For every new ambition, relationship, and experience you seek at this time, there’s a commitment in place that must be eliminated to make way for the new. Current routines, habits, and even types of free time must be sacrificed so that you can open up to new energies. Your Master Teacher is present, urging you to identify what must go. Be honest in your assessment, and also be realistic and thoughtful in setting your goals so that you don’t overreach and fail.

Your Master Teacher reminds you that even though the Universe does support your heart, it doesn’t allow you to bypass the work necessary to manifest your desires. In other words, “You reap what you sow.” And the best way is to systematically move toward your priorities while simultaneously discarding what no longer serves you. If you want to lose ten pounds, you must release jelly doughnuts. If you want to work for yourself, you must let go of the need for others to take care of you. If you want to create a new love relationship, you mustn’t brood over past heartbreaks any longer. The message from your Master Teacher: “To reach for something greater, you must first let go of what’s in your hand.”

Gaia, the Divine Earth Mother, is present, making you aware of your marvelous physical body, her great gift to you. Be grateful for her gift; it’s a wondrous temporary home for your spirit. She asks that you give it the respect and attention it deserves and needs, so take care of it with love and attention. Give it adequate rest, a proper diet, and a calm and peaceful environment. Spend time with nature, as the earth is the true mother to your body and will restore it.

The better you care for your body, the more it will serve your spirit. Listen to your body—its gut feelings, its flutters, its impulses—as Gaia speaks to you through it. This is the Earth Mother cradling you, protecting you, and guiding you through each day. She advises you not to live in your head alone and ignore your physical self. Without a strong connection to your body, you’ll be weak and unable to achieve your goals. Gaia’s message: “Pay attention to your body.”

This is a time of conflict and challenge, pure and simple. No matter how you look at it, confrontation and discord are on the horizon. Others don’t agree with you or see your perspective, and they don’t intend to cooperate with you in any way. This could surface in such serious ways as legal battles, divorce proceedings, and contract negotiations; or it could just be an impasse with a spouse over a raised toilet seat. Whatever the issue, there’s no immediate or easy resolution. You’ve attracted a worthy opponent, so prepare to go the distance.

This is not to assume, however, that such combative scenarios are always a bad thing. Your Warrior Guides are present to enlighten you about the benefits of sparring with others. Competition brings out your best, and unleashes your passion and commitment in what you believe in. It develops your strength and prevents you from being victimized or manipulated by others; and it teaches you the need to respect others, too, and not mindlessly impose your will on them. Your Warrior Guides suggest that when you do battle with others, it’s best to fight fairly and learn from the conflict. Don’t compete just to let off steam. Fight for progress and higher understanding for all concerned rather than just being difficult to get your own way.

Hidden within the drama of battle and competition are the seeds of true understanding and compassion. The best spiritual warriors always strive for a win/win outcome. Your Warrior Guides suggest that you embrace the battles at hand to find your strength and reach for growth. Fight the good fight with your adversaries, but pray for Divine justice to prevail . . . not just your personal version of justice. Their message: “Fight fair, but concede when you are in the wrong.”