From December 17, 1996, through March 24 of this year, Mars was in Virgo opposite Saturn in Pisces, as will occur again from June 3 to August 4. This combination makes for an opposing, confrontational vibration in the world, caused by the Earth’s being directly in-between the aggressive force of Mars on one side and the restraining energy of Saturn on the opposite. This opposition affects persons differently according to their birth chart (it especially affects those with prominent Virgo or Pisces), but in general it results in facing more obstacles in life. Projects started will face added set-backs, have to be revamped and started over again. At times, life may seem like one enormous gridlock. The mind and senses tend to conflict, causing impulsive acts. Anger, resistance to authority, resentments or revengeful feelings when opposed are all more likely to surface at these times. Unusual and harsh weather patterns prevail as well.
Sri Chakrapani Ullal has a special gift of seeing the positive side of these difficult planetary periods: “Though this combination is most destructive, there are always elements of positive influences that manifest. In fact, this association makes the progress faster than otherwise possible, whether in politics, economics or social structure. What is left after the destructive influence is positive and progressive: 1) This combination enhances the ability to think and use logic, diplomacy and strategy which will help in surmounting the difficulties; 2) It makes the person rise to the occasion and fight it out and not get a sense of defeat. Even when defeated, their spirit remains optimistic; 3) While it gives tremendous experience in dealing with life, by making the person go through all kinds of difficult situations, these very experiences enable the person to rise above the circumstances and become successful; 4) Things which are difficult to change can be changed. It is because of this planetary combination people or countries can make radical changes which would otherwise take ages. These changes ultimately bring progress; 5) These planets remove the stagnation of laziness to promote action and busy-ness; 6) This planetary connection promotes hard work, which is always good; 7) Mars, when aspecting Saturn, gives its power to Saturn. The power of Mars is energy and action. It makes people awaken to the challenges of life and become action oriented.”