This week and the coming weeks unfold with deceptively simple celestial signatures. But don’t let that simplicity fool you into thinking life will be a breeze. While the patterns of the sky appear uncomplicated, life on planet Earth continues to be complex. Of course, we don’t need astrology to remind us of life’s delicate balance. All that’s needed is the nightly news. But what astrology can do is provide a broad perspective capable of facilitating an expansive attitude. And right now that’s just what’s needed to make sense of what’s goin’ on.

The source of solid ground continues to be a trine between Jupiter, in Capricorn, and a Sun/Saturn conjunction, in Virgo. This configuration combines three interactions, with two timetables, into one big beneficent bundle that radiates with practical common sense. The Sun/Saturn conjunction lasts until September 11th. Traditionally interpreted as a serious, sober alignment with a hypercritical eye, this conjunction is softened by the presence of Jupiter, who transforms the flaw-finding tendency into a firm decisive intelligence.

The trine between Jupiter and Saturn is with us all month long. This is a patient, peace-loving interaction that fosters the realistic pursuit of happiness. I love this trine so much, I’m considering celebrating Thanksgiving two and a half months early on September 8th, when the Jupiter/Saturn trine is exact. Use this constructive combination to support all your endeavors—physical, mental, emotional and spiritual.

Venus and Mercury continue to travel in tandem, and now as they both move into Libra, they catch up with Mars to form a triple conjunction. We’ve been basking in this creative light since mid-August. Now, as Mars joins the team, its presence strengthens this conjunction with physical vitality and passion—lots and lots of passion. Spend this energy well by devoting your attention to areas of your life you want to see flourish and grow.

On September 7th Jupiter goes Direct, and on September 8th, Pluto also goes Direct, beginning the end of its brief retrograde back into Sagittarius. We don’t tend to experience obvious or dramatic events when Pluto or Jupiter turn around, but given the overall quiet of the week we might have a chance to notice sky rhythms with greater clarity.

It’s been a long time since we’ve had a prolonged period of simplicity, so take advantage of the astral quiet by continuing to rebuild and replenish your reserves. And as always, remember to be kind to your fellow travelers.