CANCER HOROSCOPE

Things always turn out well when the Sun forms a square to Jupiter. This is one of Astrology’s most rewarding planetary combinations because not only will you achieve your aims, but you'll do much better than expected. Yet herein lies the rub. People often get carried away when touched by the influence of Jupiter. Good fortune goes to their heads – making them reckless, extravagant, and hungry for more and this is when a blessing becomes a curse. Whatever your lucky break on October 17th, honor the planet of generosity by sharing with others. Do this and Jupiter will bestow more good fortune in the future.

Good things come to you through the people around you when Jupiter sextiles Venus on October 8th. This could materialize as a neighbor helping out in a pinch, someone who provides a service going the extra mile, or an acquaintance who knows just the person who has the solution you're looking for. We often look to the heavens for blessings while ignoring the people we see every day. They're the angels at hand. And the wonderful thing about this is that everything's reciprocal – which means that the good they do for you is something you can pay back one day by doing good for somebody else.

You may be under the impression that you're being more munificent than is the case. It's something that happens when you're bathed in the glow of Jupiter transiting through your sign. Nevertheless you may want to check in with that person who cleans for you or the employee who keeps your business running at a smooth pace to see if you're up to date with the rate they should be paid. The conversation may be awkward at first, but press gently and you'll see they're overdue for a raise. Give them what they ask because with Jupiter exalted in Cancer – you can afford it.

You may think you don't have any choice but you do. There are always options – even if they look unappealing. What's important is that you don't cave into pressure on the 24th and sign on for something you don't believe in. You may think you're throwing the battle to win the war but actually it's the opposite. The conditions are such that you would be giving up a lot for little (if any) gain. Deciding not to decide is a choice – perhaps even the strongest one. Wait until Venus sextiles Jupiter on October 8th. This is when you will see your way clear.

This is a time for nurturing things that are just starting out. Maybe it's a burgeoning business, a child, or friend finding their footing again. Cancers are naturally protective but something you can learn from this week's solar Eclipse in Virgo is to support people in their efforts; not Mommy them. Everyone needs to learn to stand on their own two feet. Not only is it part of the maturation process but it also reinforces the message that there are strengths, abilities, and inner resources that are unique to each person. Show others how to do without doing for them and you'll provide the best support of all.

It's looks like you'll be getting everything you hoped for – and then some! The reason for this is that Jupiter, planet of good fortune, rules the Lunar Eclipse in Pisces taking place at the start of the week. And since the Moon in Pisces rules Jupiter in Cancer – and Jupiter in Cancer rules the Moon in Pisces – this sets up a mutual reception with you as the beneficiary. It's been a busy spring and summer, but also a productive one so if there was ever a time to harvest a bumper crop while putting away a portion of your earnings while reinvesting the rest – it's now!

They say possession is nine-tenths and this will prove to be the case when Mars in Libra squares Jupiter in Cancer on September 4th. Jupiter is exalted in Cancer which gives the planet of good fortune the home field advantage. Not only is Jupiter stronger than Mars (which is in detriment in Libra), Jupiter is also in the right. So let Mars try to bully, harass, or occupy. It won't work because those on the Jupiter side of the square are protected. Not only will sticks and stones fail to break your bones, but you can even get the other party to pay for the aggravation.

You've worked hard at getting things back on track and are satisfied with the results, but is “satisfactory” really the best you can do? Cancers are often depicted as staying safe and sound within their comfort zones, but the Moon, your ruler, travels through all twelve zodiac signs in a month – gathering the light of each along the way. The First Quarter Moon in Sagittarius; a mythological creature that's half human/half horse, shows that there's a wild side of you that's chomping at the bit for something more. Heed the impulse on August 31st to jump the fence and gallop into the sublime.

The New Moon in Virgo on August 23d brings a disclosure, admission, or confirmation of a suspicion that you've harbored for a while. It's great to finally be privy to this kind of information, but that doesn't change the quandary you're in. If anything it opens a new can of worms. Expose what's going on and you betray an intimate's trust; remain silent and you enable a situation that shouldn't be tolerated. What to do? This would probably be a good time to seek the advice of an outside party. Not only will you get good advice, it will also help you generate ideas of your own.

The Venus/Jupiter conjunction in Cancer on August 12th is wonderful for bringing people together under one roof – like a gathering or community – as well as for anything that pertains to real estate, property values, or home improvement. It's also excellent for mergers and acquisitions. If you are looking to combine forces with another company or if you are working for a company that's being acquired, then this conjunction is favorable to you because either you benefit from this personally or you will be protected during this time which means you're one of the people the higher-ups decide to keep after the two companies come together.