Libra Monthly Horoscope May 2009 | Astrology Zodiac Sign: Libra

(Sep 22 - Oct 22)

Competition comes at you swiftly and aggressively during the first three days of May. You might not even see it coming, so be on high alert. This could be in the form of competition for your job, your significant other, or for a membership in a club or group you've got your heart set on. Just when you think you've got everything figured out and organized, a new player bursts onto the scene. Quite frankly, you feel slightly insulted and hurt by it. Thankfully, the 5th brings better news. Support for you rallies and your pals circle the wagons, protecting you.

A Full Moon in Scorpio on the 9th focuses a lot of energy and time (and in many cases angst) on a loan, debt or other financial issue. You worry about how you're going to stretch a dollar in so many directions. The one asset you have here and need to remember is time. On the 7th, Mercury goes retro officially until May 30th, but from a practical standpoint, continues until June 9th. This retro phase buys you time to make important decisions, negotiate a better deal and work out some sort of acceptable plan that is acceptable to everyone involved. A debt (one that's become untenable) is likely to be center stage during the phase. You need extra time to talk to experts and unearth the most agreeable plan. You will do that. Just get going on the 7th. You have just over a month to sketch out a Plan A and B. Consult experts, but don't get into adversarial territory with anyone. This is about arriving at a mutually acceptable plan. There are no bad guys, and no blame involved. On the 16th, Saturn goes direct (finally!) and gives you the backbone and clarity you need to work through a maze of numbers and fine print. Break up the day. Don't spend the entire time inside. Get outside, breathe in fresh air and exercise to revitalize your perspective. There are other things to enjoy that are unrelated to settling this problem. Try to aim for emotional and mental balance, no matter how stressed you periodically feel.

The 17th and 18th are somewhat confusing. Again, ask experts for their interpretation rather than harboring a lot of uncertainty within yourself. Make sure you're on the right path, which undoubtedly involves cutting losses, simplifying your financial circumstances and getting out of debt. And remember that you don't have to sign anything until June 9th. You need adequate time to do things correctly. Some of you may seriously consider changing jobs during this time and go on several interviews. This can be a highly productive time that pushes you into better, easier, less stressful circumstances.

The 20th moves the transiting Sun into Gemini, giving you a strong desire to escape, travel, explore and learn. During the next 30 days, you seriously think about the pros and cons of moving out of your present circumstances and into something more appealing.

Between the 21st and 27th, you finally experience peace, calm and pleasure. You live in the moment and feel better for it. On the 29th, Neptune goes retro until November 4th, suggesting that a close friend or loved one may seem distant or preoccupied, perhaps with a project or problematic person. You might not get the attention you're used to during this phase and at times, feel alone even when you and your friend are together. It will end November 4th.

On May 31st, Mars moves into Taurus, speeding things up a couple notches in your personal and professional transformation. The next few months are likely to reinvent your life and raison d'etre.

Monthly touchstone: Lapis Lazuli