Sunday, May 8, 2011

When Planets Move Backwards

By Lou Raedwulfe


This year Mercury will go into retrograde 3 times: March 30th, August 2nd and November 23rd. It usually presents us with various problems, not the least of which is communications. It can also affect electronics, short distance travel and relationships in general. It is generally a time when misunderstandings can easily occur.

The 'retrograde' motion of a planet refers to what appears to us in the sky as the planet actually moving backwards. Planets do not really move backwards, however, from where we stand, they appear that way. Retrogrades usually last approximately 3 to 4 weeks in length before the planet starts to move 'forward' again.

Mercury, the Messenger of the Gods, carried messages from the Immortals. To the ancient Romans, he also was the God of Commerce. When Roman and Greek cultures merged in roughly the 4th century B.C., Mercury became associated with the Greek deity, Hermes with the same aspects and images. In astrology, Mercury denotes communication in all forms; personal, commercial, psychical, etc., as well as, anything involving communication. Mercury also governs intelligence and the rational mind.

Communications during a Mercury Retrograde can really play havoc in your personal life, as well as, on the job. Avoid gossip and arguments all together. Your computer could have glitches or your cell phone suddenly starts dropping calls. During this time period, it is important to think before you speak and choose your words carefully, whether you are just talking, texting or sending an email.

Obviously misunderstandings caused by communication problems make this a daunting and frustrating period. While the retrograde itself cannot be avoided, the most negative aspects can be reduced. First and foremost, be aware that information you are trying to send (or expecting to receive) may be late, garbled, or even lost.

Most people have good intentions when communicating, however, the things they say you may take the wrong way. You may find that you say something and the person you are talking to takes it the wrong way. Just know that it is probably not intentional.

When things are obviously not going your way and frustration is overwhelming, yes, you are at the effect of Mercury in Retrograde. Everything seems to be way too slow. Bickering at home or on the job is also a sign that relationships in general are not going smoothly. Going with the flow in this case means crawling at Mercury's pace until this lively planet starts chugging forward again.

On the larger world stage, be prepared for conflicting versions, misunderstanding and events that may leave you scratching your head and wondering "What were they thinking?" Government figures and nations may have a more difficult time during this period, especially if they are in any type of negotiations.

Mercury Retrogrades are challenging to be sure, but you can survive them. And, as always, the Wheel will turn direct and the clouds which obscured thought and communication will disperse to the dawn of a new day.




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