How many times have we heard the phrase that it’s all fun and games until somebody gets hurt? The truth of the matter is name calling causes harm and sticks and stones really do break bones. This backwards slide into childish bullying is something to keep in mind while Mars is retrograde in Gemini.  Be aware of phrases like “don’t be so sensitive”, “I was just joking”, or “things got out of hand is all”. These are hastily manufactured disclaimers meant to deflect attention away from a very real and malevolent hostility. What to do? Call out cruelty when you see it and hold those responsible for it accountable. In a world that continually resembles an unchaperoned playground it’s important for each one of us to be the adult in the room. After all, you don’t want things to devolve into Lord of the Flies. Mars will be retrograde from October 30th to January 12th. Signs most affected: Aries, Gemini, Virgo, Scorpio, Sagittarius, and Pisces.