’s not a plug-and-play kind of thing; it takes skill, more like piloting an airplane than sending a message on Twitter. You need to understand all the dynamics of your environment — which means your inner world, the space and energy around you, and the delicate place where the two meet. If you make a mistake, correct it quickly, and move on. If you make a discovery, note it well.

Aries (March 20-April 19) — There’s a psychological aspect to everything; and if you’re paying attention, you won’t miss it. Better still, you’ll benefit from the insight into what others around you are thinking and feeling; this will relate to what you are thinking and feeling. You need a concept of motivation that does not automatically involve suspicion. It’s a modern mental crisis that many people assume everyone may be up to something sinister and that we are, at the same time, incapable of discerning what’s really going on. Ponder that for a moment and it may start to seem like a knot that can never be untangled. The bottom line is that you need to trust yourself, which means trusting your observations and assessments of people. Cultivate a calibrated response: that is, dependable inner references that certain feelings and observations mean something, and that others mean something else. Then, leave yourself room to be wrong.

Taurus (April 19-May 20) — If you remember that your intent is to serve as an agent of healing and service (said another way, love put into action), it will be obvious what decisions to make when the time comes. Once you understand the purpose of your presence, your role will be obvious. You could serve yourself and your situation well by pausing and considering just what that is. You have a role to play; perhaps an important one, which only you can do. You were called into your current situation for significant reasons; and as you connect with them, you’re likely to call forth a stream of vivid memories and what might feel like past-life knowledge. You cannot put this onto your resume, though you can consider it in context. Some of your high-aptitude areas include organizing groups of people, coexisting peacefully with technology, and a rare form of emotional intelligence that’s stable and dependable.

Gemini (May 20-June 21) — You may become privy to sensitive information over the next few days. This could provide you with a financial advantage, or leverage over someone you know. Proceed with caution; think carefully how you use any such data, and don’t hesitate to stash it in a folder in your mind. You can, however, safely use the information to guide your own decisions, and to inform your understanding of people, without saying anything. You may indeed have something at stake, though study the situation and you’ll see you don’t need to make an announcement. If you discover something that’s directly related to the public interest, that’s another matter entirely. If that is true, you need to proceed with special care, and get the advice of someone who has considerable experience handling such matters. Don’t just blow the whistle. Understand all the potential implications first.

Cancer (June 21-July 22) — What is good for you will be good for others. It may take some experimentation to see that what’s good for others is also probably helpful to you. At least you’re in a position to help define some common ground, and then work to build agreements there. The current state of the world is that just about everyone is camped out in one camp or another, thinking they have nothing in common with any other faction. The most serious issue with this situation is that it’s not based in truth. As humans living on the planet, we have nearly everything in common with one another. Not only do you know this; it means something to you. Once you’re at that stage, it’s relatively easy to act on it. It would be wonderful if humanity as a group could tap into its collective survival instinct. As a representative of the Divine Mother, you can help guide things that way.

Leo (July 22-Aug. 23) — If you proceed with a clear plan for work this week, you will accomplish things that far exceeded what you thought were your abilities — something likely to persist for many months. This will teach you not to trust your doubts so much. I know this can be a fine line, and certain factors of your chart suggest it’s been difficult to muster up your full confidence. The issue, as it shows up in your solar chart, is that lately, you tend toward self-criticism, a little more than is helpful. You don’t need to do this. It’s not making you a “better person.” You can try an experiment, though — based on an aspect in your chart that’s exact this week. When you want to do something courageous, and you take the first steps, what do you experience? Is your self-criticism a reaction connected to your desire to be bold, creative, sexual or adventurous? If so, you can let go of it.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sep. 22) — This week’s total eclipse of the Moon takes place in the most mysterious angle of your solar chart, this unusual place called the 12th house. You might think of this as the secret room in your chart, where you keep all of your regrets, your secret desires, and your forgotten dreams. The eclipse will open a door for you, which will help you at once purge any dark emotions you may be holding on to, and also connect with your deepest vision for yourself. If you feel those emotions come up, do your best not to stuff them down. Acknowledge what you’re experiencing, and call in the Inner Light to dispel the darkness. Say it just like that: “I call upon the inner light of my mind and offer my [fear, regret, guilt, whatever] back to the universe. I am sincere, I am clear and I am whole.” Then stand back and allow.

Libra (Sep. 22-Oct. 23) — What you think others think about you says a lot about how you think of yourself. And once you know that, you can start asking questions. For example, where did you get those ideas? If you read them like tarot cards, what do they say about your thought process? How does your perception align, or conflict, with what you know from factual data — for example, the gratitude that people express to you? One of the most dangerous facets of consciousness is projection. It’s vital that you learn how to recognize this, and adjust your thinking. It’s also not as hard as it seems, if you keep asking yourself what is real and what is not. Make it into a game. The people who love you really and truly love you. Yes, there are those who would instigate doubt, but once you know that, you can gently sidestep their influence.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 22) — Your sign is one of those most obsessed with psychology, trying to ascertain people’s motives, and to understand their responses. Your solar chart suggests this has been at a peak lately. You’ve probably been turning this onto yourself lately, and I have a couple of suggestions to make it easier, and to give you some objectivity. When you hear yourself speak, do you usually talk about the past, or the present? Seen one way, that’s all the psychology and all the spirituality you need. If you vigilantly watch that one particular binary, you’ll have a lot of information to work with. Second, what do you think is funny? Do you laugh at things said that are at someone else’s expense? Here’s a very short summary of the psychology of laughter: Bottom line, we laugh when we feel like some danger is gone. That never needs to be at the expense of another.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 22) — Mars moving through your birth sign would normally be read as a selfish impulse. Mars is usually shamelessly self-serving. However, it’s also approaching a conjunction to Vesta, an asteroid representing devotion and self-sacrifice. Under Mars-Vesta, your flame of love and kindness is burning bright. Allow yourself the freedom to be passionate. You can also turn that down a little, and focus on the task at hand. Just beware if you ever feel yourself getting cold; that’s the one risk of Mars-Vesta. And if you notice that, pause, contemplate how you feel and reconnect with love, passion and devotion. On the other side of this, monitor your relationship to the idea of sacrifice. That’s the most cautionary note of Vesta. Doing what’s right, you may give something up — though it won’t feel like a sacrifice. It will feel more like a gesture of offering. Proceed in that spirit.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 20) — It’s been an interesting couple of weeks, with Mercury in your sign making aspects to the most powerful planets in the sky: Chiron, Uranus, Pluto and Eris, all within a few days. This is one way to say there’s been a lot on your mind. You’ve probably made some important decisions, and you’re wondering when and how to act on them. You can afford to coast a little on this; the operative fact is that you know what you want, what you need to do, and why. You don’t want to act until you feel the direct inner guidance to do so, which will feel like momentum. It will feel like a wave rising within you, and that wave will carry your will, and whatever action you take will be easy. In the end, this is a matter of values. You know you’re beyond investing yourself where your values are not in alignment — and that where there is an alignment, that’s the foundation of a sane, honest way of life.

Aquarius Birthdays 2018:

Pointing Yourself into the Eclipses

“Thank you. I’ve been a fan for a few years and always feel nourished by every reading — my own and others. This particular reading hit home and felt like a swoop of fresh air pointing me home. Thank you again.”

— Elaine Sonne

Dear Aquarius Sun or Aquarius Rising Reader:

Some of the most noteworthy astrological events of this year relate directly to your sign. Whether this is exciting to you or slightly intimidating, you can consider yourself fortunate: Eric will be covering the unique opportunities and challenges these events may bring you in his usual grounded, reassuring, inspiring and perspective-shifting way in your 2018 Aquarius Birthday Reading.

Eric Francis.

Among the events influencing your year are both of your ruling planets in new signs: Saturn entered Capricorn — the ‘hidden area’ of your chart — in December; and Uranus moves into fellow fixed sign Taurus in May.

As your inner landscape and outer environment take on a new flavor, Eric will be guiding through it all. Also of particular note: in just a few days we get the first of two eclipses involving your sign.

The Jan. 31 Leo Full Moon will oppose the Aquarius Sun for a lunar eclipse; then on Feb. 15, the Aquarius New Moon will also be a partial solar eclipse. Translation: your solar year is getting off to a potentially potent start, the effects of which will ripple out for months to come. Using his signature blend of astrological experience, therapy training, life coaching, and motivational speaking, Eric will cover these major changes to the sky (along with subtler points) in your upcoming reading.

When you pre-order your 2018 Aquarius Birthday Reading, you’ll lock in the lowest price we offer on two segments of astrology (each at least 30 minutes long) plus a tarot reading for 2018. You can listen to this reading as many times as you like throughout the year — to check your progress, or to receive a little extra encouragement, insight and empowerment to tackle whatever’s come your way.

“I am listening to it again now, and there are so many more gems coming to me. Profound, deep and so thought provoking…inspired!”

— Rhonda Benson

Please note that the price increases as Eric nears publication, and then increases again.

Yours & truly,

Amanda Painter

P.S. The 2018 Aquarius Birthday Reading is distinctly different from the Aquarius written reading available in the upcoming Art of Becoming annual project. It covers your key astrology in a different format and emphasis, capitalizing on Eric’s more intuitive, improvisational skills. The Birthday Reading also makes a fantastic gift for a loved one!

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 19) — This week, there’s a Full Moon eclipse in your opposite sign Leo. Think of this as a tune-up of your relationships, particularly on the emotional level. It might feel like a pressure release, as if two spaces with different atmospheric pressures are being equalized. This will help you catch your breath and ease some of the stress that’s been silently building, much of which is described by the eclipse. Two weeks later, the Moon comes back around and forms a conjunction to the Sun, in your sign — that’s an eclipse in your sign. At that point, you’ll have an opportunity for a personal reckoning of some kind: an assessment of what you’re doing and why you’re doing it. Let this inner discussion encompass every aspect of your life. However, there’s no rush at the moment; when eclipses are in the vicinity, the thing to do is to steer your craft gently downstream, flowing with the current.

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) — This week’s eclipse of the Moon will remind you that you need to invest your creative energy in endeavors that fully support you back. You tend to give everything to what you commit yourself to and, as a Pisces, sometimes you forget to send an invoice. Think of this in terms of food. The effort you put into tilling the ground, and the seeds you plant, must ultimately feed you, and leave you enough to plan for the future. It’s one thing to let your talent shine out, and that’s one of your specialties. You will do that no matter what endeavor you choose. Now you must hold your own on making sure the refrigerator is full, that the bills are paid and, most of all, that you stay healthy in the process. The health piece is essential; without that, you have very little. Therefore, support your own strength. Support your growth. This is really possible.

Aries (March 20-April 19) — If you find yourself making a mistake you’ve already made, particularly at work, pause and reconsider your actions. You may not know until you start to see some negative effect, though the sooner you draw back, the better. The most important thing to remember this week is that your words have impact, particularly in a professional context. It will serve you well to be respectful, to the point of being a bit courtly. Take a formal approach; stand up when someone important enters the room, shake hands, be polite and strive to make less of an impression, not more of one. As the week progresses, you will be booming out at 50,000 watts, and what you whisper, people will carry across the airwaves. As the evil genius Frank Luntz said, it’s not what you say — it’s what people hear.

Taurus (April 19-May 20) — You have the ability to bring people together, and you probably have good reason to as well. Put the two together, and have a real meeting of the minds. In person would be much preferable, even if these are one-on-one meetings. If that’s not possible, meet in real-time, such as by video conference. You will want to stay a few steps ahead of the game this week, so make sure you’re watching trends as they develop, listening to gossip without saying anything, and keeping your eyes on the horizon. You can act on factors you’re aware of without revealing to others what’s motivating you. These very days can bring out your best leadership qualities, which you have in abundance but rarely get to use. Even if you don’t think this is your style, give it a try. You will learn something about yourself.

Gemini (May 20-June 21) — You may have a tendency to overreact this week, so moderate your responses to the situations you encounter. If you find yourself experiencing strong emotions, pause and step back. A little detachment will go a long way. A variety of factors could lead you to feel like a powerless child in the presence of all-powerful adults. That’s not true. Your ability to take some distance and observe matters with a touch of objectivity will be helpful. So, too, will your ability to communicate. There is no situation in which you don’t have the right to ask questions or assert your needs. If you have an opinion and feel uneasy about stating it, that’s probably a good reason to do so. Most power dynamics are in your mind. Remind yourself of the many ways you actually have power, particularly over your own affairs.

Cancer (June 21-July 22) — You will need to be patient with people, particularly in intimate or partnership situations. If you find yourself reacting to someone (for example, if they keep making the same mistake), that’s the time to slow down and take a different approach. As the week develops, you might notice that certain individuals are pushy, argumentative or seem determined to convince you something is true by writing it on your body with a tattoo needle. Rather than push back, the thing to do is dance with them. Play along rather than resist. This may take conscious thought on your part, though once you start to move with the energy, you’ll notice that you’re successfully de-escalating the situation and can then turn it to everyone’s advantage, starting with your own. There is plenty of room for mutual gain. You just need to see the opportunity, and work well with the human factor.

Leo (July 22-Aug. 23) — You might rid yourself of the idea that people are equal, and instead, work consciously with power imbalances. This is not a slight on your idealism, just a practical suggestion that will help everyone be at their best. All people have power differentials, whether we’re talking about the ability to do calculus or bench press or wealth or a skill at strategizing. Who is good at what? You may attract people who far exceed your abilities in certain areas, and you can work with them. You are gifted in ways that others are not, and you can make those assets available to others. Usually these differences are overlooked, or are the subject of jealous competition. They can also be a source of strength. In physics, voltage is also called “potential difference.” The greater the difference, the more voltage you can have.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sep. 22) — You’re heading into an unusual week that will be distinguished by a creative breakthrough, probably related to business. This is about something obvious, something that was always there, only suddenly it’s appearing in a prominent way. If you already know what this is, focus your thoughts sooner rather than later. Work out some of the details in advance. Once this idea picks up, there will be work to do, and time will be of the essence. So, too, will accuracy. The creative potential needs some substantiation, and a meticulous approach even if things must move quickly. Look back over the past and notice what errors you’ve made more than once. Those are entirely avoidable in the future, if you’re aware of the history. Most of that seems to involve lack of imagination, something that’s easily remedied.

Libra (Sep. 22-Oct. 23) — An important family matter is on the horizon, and this may be the week you finally resolve the issue. Your solar chart describes two competing tendencies. One is to get wrapped up in the situation. The other is to be ahead of, and a little bit above, the situation, and therefore to be available as a facilitator. You can use the aspects that describe your getting drawn in, but for something better: gaining an understanding, particularly of elements rooted in the past. You’ll be much more helpful if you’re not emotionally invested, and you have the power to do that. This will allow you to guide people to being on the same level; that is, to see eye-to-eye and maybe even hear one another out. However, as the week progresses, the lure of jumping into the fray will increase. Beware of temptation.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 22) — You need to be so careful with your words this week that you develop a new relationship to them. The most important thing you can do is slow down. Interpose delays between what you feel, what you think and what you express. You may feel righteous, and who knows, you may even be right. Yet you won’t help the situation any if you repel others with what you say, or incorrectly demonstrate that you don’t have a clue. You actually do have a significant understanding, though it won’t be till Wednesday’s meeting of Mercury and Pluto that your thoughts fully come into focus. Once they do, you will understand and feel something so strongly that you will want to stop the movie and make sure it sinks in fully. Therefore, pause, listen, rethink and revise. And hold your fire.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 22) — You may be called upon to make a financial commitment of some kind, though if you can at all avoid it, don’t sign anything before Thursday. There’s plenty of information that will come out over the next few days, information that you need. As this astrology develops, you’ll also become more keenly aware of your value to whatever organization you’re serving, and can work your relationship grounded in the mutual financial realities. There’s no need for urgency, only for deeper thought. The more intimately you are connected with your purpose, the more closely you can bring that into someone else’s purpose (that’s the idea of a contract or agreement). Remember that this is about partnership. For that to work, it has to work for everyone. And that is certainly possible — in ways that will reveal themselves in the near future.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 20) — Your solar chart this week is a study in understanding the mistakes you make repeatedly, and how you can avoid doing so. This calls for careful self-reflection, and you may find yourself mixed up in one such error before you decide it’s time to hit the brakes: and better sooner rather than later. Here’s something you may not have considered, which is the context of your family. It would seem that the kinds of problems you run into involve in some way trying to please your family, such as attempting to meet their expectations. This may go back a long way; so far, in fact, that it’s considered a normal and natural part of tribal law in your family, despite the obvious problems. And further, you may feel that you’ll be opening Pandora’s box if you try to shift things — all the more reason to do so.

Aquarius Birthdays 2018:

A Reading from Someone Who Understands Aquarians

“My takeaway from the Aquarius reading is a sense of PEACE. You really do UNDERSTAND what Aquarians are going through these days (and yes, because you do understand and explain the issues I am going through so well). Yes: you are an honorary Aquarian.”

— Eileen

Dear Friend and Reader:

I know at least a couple of Aquarians who’ve dealt with major difficulties this year. I’m not sure how widespread that has actually been among those with an Aquarius Sun or Aquarius rising, but I suspect it has a lot to do with Chiron wrapping up its journey through Pisces: your house of what you value, including your body, your money, your talents and your self-esteem.

This year Chiron begins to move into Aries. This will shift the focus of your learning and healing agenda, and hopefully provide a little relief.

Chiron is not the only planet changing signs this year, however: Saturn is newly in Capricorn, and later this spring Uranus will enter Taurus. These shifts hold very specific changes for you: both in terms of your inner reality, and in terms of the overall environment you interact with.

Using his signature blend of astrological experience, therapy training, life coaching, and motivational speaking, Eric will cover these major changes to the sky (along with subtler points) in your upcoming 2018 Aquarius Birthday Reading.

Recorded in pro-quality audio, you’ll receive two segments of astrology (at least 30 minutes each) and a tarot reading for the year ahead, plus an extended description of your sign. But what you really get is practical, accessible inspiration that will help you find a more empowering perspective on challenges, and the confidence to say yes to opportunities.

“Ah Eric — just listened to your reading. I was moved to tears by your closing words. Your passion, deep care and love always shine through; and you have the gift of all great teachers, of making one feel that one is being personally addressed, respected and taken care of.”

— Liz Glanville

Please note that when you pre-order your 2018 Aquarius Birthday Reading, you will secure the lowest price we offer –just $33. The price increases as Eric nears publication, and then increases again.

The Sun enters your sign this Friday, Aquarius — I wish you a happy birthday season, and much joyful use of your reading.

Yours & truly,

Amanda Painter

P.S. The 2018 Aquarius Birthday Reading is distinctly different from the Aquarius written reading available in the upcoming Art of Becoming annual project. It covers your key astrology in a different format and emphasis, capitalizing on Eric’s more intuitive, improvisational skills. The Birthday Reading also makes a fantastic gift for a loved one!

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 19) — The Sun and Venus are in your sign, and you’re probably feeling a lot better than you have in weeks or even months. You know that positive changes are on the horizon; there’s excitement in the air. A forthcoming total eclipse of the Moon in your opposite sign Leo occurs on Jan. 31, and that’s an invitation to look at a relationship situation. In fact, it’s an opportunity to consider the total environment of your relationships, and see what they have in common. Questions to ask yourself might involve whether any given relationship is good for you, and if not, what about that relationship reflects your total environment. For the next week or two, you have the ability to make changes that might otherwise seem impossible. Use this time well, to choose what you want, and to un-choose what you do not want.

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) — Take a conservative approach to what you say in public this week. Public means on any platform you have, from Instagram to a network television program to what you say in the presence of any group. By conservative, I mainly mean reserved and thoughtful. You cannot demonstrate too much evidence of consideration and deliberation. Aspects describe a kind of sixth-sense about what’s happening in the public sphere, which will be useful for both social and business purposes (and for you, these are often closely related). Underlying all of this is the fact that you have impact on your environment, and you want to use that impact consciously. That means proceeding with awareness of what you say and why you say it. You won’t get to take your words back; you may or may not get an immediate response. That does not confirm or deny anything. In any event, be precise.

Aries (March 20-April 19) — This week’s New Moon in the career and reputation angle of your solar chart will bring some reminder of what you can achieve, if you set your mind to it. Yet there are other elements in your chart that are reminding you to emphasize the collaborative aspects of any form of success. You have the potential to be one of those rare few people who can get along with a boss to the degree that you’re a collaborator. That makes you management material. For you, an element of this is understanding how to express your individuality in a professional environment, and where to draw the line on what you compromise. This is not as complicated as it’s often made out to be. If your values are in harmony with those of the organization and people you serve, it’s even easier. The solution to the puzzle is you get to do some combination of what you excel at, and what needs to be done.

Taurus (April 19-May 20) — Beliefs you held in the past are not automatically valid, but they are potentially so. You’ve entered a period of sorting out what is true for you and what is not; which ideas serve you and which do not. Be glad you’ll be moving on from many presumptions that have outgrown their use, or that never actually served a purpose. You get to be the arbiter of what is true, for you, and what is not. That does leave an open question: what if you’re wrong? This is why it helps to be open-minded. There are people around you, both those who are knowledgeable and those who have strong opinions. You can only benefit from listening to their ideas, considering them and evolving some new points of view — particularly if they’re people you disagree with. One of the themes of this new phase of your life is growth through learning. There’s no teacher like one you disagree with. And that might even be temporary.

Gemini (May 20-June 21) — Your chart looks like an all-night meeting of union bosses with top management in an effort to avert a strike. Every agreement seems up for renegotiation. That may be true, though you really must focus on what matters the most. There are many small matters you can compromise on, and several large ones that you cannot. By now you know the difference. However, if this is a business situation, don’t let on too soon what you’re willing to forego. What doesn’t matter much to you might be really important to someone else. If, however, this is a personal situation, you need to be more forthcoming and play your cards face-up from the beginning of the discussion. And you must ask others to do the same thing. It would appear that something has gone on way too long, and you must make a decision one way or the other.

Cancer (June 21-July 22) — With six planets currently in your opposite sign, Capricorn, there’s no shortage of people in your life. One question is, what are they all doing there? Is everyone playing their appropriate role? Another question is, who’s in your life for the sole purpose of companionship? You need one or two people who are near you only because they like to be; your presence is their gain, and their presence is your gain. Consider the many people around you at the moment and ask if there’s anyone who fits this description. The relationship will probably not involve financial transactions; it will be a volunteer gig. You’ll have a much better picture of who is who after Tuesday’s New Moon helps clear the air. In this new era of your life, where personal relationships are such a high priority, it’s essential that you be able to assess the motives and agendas of the people close to you.

Leo (July 22-Aug. 23) — Your work life is busier than a flower shop before Valentine’s Day, though you must be careful not to burn out. You can do this by enforcing downtime, though you’re not the kind of person who likes to stop working before everything is done. Therefore, you must have your priorities, and be better at planning them. One thing that will help is being a little bit ahead of all tasks you know are imminent. Even if you have a paragraph of notes about what you need to get done and how you might do it, you’ll find that it happens easier when the time comes. The further ahead you stay, the easier your work life will be, and the easier it will be to stay in balance. Monday and Tuesday, ahead of the Capricorn New Moon, work on things you need to wrap up, bring to a conclusion or otherwise get off your desk. Then start again on Wednesday morning with a new list of priorities.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sep. 22) — You may feel like your time is too scarce to take any kind of risks or to experiment with a creative leap, though that’s exactly what’s likely to work the best. If you’re trying to solve several problems at once, you might just discover that one solution applies to many of them. When everything is so compressed, you can save yourself time by looking for patterns in the seeming chaos. Does one particular theme keep coming up repeatedly? Another question to ask yourself is: have I solved this problem already? You might set this as the primary screen on your phone, so you’re reminded constantly. Meanwhile, don’t miss the creative opportunity at the center of the cyclone swirling around you. The planets have all swarmed into the house in your chart usually associated with gambling, art, sex and romance. If you take a playful approach and keep your sense of humor, you’ll work wonders.

Libra (Sep. 22-Oct. 23) — Don’t worry too much if things seem to be going out of control where a family or household matter is concerned. You’re somewhat above the fray, and current developments are unlikely to impact your life negatively. However, you might continue your project of creating some boundaries and a degree of emotional distance from people who struggle to keep their act together. You will feel well guided by having your priorities in order, which at the moment means taking care of money first. At this point in your life, next month’s rent, next week’s groceries and one fun night out should not even be a consideration. You can do a lot better than that, if you make financial solvency and success top-level priorities. Emotional independence and financial independence are closely related. You have your own feelings. You need your own money, your own schedule and your own room.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 22) — Set high goals this week, even some you would love to accomplish but which seem impossible based on your current skills and resources. Your chart describes a straight line from your intentions to the means to make them happen. But the way you set the plan in motion is by taking action. This is not about planning, or planning to plan, or considering a proposal to contemplate something. Choose something you actually want to do, and do it. It could be artistic, professional, or deeply intimate. You might want to overcome a fear or an insecurity. You might have an interest in a person. All that matters is that it matter to you, and that you muster up the courage to dare. Right now most of society is caught in a head-trip, or basking gleefully in their anxieties. You of all people have the power to get over yourself, and you of all people will love that you did.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 22) — Vesta, perhaps the most profound asteroid, has just entered your sign. This indicates a special mission of some kind, which may relate to a way you help certain individuals in your life. Vesta puts an unusual filter in front of relationships, which often translates into understanding how you can serve others rather than how they can serve you. Look for all the aspects of your life that will benefit from your devotion, which is an approach to service that genuinely can be called spiritual. It matters less what you do and more the approach you take to doing it. Set aside the drive for personal gain and you will help make improvements in the lives of people around you. Wherever something is going wrong, commit yourself to holding open the space for the right thing to happen. Just your awareness will have a positive impact on whatever you perceive; and carefully chosen, selected actions will make a true difference.

Get instant access to your Capricorn birthday reading when you order it here.

Capricorn Audio Birthday Reading is Ready!

Dear Friend and Reader:

Your Capricorn birthday reading is now published. It’s about 70 minutes in length, in two sessions. This is your birthday audio — an entirely different reading from The Art of Becoming, which will be ready in January.

You are living in extraordinary times, as a Capricorn or Cap rising. There’s been nothing quite like this in your sign since the early 1990s, when the Uranus-Neptune connection passed through town. That was a while ago — and what you’re now working with is just as significant.

At the moment, the Sun, Venus, Saturn and Pluto are in your sign, which is building to a series of major events that peak in 2020. That may seem like a long way off, though time marches on. The presence of Saturn, the ruling planet of Capricorn, is a reminder to tend to your growth, shore up your foundations, and take your place in the world.

Saturn in your sign is helping ground you in your real priorities.

In this reading, I focus on several key points of development, though none is as important as your relationship to your family, and your family history. For all you want to do in life, all the ways you want to succeed, and solidify your process of self-actualization: the family connection is essential.

This relates directly to your most intimate partnerships, because they’re based on an emotional foundation that was laid in childhood. I provide specific information about how to work with these elements, and how to engage in productive self-therapy (it’s not always so useful, but it can be).

Your reading includes access to last year’s recording, plus your 2017 written reading (from The Book of Your Life), and a tarot reading that will arrive in about a month (maybe more, maybe less).

You can get instant access when you order the reading here for just $44. We will increase the price further when the Tarot section is published.

This reading is also included with the Backstage Pass. If you’re not a BSP member, you can upgrade and extend your current subscription, and the Capricorn reading will be included.

Thank you for being a Planet Waves customer.

With love,

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 20) — This week, a rare alignment between Jupiter in Scorpio and Pluto in your birth sign presents some unusual opportunity for success. You’ve had a taste of this the past week to 10 days, and you may already be on a roll. Think in terms of what biologists call a symbiotic relationship. What works for you must work for others, and what works for them will work for you. If you find yourself in a competitive environment, where one person’s loss is another’s gain, you definitely want to shift that, because that’s far from the spirit of your chart. Make sure you’re not the one competing, or believing that there’s some shortage of resources or potential. There is no lack — there’s plenty to go around. However, your clarity of mind, your honest intentions and your sincere choices make all the difference. Just remind yourself regularly: another person’s lack or loss is never your gain.

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 19) — A rather unusual collection of planets in Capricorn has you in a rather unusual state of mind. Your dreams will best reveal what’s going on in the hidden aspects of your life. Pay attention to what they’re telling you, remembering that every figure and object in every dream is actually another symbol for you. If you dream of a tiger, you’re the tiger. If you dream of a construction project, you’re the thing being built, and the one doing the building. This astrology may be pushing up your anxiety level. Rather than suppress any fear or concerns, make an inventory of what they are, preferably on paper, so you can come back to it. Keeping written notes will also serve your dream work. Whatever you may be feeling, your mind is bubbling over with potential, and you have plenty of energy. Get clear with yourself, focus yourself and commit to learning, and this week alone you’ll get the gains of five years of therapy.

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) — Keep yourself and your projects where people can see you. Do this no matter how busy you may be. Keep putting your best work into the public eye, and put your body where you can have face-to-face conversations in a social setting. You don’t need a specific goal or agenda for doing this. Just be sincere, have a good time, and trust the topics of conversation that come up. If you’re in a room full of people, do your best to meet every single one of them, and check the vibes. The deepest harmony you can feel with someone is on the spiritual level — that ultimately means a mutual understanding of the purpose of life. There’s no way to fake this meaningfully; and don’t accept imitations or substitutes. When you are making contact with someone, you will know it and feel it. And the most likely place to make that contact is outside your home, where people gather specifically for a social purpose.