July/August 2006 Starscope
Mercury Retrograde Fireworks

by Mark Dodich

Mark Dodich

Just in time for summer, here comes another Mercury retrograde cycle. Before you let out a loud groan, know that there are ways to take advantage of this mentally frustrating cycle.

Mercury represents communications, short trips and educational activities. About three times each year, an optical illusion occurs where Mercury appears to move in a backwards direction. Many people experience computer problems, car repairs and schedules that change unexpectedly. Although you may think that your life is on hold during July, you are simply being called to rethink your ideas and plans.  

The July 4th holiday marks the beginning of this three-week cycle. Holiday travel plans require flexibility. Most Mercury problems are annoying rather than devastating. Fireworks displays or events may not work smoothly due to electronics problems, insufficient parking or workers who have their heads in the clouds.

Mercury begins its retrograde cycle in fiery Leo and ends it on July 28th in nurturing Cancer. Be extra careful this year if you are playing with fireworks, building a camp fire or traveling to an area that is prone to fire problems. Give yourself extra space with people who have excessive ego behavior patterns as they are likely to explode.

Take advantage of this cycle by sneaking away for a few days. As Mercury moves backwards into emotional Cancer, you can travel to a watery place, remodel your home or have a family reunion barbeque.

It is important to be flexible during Mercury retrograde. If everyone brings macaroni salad to your barbeque (Cancer likes comfort food), then enjoy a pasta fiesta rather than complaining about the imbalance.

July’s Mercury retrograde cycle helps you to step back from the daily routines of your life, making room for a much bigger perspective to your life. The Leo part of this cycle opens you to passionate creativity and fun. The Cancer part of this cycle asks you to nurture yourself and those who are closest to you. Together you can make a plan that takes your heart-warming vision to the world in a way that also takes care of you.

But before you get to the passionate and creative opportunities that are being created for you, you must first tend to emotional needs. Feeling good about yourself before taking on the next life project will improve results by autumn.

Mark Dodich has been a professional astrologer and intuitive consultant since 1980. He is a Certified Astrological Professional (CAP) and runs a busy international practice from his home base in Portland, Oregon. For a Free Astrology Primer, email mark@astromark.us with PRIMER in the subject line. For a free copy of his ASTROMARK newsletter, call 503-252-1558 or check out www.astromark.us