by Jeff Jawer

This is a strange weekend that is likely to be filled with surprises, even though the Moon is in meticulous and methodical Virgo. Making precise plans and sticking to them is generally expected in this orderly sign. However, Friday starts on a sobering note that can force a change of schedule or deflate a playful mood. If there are hard facts to face during the day, deal with them expediently so you can enjoy yourself in the evening.

The Moon’s opposition to assertive Mars could increase aggression or competitiveness if serious matters aren’t handled to everyone’s liking. Fortunately, Mars is also a planet of passion, offering us the chance to release the day’s pressures with intense play or erotic behavior instead of anger or frustration. If your partner, though, is reluctant to set caution aside, gentle persuasion is much more enticing than impatient pushiness.

Saturday begins with an analytical Virgo Full Moon, possibly bringing an emotional crisis to a head. Unconventional Uranus is a powerful part of this cosmic event and can suddenly turn things upside down. Surprising circumstances and unanticipated changes of mood undermine a sense of security. However, this revolutionary planet also has the power to reignite sparks of romance in a relationship that may have lost some of its excitement. Attractions to unusual people and experiences may be thrilling, but don’t necessarily lead to lasting alliances.

Sunday’s energy is equally volatile, requiring a high degree of cooperation to maintain peace and harmony.

Mercury the Messenger’s opposition to Saturn in your 7th House of Others could mean that your friends aren’t very supportive of your new plans. You might feel as if you’re running into walls every way you turn today because your current approach doesn’t seem to be quite good enough. Don’t try to fast-talk your way through the resistance you face. Instead, retreat and take time to improve your ideas before trying again.

Ironically, you might participate in recreational play out of obligation today, rather than from your desire for pleasure. Unfortunately, this kind of escape from work won’t be worth it, especially if you are only stepping through the motions. Don’t let others talk you into any extracurricular activities now unless they bring you joy. Say no politely; everyone will surely understand if you need some time to yourself.

It’s just plain annoying if someone arrives at your doorstep today with an opportunity that looks too good to be true — because it probably is. Unfortunately, progress is painstakingly slow and nothing much will happen unless you put in the extra work. However, your efforts are thwarted as your key planet Mercury forms an opposition with authoritative Saturn. It’s crucial to bring problems out into the open, so they can be handled once and for all.

Although you have been more assertive lately, caution sets in now as you attempt to reestablish balance in your life. Still, you can impress others with a good show today. But shortcuts won’t be rewarded; it’s more important to start at the beginning and do each step in the proper order. It’s futile to worry about deadlines because everything takes more time than you think anyway.

You could suffer a setback if something unexpected has recently occurred. You might require a quick refresher course in how to maintain a healthy level of confidence. But it’s not easy to talk with others about what you are doing today. Don’t shy away from putting in some long hours and hard work. Change won’t come easily, but it’s worth the effort if you really want to make a difference.

Your ruling planet Mercury runs into the resistance of Saturn the Tester today. Mercury is the clever messenger planet, yet it doesn’t like being delayed by stern Saturn. But it’s impossible to circumvent authority now, so you must deal with control issues, whether you like it or not. Talking fast and using brute force won’t get you where you need to be. Honest dialogue, however, can set the stage for healthy compromise.

Relationships are hard enough, yet an interaction with a friend or partner can make the dynamics even more complicated. You may be vying for control now that you’re aware of the differences of opinion. Don’t push for resolution today because that could lead to an emotional meltdown. Just be as clear as possible, communicate carefully and then let it go.

You are a serious thinker and may be the one who is eager to engage in a discussion about a complex emotional situation when others are not. Don’t push too hard today or you might alienate the very same people you are trying to approach for support. Think twice before making a beeline to the most intense topic possible. Instead, allow a discussion to meander for a while without trying to control the outcome.

You aren’t happy being told no, and yet you might have to acquiesce to an authority who wrests control from you today. You’re tempted to take a stand by pretending to be more informed than you actually are now. Unfortunately, this tactic will likely create more trouble than it’s worth. Save time for everyone by just being completely honest in the first place.

You could be struck with a panic attack today because time is running out and you have many loose ends to tie up. Unfortunately, some things will need to be left undone. It’s easier if you set your priorities early in the day and then stick to your plan because changing your schedule isn’t something you do lightly. Nevertheless, adaptability is your secret weapon. Don’t hold on to the status quo; be willing to let go of an outdated habit that isn’t working for you anymore.

Your conservative response to financial struggles may be the most sensible approach now, but it probably isn’t the best answer in the long run. Tightening your belt is necessary today because you cannot spend what you do not have. But the problem is complex and may benefit from multiple courses of action. Try following fiscal responsibility with your own version of a stimulus package, since investing some money may be just as important as saving it.

A recent decision probably sent a message to others that you truly meant business. Now it’s time to solidify what you already began. You might need to change directions, yet it’s not wise to tell others what you’re thinking today. Instead of saying what’s on your mind, it may be smarter to withhold your intentions. Make the most of your power by conserving it until you are fully ready to take action.