Perhaps the most dramatic change this month involves Jupiter’s transit into its own strong sign of Pisces on May 2nd.   Since Jupiter is considered to be the “great benefic” planet, its energy is magnanimous, generous and expansive.   Jupiter tends to confer gifts and gains generously.  In contrast, Saturn requires work, time, perseverance and effort before gains are experienced.  Free “gifts” are not in Saturn’s vocabulary.   Jupiter expands, while Saturn contracts.  At this time, Jupiter will transit Pisces, while Saturn transits Virgo (opposite of Pisces). Therefore, both planets aspect each other and influence each other.  Generally, I like the balance that these two planets provide when they interact.  Jupiter provides the optimism and positive attitude, while Saturn offers the realism and productivity that are required to be effective and enduring. 

    For any great work, project, invention or achievement, history shows that it first required some higher ideal, perception, inspiration or dream.  Then, it requires the effort, perseverance, hard work and drive to bring the ideal into existence.  This reflects the effort of both Jupiter and Saturn working in tandem.

    While the “huge” positive effects of Jupiter are likely to be somewhat muted during this transit (due to Saturn’s aspect), benefits and gains may still be encountered over time.  For example, if you are trying to sell some real estate, the sale might not take place immediately.  But, over time, the sale can manifest.  If you’re trying to grow your business, the gains might not manifest in the first month or first year, but over time, with perseverance and the “right” attitude, you can be successful.  This is the influence of the Jupiter/Saturn combination in force this year.   Some patience and a long-term perspective are necessary to make the most of it.

    Pisces is a zodiac sign (when operating at its higher frequency) reflecting inspiration, compassion, empathy, kindness, healing, idealism, dreams, and spiritual advancement.  Pisces is one of the most “selfless” signs of the zodiac and is the last of the 12 signs.  Jupiter is at home transiting through Pisces and can potentially bathe the world in some of this helpful, generous energy this year. 

    Jupiter will transit through three nakshatras while going through Pisces: Purva Bhadra, Uttara Bhadra and Revati, respectively.  Each phase of the transit will foster different influences.  Both Purva and Uttara Bhadra are closely associated with endings, death and funerals.  Some situations need to end because their time is up according to some cosmic clock.   Other situations are no longer beneficial or useful in the macro world or in your own personal world.   This may refer to getting rid of bad health habits, ending a career, ending a stage of life, or changing the way you live and approach your life.  There are many different manifestations of this energy.  The common feature is that an “ending” is involved. 

    Revati, the last of the 27 nakshatras is also associated with death, since the deity ruling Revati is Pushan who is known to help the souls pass to the other side.  Jupiter will transit through Revati between March 13, 2011 – May 8, 2011.  Moreover, Revati’s influence helps to promote financial prosperity.  This is also a nakshatra that focuses on helping animals and the way we treat animals.  This Jupiter transit can yield more awareness about the important place and treatment of animals in our world.   Hopefully, Jupiter’s transit will elevate and improve the lives of the many animal species that suffer at the hands and treatment by some humans.   Overall, Jupiter will transit through Pisces until 11-1-2010, and then retrograde back into Aquarius until 12-6-2010, when Jupiter will once again move direct through Pisces.  Jupiter then enters the next sign, Aries on 5-8-2011.  Saturn will remain in Virgo for the entire year that Jupiter transits Pisces, conferring a healthy dose of realism, skepticism and perfectionism to balance Jupiter’s optimism. 

    On 5/11/10, Mercury turns direct in Aries.  This should help communications, allow projects to move forward with less hesitation or setbacks and generally improve the flow of actions.  Wait a few days past 5/11 and then consider signing contracts, beginning new projects and making purchases.  Travel should improve as well.

    Venus continues its strong transit through Taurus until 5/14 when it then goes into Gemini.  Venus will eventually join with Ketu at the end of the month and receive the aspect of Saturn.  This may be a month of trials and tribulations involving relationships or romantic interests.  Individuals will prefer more freedom, space, travel and distance.  This Venus transit may stress relationship situations this month, so try not to put too much pressure or emphasis on them during this month.  Venus with Ketu idealizes relationship and brings a sense of dissatisfaction with the relationship.  Saturn’s aspect brings some additional pressure on the situation.  Obviously, it’s not the best month for marriage or relationship commitments.

    The Sun in Taurus from 5/14 – 6/14/2010, brings an emphasis on finance, the arts, gardens, real estate, business and purchases.  Sun in Taurus with a well-placed Jupiter bodes well for real estate transactions.  Even though the “home buyer tax credit” has expired, the continuation of low interest rates and improvement to the U.S. economy should increase the interest in the real estate market.  Considering that the U.S. is currently experiencing the Mars/Jupiter cycle this year, improvement in the real estate market is expected as 2010 progresses.

    This may become more apparent as Mars gets stronger next month.  Recall, Mars has been in its debilitated sign of Cancer since October 2009.  Mars also rules property and assists in getting projects completed.  When Mars and Mercury are stronger, decisions will be made and actions taken more readily.  Mars finally moves out of Cancer on 5/26, transiting into Leo.  Mars will steadily gain strength while in the friendly sign of Leo.  This is an important point because the U.S. is in the Mars mahadasha.  When the transiting mahadasha planet is weak, it reduces the gains and benefits that could be expected during that period.  As Mars gains strength, improvements can be expected.

    In sum, May 2010 brings several significant planetary changes into play.  This is a month where the planets reflect changes taking place on several spheres.  Allow some time to integrate the shifts, rebalance yourself and begin to make plans that you would like to put into action soon.  Setbacks, hesitation and motivational problems should begin to abate by the end of May.