Papa Candelo is a wise and powerful spirit guide whose favorite element is fire. If you work extensively with fire magic, he may be the guide for you. He loves his devotees but is stern, so proceed with caution. You may often see him alongside his feminine counterpart, Mama Francisca.
Many devotees believe Papa Candelo was enslaved on a sugar plantation, where he helped enslaved African people escape or provided spiritual cleansing. For many, he was a beacon of hope. Today, people invoke Papa Candelo to improve their finances and to cleanse and break curses placed by enemies.
Papa Candelo advises the collective not to act out of emotion in the upcoming year, even if someone deserves a good telling-off. The universe will have your back when you get the short end of the stick, as long as you are not adding fuel to the fire and instead act with grace. Acting from vengeance can take you off your life’s path, forcing the universe to reset the scales.
If you begin to feel plagued by bad luck, start by clearing yourself first, then tap into your feminine energy and allow yourself to feel. Whatever emotions arise, write them down and expand on them. Show love to your enemies, even when it is difficult; it is better to “kill them with kindness” than to return the same energy. Returning negative energy can muddy your energy field and lower your vibration by stooping to their level.
Papa Candelo reminds us that the collective strives for peace in the world, so be the person who brings peace. The key to a successful year is flexibility and authenticity. Take time to get to know the parts of yourself that you hide from the world—or from yourself.
It is time to shine bright like the northern lights. People may try to dim your light, which is often a sign that you are shining brightly. Let the haters be blinded by your shine.
Papa Candelo also advises not allowing obstacles to stop you from achieving your goals. Be flexible, or you may miss the bigger picture. Take care of your mental health in the coming year by engaging in activities that exercise the mind. Papa Candelo shared the phrase, “An idle mind is the devil’s workshop.”
If old expressive outlets are no longer working, it is time to try something new—anything that keeps your mind moving in a positive direction. Be mindful not to be overly critical of yourself or others. Practice compassion, and set boundaries with love when necessary.
Release fears around financial scarcity and focus on being resourceful and practical. This may look like bringing food from home on a road trip instead of buying it along the way, or budgeting properly for that trip to the Bahamas. For those starting new financial ventures, be patient and return to the drawing board—the plan may simply need a few adjustments. This upcoming year is yours—claim it.
In astrology, a kite configuration is a unique planetary pattern that looks—yes—like a kite in the chart.
Right now, the sky has a kite configuration that’s both exciting and a bit intense. This will last till mid week. The full moon this weekend is lighting up this configuration, amplifying its intensity.
We have a Grand Trine in air signs — Mars in Libra, Pluto in Aquarius, and Uranus in Gemini — bringing a natural flow of ideas, communication, and innovation.
But there’s also Saturn and Neptune together in Aries, directly opposite Mars. That’s the “tail” of the kite — the part that adds tension, focus, and direction. These two also form sextiles to Pluto and Uranus, tying the whole pattern together.
The Grand Trine gives you lift — like catching a steady breeze of insight, creativity, and motivation. Mars is the “nose” of the kite — the part that wants to take off fast. Saturn and Neptune are the anchor — acting as both a stabilizer and a drag. Saturn demands discipline, while Neptune seeks dreams; together they can feel foggy but purposeful.
With all this happening around the August 9 Full Moon in Aquarius, there’s an extra dose of emotional clarity and “aha!” moments about what (or who) belongs in your orbit — and what needs to go.
Bottom line: This is a “go for it” sky, but with a caveat — you’ll fly higher if you balance action (Mars) with vision (Neptune) and structure (Saturn). Push too fast without a plan, and you’ll just spin in circles.
One challenge of a kite configuration is that the opposition can either be ignored—letting problems fester—or get drowned out in “too much of a good time,” neglecting necessary work. The current Mars opposite Saturn/Neptune aspect demands effort. It’s a test of disciplined will. Saturn is about duty, responsibility, obligation, and getting real.
For example, musician, Kurt Cobain had a kite in his birth chart, but the opposition points were steeped in obsession, escape, nervous tension, and the challenge of balancing idealism with reality. In his case, Uranus and Pluto opposed Saturn and Venus, forming what you could call a “quadruple kite,” as each planetary pair carried its own themes:
Pluto (Virgo) Opposite Saturn (Pisces) – Control and compulsion (Pluto–Virgo) versus surrender, faith, and porous boundaries (Saturn–Pisces). Structures dissolved just as he tried to build them, creating guilt, pressure, and a chronic sense that “nothing is solid.”
Pluto (Virgo) Opposite Venus (Pisces) – Obsessive love, power dynamics, and creative intensity. The beauty/idealism of Venus–Pisces collided with Pluto’s shadow work in Virgo, resulting in all-or-nothing bonds, fear of loss, and artistic extremity.
Uranus (Virgo) Opposite Saturn (Pisces) – Freedom versus responsibility at full force. Uranus’s disruptions rattled the already-thin boundaries of Saturn–Pisces, producing erratic discipline, sudden changes, and inner whiplash.
Uranus (Virgo) Opposite Venus (Pisces) – Electrified romance and artistry — thrilling but unstable. This brought sudden breaks and reunions, attraction to the unconventional, and flashes of inspiration that vanished as quickly as they appeared.
Both Uranus and Pluto hammered Saturn and Venus, so instability and compulsion struck his security (Saturn) and his love/values/creative style (Venus) at once. His Grand Water Trine (Moon in Cancer, Venus/Saturn in Pisces, Neptune in Scorpio) gave him endless emotional flow and creative sensitivity, but the oppositions supercharged it — sometimes into genius, sometimes into overwhelm.
What might have helped him? Surrendering more to support, accepting help, and cultivating solid, dependable systems around him.
For the next four days, this same lesson applies: find the balance between duty and desire. A kite can create miracles — but only if you put in the effort.
In Astrology, the Sun represents the core of your personality, ego, and life purpose. Challenging aspects to the Sun in your birth chart can indicate areas where you may face difficulties, internal conflicts, or obstacles in your life journey. Sometimes, a difficult relationship with a complicated father is present.
Here are some of the difficult aspects commonly considered when interpreting the Sun’s aspects:
Sun Square (90 degrees): A square aspect between the Sun and another planet (e.g., Sun square Moon) creates tension and challenges. It may suggest inner conflicts, difficulties in expressing yourself, and the need to overcome obstacles in your life path. However, squares can also provide motivation and drive for personal growth.
Sun Opposition (180 degrees): An opposition between the Sun and another planet (e.g., Sun opposite Saturn) can indicate a need to find balance or make choices between the energies of the two planets involved. It can symbolize external conflicts or challenges from others that you need to address. Oppositions can also highlight the tension between your ego and the demands of others.
Sun Conjunction (0 degrees): While a conjunction can be harmonious, it can also bring intensity and challenges if the planets involved have conflicting energies. For example, a Sun-Pluto conjunction can indicate power struggles, transformation, and the need to confront deep issues within yourself.
Sun Quincunx (150 degrees): The quincunx aspect can create a sense of unease and discomfort. When the Sun is quincunx another planet (e.g., Sun quincunx Neptune), you may find it challenging to integrate the energies of these planets, leading to confusion or a sense of being out of sync with yourself.
Sun Semisquare (45 degrees) and Sesquiquadrate (135 degrees): These are minor challenging aspects that can indicate irritations, impatience, and minor obstacles related to the planets involved. They may not be as intense as squares or oppositions but can still require effort to navigate.
Saturn Afflictions to the Sun: Saturn is often associated with challenges and limitations. When Saturn makes a challenging aspect to the Sun (e.g., Sun square Saturn or Sun conjunct Saturn), it can indicate a sense of duty, responsibility, and obstacles that you must overcome in your life. This can lead to feelings of self-doubt and a need to work diligently to achieve your goals.
Demi Lovato has the Sun involved in a grand cross with the Moon, Pluto and Saturn. This is a heavy configuration. According to her, the father was abusive, an addict and alcoholic. Such a planetary combination will result to an ultimate rebirth and ongoing healing efforts.
Whereas, Scott Eastwood, has many flowing aspects to his Sun especially with the MC, and the Moon. Sure, Scott has his Sun Square to Neptune. Square and oppositions bring challenges. It’s important to note that while these aspects can indicate areas of difficulty or tension, they also provide opportunities for growth and self-awareness. Challenging aspects in a birth chart do not necessarily predict failure or negative outcomes but rather highlight areas where you may need to work harder, learn important life lessons, and develop resilience.
A well-aspected Mercury in an astrology chart can bring a range of positive influences and strengths. Mercury represents communication, intelligence, and the way you process information. Here are some potential effects of a well-aspected and beneficial Mercury in a natal chart:
Effective Communication: You are likely to be a clear and effective communicator. You can express your thoughts and ideas with ease, making it easier for others to understand and connect with you.
Intellectual Sharpness: Your mind is sharp and quick, allowing you to grasp new concepts easily. You may excel in academics, problem-solving, and analytical thinking.
Adaptability: A well-aspected Mercury often indicates adaptability and versatility. You can adjust to different situations and environments with ease, making you a valuable asset in various areas of life.
Effective Learning: Learning comes naturally to you, and you may enjoy acquiring knowledge. You can absorb information quickly and apply it effectively.
Logical Thinking: You tend to approach situations and problems with a rational and logical mindset. This can be an asset in decision-making and troubleshooting.
Strong Communication Skills: Your ability to communicate effectively extends to various forms of communication, including writing and public speaking. You may excel in fields that require strong communication skills.
Problem-Solving Abilities: You have a knack for finding solutions to problems and may thrive in professions that involve critical thinking and problem-solving.
Negotiation Skills: Well-aspected Mercury can indicate strong negotiation skills. You are persuasive and diplomatic, which can be helpful in personal and professional relationships.
Social Ease: You may find it easy to connect with others on an intellectual level. This can lead to a wide network of friends and acquaintances who appreciate your conversational abilities.
Adaptive Learning: You are open to new ideas and willing to learn from various sources. This adaptability can lead to personal growth and a broad range of interests.
Efficiency: You tend to be organized and efficient in your daily life and work. You can manage tasks and responsibilities effectively.
Versatile Interests: With a well-aspected Mercury, you are likely to have diverse interests and may excel in multiple areas simultaneously.
It’s important to note that while a well-aspected Mercury can provide these positive qualities, other factors in your birth chart can also influence how these qualities manifest in your life. Additionally, your individual experiences and choices play a significant role in how you utilize Mercury’s energy.
For example, Beyonce has Mercury in a lot of strong flowing aspects including an aspect to Saturn which assists in strengthening it. Some would disagree and insist that since Mercury is in the 12th house it is debilitated. The 12th house is a talented placement.
Elizabeth Taylor has some challenges. Challenges can force one to excel. Properly used, achievement follows. Mercury in Taylor’s chart is in a difficult sign, blocked by the beams of the Sun, aspected to Mars and all are opposite Neptune. The need for realistic, honest, practical, and sober thinking requires balance.
Mercury with challenging aspects can indicate difficulties in various areas associated with Mercury’s influence. Here are some potential effects of an afflicted Mercury in a natal chart:
Communication Challenges: Mercury is the planet of communication, so an afflicted Mercury can lead to difficulties in expressing oneself effectively. This might manifest as stuttering, shyness, difficulty in finding the right words, or misunderstandings in conversations.
Learning Difficulties: Mercury also represents learning and intellectual pursuits. An afflicted Mercury may indicate learning disabilities, struggles with formal education, or a need for extra effort to grasp new concepts.
Decision-Making Problems: Mercury is associated with decision-making and reasoning. An afflicted Mercury can result in poor judgment, impulsiveness, or indecision. You may find it challenging to make choices or stick to decisions once made.
Miscommunication and Confusion: Misunderstandings, miscommunications, and confusion in various aspects of life, including personal relationships and professional matters, may be more common.
Technology and Travel Issues: Mercury rules technology and travel. An afflicted Mercury can lead to problems with electronic devices, frequent travel delays, or issues related to transportation.
Business and Commerce Challenges: Mercury also governs commerce and trade. An afflicted Mercury may bring difficulties in business dealings, negotiations, or financial transactions.
Nervousness and Anxiety: An afflicted Mercury can contribute to heightened nervousness and anxiety. You may worry excessively, especially about matters related to communication and intellect.
Health Issues: In some cases, an afflicted Mercury can be linked to health problems, especially those related to the nervous system or communication disorders.
Relationship Struggles: Misunderstandings and miscommunications can affect relationships. It’s essential to work on clear communication and understanding when Mercury is afflicted in the chart.
Overcoming Challenges: While an afflicted Mercury can present challenges, it’s important to remember that astrology doesn’t dictate your destiny. Many successful individuals have challenging Mercury placements but have learned to work through these difficulties. Personal growth and self-awareness can help mitigate the negative effects of an afflicted Mercury.
To understand the specific effects of an afflicted Mercury in your chart, it’s crucial to consider its aspects to other planets, its house placement, and the overall chart dynamics.
How’s your Mercury? More importantly, where Mercury is in your chart impacts those areas of life. Is it in your love sector? Is it in your career? Finances?
In Astrology, the interpretation of Mars in a natal chart can vary depending on its placement, aspects, and other factors. Mars is often associated with energy, drive, aggression, and desire. When Mars is considered malefic, it typically suggests challenging or more intense energies that may need to be channeled carefully. Here are some possible interpretations of a benefic Mars in an astrology chart:
Determination and Ambition: Individuals with a benefic Mars are likely to be highly motivated and ambitious. They have a strong desire to achieve their goals and are willing to put in the effort to make them a reality.
Physical Energy: Mars is associated with physical energy and vitality. Those with a benefic Mars tend to have good physical stamina and may excel in physical activities and sports.
Courage: This placement can indicate a courageous and bold nature. These individuals are not afraid to take risks or stand up for themselves and their beliefs.
Assertiveness: Benefic Mars individuals are assertive but not overly aggressive. They have a healthy sense of self-confidence and can assert themselves without alienating others.
Passion: Mars is also linked to passion and desire. People with a benefic Mars often have a strong and healthy sexual energy and can form passionate relationships.
Competitiveness: They may enjoy healthy competition and can use it as a driving force to achieve their goals. They know how to compete without becoming overly hostile or confrontational.
Physical Fitness: These individuals are usually inclined towards physical fitness and may find enjoyment in activities that challenge their bodies.
Initiative: They are proactive and take the initiative in their endeavors. They are not afraid to start new projects or take the lead in a group setting.
Leadership: Mars can be a marker of leadership qualities. People with benefic Mars may find themselves in leadership roles or positions of authority.
Here are some possible interpretations of a malefic Mars in an astrology chart:
Aggression: A malefic Mars can indicate a tendency toward anger, impulsivity, and aggression. Individuals with this placement may need to work on managing their temper and finding constructive outlets for their energy.
Conflict: Mars can also represent conflict and competition. A malefic Mars may indicate a propensity for getting into disputes, arguments, or power struggles with others.
Impatience: People with a malefic Mars might struggle with impatience and a need for immediate results. They may need to develop greater patience and perseverance in their pursuits.
Recklessness: There may be a tendency towards risk-taking or recklessness with a malefic Mars. It’s important for individuals with this placement to exercise caution and think before they act.
Physical Injuries: Mars is associated with physical activity, so a malefic Mars could potentially indicate a higher risk of accidents or injuries. It’s important to take care of one’s physical health and safety.
Sexual Intensity: Mars is also connected to sexual desire and passion. A malefic Mars might indicate a more intense or potentially problematic approach to sexuality and relationships.
Competitiveness: While competition can be healthy, a malefic Mars might lead to an excessive or destructive competitiveness. Learning to compete in a fair and balanced way is important.
Though depression is clinical, I heard a misplaced Saturn is common in depression. Astrology is never meant to diagnose a mental health issue. Also, challenging aspects to Mars can motivate to take action. It awakens. When that ambition is suppressed, it leads to aggression.
Madonna has a Mars that has a mixture of difficult aspects and in a difficult placement. Yet, it also has some positive aspects too. When combined with the entire chart, this Mars is productive.
Whereas, Jeffrey Dahmer, has Mars in its ruling position with mostly challenging aspects. In fact, I have seen many charts of serial killers that have difficult Mars placements. Difficult Mars is common in child abuse, violence, and trauma. Often, there are complication with the father/male figure. However, one can rise above with all other indications from other components in the chart.
In Astrology, a single planet’s placement does not define a person’s entire personality or life. The overall interpretation of a chart should take into account the positions of all the planets, the aspects between them, and the individual’s unique circumstances and experiences.
