September has six retrograde planets! Out of ten planets, this is more than half. Retrogrades are based on what we see from Earth. Several times a year, our compared velocities make it look as if those planets are going backward, which of course is an optical illusion. However, this has great meaning in astrology, as the principles represented by those planets are then turned inward rather than outward.

Jupiter remains retrograde until October 17, 2021, and its shadow period remains until January 10, 2022. The Sabian symbols associated to the degrees traveled in September (25°41' to 22°53' Aquarius) are “a garage man testing a car’s battery with a hydrometer,” “a butterfly with the right wing more perfectly formed,” “a man turning his back on his passions teaches deep wisdom from his experience,” and “a big bear sitting down and waving all its paws.” This is a month to better ourselves. Clearing away what no longer serves us, honing our skills to help others, finding our joy, and living in integrity are now of the utmost importance. Tolerance toward others only happens when we are true to ourselves. All humanity, no matter which race, culture, religion, or philosophy of life, is touched by this major transformation. Respect and appreciation of our differences strengthen us.