The planet Jupiter is associated with all good things: Opportunities, good luck, wisdom, abundance, expansion etc. In traditional astrology it is called the “Greater Benefic” because it provides benefit through increase which is usually a good thing. The more good fortune we have, the easier life can be.

This expansive quality of Jupiter can become challenging when it expands situations or energies which are difficult. When Jupiter squares Mars in a natal chart, for example, the native can be impulsive or reckless as the action of Mars is blown out of its natural proportions. People with Jupiter squaring the Moon can find themselves often experiencing emotions that are out of control. Jupiter transits can liberate us from situations that we thought we wanted to stay in. Bad marriages, difficult jobs – these often will end under a strong transit of Jupiter.

Currently Jupiter is in a challenging square aspect to Chiron, the planet of wounding and healing. Chiron’s role is to reveal any unhealed wounds so that they can be released, and then follow up with an infusion of natural wisdom which helps us to then help others. The first phase of this planetary cycle began in October, with the second phase coming up December 21st just in time for the holiday gatherings.

With the challenging square aspect of Jupiter to Chiron, any painful memories or emotions can feel larger than life as they emerge into consciousness. Feelings from the present situations can activate old painful memories to finally be released. This isn’t easy, but it may be essential in order to be freed from the bondage of old patterns.

In our personal lives, we have the opportunity now with the Jupiter/Chiron square to allow ourselves to expand and grow into a depth of experience and wisdom. The key with any difficult Chiron cycle is to remain aware during periods of emotional crisis where our tendency is to want to flee. Chiron demands that we reclaim every part of ourselves, including those pieces that we have hidden or separated from, and Jupiter can be stubbornly optimistic and self-righteous in the square where we see its more negative aspects. Jupiter says, “everything is terrific and I am great” and Chiron says “remember this painful event? How can you say that?”

The key to successfully navigating this challenging cycle is to obey Jupiter’s call to expand your mind and open yourself to new possibilities, while at the same time observing where there are still painful places within us that require healing. On the global level the requirement is the same: until world leaders are able to go to the source of the conflict and reveal the pain that lies beneath (the Chironic process), peace will never come.

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