Mercury Retrograde in Sagittarius
The final retrograde of Mercury unfolds in the sign of the cosmic archer in the three weeks between November 25th and December 15th.
Fittingly, this time of year is often a moment of pause and reflection on the year gone by. Mercury knows what he’s doing—the archetypal God of intellect has thought this through. His annual retrograde at this point is a powerful opportunity to renew, review, reflect, and reset.
In Sagittarius, this retrograde may feel scattered. Mercury is known to be in his ‘detriment’ here, indicating that the powers of logic may not be on our side. Words may spill out unwittingly, tactlessly, thoughtlessly, as we attempt to enthusiastically convey what we know to be our truth; yet, our truth is often not the same as another’s.
Instead of moving into the shadow expression of Sagittarius—self-righteousness - creating a space of understanding, of reflection, of kindness and reconciliation—will be key to avoiding the potential blowouts that any retrograde in a fire sign can bring. Especially considering that Mars, the archetypal planet of War, also goes retrograde on December 6th in the sign of the Lion(ess). If we wish to prevent an all-out war, we will need to pick our battles wisely.
Mercury visits three planets three times pre, during, and post retrograde.
The first of these is a trine to Chiron, the Wounded Healer. This invites a deep opportunity to use our words as healing balm, to speak our truth with clarity, wisdom, and a view of the bigger picture, with the intention to care for and advise rather than dominate or force. Occurring on November 19th, December 2, and December 31, this is a beautiful chance to reframe our perspectives and learn from our mistakes.
Mercury will also dance with bigger-picture Jupiter in Gemini on November 18, December 4, and December 26. In mutual reception (in each other's ruling signs), this opposition invites the chance for philosophical dispute, the exchange of ideas, the maturing and deepening of knowledge and experience, of wisdom. Being open to the thoughts of others without losing sight of the overall perspective is crucial lest we become lost in ideals. Hot air and a know-it-all attitude never helped anyone.
Finally, Mercury meets with structured Saturn on November 12, December 6, and December 27. This square may cast a shadow of doubt on our willingness to share our words, to share our opinions. Like a mild stranglehold, Saturn’s energy may throw us into a storm of cataclysmic projection, the only way out being looking at the future through a realistic lens rather than a harshly negative one. Finishing projects, wrapping up a year’s mental work—this is the best way to use the firm hand of Saturn.
One thing is sure—even if our minds are wayward and our communication halted, Sagittarian wisdom and joy will prevail. No matter how confusing things get, this is the sign known to land on its feet, time and time again.
