The sun has now moved into Gate 39, PROVOCATION. In the I-Ching this hexagram is called OBSTRUCTION.

This is a very PROVOCATIVE energy in many ways and it goes both ways. People feel poked and prodded by this energy, which is not always a comfortable feeling. It is a catalyst for stirring up emotions. Sometimes people with this energy find themselves baffled by the reaction they are getting from others. Or not, because every now and then they knowingly poke the bear. OR, on occasion they may actually feel irrationally PROVOKED by other people. Because all energies go both ways.

Many people with this energy are highly creative and musically gifted, PROVOKING emotional responses in various creative ways. Frida Kahlo was defined by the sun in Gate 39.

As with all gates, there is the low expression of PROVOCATION as well. This can manifest as a fear of lack, whether that lack be materialistic or about the fundamental things we need to sustain ourselves. Someone with this energy might compulsively shop for food or clothes. An empty fridge can result in a panicky feeling of not having enough, not ever having enough. Hoarding could be an issue for the unaware. But the personal journey of this aspect of PROVOCATION is to find peace in the knowledge that the universe will provide whatever we need; to learn to trust in abundance that isn't forced.

Ultimately, this energy is meant to be the PROVOCATION for emotional and spiritual growth.

So while the theme of PROVOCATION is in the air, why not consider exactly how this plays out in your life. Do you find yourself easily PROVOKED into anger or hurt feelings by the behavior or words of others? Do you unnecessarily poke and prod the people in your life and take pleasure in their discomfort? Or is it pleasure in their opportunity for growth? Is it possible to consider those moments when you are irrationally hurt or angry as opportunities to jump start your own personal growth? What is it exactly about that particular scab or OBSTRUCTION in your psyche that needs to be addressed and maybe even liberated? The people in your life who have this energy defined are here to bring that gift to you.

You may also see the energy of PROVOCATION playing out in the news. Lord knows, the current political climate is all about PROVOKING the other side. But why can't this tendency also be about PROVOKING an emotional or mental breakthrough to a higher consciousness for our society? An opportunity for growth?

All of that said, PROVOCATION does not need to be this heavy. PROVOCATIVE energy can also be sexy and flirty. Think Jessica Rabbit and the multitude of double takes she garnered from her costars. Fun right? Maybe the best thing to do during this transit is to lighten things up and play a little. Get in touch with your inner vamp and give your partner a thrill. Or not.

I was going to say don't do anything I wouldn't do. But you do you boo. We all have our part to play.