We are into the countdown now, with just over five years until the great transition predicted by the Mayan calendar and by prophecies from numerous other cultures.

This is a very exciting time in Earth's history. The changes we are experiencing now happen rarely; they are based on the cycle of equinoxes, which is a ~26,000 year cycle; the center of the cycle is Alcyone, the brightest star in the Pleiades star cluster in the constellation Taurus, the Bull.

This particular cycle is the end/beginning of an even longer cycle.

The winter solstice of 2012 is the date the Mayan calendar ends, and in some sense that is the true beginning of the Aquarian Age. Between now and then, the rate of changes we undergo will continue to accelerate, and on the surface it will appear that chaos has overtaken our planet and our species. The reason for the apparent breakdown of human culture and institutions is that the Earth's frequency is accelerating and her gravitation is slowing in preparation for the transition. It is important for humans to realize that all of life on Earth is affected by this acceleration, not just humanity. And though it seems chaotic, it is truly a global mass awakening.

During Uranus' recent transit through Aquarius, the sign of its own rulership (referred to as its "dignity"), there were many breakthroughs in technology, especially electronics, which Uranus rules. Many of these we are only now learning of, and some are still unrevealed to the public, because they are perceived as a threat to those who presently hold power. It was also a time of dimensional breakthroughs, theories relating to and incursions into multi-dimensional realities.

Uranus is now in Pisces, the sign ruled by Neptune, while Neptune is in Aquarius (ruled by Uranus, as mentioned). This situation is called "mutual reception", and in such a condition the two planets are in complete accord and working together. These are slow-moving bodies and this is a long transit. It is the force of awakening and expanding consciousness, and it will prevail. The force of change is now a tidal wave, it is irresistible.

Both Saturn and Jupiter are indications of the global political and religious climate at present. Saturn has to do with government, issues of control and authority and the status quo. Saturn is presently in Leo. Jupiter is about faith, religious and spiritual beliefs and our collective search for truth. Jupiter is now in Sagittarius, the sign of its dignity. Corruption and abuse have become flagrant with Saturn in extravagant Leo opposing Neptune, and will be (and are being) exposed as never before. Legal action is being taken against the abusers of power. There is a divine imperative implied here, the hand of destiny is at work, and we are stimulated individually and collectively to awaken our spiritual awareness.

The forces that are attempting to control the beliefs and therefore the actions of the 'masses', (i.e. Saturn in Leo, in this instance, having to do with excessive ego involvement, i.e. hubris) have "bit off more than they can chew". With Saturn opposing Neptune in Aquarius, the transformation of belief systems indicated by Jupiter sextile Chiron is about "healing the wound" by awakening a new awareness. In Aquarius it has to do with new ways of experiencing time, and venturing into other dimensions; realization of cosmic connectedness.

Saturn in Leo in opposition with Neptune means that Government is losing control because it has overstepped its proper function. Our beliefs are being scrutinized, and the assumptions that have been the basis of our faith and hope are being re-examined. People are less gullible than usual, political rhetoric is not convincing and corruption and deception are being exposed as never before. Lies and hypocrisy are transparent, and now virtually everyone on the planet realizes how thoroughly and tragically we have been deceived, for the sake of a few, and at the cost of countless lives.

The overall effect of this situation is precipitation of a re-awakening of idealism and a new vision, as indicated by Neptune in Aquarius. Remember, Neptune is in mutual reception and sextile (cooperative aspect) with Uranus in Pisces, so its influence is strengthened and supported by new breakthroughs, technological advances and spiritual insights. A powerful revolution of a spiritual nature is changing the face of our world. A younger generation of leaders will bring a new vision and a new agenda to our collective purpose. Abuse and corruption have served to pave the way for a new order, by exposing the need for a complete house-cleaning. The new leaders are ready to take the necessary steps to stop the polluting and destructive policies of government and industry, and begin a vigorous campaign to restore balance and sustainability to our use of shared resources and to develop responsible policies to ensure a healthy planet for all nations and future generations. The concept of "positive impact" will take precedence over spiraling consumption, and restoration will be given priority.

Meanwhile, Pluto slowly and inexorably has aligned itself with Galactic Center. Pluto's work is elimination and transformation, and this is at the deepest level of our existence. That conjunction is making itself felt as the need to get rid of old and limiting beliefs, and as an influx of a very heightened awareness and perception. The rate of transformation is accelerating as the transition time gets closer. Those who resist the changes may experience pain and a sense of loss. Those who can surrender to the mystery will experience liberation.

2007 is a critical year, a year of massive upheaval. This is building all year, and it is about letting go and surrendering to the cosmic mystery. What each one needs to let go of is, of course, individual; some will let go of physical form, some of obsolete beliefs, many will let go of the illusions of personal control and material security. Pluto on GC is an indication of divine intervention or divine imperative, as well as the potential for revelations that can change our world.

This is a powerful time; Pluto rules(among other things) the mass mind. Aligned with the center of the galaxy, it is a conduit for a very cosmic level of energy. Jupiter now just past a square with Uranus, it has dug deep, dredging up arcane knowledge as well as exposing abuses of power. We are again (or still!) feeling the hand of destiny shaping the events of our lives and our cultures. The legal system is being brought into play to clean house, to facilitate the opening of an expanded awareness of a rich multi-dimensionality. By the end of this year the forces of abuse and corruption will have crumbled, and been replaced by a truly patriotic collective of individuals who will restore the idealism our country was based upon, and the freedoms guaranteed by our Bill of Rights. The housecleaning in America will precipitate a global renewal process, inspired by a restored awareness of our planet's true history and relationship with the local star systems and their inhabitants. Earth can reclaim her rightful place in the stellar family, begin to renew ancient connections and participate in a joyous celebration of reunion and renewal.