We all have a wounded inner child, regardless of what your childhood looked like. And, in all likelihood, your wounded child probably doesn’t show itself much when life is going well and you feel in control. However, when something important to you is threatened, or you feel left out or disrespected or taken advantage of, that small child can be felt in a big way. The surge of negative emotions you feel in those situations is your cue that the wounded child is taking over. Typically, the emotions are fear, hurt, or shame, but each of these can also masquerade as anger. In fact, you can almost always count on anger to be a cover for a deeper, scarier emotions. This is because the child inside feels stronger and safer putting on a show of anger than actually admitting to the fear, hurt, and shame underneath. To make matters worse, consider the domino effect that takes place when my wounded child’s instinctive reactions trigger your own wounded child! Today, it is time for you to begin to heal that inner child. The first and most important thing is simply to become aware of your wounded child and when it has been triggered. When you feel an over reaction or supersized emotion, or one that lingers inexplicably, tune in to it rather than accepting it without question. If the emotion is anger, look deeper. This Mercury Retrograde is asking you to do just that-to become aware when, where and why your inner child, which is in reality your ego, acts out and may be stopping you from creating the life you desire. Becoming aware of your own and others’ wounded children will transform your relationships and your experience of life. It is the key to self-compassion, which in turn leads to compassion for everyone. And that, after all, is what all of us are seeking in this world.

Just for today, I am gentle, kind and comforting to my inner child as I uncover and release old negative messages within me. I love myself enough to go beyond my parents limitations. I take care of and honor my inner child by remembering to play and have fun. I remind myself to not take everything so seriously. I love myself for I am a beloved child of the Universe and the Universe lovingly takes care of me now. I am safe. It is only change and everything is working out for my highest good. And so it is