August 2nd looms as an important date for all of us here in the United States and, in a larger sense, the world at large. Not because of the debacle in Washington but, rather of a potent event in the stars. I am speaking, of course, of the impending Mercury Retrograde. This is the second of these retrogrades that will occur during 2011.

Mercury retrogrades can (and often do) have a profound impact on our ability to communicate thoughts and emotions across a broad spectrum. This particular retrograde promises to be exceptionally potent as it confounds and confuses situations and feelings already on edge.

The term “retrograde” refers to a planet’s motion appearing to go backwards through a given astrological sign. While planets do not actually rotate backwards, the relationships between the Earth and the planets create this kind of astrological configuration. The time period of a retrograde can run between three to four weeks.  The August 2nd retrograde will again go “direct” on August 26th at 2:04 p.m. This particular retrograde will occur during the astrological month of Leo and invoices Mercury in Virgo and Leo.

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. Astrologically, the Messenger governs all forms of communication, intelligence and reason, commerce, and travel.

Mercury retrogrades highlight disruptions in all kinds of communications. From missed messages and connections, garbled meanings, ambiguous responses, interference with devices that enhance communication, i.e., cell phones, the Internet, all forms of electronic media and the like, the ability to impart ideas and information will be negatively impacted. Deception and trickery also come to fore during the Messenger’s reward march.

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.  During this time period try to avoid undertaking any new projects. Also, if strong personal issues develop, be aware that your words and deeds may be misconstrued; similarly, be aware that the messages and information you receive may also be different from what was intended.

This particular Mercury retrograde is occurring during a period where Neptune, Uranus and Pluto are all in retrograde motion. The instability of governments and institutions, the unexpected twists and turns – both a on a global and on a personal level, combined with the wrath of the Sea King on the planet’s weather and waters – will all be impacted by confused and chaotic miscommunications, misunderstandings and mental confusion.

Pay close attention to what you say and how others react. If you feel uncertain or uncomfortable with a situation – ask questions. Ironically, sometimes reducing communication to a more basic level is precisely the way to make certain that the information gets through. 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?”

Mercury Retrogrades are always challenging and this one on our horizon is particularly so. It is wise to remember the adage from the tribes of the Caucasian Mountain: “Courage is the ability to endure for one moment longer”.  And so, during this next backward pass of the Messenger, we must hold to our beliefs and that this, too, will pass and once again move us forward.

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Tags: Astrology, mercury retrograde