If you’re into horoscope astrology, you know that it can be difficult to differentiate between the hopeful BS and authentic Zodiac readings.
While it’s considered a pseudoscience to modern scientists, astrology commands a widespread attraction for those looking to know more about themselves and how the outside world– in this case, the alignment of the planets and other elements within the cosmos– can affect our internal one.
One event, in particular, that’s gained quite a bit of attention over the past decade is Mercury Retrograde.
What’s so special about Mercury Retrograde, aside from the fact that it sounds like a stellar 80’s sci-fi film?
Mercury Retrograde is one of several different planetary “events” (retrogrades) significant in astrology which are said to affect human behavior in some way.
Each planet has its own retrograde. However, Mercury’s has gained particular attention because it’s said to affect elements of human psychology related to communication, giving it the ability to make all kinds of things go haywire
We’ll get to what exactly that means in a minute. But first:
What actually causes Mercury Retrograde?
What causes Mercury Retrograde?
At times, visible from Earth, the planets in our solar system appear to be moving backward.
That isn’t the case, they’re really just moving slower than they typically are which gives the illusion that they’re moving backward, but we can’t tell that just by looking out into the cosmos.
Mercury Retrograde occurs when the planet Mercury is orbiting at its furthest point away from the sun, when the planet’s orbit slows down and the Earth continues to move at the same speed. During this time, it appears that Mercury is moving back in the opposite direction it’s typically moving.
This happens relatively often, about four times a year, due to Mercury being closer to the sun than Earth, with Mercury’s year (and a full orbit around the sun) only lasting eighty-eight days as opposed to Earth’s three-hundred and sixty-five.
But why does that matter? Because Mercury Retrograde is said to be able to completely upend you mentally and emotionally -- especially if you don’t see it coming.
How Mercury Retrograde affects you
In astrology, Mercury represents the dominating presence over communication of all kinds. That includes everything from speech and the written word to cognitive thought.
And because we as humans depend on our ability to communicate so we can navigate daily life, both in our own head and about the outside world with our family, colleagues, friends, and family, Mercury Retrograde is said to have a profound effect on virtually every aspect of our life.
In essence, Mercury Retrograde is said to lead communication-related events and actions to become rather “unstable”, resulting in all kinds of consequences such as difficulty communicating with colleagues and loved ones as effectively, not being able to think straight or organize your thoughts, and a sudden loss of focus.
However, the events that occur with Mercury Retrograde can also offer a valuable learning experience, with the opportunity to experience ourselves in an unstable state internally and among others teaching us more about ourselves and our outside world.
During this time, astrology experts suggest giving yourself additional space (and patience) with loved ones and c-workers to deal with these communications-related challenges. By doing so, you’re able to reduce the chance of these quirky side effects resulting in any harm while still benefiting from the experience.
Need help?
Check out these strategies to avoid misunderstandings when you're communicating!
Military Dad Defends His 4 Little Daughters When Strangers Make This Rude Remark
Military Dad of 4 Daughters Defends His Girls When Strangers Make This Rude Remark
Austin von Letkemann is the military officer strangers feel "sorry" for — and the reason is infuriating.
Whenever the devoted father leaves the house with his four children, strangers can't help but notice the officer in uniform is holding hands with 4 adorable little girls. They will tell the traditionally "masculine" and "all American" dad they feel sorry for him, because he has no sons. This dad makes one thing very clear: They are his daughters, they aren't a burden.
In a passionate video, von Letkemann took to Instagram to share with his followers that the only thing that's "difficult" about being a girl dad — is clapping back to these sexist remarks over and over again.
They Mock His Daughters To Their Face
When strangers approach Austin von Letkemann and his four daughters, they don't always realize that their comments are being overheard. They seem oblivious to the fact that his girls understand every word. Von Letkemann describes how people will approach him and, without thinking, make remarks like "I'm sorry" or even joke about his lack of sons. What they don't realize is that these comments, intended to be light-hearted or humorous, can be deeply hurtful to his daughters. These strangers are not just disrespecting von Letkemann's choices as a father; they're also sending a message to his daughters that their presence is something to be pitied. It’s a message that von Letkemann won't stand for, and he's speaking out to defend his girls from these insensitive remarksSaying "Get Your Shotgun" Isn't Funny — It's Sexist
Another common comment that Austin von Letkemann encounters is the old "better get your shotgun ready" trope, often delivered with a smirk or a wink. This line is typically intended to suggest that a father with daughters should be on high alert to protect them from potential "suitors," implying that they are objects to be guarded rather than individuals with agency.
Von Letkemann finds this line of thinking outdated and sexist. In his viral Instagram video, he points out that these jokes are not just stale — they're damaging.
By suggesting that his daughters require armed protection, the joke reinforces the idea that women are inherently vulnerable and need to be shielded from men. Von Letkemann argues that instead of promoting this narrative, society should focus on teaching respect and consent, challenging these sexist tropes at their source.
Watch Austin von Letkemann's Video:
"If I Had A Fifth Child, I'd HOPE It Was A Girl" — One Dad's Message For Other Parents
Despite the constant remarks about his lack of sons, Austin von Letkemann is clear: He wouldn't trade his daughters for anything.
In fact, he told his Instagram followers that if he were to have a fifth child, he would hope for another girl. This declaration isn't just about doubling down on his pride in his family — it's a pointed response to those who see fathering daughters as a misfortune.
Von Letkemann's stance is a powerful one, rejecting the notion that a family is incomplete without sons. He encourages others to question the assumptions behind these comments and to appreciate the joy and fulfillment that his daughters bring. By sharing his story, von Letkemann hopes to create a more inclusive perspective on fatherhood, one that values daughters just as much as sons.