How Will Mars Retrograde in Cancer and Gemini in November, December 2007 and January 2008 Affect Everyone - Pt. 2

by Robert Wilkinson

Today we continue examining Mars retrograde and how it's manifesting in people's lives. I've noted that many are suffering more intensely lately due to a variety of very complex feelings coming up. It seems that there's more despair, more of a sense that things are slipping backwards with extreme personal feelings pervading the atmosphere.

The charge seems to be around needs not being taken care of. For some, it's disappointment that someone else isn't taking care of them. For others, it's a time to see how they need to shift their work habits to take better care of themselves or others.

It also seems that there is a lot of over-reacting to things, but also delayed actions that could help solve the problem that is creating the difficulty. Be alert to struggles coming up as a result of projecting old hassles onto present relationships, and take a new look at whatever aggravates you that you've been carrying from the past. Definitely show patience and willingness to care for what must be cared for, without getting hassled by the need for nurture, either to you or from you.

If there are resentments, hostility, or grudges present, remember it has its roots in the past. It might not have much to do with the person or situation you're confronting, but if it does, then it's an overdue account that must be dealt with. Try to be mature in your responses, and not react simply because your needs haven't been fulfilled as you want, or aggressive in demanding that someone take care of business that may not be theirs at all.

Mars in Cancer is "active defense." When retrograde, it may show as this energy turned inward, either against the self or in new habits of how we take care of what we REALLY care about. It could be a good time for re-feeling our defenses, and seeing whether our energies are serving our need for security.

It can show us how we've acted defensively in the past and do a turnaround, or show us why we needed to take care of ourselves and others due to old aggressive situations and people "returning to the scene of the crime." It could also show as old needs that were denied in childhood forming the basis of defensiveness or prickly feelings in the present.

We were given signals about how this would manifest, and what issues would be on the table, back in June 2007 when Mercury went retrograde in this span. To see how this influence works, please take a new look at How Astrology Works - Mercury Retrograde in Cancer Heralding Mars Retrograde 2007-2008.

You can also find a lot of useful information in the related articles Mercury Retrograde in Cancer in June-July 2007, Part 1 - A Look Back Anticipating the Future and Mercury Retrograde Astrology in June-July 2007 Pt. 2 - What It Means For Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius and Pisces, since the insights we gained then are profoundly impacting whatever we are or will experience the next several weeks.

Part 3 of this series we'll examine the specifics of this span of the zodiac to know more about the qualities around the period coming. It will be a very strong period, with reviewing and renewing of decisions, undoing some things that haven't developed as they should have up to now, and perhaps eventually rethinking what we want to exteriorize and how we choose to do so.

For more about Mars retrograde, please check out Mars Retrograde in Cancer and Gemini in November, December 2007 and January 2008 - Pt. 1

Here's the one that follows Part 2: What is the Quality of the Mars Retrograde in Cancer and Gemini in November - December 2007 and January 2008? - Pt. 3

© Copyright 2007 Robert Wilkinson

Comments

[abacus]

The nuances of such a movement are very well captured here Robert. It is good to make the time for all the unseen unheard things, but definitely being felt. Thank you !

[Robert]

Hi abacus - You're most welcome, of course. I trust that these articles can help cut through the fog of supposition and give everyone some reference points so they may understand this natural phenomenon freed of fear, doubt, and other ego-confusions. We're all feeling a lot! The trick is how to handle them and bring personal meaning out of the myriad of inferences.

[Elizabeth]

Thanks Robert,

Very interesting. I have an explosive family situation at hand and am wondering what I can do to bring balance back. Any suggestions?
5/28/63; 6:50pm; Camden, NJ

Greatly appreciated! Nothing like the past grudges coming back (just in time for the holidays) to make everyone prickly! Yikes.

Elizabeth

[Robyn]

is this what's happening now or last month or the month before?

i totally know the active defense.

...."'returning to the scene of the crime.' It could also show as old needs that were denied in childhood forming the basis of defensiveness or prickly feelings in the present."

ROBERT: this has been activated in my brain for a while now... what i've felt about my mother and how IRONICALLY.. this other person in my life has cast the same (insert unavailable word to describe the parallel here) that my mother has in my childhood... AND THEY'RE BOTH ARIES. but the thing is i'm not the one on the active defense. the other person is. but i find myself reacting to his reaction the way i would if my mother yelled at me.

i twist. turn. fight. question. play nice and then disappear.

[Imke]

Dear Robert,

Have not said hi in a while, but have been trying to follow your wonderful insights as often as I could…and being very grateful for your generosity of sharing your knowledge and time with everybody. I hope you are doing well?

Your Mars Rx info is very interesting, esp since Mars is opposing my natal Mars (12degrees 05 Capricorn, 11house) and is turning around exactly on my natal Saturn (13degrees03, 5th House) – somehow that looks as if things are going to be difficult with that configuration, but probably an important time? Just that I cannot figure out exactly what it is that I need to learn from this?
As this is all happening in my 5th house (creativity) it must have quite an impact on my life in some way, since I am an artist. Lately I have been more involved in organizing
art projects for others than doing my own art, and feel slightly caught in that situation, wishing I could ‘run away’ of those responsibilities and do my art again. Although the other stuff promises to pay the bills… Will this transit and Rx be helpful to sort out what I need to do and what I can do and what I should do? Or will it just make things more difficult?

Would appreciate your insights on this, since I can generally grasp the overall idea, but find it difficult to apply it to my own situation. :o)
Thank you so much!!!
(7Feb1975, 7h20am, Windhoek, Namibia)

[lori(soo)]

Hi Robert,
Thanks for the brilliant insights into this Mars Rx cycle and for your reply to my query in the Scorpio new moon comment stream. It seems like another intense time is upon us and I'm wondering if you would be interested in addressing the exalted, warrior symbology that Mars possesses. I think we would all benefit by being aware and present and holding certain key themes before us in times of challenge. I, for one, am tired of fighting for what is good and right with the "fire meets fire" mentality.
Thx,
lori(soo)

[Don]

Hello Robert,

My father is a Cancer Sun and he recently visited me. I did not waste with negative feelings. We actively discussed my present and future with regard to my Mars in Leo placement. Luckily for me my father actively supports and inspires my goals; support and inspiration are integral to my personal energy in work and reputation.

I have made the best use of this current Astro-placement. To actively work and understand the articles here with Aquarius has meant nearly two years of my efforts.

Love and Blessings,
Donald.

[Jeri]

Hi Robert,

I found your website a few weeks ago and it's awesome! Thanks! I've been slowly making my way through the archives.

I've wondered how a natally retrograde planet behaves when a transiting planet moves retrograde over it, making double retrograde energy. And I'm thinking about this again as this retrograde Mars will be conjuncting my husbands natal retrograde Mars, turning retrograde within one degree. How does this kind of energy work differently than if Mars were not retrograde?

Again, thanks!

Jeri

[Dianne M]

Morning Robert,
I have Mars in Cancer natally 20 degrees (5th house). I used to think of it(me) as a wimp..always wanting some-one to love me, save me...then, failing that I would play the 'big mama' and save everyone else, I attracted a huge tribe of 'takers'.
Then finally after 10 years of illness (and still no-one to care for me..although my services remained in demand)I decided to drop the lot. I look after myself now, and encourage others to do the same.I also know you can not change the past, and "others" may never, ever change, as is their right, just as it is my right not to comply to their needs. I feel fine, I have stopped smoking and am experiencing a spontaneous detox...I think of it as getting rid of old rubblish.
During Mars retro. do nice thinks for yourselves "self nuture' don't wait for others to do it for you, encourage 'independence' and "self reliance' in relationships, not roles. Who plays "mum" "dad" and the "kid" in your house? Who holds the real power..when did all this begin? Robert, you called it "returning to the scene of the crime" some might have to look back a few generations to really understand how it all began.
I am sorry people are doing it tough, but at least it isn't, (I hope) meaningless suffering.
Dianne

[infinity]

Hello Robert,
Like Diane, I have mars in cancer. Mine is in the 7th house, coupled with saturn return II exact at 7 virgo. Yikes! This is a most difficult time as instead of 50 some days, we have months of the bugger. I recall a group of astrologers talking and concurring that mars in cancer is very weak, as it creates mucky emotional webs, rather than a strong force for growth. A clean mars in aries, it is not. Guess I will try to make friends with it some more, though I confess that I don't really respect it, which could hold me back. Good tidings to all who are enmeshed in this drama of mars messes...

[lucinda b.]

Robert - it's amazing how much i can see (or at least think that i can see) this slowdown leading into mars' retrograde motion impacting me & the folks around me. today at work three of us sat around just swapping yawns. no one's getting anything done, but we're all complaining about it! :) it's like a physical weight that's equal parts grumpy, sleepy, and a little dopey on the side. (three dwarf night?)

anyway, your posts are a great at giving me some perspective on the whole situation. when i can step back & be aware of these trends, it's a whole lot easier to work with my own energies & help folks around me to cope. Thank You!

[Sue]

Hello Robert,
Wow - this article and Part 1 describe my life of the past two days exactly. It's been such a wild ride I'm wondering what's next. I'm hoping that this transit packs a wallop at first then settles down. I'm hoping that if I heed the messages and slow down my life now the going will get easier.
Thanks for your insight.

[Robert]

Hi Elizabeth - Slow everything down, be nurturing and caring, defer while not abandoning, and a sense of humor is always useful. Be kind, flexible, and very strong.

Hi Robyn - Mars was in Cancer late Sept up till now, so those energies have been active, especially wherever we have Aries and Scorpio and Mars natally. And yes, it can work out through others, so we can practice a new response demonstrating whatever strength we need. Good that you can objectify the response.

Hi Imke - Thanks for your acknowledgment. Your Saturn is on the star Sirius, which has major implications. This will trigger that energy, but you must rework or redo or finish up some things before entering the Initiation chamber next April. Don't push beyond safe limits and know when to back off, take your winnings, and leave the table. It is showing you things polarizing your self expression relative to your ultimate ambitions and group work benefiting the greatest good for the greatest number. You'll understand a LOT more by February.

Hi Lori(soo) - You're welcome. I'll try to compose something on "The Warrior" when I have time to compose something thoughtful. It's wearying to know you're the one holding the line sometimes, but it's the ultimate devotion to an ideal, or as "they" say, "Semper Fidelis." Without that, Satyagraha, or the "Soul force" Gandhi used as a political crowbar, is not sustainable. Of course, there is always a place for the gentle warrior as well.

Hi Don - Glad you can hold your own as a true gentle warrior with one who loves you. Support from others at critical times makes all the difference in the world. And I TOLD you that diligent effort always creates a beneficial effect. Congrats, and love and blessings to you as well.

Hi Jeri - A natal planet affected by a retrograde could have many manifestations. Usually, Mars RX people are better equipped to deal with transiting Mars RX than the rest of us! Of course it works differently, but in your husband's case it means you will both see the primary characteristics of where he's at relative to his natal tendencies.

Hi Diane M. - Sounds like you've explored a lot of ways to shift those energies. "Attacking the past" is another way Mars in Cancer can manifest. RX could help you review what progress you've already made through past actions. Definitely Mars RX in Cancer is a great time for nurturing inner parts that we've neglected up to now. Definitely good for reexamining past power structures in family of origin and reworking some things. And no suffering is meaningless if it leads us to techniques of overcoming it.

Hi infinity - Mars in Cancer is most definitely NOT weak! Crabby, introverted, self-mobilizing and self-preserving, but never weak! How can "active defense" EVER be weak? Welcome to your Saturn return, which just happens to be supported by the sextile and quintile from Mars this whole period. Good fortune for you! As for Mars in Aries, since I have it, don't welcome its "clean" energies too much, since my whole life it's been "off to the races" sometimes in unfortunate ways.

Hi Lucinda - It is a weird thing to observe how predictable the effects really are! Much is slowing down to a very obvious degree, though I'm still getting as much done as possible, so we do have some power to affect the pace and productivity of these times. Love the observation that "it's like a physical weight that's equal parts grumpy, sleepy, and a little dopey on the side," as it's spot on! Glad these posts can be of help.

Hi Sue - Well, we're not disconnected from the times! Things will continue to slow, and much that has been set into motion will be subject to review. Don't know if it'll get easier, but it will bring forth major changes!

[ann]

my dearest Robert.....am not sure if its due to the planets allignment or its just me,feeling suffocated with all the layback of my plans.Trying my very best to be patient here :)tried to stay out of any argument everyday but even to the planning of colours of the new office,felt provoke by partners into argument..

[Imke]

Dear Robert,
thank you once again for your advice! I have not heard of the influences of Sirius before... will try to read up on the net about it and prepare for Feb ;o)Thank you for your kindness.

[Sue]

Hi Robert,
How right you are. We certainly aren't disconnected from the times. How's this for a weird connection - both myself and my brother in law were born on March 1 but in different years. He lives on the other side of the globe to me. Both of us were told earlier this week that we are suffering from the same acute medical problem. Although we did not know it till yesterday both us were inadequately diagnosed and incorrectly treated for the problem about six months ago. If we had received correct treatment then the condition would not have deteriorated so quickly. All we can do now is be thankful we are finally getting treatment and hope and pray it works.

[Robert]

Hi all - More brief answers due to overwhelming work.

Hi ann - Well, this will be a time when you're shown what you can and cannot care about, as well as others' passive aggressive and defensive behaviors. Good to slow things down and take nothing personally. Email me to confirm the appointment.

Hi Imke - Have already written an extensive article about the Sirius influence ready to post early next week, so stay tuned!

Hi Sue - Sounds like a perfect form of astrological study in synchronicity to me. May you both find the exact treatment you need for maximum healing in as short a time as possible.

[Sue]

Thanks Robert - I hope so too. I'll look forward to the Sirius article. I once saw it through a powerful telescope at an Astronomy Observatory in the Oz outback. It was so spectacular and being human I sought around in my mind for something to liken it too. What I thought of was the intensely bright white light of a single street light shining out of total blackness like a beacon or guiding light. The image is burned into my mind's eye and I've often wondered what the astrological significance of Sirius is.

[ann]

thank you my dearest Robert....I had confirm appointment for the 30th ya....will try to be as positive and not to take anything personally...life is such :)

[Dawn]

Hello, Robert. I was looking for info on natal Uranus at Aries point when, by chance, I came across your site. It is very informative; the info on the current Mars transit is especially enlightening.

Lately, I feel as though I'm losing a grip on things, emotionally and financially. Yesterday, I received warning of possible eviction from my home. I've had more trouble concentrating on completing tasks than usual. I've been feeling very emotional and weepy. In short, this transit feels awful. Wondering when the clouds will lift.

I was born w/Mars retro, so shouldn't things be less messy? I have a lot of angular planets natally, Moon and Mars included.

My d.o.b. is May 17, 1969 in Winnipeg, Manitoba CANADA at 14:02 CDT. I'm just wondering if natal Uranus in Lib on an angle might be making my emotions even more erratic than usual. I know you are very busy; if you could please offer any feedback, it would be greatly appreciated.

[Robert]

Hi Dawn - Uranus in Aries? Brilliant pioneering willful genius. Revolutionary flashpoint energies of the 30s. Abrupt personal changes turning one on a dime and moving into unknown regions very quickly. That generation REALLY had to be adaptable! Those with Mars RX have to examine tendencies to internalize aggression and find ways to gently express assertiveness rather than attack self. Emotional and weepy can be from all sorts of things, from prog Moon positions to Pisces triggers. Perhaps this is helping you re-capture old feelings that created those responses so you can transmute them into something that feels better. If your natal Uranus is afflicted by the transiting Mars it could make for needing to find emotional balance and perspective through honoring your self reliance, your initiative, your sense of responsibility, and your ability to persevere by getting grounded and practical. 38 is a Mars year, one of crisis and decisions, where things leave and we must mobilize and do "right action" to fulfill the vision of 37 based in the structures that came forth at 36.

[Dawn]

Thank-you for your time and your words of wisdom, Robert. Perseverance and self-reliance (and constructive escapism, as opposed to the non-constructive kind) do seem to be some of the more prominent themes for me. Those, and learning not to dwell on the past (including old disappointments & anger issues). I've never heard of 38 being a Mars year before. Maybe that's why things seem to be falling apart for me? So that I can learn to effectively utilize whatever resources I have within, and construct a new (i.e better, sturdier, more productive) way of life? Become active, rather than reactive? I don't know if that is what Mars is trying to teach me. Perhaps.

You've given me some serious food for thought here. Thanks again, and God/dess Bless.