I actually quite enjoyed the mercury retrograde for some reason
I found the energy almost peaceful.
My relationships ran quite smoothly during the retrograde and I made an effort to connect with my Father who can be a difficult man to communicate with.
The lions gate has been fairly OK as well for me... Besides trying to make sense of some health-related psycho spiritual things and learning to self-advocate.
These events seem to be getting a little bit easier each year... I have noticed in my own experience anyway.