Aquarius Full Moon: Back to the Future

When was the last time you used a pay phone? For younger folks, the answer may be never. In many places, these analog throwbacks no longer exist. Or, they’ve been creatively repurposed into fish-filled aquariums, as in Japan. But one rural Vermonter decided to bring them back as a public service project.

“I realized, wow, there’s no cell service for 10 miles in either direction,” Patrick Schlott, an airplane engineer told AP’s Amanda Swinhart. “The community could really benefit from something like this.”

So Schlott bought an old pay phone (which sell for between $100 and $500) and installed it outside the North Turnbridge General Store using a device that converts an internet connection to an analog telecom line. He then removed the coin-operation mechanism, and voila – free phone service for all.

Schlott’s innovation soon got so popular that requests poured in from nearby towns. He agreed to install more, even though it costs $2 to $3 each for the phone line and another $5 for calls. Then, Schlott has to field calls and help users if they dial 0. The operator calls arrive on his personal cell phone, which uses an app to keep his number private.

Though such a charitable service isn’t necessarily replicable in this form, it still speaks to the retro trend. In a digital era where everything is virtual and intangible (not to mention exhausting and confounding), going analog helps us stay in touch with the physical world. Whether it’s reading a book on paper, playing a vinyl record, writing a letter with a pen or walking rather than driving, such physical interactions are vital – they engage our senses and help keep us grounded.

It might seem odd to be touting analog experiences at an Aquarius Full Moon (Aug. 9, 12:55 a.m. PDT). After all, this chill air sign is associated with all things new-fangled, including the digital variety. Yet sometimes what’s old is new again. At this Full Moon, the Sun in heartfelt, creative Leo opposes the Moon in quirky, reflective Aquarius while Mercury is still backward in Leo. In fact, the planet of the mind and communication is stationary as it prepares to turn direct on Aug. 11, giving it tremendous power.

This Mercury retrograde, which began on July 17, has been tricky for many. Yet it’s also been a great excuse to see old friends, delve back into creative projects, re-read old journals for insight, and otherwise back-peddle rather than try to launch ahead. At this Full Moon, retrograde Mercury at 4 Leo is co-present with the Sun at 16 Leo, giving our communicative pal even more strength. And, Mercury closely opposes powerbroker Pluto in Aquarius, bringing rumblings of rebellion and the urge to throw off shackles.

Adding to the rebellious vibe, the Aquarius Full Moon is ruled by unpredictable Uranus in schizy Gemini as well as determined Saturn in impetuous Aries. This can be a time of rallying to a cause. It pits the king (Leo), against the people (Aquarius). Aquarius is a social sign which wants the best for all concerned. And Mars, newly in Libra, is determined to have justice. Yet feisty Mars isn’t all that comfortable in its opposite sign of Libra, which demands diplomacy. And Mars is also opposite Saturn and Neptune, which can feel like being stuck between a rock and a hard place. Yet Mars also makes a grand air trine with Uranus and Pluto, bringing clever brainstorms and innovative solutions.

I’ve been warning my clients all year to take care the weekend of Aug. 8-10, especially with travel. Mars opposite Saturn is an obstacle course, especially at a Mercury station. It’s a much better time to stay at home and gather with friends and family or do something to promote freedom and justice. Luckily, Venus and Jupiter are approaching an auspicious conjunction at 10-13 Cancer (exact on Aug. 11, the same day that Mercury turns direct). This is one of the best aspects of the year, so blessings are in the offing.

As the Full Moon approaches, be receptive to inspired ideas. Whether entrepreneurial or charitable (like Patrick Schlott’s), those that fly will combine the best of the past and the future. Also, enjoy those analog devices and retro pastimes at this lunation. Play a board game. Make a pie from scratch. Help a friend move.  Donate to a worthy charity. Make a call from a pay phone. The Aquarius Full Moon will bless you!