Gemini, 2017 begins with your Ruling Planet Mercury in Retrograde until January 7. So let’s begin there. This is one of those rare years which has four, not three, periods of Mercury RX. And folks, we have a theme! The pattern is that Mercury starts off in a practical, productive Earth sign, but then returns to the previous Fire sign where creative inspiration and energy are fueled. There’s a back and forth, a refining of process on multiple layers or over many iterations. This suggests that if and when the practical matters you’re applying yourself to are not working out, the solution may be to go back to the laboratory for a fresh round of ideas, networking, research and information gathering. Then give it another go. The result will be the perfected, detailed plan you seek.

 

It’s worth learning if you are a person born with Mercury Retrograde. One in five people are. These folks generally have an easier time coping with the regularly occurring Mercury RX periods we all experience. They’re more amenable to the revisions that this process requires.

Gemini’s net is cast far and wide, but current conditions call for an evolution of this way of thinking. Truthfully, you’re in the middle of a process of mental evolution that has been going on for years, and is regularly stoked by visits of your Ruling Planet to slower, stronger planets. This forces you to reconsider and deepen your hastily-reached thoughts and beliefs. One such event occurs at the very end of January. Embrace and run with any brain-exploding insights you receive at this time. Your new perspective could well create unexpected and “exciting” upheaval in your circle of friends. Changes of mind will necessarily shift the like-minded people you hang out with, and that’s important for Gemini.

The last ten days of March could be quite aggravating. You’re ready to present an idea or concept you’ve been working on. But when you do, things don’t go the way you’d planned. Perhaps you’ve got a bad case of nerves and the presentation isn’t smooth. Possibly someone or something else disrupts the meeting, or you blurt out an awkward answer to a question. Some higher up is offended and viola! All the ongoing, subterranean tensions at home, office or wherever are exposed. Thank you, Messenger of the Gods.

It’s enough to make you go back to your cave, which you do when Mercury goes Retrograde April 9 – May 3. You emerge with some truly radical thinking. You’re ready to speak your truth and you really don’t care what anyone else thinks.

The last week of June is another potentially explosive period for you, Gemini. You’re riled up, and filled with an intensity you don’t usually possess. There’s a polarizing person in your environment, and you’ve just about had it. Talking head that you are, anger and discontent reveal themselves through sarcasm or biting humor. You must be careful not to cut others with your words, even (or especially!) behind their backs. Instead of devolving into a fray of frazzled, pissed off loathing, keep active. Get lots and lots of exercise. Refrain from nasty jokes, and use self-deprecation and redirection to defuse a tense situation rather than aggravate it.

Stay close to home from August 12 – September 5 when both Mercury Retrograde and a big eclipse land in your House of Siblings and Neighbors, amplifying matters there. This is the time to support your local businesses, finally get a library card, or arrange a visit with a brother or sister. Do be careful the first two weeks of September not to jump too hastily to conclusions. You can also be quite argumentative during this time or simply experience a lot of nervous mental and physical stimulation. You know what to do. And it doesn’t involve talking!

Dark, suspicious thoughts overtake you October 9 – 15. If you’re not careful, this could trigger feelings of paranoia or episodes of black humor that make others very uncomfortable. Watch for tell tale signs of nervous looks and shifting feet in your audience! You may even trigger someone or create a situation unawares. This is all part of the process of you becoming more and more aware of your mental processes and the behavior that they feed.

An excellent period comes at the end of November, when you suddenly recognize totally new uses for old objects or processes. There’s a flash of insight, a “Eureka!” moment, followed by a delighted laugh. Amaze and delight your friends with this new idea, concept or product. Then take it to the bank!

Mercury makes its final retrograde from December 2 – 22, and this happens in your House of Relationship. It’s not the best time to make your mark on the world, but it IS a favorable month to express yourself to others in speech, writing or any medium whatsoever. Connect with each person close to you by telling them of a favorite memory that you share. What a wonderful way for the Child of Mercury to end 2017!

By Linea Van Horn