.Mercury Retrograde Rewinds

For the week of October 24-30, 2007

Mercury Retrograde rewinds, daily life unwinds, regular routines dissolve, and moods — yours or others’ — reflect the stress. But aggravation isn’t the only feature of this retrograde mess. Call me crazy, but I’m sure there’s a pony hidden somewhere beneath the delays and interruptions. There must be, because despite the time-consuming snafus and constant need for repetition, it is still possible to concentrate and focus on what needs to be done. Yes, frustration and irritation are just a blink away. But the current retrograde, which lasts until late in the day on November 1, is supported by a variety of planetary patterns capable of providing the potential for thoughtful and thorough processes. Plodding progress, perhaps, but it’s still a pony, and it’s strong enough to help you ride out the rest of this retrograde feeling grounded in positive activity.

A Mars/Saturn sextile continues to provide the tether. Mars is the principle of energy, Saturn is the principle of discipline, and when they work together, they provide stamina. This combination also supplies patience, a valuable quality at all times, but especially helpful during a retrograde when the tendency to get distracted or diverted is at its peak. We’ve been under the influence of this positive sextile for the last several weeks, and now, even as it is waning, it continues to hold its weight.

That gravity is due to the Sun, which just entered Scorpio where it formed a sextile with Saturn, in Virgo. By the weekend, the Sun trines Mars, in Cancer. This entire bundle is sure to support the hustle and bustle of ambition. Just remember, nothing is moving forward quickly.

Unfortunately, the immediate need for patience collides with a deep sense of urgency about what lies ahead. From an astrological perspective, the next several months unfold through several complex patterns. (1) Mars is retrograde, in Cancer, from November 15 to January 30. Mars doesn’t like moving backward and because it’s not all that happy in Cancer, its retrograde is certain to cause more than a fair degree of commotion. (2) For the next three months, Pluto will move through the last degrees of Sagittarius, a transit that began in 1995. As part of that finale, we’re invited to review what’s transpired, individually and collectively, during the past thirteen years — a daunting task. But that’s not all. (3) On December 11, Jupiter conjuncts Pluto, in Sagittarius, amplifying, magnifying, exaggerating, and expanding that thirteen-year retrospective. These are just the broad strokes. Other components will color how the patterns play out.

Forewarned often means better prepared. Consider the current retrograde practice for the coming extended examination, and use it to cultivate patience, now.

If you know your Ascendant and/or your Moon Sign, read that, too.

Aries March 21-April 19

Previous partners, personal or professional, could suddenly appear, but don’t let that startle you into behavior you might later regret. While these encounters have the potential to ignite the past, they could just as easily spark a deep appreciation for the present.

Taurus April 20-May 20

Passionate conversations with friends shed light on persistent problems or difficulties you may be experiencing in a variety of settings. Even if you don’t like what you hear, listen carefully, and you’ll gather valuable information and insight.

Gemini May 21-June 21

A thousand details threaten to gobble up your time and energy, but you’re not in any danger of drowning in the mundane. Yes, certain situations feel endlessly repetitive, but that’s just because you haven’t found the appropriate solution.

Cancer June 22-July 22

Conversations about issues of value stimulate a wide range of emotions. From anger to grief to fear to joy, your emotional body is covering a lot of ground. Allow yourself to feel, deeply, but avoid lashing out at others in the intensity of the moment.

Leo July 23-August 22

Even if it is uncomfortable, reevaluate your finances. This is not necessarily about building a portfolio. It’s about knowing how you spend your money. Become intimate with why, what, and where, and you’ll find the information to improve your position.

Virgo August 23-September 22

The emphasis on owning your authority continues, as you are asked to take on additional responsibilities. While most of these opportunities are positive, overextension could easily lead to overwhelm and exhaustion.

Libra September 23-October 22

You’re right — your life is all work, all the time — but that doesn’t mean you have to become a workaholic. Take a break from the drudgery, relax and have fun, and you’ll return to your responsibilities with renewed energy and enthusiasm.

Scorpio October 23-November 21

The needs of significant others, personal and professional, clash with your need to be recognized for your contribution. Instead of seeking external validation, assess your work as objectively as possible and move on.

Sagittarius November 22-December 21

Accusing others wouldn’t be the wisest way to solidify your position, especially if you’re acting on intuition alone. So rather than being confrontational, weather the storm. Eventually, you’ll find the right time.

Capricorn December 22-January 19

Heated interactions with partners about money could escalate into situations that won’t go away, no matter how hard you try. Instead of pointing fingers, take responsibility for your part, and let the rest go until tempers cool down enough to handle criticism.

Aquarius January 20-February 18

Give yourself permission to be brilliant and share your creative ideas with friends, coworkers, and loved ones. Not every idea will take root, but you will be appreciated for your contribution.

Pisces February 19-March 20

Keep your dreams polished with active attention, and don’t despair about the time delays and energy detours. If you continue to believe you can transform your life, you will, especially if you’re able to view what’s happening now as part of a much longer process.

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