Articles

Mercury the Messenger - Communication and Touch - Nov–Dec 2007

Different people communicate in different ways and styles. In astrology, the planet Mercury can tell us a lot about how our mind works. Depending on the way we are wired mentally, our ideas, our ability to express them, and our communication skills vary widely. Some people have the ability to absorb information quickly. Others get lost in the details. Some can see the big picture. And yet others have their intellectual intelligence colored by emotion. These are examples of different ways Mercury is embodied. Mercury’s placement in the heavens at the time of our birth tells us how we deliver and receive information.

Mercury, a Roman name, was known as Hermes in Greek mythology. Hermes was one of many gods, the son of Zeus. He had wings on his feet and head to help swiftly deliver information. He was a great orator and teacher and possessed an active intelligence. His primary function was to separate man from the animal world through communication and reason. Mercury the planet is the hottest, fastest, and smallest of our solar family. It is the closest planet to the Sun and has an average daytime temperature of 760 degrees F. Mercury travels at 108,000 miles per hour and makes eighty-eight days to go around the Sun. It is not much larger than our Moon. Mercury is the messenger, not the message! It is important not to confuse the two. Why? Because our style of communication may not, in certain cases, be effective in conveying our message. It is vital to understand the messenger within us so we can skillfully touch others with our interactions.

I recently returned from an astrology conference where several accomplished astrologers
presented cutting edge techniques. It was interesting to observe that the information didn’t
always reach everyone. In some cases, it was the presenter, and in others, it was the listener. It
was a matter of style: Mercury reflected differently in each person.

On October 11th, Mercury turned retrograde in Scorpio, where it remained until November 1st;
its final retrograde cycle of 2007. Remember, “retrograde” means a planet appearing to move
backwards from our earthly perspective. Mercury retrograde creates a window of time to review
situations before we again move forward. In Scorpio, Mercury manifests itself in deeper, more
serious investigation. It may be worthwhile to reflect back on those few weeks and take note of
how your communication and thoughts were being expressed and experienced. How did you
touch others? It is only though our personal observation that we can learn to understand our
relationships. In this practice we can find our connection to heaven it as we experience our daily
life.

In this issue I will pay a little more attention on the signs of Sagittarius, which this year begins
November 23 and ends December 23, and Capricorn, which takes reign until January 21. Enjoy!

Aries – Relationships demand more of your mental attention. You are starting a new chapter. It
may be useful to bring in professional counsel. Clear communications will help you to negotiate
any conflicts. It will yield the results you want. Just remember to take a moment and think
before you speak.

Taurus – It’s all in the details for you, Taurus. This is an excellent time to talk with your
associates about any stumbling blocks or new office procedures. Use this period to renegotiate
contracts. Also, you now have terrific opportunities to learn new skills useful in the workplace.
Gemini - Take some creative risks in expressing your ideas. Add a bit of flamboyance to your
mental gymnastics. There’s a good chance this will really pay off in December. Perhaps a trip
to the museum, library, or beach can provide inspiration? Words often come easy to you. Use
them with flare!

Cancer – Don’t put off redecorating your favorite areas in your home or office. Your
environment reflects your inner space. Redesign, update, and have fun doing it. Seek helpful
ideas from others. Actively create a place that nurtures romance in your life. You will be glad
you did!

Leo – Use this period to sensitively state your needs and wishes to those closest to you. Ask
and, indeed, you shall receive. Simply be aware of what it is you are truly asking. It is a
wonderful time for entertaining guests. Your heart is in your home and hearth. Reaffirm your
priorities.

Virgo – If you have been thinking of writing a publication or speaking publicly don’t hesitate
any longer. The stars will shine as you take your place at center stage. Take advantage of the
resources available within your reach. They are more valuable than you now imagine.

Libra - During the next couple of months make time to examine and reassess your personal and
financial resources. You are primed to make some constructive and overdue changes. Use your
current assets wisely. Taking a few small but thoughtful steps can ensure long term success.
Scorpio – This is an auspicious time for you. Begin by enthusiastically embracing the gifts of
this new solar cycle. Transformation is the name of your game. Water the seeds you wish to
nurture. Allow the weeds to die. Empower yourself with the realization of your dreams!

Sagittarius – So far, Sag, this year has been very full and good for you! Take a moment to catch
your breath. Give yourself down time for reflection. By reviewing where you have been you
can plan more carefully where you are going. Re-align yourself with your vision. Allow dreams
and images to rise from the depths, rather than hunt them down “sag” style. For now, practice
“being”, not “doing”. Nature and meditation are your restorative allies. Invite then into your
life!

Capricorn - Friends and associates can be very supportive in your spiritual journey. Through
discovering similarities and honoring the differences you can bridge the gap between yourself
and others. Kind and humorous communications will get you further. Group involvement will
enhance your ability to achieve your goals. There is a wave of activity headed your way come
the end of December. Position yourself so the current and tide will take you where you want to
go. Don’t exhaust yourself. Enjoy!

Aquarius – There is much activity in your professional arena. Focus your attention on the
exciting opportunities coming your way. New projects promise to be stimulating and rewarding.
Avoid workaholic tendencies. Take care of your health and commit to physical exercise.
Cultivate your spiritual sobriety.

Pisces – Travel, short and far, seems to be on the horizon during the next couple of months. This
is a time meant to be educational and meaningful for the future. Don’t squander your energy,
attention, or resources. Act wisely now for your future is pregnant with unimagined
possibilities!

Dear Reader, I welcome your questions, comments and feedback. I am available for
consultations in person or by phone. I look forward to hearing from you! I can be reached at
(530) 520-9992, e-mailed at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. ., or visit
www.WisdomAstrology.com.