If you’re wondering where Scorpio gets its passionate reputation, chances are it begins with the mixture of fire and water. Scorpio is a water sign; yet it’s ruled by Mars, and somehow wound up with a desert animal for a symbol. Further, Scorpio holds the key to the most essential mysteries and desires of human life. Any other sign would implode under the pressure.

Scorpio has been relatively quiet since the Mars retrograde in spring 2016; a time when, among other things, Donald Trump really emerged from the woodwork and began his rise to power.

Sunset over Georgian Bay, Canada. Photo by Kellie Hastings.

Yet now Jupiter is taking up residence for about a year. The Sun joined Jupiter (and Mercury) in Scorpio early Monday, at 1:26 am EDT (05:26:36 UTC); it forms a conjunction with Jupiter later in the week, on Thursday.

As the planets gather in this sign, it’s reflected in hidden truths being brought to light. The Weinstein saga is an obvious example; not only in terms of his actual crimes, but the endemic nature of the problem of sexual harassment.

The truths we hide from ourselves are usually far less nefarious, if at all; yet our efforts to keep them buried can produce a lot of tension. There are plenty of ways in which we’re conditioned to feel guilt and shame, simply for being who we are; and it prevents us from fully expressing our inner gifts — unless we face it. And the present activity in Scorpio is calling on us to do precisely that.

One thing that Jupiter in Scorpio highlights is the concept that if we actually inform ourselves, especially in the field of sexuality, we’ll be happier. Eric has often said that “everyone is an expert in sex, but who has read a book or taken a course?” Exploring this topic honestly and effectively requires knowledge.

It’s up to each of us to see, acknowledge and release our own darkness. Using the power and passion at the heart of Scorpio, we can dig deep enough to emerge on the other side. Under the illumination of the Sun and Jupiter, we can begin to understand our feelings and desires for what they truly are, in full daylight.

That may seem daunting. Yet by choosing to commit to your healing process, you are freeing yourself to become the best you can be; and will help and inspire others by doing so. The effects may seem smaller than they really are. This is the process that heals the world; and it begins with you.