U.C.M. Newsletter of Joy, Humor, Laughter, and Inspiration
Editor: Rev. Doti Boon
Volume 8 page 37 (09-10-09)
Fractal Art, Minister Steve Waites
AFFIRMATION
I am in charge of my destiny –
by being aware and observant of all things.
Sept. 7th Mercury went retrograde
What is Mercury retrograde?
Every four months, Mercury stops and turns retrograde for approximately 22 days. The retrograde cycles occur in zodiacal order, by element. (There are four elements in astrology – Air, Fire, Water and Earth.)
The planet Mercury does not go backwards in the sky, it just looks like it does. A simplified astronomical explanation would be; when a planet moves around the Sun and “catches up” with, and passes the Earth, that planet looks like it is moving backwards. Have you ever been in a car and felt like you were going backwards as another car passed yours? Basically it is the same effect.
When Mercury is retrograde it is the closest to the planet, thereby activating Mercurial themes.
Mercury is the planet that represents the ability to think, what occupies the mind, language, writing, Magick, the Hermetic Arts, and all forms of communication.
But it is also a trickster planet and during the retrograde period, even if you thought you understood what was said, ask again!
Mercury retrograde is a great time to finish projects that have been sitting in the garage…or cleaning the garage, to finish that short story or to dream a new idea into this reality.
It is a good time to review, re-do, recalibrate, rethink, revise, rewrite…any word that has “re”, is applicable…and does well here.
“Re”laying messages; Speaking for those who can’t speak or voice their opinion…including our furry brethren!
“Re”minding our politicians who they work for!
Classically, “what not to do” or to “avoid if possible” during Mercury retrograde:
1. signing contracts
2. initializing or finalizing projects
3. surgery
4. repairs
5. travel
But life does not stop when Mercury is retrograde. Some people have to sign documents. If you must…triple check the documents. Ask lots of questions.
Some people need to travel, so travel with carry on luggage only and expect delays.
Get second opinions about surgery and be diligent with check ups. Be your own advocate!
Double check the quality of repair jobs before paying.
It is now a tradition not to buy electronic goods during this time. It does seem that equipment purchased whilst Mercury is retrograde does have a higher need for repair and resetting.
Mercury retrograde in Libra
Libra occupies the 7th house of the natural chart in Western astrology. The, “natural chart”, means that Aries, (Spring Equinox), is always on the first house cusp.
The 7th house represents relationships, marriage, and partnerships of all kinds, including business.
Yup, you got it; reevaluating and reflecting on personal relationships, being in integrity when judging others, and as well as the weighing and balancing of responsibilities to others. All of this will be up for “Re”-view.
Mercury goes stationary on the 3rd of September at 6 degrees of Libra, staying on this degree until the 9th of September; technically goes stationary retrograde on the 7th.
Taking everything into consideration, the entire month of September is under the influence of Mercury retrograde!
“Is Mercury Retrograde bad?”
The answer is “No”! Mercury retrograde brings awareness, painful at times, but awareness. If you figure out what is affected in your life and you do the work, it usually comes out alright.
One caveat…even if you do the work but you are living or working with someone who doesn’t, you may get caught in the energetics of their “stuff”.
Things for you to find out:
Do you have planets from 19 – 30 Virgo or 0 – 9 Libra?
1. Where does Libra live in your chart? What house?
2. Since Libra is ruled by Venus, look to see what is happening to your natal Venus and what transiting Venus is doing in your chart.
3. What is the ruler of your 7th house? What is aspecting it?
I hope this has helped you understand Mercury retrograde a little more!
Submitted by Elizabeth Barton
If you have any questions please contact her at info@elizabethabarton.com or call her, 650 572-8850. www.elizabethabarton.com. The full transcript of this article can be read on the UCM Blog found at www.u-c-m.org, click on Read Our Blog.
“Worrying does not empty tomorrow of its trouble,
it empties today of its strength.”
A little boy was waiting for his mother to come out of the grocery store. As he waited, he was approached by a man who asked, “Son, can you tell me where the Post Office is?”
The little boy replied, “Sure! Just go straight down this street a coupla blocks and turn to your right.”
The man thanked the boy kindly and said, “I’m the new pastor in town. I’d like for you to come to church on Sunday. I’ll show you how to get to Heaven.”
The little boy replied with a chuckle. “Awww, come on… you don’t even know the way to the Post Office.”
Submitted by Maureen Christopher
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