Interview with Venus, Part 10

John: Well, Venus, we certainly have covered a lot of ground. Would you mind giving us a quick re-cap of what we talked about?

 

Venus: Sure. I’m the planet of desire and my influence is very broad—

 

John: [unsuccessfully stifles a laugh]

 

Venus: [glowers] REALLY? 

 

John: Sorry…I just thought it was funny that you used that term and that you're the planet of women…[chuckles again]

 

Venus: [annoyed and shocked] Did you just revert to being 12 years old? 

 

John: Sorry, Lady Venus. Please continue. [stifles smirk]

 

Venus: MEN! [fixes hair and takes a deep breath] As you stated, I’m the planet of women and femininity. I rule attraction and many people call me the pleasure center of the zodiac.

 

John: And love and relationships are an important part of your work, but so is money, right?

 

Venus: Yes, that’s right. I deal with money matters and anything with value, as well as the concepts and ideas that people value.

 

John: Could you give us an example of that?

 

Venus: Sure. You’ve got Venus in Scorpio, so you value loyalty and discretion more than most people. How’s that?

 

John: Good call! But one area we didn’t talk about much is creativity. You do that too, right?

 

Venus: Yes, I do, but Neptune also owns a part of creativity in an astrological sense. With that said, I show up importantly in the charts of many creative, artistic people.

 

John: I didn’t want to forget to mention that.[checks iPad] We talked extensively about your movement around the wheel.

 

Venus: Yup. Always close to the boss…never more than 48 degrees away. Merc and I often hang out together. And I do retrograde every once in a while, but not too often…

 

John: [consults iPad] 7.2% of the time, as I recall. Once every 19 months you go on your business trip backward through the zodiac, for about 40 days.

 

Venus: Indeed. I’m about to leave in a few days, so while I don’t want to rush you, I need to get home and get packed.

 

John: I understand. Just a few more questions and then we’ll wrap your lava cake to go.

 

Venus: Thanks! So, what’s left?

 

John: Well I won’t make you re-live the polite lie—I mean, the pleasant fiction—but can you tell us again which signs you rule?

 

Venus: I’m at my best in Taurus and Libra, and Pisces is also pretty amazing. Before you ask, I’m more of a challenge in Virgo, as well as Mars-ruled Aries and Scorpio. [smiles] Can you wrap my lava cake to go?

 

John: Absolutely! [closes iPad] You’ve done me a great service today, Venus. Thank you so much for your time and energy. Please enjoy your retrograde and we’ll catch you in late June when you return.

 

Venus: Thank you, John! I’m grateful for the opportunity. And maybe when I get back you can actually leave the house! [Pauses] I guess I shouldn't hug you, huh?

 

John: Unfortunately, that's probably not a good idea. And I’m not optimistic about being able to leave the house by the time you come back from retrograde, but let’s say “Here’s to hoping!”

Interview with Venus, Part 9

John: So now we must move on to…

 

Venus: [sigh] I’ve read the other blogs, so I know where this is going.

 

John: My apologies. Then you also know that I must, regrettably, press on.

 

Venus: [nods] What’s that smell?

 

John: It’s one of those chocolate lava cakes. I’m having it heated up now and you can have it before you leave.

 

Venus: [smiles] You are so thoughtful and kind.

 

John: I’m trying as hard as I can to make this easy for you.

 

Venus: [sigh] So I don’t do particularly well in Virgo. It’s a really fussy sign sometimes, and while Mercury’s influence is good for being discriminating, it has a perfectionistic streak that can be challenging to manage.

 

John: Do you mean that nothing is quite right for the Venus in Virgo person?

 

Venus: That’s one possibility. The Venus in Virgo person has to get just the right fit. And remember we’re not just talking about things but people as well. In the right context, though, it can be a very powerful force.

 

John: But Mercury’s influence over the sign of Virgo is the reason for the challenges?

 

Venus: Yes, that’s a good way of putting it. The bottom line is that Virgo is a cerebral sign and not really a sensual one, and as the pleasure center of the Zodiac a person with me in this sign has to work harder to perform well. And we’ve already talked about how I feel about work.

 

John: Four-letter word, right?

 

Venus: You catch on quickly!

 

John: So, Virgo is your fall position. What are your detriment signs? My readers will want to know.

 

Venus: Unfortunately, that’s all too easy. Any sign that is ruled by my male counterpart, Mars, can really force a person to push hard to work with me. Those are Aries and Scorpio.

 

John: Wait a second. I thought Scorpio was ruled by Pluto, so I’m a little confused.

 

Venus: It depends who you ask. In the ancient world, Mars had dominion over both Aries and Scorpio. They really are two sides of the same coin, but I don’t want to steal his thunder. I love that man but I can’t come close to capturing his unique…style and flair.

 

John: Not a problem. We have more than enough to discuss and he’s next on my list of interviews.

 

Venus: Excellent! [pauses] So Aries is a true powerhouse, but my energy requires more finesse. Aries is kind of a blunt sign, and they are not as concerned with the proprieties of balanced relationships. They want excitement and they want things to happen quickly.

 

John: What ‘things’ are you talking about?

 

Venus: Well…Venus in Aries folks can have a predilection toward the more physical aspects of love. They can find that activity endlessly exciting. While it is an important part of every relationship, when it’s the focus of any coupling deep development between the people runs into difficulty.

 

John: So, they want exciting, sexual relationships and are not as concerned about them lasting?

 

Venus: That’s one possibility. These people want to make an immediate impact, and on a creative level it may mean they lack the patience to let their true creativity shine through. In other words, they may throw something together to say it’s done instead of being patient. But boy…they do love the thrill of chasing new projects…and people!

 

John: Fascinating. And I see you saved Scorpio for last.

 

Venus: So, I’m in Scorpio in your chart. Why don’t you tell me what I’m like there instead of a theory?

 

John: I adore you, Venus.

 

Venus: I’m glad you led with that. I love you, too. That won’t change no matter what you say next.

 

John: [pause] I’m glad to hear that, because I have had my share of struggles with you. Dating was hard for me. Breaking up was even harder. I was your standard tortured soul. No one seemed right, looking for love in all the wrong places as the song goes, until I met Jen. And then, everything changed.

 

Venus: Interesting. She also has Venus in Scorpio, right next to your Sun, as I recall. That’s a serious love connection. I know we’re not talking about more than one chart so…

 

John: No, but it’s worth mentioning for people to think about it. With both Jen and I having Venus in Scorpio, it was a great match because this sign is looking for that ONE person. Clearly Jen and I have found that person, and her Venus being next to my Sun is a great connection for love. But I definitely went through some painful years.  

 

Venus: I feel you. But she’s amazing, so it was worth it.

 

John: I agree. What would you say to those Venus in Scorpio people who haven’t found the person who fits?

 

Venus: Stay positive. Don’t force anything. If it feels right, go with it. And if it doesn’t, don’t force it. There are always other relationships. And don’t forget how important your friends are, in these times and all times.

 

John: And I would add that being in a bad relationship is worse than being alone.

 

Venus: I TOTALLY DISAGREE!

 

John: Yes, I suspected you would, but we will have to agree to disagree on that point.

Interview with Venus, Part 8

John: We’ve talked about you a lot, and I can’t thank you enough for your candor. My readers will truly benefit.

 

Venus: Thank you. I’m honored. [beams] Any chance there are more cookies left?

 

John: [produces box] Certainly. [consults iPad notes] To finish out, we still need to talk about your favorite signs.

 

Venus: Of course! These are Taurus and Libra! I rule them both and I always have.

 

John: No modern planet has taken either of them from you? In other words, those two signs have always belonged to you.

 

Venus: [flat tone] Yes, they’ve always been mine. And no astrologer had better try to take one of my signs, unless they want to see a very pointed example of a woman scorned! My retrogrades will look like a damn picnic!

 

John: I’m hoping that doesn’t ever happen. [pauses] So tell me about Taurus.

 

Venus: Ah yes…the hobbits of the Zodiac! You won’t find a better group of foodies around. They have very sensitive palates, and they make excellent wedding planners and food critics! Then there’s the ultimate question for Taurus: “Food or sex?”

 

John: So…what is the answer?

 

Venus: Well, I’d say either, but it depends on the Taurus. Most would say, “Why not BOTH?” And didn’t one of your Taurus mentees say, “You never wake a girl up without food or sex?”

 

John: Yes, I believe that is a direct quote and there was a large plate of food in the picture, so her friend was smart enough to avert any potential crisis.

 

Venus: That makes a lot of sense.

 

John: Yes, I’ve been privileged to know many Taurus people over the years…my sister, my grandmother, and a few of my very best friends are Bulls. And man do they have staying power! You couldn’t ask for more loyalty and dedication. I’ve had one Taurus friend for nearly 40 years.

 

Venus: Taurus directs my energy inward, and you’ve described them very well. They have a tendency to be possessive of their people, but you won’t find a more solid friend or partner. Libra, on the other hand…

 

John: …is the outward manifestation. They focus on one-to-one relationships, right?

 

Venus: Precisely! You keep that up and you won’t need me around anymore!

 

John: [smiles warmly] I will always need you, great lady.

 

Venus: [beams] The Moon is right. You are SUCH a charmer! But yes, Libra focuses more on outer relationships. They often see themselves through other people, which can be a good or a bad thing.

 

John: The Libra people I have worked with in the past seem to help me with balance. As a Sun sign Scorpio, I have a tendency to go to extremes.  Libra people help me to even things out.

 

Venus: Yes, that’s exactly right. How many would you say you have worked closely with?

 

John: By my count, I would say I’ve worked with five different Libra women on topics as varied as leadership, spiritual development, teaching, and astrology. I count them among my most important mentors, and I seem to draw them for some reason.

 

Venus: Well, good sir, let me applaud you on your good taste! Libra is indeed the sign of balance, but sometimes relationships do get the better of them. They will often stay in a bad relationship longer than they should because the relationship itself is more important than their own growth or development. But don’t you dare insult a Libra person’s partner. You will get an earful!

 

John: Yes, I had that happen to me in high school and I learned the lesson very well. [pauses] So you rule those two. Is there another preferred sign for you?

 

Venus: Certainly! When I show up in Pisces, that’s a wonderful manifestation of my energy. These people tend to be exceptionally artistic, creative, or imaginative. They also do an excellent job of connecting with others on an emotional level.

 

John: And creativity is an important part of your job, right?

 

Venus: Indeed! I figure prominently in the horoscopes of many actors, dancers, artists and other creative people.

Interview with Venus, Part 7

John: So, when you go retrograde, we’re re-evaluating a lot of different things.

Venus: Yes, that’s right.

 

John: What if you are born with you in retrograde? I know it’s a rare thing…only 7.2% of people would have that, right?

 

Venus: [sigh] That’s true.

 

John: Why the sigh?

 

Venus: Because this can be challenging for people who have it.

 

John: [gestures] Go on.

 

Venus: When I’m retrograde in a birth chart, there can be some challenges related to me that the person is going to have to address. Usually it involves the person’s life purpose, so it’s pretty significant.

 

John: That’s a little vague and new-agey for my folks. Can you give us some examples?

 

Venus: Unfortunately, I can. This is a person who likely has a lot of work to do involving me. The whole idea of love for a person with me in retrograde in their natal chart may not be like that of many other people. What was that phrase you heard at that conference?

 

John: Ah yes. They said it was like “staying back in love school”, if memory serves.

 

Venus: That’s a great expression. It doesn’t mean that I don’t function, but it’s going to be very important for the person to work with me and try not to fall into some of the pitfalls that can sometimes occur in these individuals.

 

John: Such as…?

 

Venus: [sniffles] Give me a moment, please.

 

John: Of course [pauses and produces a tissue box]

 

Venus: [takes tissue] Thank you. This is an opportunity for people to work with my energy on a very fundamental level. These people might struggle with healthy relationships or self-esteem, for example. They might feel unlovable or undeserving of having good people in their lives.

 

John: And what if the person chooses not to work with you? I mean, they don’t HAVE to, do they?

 

Venus: I’ve found that the problem will continue to exist whether a person works to resolve it or not. In other words, the person may continue to struggle in areas I control if they ignore what is happening. And this is a hard thing to deal with, so we need lots of patience and encouragement to help encourage growth and spiritual development. But there is a bright side.

 

John: What’s the bright side?

 

Venus: By being forced to work with me, they will usually find that their lives are better, their relationships more satisfying. And I’ve gotta say that’s a great tradeoff!

 

John: Certainly!

 

Venus: Although it is true that you could say the same of any other planet: The more work you do with him or her, the more success you will have. But because I’m a personal planet, natal retrogrades require special focus and handling to overcome in many ways.

Interview with Venus, Part 6

John: But you don’t retrograde often, right?

 

Venus: No! Hardly ever. But with everything I’ve got to do I also need a break.

 

John: “Hardly ever” is a little vague for us. Could we have a timeframe?

 

Venus: About every 19 months I go retrograde for forty days or so. Mercury told me it’s a mere 7.2% of my time is in retrograde.

 

John: That sounds about right. [consults iPad again] So what would you say about how you behave during your retrograde periods?

 

Venus: Well, coming up in a few short days—May 14 to be exact—I’ll turn retrograde in Gemini. So, this is an excellent time to talk about it.

 

John: Great! Let’s drill into the details.

 

Venus: Hilary Harley did a wonderful job describing it on this blog a few weeks ago. Shouldn’t people just read that one?

 

John: Of course! Hilary is extremely talented. But we want to hear it directly from you, too.  

 

Venus: [hesitates] Well…to be honest, I am not at my best when I’m retrograde. I tend to be more like…well, Mars.

 

John: Could you explain that for us?

 

Venus: I know how it sounds. I’m a pleasant planet, usually, but when I’m moving backwards there is a lot more emphasis on the conflict than the cooperation. In other words, problems linked to me tend to be much more…apparent.

 

John: I see. So, if I know a couple that is struggling, when you come along and turn retrograde, what could they experience?

 

Venus: All of these impacts are individual, but I can say that both of these people might start to see even more problems than usual. There may not actually be more of them, but they might be highlighted or magnified.

 

John: If I can rephrase, it’s almost like they’re re-evaluating the relationship?

 

Venus: YES. That’s perfect! My retrograde periods are a time of reconsidering anything under my purview. Relationships are big one, but of course spending is another topic that can come up with my association with money.

 

John: Any others that come to mind?

 

Venus: Friendships. Fashion choices. Decorating. Our hairstyle and makeup habits. What we enjoy. And our tastes and values. All of these can be called into question.

 

John: Wow. That’s a lot!

 

Venus: It certainly is.

 

John: As we go through this period, what advice do you give to people who end up feeling like something isn’t working for them anymore?

 

Venus: Remember how I said, ‘Work is a four-letter word’?

 

John: [smiles] Yes, I seem to recall that exchange.

 

Venus: My job is not to do stuff, like I said. It involves work and I’m not into that. If someone is feeling like something isn’t working for them anymore, then you do what I do: NOTHING!

 

John: Wait a minute. You’re saying that if I’m realizing that I don’t…I don’t know, want to eat pasta ever again…

 

Venus: OK, who is unrealistic NOW? [laughs]

 

John: [chuckles] Touché, Venus. Of course, THAT would never happen. Let’s try something else. So what if I say I hate the way my bedroom looks and I want to redo it?

 

Venus: Good example! My answer is still the same. While I’m retrograde, DO NOTHING. Take a nap. Eat some good food. Whatever. But do NOT make any big decisions. Don’t call a contractor or an interior designer. Don’t look at paint swatches. But DO remember what you don’t like.

 

John: Why shouldn’t I act on these feelings?

 

Venus: Because when I go direct, people tend to change their minds! Again! So, you tread carefully until I go direct. THEN you act. But not before.

 

John: You said earlier that people who are having relationship problems should do nothing, right?

 

Venus: Yes, unless there’s abuse or another similar situation. In that case, you do whatever you have to do to keep you and yours safe immediately! But generally, the problems I’m referring to can wait for a few weeks since they have likely sat unaddressed for a long time. Re-evaluate during my retrograde, and then decide what to do for certain when it’s over—which, incidentally, is on June 25.

 

John: I’m guessing I shouldn’t choose to buy my dream car or any other big-ticket items in the next few months.

 

Venus: [touches John on the shoulder] It’s better to hold off to make completely sure it is really what you want.

Interview with Venus, Part 5

Venus: We aren’t even close to done yet, right? There’s a lot more we have to discuss.

 

John: Indeed. It should go more smoothly, as I don’t recall any more unpleasant parts.

 

Venus: I am thrilled to hear it! So, what’s next?

 

John: Let’s chat about your relationship to the Sun.

 

Venus: Lovely man! He’s always around. I can’t get too far from him, though.

 

John: About how far can you roam?

 

Venus: Well, I can’t go further than 48 degrees from him in either direction.

 

John: So, you’re limited as to where you might end up in a horoscope?

 

Venus: Yes, that’s right. I’m either in the sign the Sun is in, or the one or two signs before or after it.

 

John: And based on what we already know, Mercury will be in the area, too.

 

Venus: Of course. Merc and I stick together and we’re often next to each other in a chart. We can’t really have another relationship, so we might not be close enough to feed off each other, but it’s frequently the case.

 

John: I see. In my case, you are both in Scorpio with my Sun.

 

Venus: Yes, I remember. 17 Scorpio. And Merc is not far off at 12 Scorpio. That’s close enough for us to work together, even if I am in Scorpio. But I could have been in Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, or Capricorn for you. Up to two signs away from the Sun in either direction represents the range of my placement ability in a chart.

 

John: And how fast do you move through the Zodiac?

 

Venus: I’m a pretty fast mover! Not as fast as Merc or Lady Moon, of course, but I’ve still got it where it counts. I get through a sign in about a month. But that doesn’t include the retrogrades.

 

John: Perfect timing. We have to discuss that topic.

 

Venus: Yes, and I’m glad we’re talking before it. I’m not always, ummmm, my usual bubbly self at those times.

Interview with Venus, Part 4

Venus: Maybe we could move on to something more fun?

 

John: Soon, Venus. But we have one more unpleasant topic to address first.

 

Venus: I hope it doesn’t take long.

 

John: Tell me how you feel about beauty.

 

Venus: [beams] How is that unpleasant? I love it. I’m the planet that tells someone how they define beauty. There are so many beautiful things in the world and I love all of them.

 

John: So, it would be fair to say that you like beautiful people more than ugly ones?

 

Venus: [shocked] Why would you say that?

 

John: [Scorpio stare] That’s not an answer, Venus.

 

Venus: [playing with her hair] What? You don’t think I’m gorgeous?

 

John: [chuckles] Everyone knows you’re gorgeous. But I still want an answer.

 

Venus: Hmmm. Mercury told me that wouldn’t work. Perhaps I could sing you a song? I have a wonderful voice, as do many people who have a strong influence from me in their charts.

 

John: Not right now, thank you. You have answered my question without answering it.

 

Venus: I am NOT going to say that I don’t like ugly people! That would be mean!

 

John: [easygoing] You don’t have to now. We can move on.  

 

Venus: [crosses arms] I think you had made up your mind about that before you came in here. I don’t know that I like where this interview is going; it’s going to make me sad!

 

John: I’ll edit it for content, Venus. I will present you in the best possible light, I assure you.

 

Venus: [happy] I’m sure you will! [eyes narrowed] Wait a second. That could easily have been a polite lie.

 

John: Does it matter if it gives you the confidence to continue talking to me in a candid way? [slightly suppressed smirk]

 

Venus: OK, now that is really, really rude! People who are ugly are…

 

John: Yes?

 

Venus: Well, they’re obviously not as…good…as those who take good care of themselves, wear nice clothes, and have a great skin care regimen.

 

John: [puts down iPad] Do you even realize what you are saying?

 

Venus: That’s how I think. I can’t do much about that. Beauty makes everything better. Do people deliberately leave their homes a mess when they’re having company? No, of course not! Your home shines because you want to make people feel welcome.

 

John: Using that logic, if someone’s yard isn’t perfectly manicured, or if the rugs are not vacuumed, then the people inside are not worth visiting?

 

Venus: There’s no way I would ever say such a thing!

 

John: That’s the natural extension of your thought process. I’m just making the leap.

 

Venus: [mouth open] You are one tough cookie!

 

John: [holds out a box of chocolate chip cookies] Did someone say cookie?

 

Venus: [eyes light up] Awwww…that’s so kind of you. Thank you! [munches cookie]. So where were we again?

 

John: That you have a tendency to focus on the outer beauty rather than the inner beauty. If it looks good, in your world it IS good. Is that a fair statement?

 

Venus: I was hoping for a nicer way to say it, but I guess that’s better than…well, what you were saying about non-beautiful people. [pauses] Could I have another cookie?

 

John: Absolutely, Venus. Please help yourself.

Interview with Venus, Part 3

John: Venus, my readers need the whole truth. What is it exactly that you don’t want to say?

 

Venus: Well, generally speaking I view work as a…as a four-letter word.

 

John: [nods] Go on, please.

 

Venus: I’d really prefer not to have to do it at all.

 

John: Not work? [chuckles] I mean…wouldn’t we all prefer to not work?

 

Venus: [smiles] You’re right, John. That would be amazing.

 

John: Not realistic, but awesome, nonetheless.

 

Venus: Right. I’m about things that people want. No one WANTS to work, right?

 

John: Perhaps in your mind, Venus, that is true. But I know a few who actually enjoy it.

 

Venus: You don’t say? WOW. I guess it does take all kinds. But as far as actually doing things goes, I’m not a fan. It’s a lot easier when what you want is handed to you.

 

John: I can see how you would feel that way. But while we’re on the subject of challenges for you, I need to bring up something…potentially unpleasant.

 

Venus: [stares] If there’s no other way…

 

John: Everybody adores you, Venus. But we all have our faults. You mentioned not wanting to work, essentially saying you enjoy laziness. That took a lot of courage.  Now we also need to discuss the polite lie.

 

Venus: [exasperated] Oh…not that AGAIN? Do we really have to?

 

John: Unfortunately, we do.

 

Venus: That was an extremely unpleasant situation between Mercury and I this past year. I was just trying to be nice to Saturn and everything was taken out of context.

 

John: Can you recap what happened, briefly?

 

Venus: Well, I tried to tell Saturn that Jupiter looked forward to working with him, and it made Saturn happy, even though Jupiter really didn’t say that.

 

John: What did Jupiter actually say?

 

Venus: Nothing of the sort, really. But I thought it would do Saturn some good. He has a tendency to be a little bit gloomy and I expected it would cheer him up.

 

John: So, you…invented a pleasant story to make someone feel better. Does that sound correct?

 

Venus: John, you could make it sound a little less…nefarious.

 

John: I was going for neutral, Venus. But I’m not going to sugarcoat it, even if I am talking to the planet of sweetness.

 

Venus: [huffy] That’s so mean…why don’t you just tell everyone now about how I’m also the diabetes planet?

 

John: Well, medical astrologers do associate you with diabetes, but that’s way too far along for my audience. So, we’ll just stick with the basics. And technically, you just told them. I didn’t.

 

Venus: [sigh] I guess that’s fair. I didn’t think this interview would be unpleasant.

 

John: I’m trying hard to keep it honest, but I don’t want to disparage any planet, you included. [checks iPad notes] So let’s return to the polite lie. What is its purpose?

 

Venus: I don’t like it being called a lie.

 

John:  A pleasant fiction, then. Would that work?

 

Venus: I guess it would. [pauses] The truth hurts sometimes. And I never want to hurt anyone’s feelings. As such, I will occasionally bend the truth somewhat to make things more cordial. I prefer a win-win in all things, where everyone walks away happy.

 

John: I agree. Maybe we could use an example?

 

Venus: [nods] Let’s say you walk into a clothing store. You spend a lot of time picking out a few outfits to try on. Some fit better than others, but there’s one that really catches your eye. You think it might be a stretch, but the salesperson assures you it looks wonderful on you. Your day is made. You buy the outfit and take it home, and when you wear it for the first time, you do so with confidence. Happy ending for all!

 

John: On the surface that sounds good. But does the outfit actually look wonderful on me?

 

Venus: [shrugs shoulders] Maybe? Honestly, I don’t know. But the salesperson has embraced my energy and made you feel good about yourself.

 

John: Right. And the salesperson has made a sale, possibly on commission.

 

Venus: Maybe so.

 

John: I walk away with an outfit that might not actually look amazing on me, the store makes money, and I’ve convinced myself that it enhances me. Does that sound right?

 

Venus: Yes, that’s exactly it. So, in the end it really doesn’t matter, right, because when you wear those clothes out, you’ll feel confident!

 

John: [pauses] I see. And I have a much better idea of your perspective now.

Venus: You sound a little dissatisfied with my answer, John. [frowns] I’m sorry it didn’t please you.

 

John: You are who you are, Venus. It’s not up to me to agree or disagree. I’m here to talk about you and how you operate.

Interview with Venus, Part 2

John: [consults iPad] So you’ve alluded to the one big part of your job, and that’s what everyone knows about: You as the planet of love and pleasure. But most people don’t know about your other job. Could you enlighten our audience about that?

 

Venus: Well, if Mercury we’re here, he’d probably say, “Well, to be precise, it’s really just the one job.” [laughs] I adore that man…so smart and quick-witted! Anyway, I am also one of the planets in the Zodiac that deals with money and business matters. Lots of people don’t know that, but it’s a big part of my portfolio.

 

John: So how do you get both love and money? Isn’t love enough?

 

Venus: Well, my dear sir, love is amazing and awesome, and money is pretty cool, too. If we look at it a different way, though, they’re both part of the same idea.

 

John: We’re getting close to melting a few brains, Venus. Perhaps some examples would be good?

 

Venus: Whatever you think will work! Let’s start with the idea of desire, because that’s really where it’s at. I show people what they want, not just in other people, but in things. Some people are into shoes, or clothes, or handbags, and clothing and luxury items are certainly associated with me. But what if you’re into power tools, or video games, or technology, or food? If you want it, then my job is to tell you that. Just like you have a certain type of person, you also have a certain type of leisure activity. Your money pays for that leisure activity, so it’s under my influence.

 

John: Fascinating!

 

Venus: And why do we like power tools or gadgets or kittens? That’s another part of the equation for me, and it’s about value. I will tell you what you value. What you buy, believe it or not, is an extension of your values. If you like and value something, you spend your time and money on it.

 

John: That makes it a lot clearer, thank you. Are there any other basic concepts you want to highlight before we dive into the details?

 

Venus: Just one more, if I could. Attraction is another area that I dominate. And I’m not just talking about physical attraction, though that is part of it. Tell me…why do you make sure your resume looks fantastic when you submit it to a potential employer?

 

John: Because if it looks good, it…attracts the employer?

 

Venus: YES! And a big part of my job is bringing people together. I love linking people up, whether it’s at work, at home, on the dance floor, or for a spa day! Our relationships are the best part of our lives—our friends, our co-workers, and our romantic partners.

 

John: Certainly. [consults iPad] Let’s go back to the resume example. Would you admit that a resume enhances my look for a potential employer and improves the chances of us having a working relationship?

 

Venus: That’s exactly it! You are an extension of that piece of paper, and don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. People will sometimes get a job purely based on it. Now, when we talk about actually performing said job? Well that’s not my area. In fact…well, maybe I’d best not say that.

Interview with Venus, Part 1

John: Ladies and gentlemen, today I’m so thrilled to have Venus with me to talk about her incredibly important role in the astrological planets. [to Venus] Thanks so much for taking the time to join me! I know you have a lot on your plate right now, with your upcoming retrograde.

 

Venus: It’s such a pleasure to be here, John. It truly is! [looks around] This is such a nice environment you’ve set up for me, too. Very kind of you. This leather chair is lovely!

 

John: Well, my main concern was that you feel welcomed and comfortable. [pauses to look at notes] So, tell me…how does it feel to be the astrological planet people know the most about? Generally speaking, people do have an idea of what you do.

 

Venus: I’m so glad you asked! I love that people know me. It warms my heart so much.

 

John: And it’s safe to say that you’re the planet people love the most, too. Has that also been your experience?

 

Venus: Absolutely! I’m blessed because so many people look forward to me and the experiences I bring. And that actually brings me to a particular point, before I forget.

 

John: Certainly, Venus. The floor is yours.

 

Venus: Thank you. I need to tell people who sorry I am for everything that’s going on in the world right now. There has been so much hardship!

 

John: That’s very kind of you to say.

 

Venus: One of my most basic jobs is to show people what they want, and some people call me “the pleasure center of the Zodiac.” Right now, with most of the world closed due to this terrible virus, a lot of people are unable to do the things that give them pleasure, whether it’s a pleasant night out at a restaurant or club, vacation at their favorite spot, attend a conference they were really looking forward to, or any of a thousand other activities.

John: You’re right. Most people have been forced to give up a lot of things, and people have had to find their fun in different ways.

 

Venus: I will say that people are becoming very creative about what to do stuck at home, and that’s another area that I’m known for. But I really do feel for everyone. Disappointment is not something I do well with. And don’t think I didn’t see that you had to cancel your 25^th anniversary trip to Paris, either. I’m really sorry about that!

 

John: It’s OK, Venus. There are people making far greater sacrifices than I am, but I appreciate the sentiment.

 

Venus: What I’m really happy about is that people are showing their gratitude for the people and things that they normally take for granted. I love the inclusion of everyone! No one should feel like an outsider or “less than” anyone else. Ever! That’s the worst feeling in the world!

 

John: I totally agree.