Star Power: Astrology for Teens

Copyright 02003 by Rob MacGregor and Megan MacGregor All rights reserved under the Pan-American and International Copyright Conventions. This book may not be reproduced, in whole or in part, in any form or by any means electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system now known or hereafter invented, without written permission from the publisher, The Career Press S T ~ RPOWER EDITED A N D TYPESET B Y NlCoLE DEFELICE Cover design by Cheryl Cohan Finbow Printed in the US A. by Book-mart Press

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The Career Press. Inc , 3 Tice Road, PO Box 687, Franklin Lakes, NJ 07417 www.newpagebooks.com Library of Congress Cataloging-in-Publication Data MacGregor. Rob. Star power :astrolog for teens/ by Rob MacGregor and Megan MacGregor. p. cm. ISBN I -5M14-680-4 (pbk.)

1. Witchcraft. 2. Teenagers-Miscellanea.

1. MacGregor. Megan. 1989- 11.Title.

TOnish,

wfe and mother.,. and astrologer extraordinaire

Many thanks t o t h e students a t Polo Park Middle School and Wellington High School fov divulging t h e i r astrological datawhethev they knew theiv signs or not-and lending their thoughts on their chavts.

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Introducing You akd the S t a r s P.4RT 1: THE ZODIAC

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If you’re a teen and reading this in 2003, then you were born between 1985-1993 and your life at this time isn’t at all like your parents’ teen years. There was no Internet, cell phones hadn’t been invented, and neither had CDs. Digital TV?Forget it. Digital cameras and video cameras? Nope. In fact, your parents’ teen years didn’t include personal computers, Nintendo, a machines, or PalmPilots. Because of this, your brain is wired PlayStations, f differently than your parents’ brains. Your needs and desires, likes and dislikes, and interests and passions probably don’t bear any resemblance to those of your parents when they were your age. That’s why your generation is going to redefine everything that your parents thought was certain, true, and real.

At the same time, some things never change. We are all human beings. We

feel. We think. We learn the parameters of our world through our five senses and discover the unseen world through our sixth sense-our intuition. We encounter challenges, enjoy triumphs, and grow and evolve through our interactions with other people and our need to understand ourselves. The teen years are special, regardless of when you were born. These six years form the foundation of your beliefs about yourself and the rest of the world-your world-view. That doesn’t mean that if you’re a rebel at 14 you’ll still be a rebel at 30. However, you’ll carry that rebellion forward in some way, perhaps using it in constructive ways that benefit not only you and the people you love, but also the larger world. So how does astrology fit into this and what can it do for you? Think of it like this: In the instant you took your first breath, the planets occupied particular positions in the sky. For example, the Sun was over here, maybe in Sagittarius or Pisces, while the Moon was over there in Libra or Capricorn, and so on, through the solar system. In astrology, each of those planets and signs represents a certain kind of energy that helps define who you are. Let‘s get specific. Say you were born on October 20. That makes you a Libra. This means that your friends are incredibly important to you, you love nice things, and you appreciate music. You may even play a musical instrument. It means you can see both sides of an argument and probably have a talent for anything related to the arts. You’re most compatible with Aquarians, Geminis, and other Libras,

but also enjoy being around people born under Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius. You have a great love of life. These are broad generalizations, but if you know a Libra then you realize the overall theme fits. Your Sun sign symbolizes your fundamental self-the who that is you, the you that shines, your outer self. Twelve signs, 12 types of energy. That’s what this book is about. It’s about who you are, your potential, what’s cool and what’s not, your particular style, with whom you are most compatible, your heart’s desire, and your magic. The more you know about yourself, the easier it is to navigate these six turbulent years called the teens. Keep in mind as you read about your Sun sign that the description is a personality type. You may find aspects of your sign that don’t seem to fit your personality. The reason is that we are more than just our Sun signs. Later in the book, we’ll take a look at your Moon sign and the Sun/Moon combinations, which should give you a larger perspective.

Where your Sun sign represents your outer self, the sign of your Moon symbolizes your inner self-your secrets, your private, intuitive world, and your emotions. The Moon represents many other things too, such as Mom or her equivalent, the habits you have, how you were nurtured as a child, and how you, in turn, will nurture others. The Moon is who we are when we’re alone.

As you learned from basic science, the Moon has eight distinct phases. In astrology, the phase of the Moon under which you were born describes how you deal with your emotions. Are you a risk-taker? Do you love the fastest roller coasters, the scariest movies, and the things that other people just donkpet? Then you were probably born under a New Moon phase, when the Sun and the Moon were in the same sign. In Star Power you’ll find an ephemeris, which is a chart where you can look up your Moon sign. You’ll also find the teen perspective in this book. My coauthor, Megan, is my teenage daughter. She has grown up with astrology and has her own take on what it all means. She’s a double Virgo, which means that her Sun and Moon are both in Virgo. This happens only when a person is born under a New Moon, like Megan, or a Dark Moon. Like many Virgos, she is precise, exacting, detailed. She’s a perfectionist, especially when it concerns things that matter most to her. Megan’s friends come from every sign, so when she says that the Pisces she knows are gentle and compassionate and that the Capricorns can be distant, yet great leaders, she’s telling you what she knows from a teen’s point of view. She’s living it. Before you read any further, turn to Table 1 in Chapter 1 and double-check the dates for Sun signs. This is especially important for those of you born on the cusp, or border, between two signs. One of Megan’s friends, for instance, swore that she was a Sagittarian, but she’s actually a very early Capricorn.

In the ephemeris, locate your birth date and find out what sign your Moon is in, and then read on. The Moon spends approximately two days in each sign. So if your exact birthday isn’t listed, just find the dates that it falls between. For example, if the ephemeris says the Moon entered Libra on July 19, 1988, then moved toScorpio on July 21, and you were born on July 20 of that year, then you’re a Libra Moon.

Be playful, have fun, and try the activities. Star Power is designed to be interactive like a video game. Your input is important, and by doing the activities you’ll learn how to identiQ the Sun signs of both friends and strangers through their personalities and physical characteristics. You’ll gain new insight into why you get along well with some members of your family and why you don’t get along with others. You’ll begin to understand why you feel very close to some of your friends and why with other friends there may not be any closeness at all. My Sun sign is: My Moon sign is:

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When I was younger, I t h o u g h t my parents could speak a second language That's because sometimes when t h e y talked t h e y used s t r a n g e words and nothing they said made any sense t o me. As I g o t a l i t t l e older, t h e y s t a r t e d telling me about how t h e stars a f f e c t our lives, and t h a t ' s when I discovered t h a t t h e other language is called astrology . In elementary school, I noticed t h a t t h e t e a c h e r s never said anything about astrology. In middle school, i t was t h e same way. I t wasn't one o f t h e subjects and i t didn't even seem t o be part o f any o f t h e regular subjects. Even though all my friends seem t o know w h a t sign t h e y were born under, t h e y certainly didn't learn t h a t f r o m any o f our teachers. I figured t h e teachers didn't know anything about astrology, s o that's why t h e y didn't talk a b o u t i t . W

B u t my dad says t h a t ' s n o t t h e reason they don't talk about i t . "So why don't they?" I asked.

"Go ask one o f t h e science teachers in your school about astrology. Pick t h e friendliest one you know, t h e one who likes t o talk a l o t t o t h e kids."

I knew j u s t t h e teacher. I had him in s i x t h grade. I t o l d him I was helping my dad with a book about astrology f o r teens and I wanted t o know w h a t he t h o u g h t about t h e subject. I promised I would include w h a t he said right here. "That's fascinating," he said.

111' 1 1 g e t back t o you

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B u t you know what, he never did. I reminded him a couple o f times, b u t he j u s t p u t me off. So I t o l d my dad I didn't have any answer. "The answer is in his silence Teachers in public schools have t o watch w h a t they say. My guess is t h a t he thinks astrology falls i n t o t h e realm o f belief and religion. He won't say anything, because whatever he says could g e t him in trouble."

"Why?" "There are a l o t o f rules, regulations, restrictions, and limitations t h a t teachers m u s t follow. One o f t h o s e is n o t t o say or t e a c h anything t h a t offends someone's religious beliefs." " B u t astrology isn't a religion 'I

"True, b u t when astronomy was separated f r o m i t and became t h e science o f t h e stars and planets, astrology was ignored because i t seemed t o give t h e stars t o o much influence over our lives. I t didn't seem t o fit i n t o science." "Then why are people still interested in astrology?" "Because people are interested in seeing p a t t e r n s in their lives and t h e deeper you look i n t o astrology t h e more p a t t e r n s you find and t h e more meaningful t h e y become ' I " B u t if it's meaningful, then why don't s c i e n t i s t s see that?" "Some o f t h e m do. Cary Mullis, a Nobel Prize winner in physics, wrote a chapter on why astrology works f o r him in one o f his books. Car1 Jung, one o f t h e rnost renowned psychanalysts o f t h e last century, used astrology as a valuable t o o l " " B u t it's still n o t in school." "Things are changing. The schools eventually will c a t c h up. Meanwhile, t h e r e ' s a l o t o f information available a b o u t astrology and we'll cover some o f t h e basics."

ls nstl."l'flqJ 2 ssL'I/fL%cf? I t i s n ' t considered a science in t h e s a m e way t h a t c h e m i s t r y or physics is. Yet, i t was practiced in ancient Greece, Babylon, Rome, and among t h e Mayans. *+

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In medieval times, d o c t o r s used asti*ology in t h e diagnosis and t r e a t m e n t o f illnesses In t h e f o u r t h century, t h e R o m m Catholic Church outlawed t h e practice o f astrology, but i t \vzs still pract i c e d in secret. Then, during t h e Renaissance, s c i e n t i s t s like Sir lsaac Newton, Copernicus, Johannes Kepler, and Galileo wcre all practicing astrologers who considered astrology t h e key t G t h e u n iverse. In modern times, astrologer Evangeline A d a m s went t o c o u r t in New York S t a t e t o prove t h a t a s t r o l o g y was a science. She asked t o be allowed t o c a s t a horoscope f o r someone chosen a t random, working only with t h e person's d a t e , time, arid place o f birth. The judge rose t o t h e challenge and gave her t h e birth data o f an unnamed individual. A d a m s c a s t t h e horoscope and began t o talk about t h e person's life. The judge was astounded.

"What you say a b o u t this person is exactly right," t h e judge t o l d her "I know because he is my son." The judge then went on t o make t h e practice o f astrology legal in t h e s t a t e o f New York.

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We live in a Sun-centered solar system. This means that the Sun is the center around which the other planets revolve. It is the giver of life, Without the energy of the Sun, we wouldn’t be here because the Earth would be uninhabitable for human beings. Basic science, right? When we talk about the Zodiac, we are actually referring to a section of the sky in our corner of the universe. This section of sky is divided into 12 equal parts, with each part named after the constellation that occupies it. So if you’re a Gemini, this means that on the day you were born the Sun was moving through the constellation of Gemini, also known as The Twins. It takes the Sun about a year to move around the entire Zodiac. Even though the Sun and the

Moon aren’t planets, in astrology we treat them as though they are. They are the two most important “planets” in terms of their impact on our lives. Because we live on Earth, our study of astrology is based on what we observe about the planets and stars from our position here, on the third rock from the Sun. This type of astrology is called geocentvic, which means Earth-centered. When you were born, the other planets-Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune, and Pluto-were also moving through particular constellations. This means that the person born with a Gemini Sun may have a Moon in Leo, Mercury in Libra, Venus in Aries, and on down the line to Pluto in Scorpio. Each planet, like each sign, has certain characteristics and governs a particular area of life. Many of the meanings are drawn from mythology. For example, Mercury, the messenger of the gods, was known among the Greeks as Hermes. In ancient Egypt, he was known as Thoth, and was a scribe, the keeper of the books. In astrology, Mercury rules all forms of communication, travel, books and manuscripts, and logical thinking. O n the other hand, most of us associate the planet Venus with love, romance, beauty, and good reason. To the ancient Greeks she was known as Aphrodite, the goddess of love and beauty, In astrology, every sign is ruled by a planet. This rulership is as important as your Sun sign. Take someone born under Aries. He (or she) is independent, restless, and a pioneer in some area of his life. He’s a risk-taker who loves speed and excitement, is impatient, probably has a temper, and prefers to do everything

himcelf rather than asking for help. He is often portrayed as a warrior who is willing to fight for what he believes. It is no surprise, then, that Aries is ruled by Mars. To the Greeks he was known as Aries, the son of Zeus. The Greeks weren’t a warring people, so they didn’t like Ares very much. Yet, he was worshipped among the Spartans, a great warrior race of Greeks, and he was revered by the Romans, who called him Mars. The movie GZadilztor,with Russell Crowe, personifies both Ares and Mars in ancient Rome. Astrologically, Mars symbolizes physical energy) courage, recklessness, fire, impulsiveness, and many of the other qualities associated with Aries people. The planet that rules your sign colors it and helps describe it. Because ancient man knew of only seven planets, some of the rulerships of the signs changed when Uranus, Neptune, and Pluto were discovered. Mars, for example, was thought to rule Scorpio until Pluto was discovered in 1930. That’s why in Table I you’ll find that some signs have two rulers. Table 1 also includes the symbol associated with each sign, many of which are animals. Using Aries as an example, you’ll see that its animal symbol is a ram. Its astrological symbol, V,resembles the horns of a ram. Just as a ram scales mountains and fights for its turf, so does Aries. In the following table, locate your birth date and Sun sign and check out the planet that rules your sign. Later in this chapter, you’ll find descriptions of the planets.

U Date

1 ~~

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1-7/22 I

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Sign

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Mars

The Bull

Venus Venus

Gemini

TheTwins

I

Gncer

The Cirb

I

I

My Sun sign is:

I

Moon Moon

I

Sun Sun

The Sula

Venus

The Scorpion

Pluto. Pluto. M Mars ars

I

The Archer

The Fish

f

I

If3 I

I

Pisces

Mercury Mercury

Mercury Mercury

The Wa.3 Bearer 21 19-3/20

I

The Viigin

The G a t 1

Q

A

Lco

Sagittarius

Ruled Ruled By By

htrologiul Symbol

Symbol

The Ram

SSaturn awn

m

x

Jupircr Jupiter

Uranus, Uranus, Saturn Saturn I

Neptune, Jupircr Jupiter Neptune.

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If you were born at the beginning or end of a sign, then you were born “on the cusp”-between two signs. This means that the range of dates in Table 1 may not apply to you because the actual dates vary slightly from year to year. Sometimes the signs change in the morning, and sometimes in the afternoon, so if you were born on the cusp it’s important to know the exact time you were born. As an example, we’ll use Megan’s friend who thought she was a Sagittarian. She was born in the evening on December 21, 1988, in West Palm Beach, Florida. According to the dates in Table 1, she should be a Sagittarian, and if she had been born two years later she woukd be. But in 1988, her birth time fell under Capricorn. So if you were born on the cusp, check with an astrologer to find out what your actual Sun sign is, or if you have access to the Internet go to www.atro.com to get a free natal chart. You’ll need your exact time, date, and place of birth. If you don’t have your time of birth and aren’t sure which Sun sign you are, read the chapter descriptions for both signs and go with the one that feels right. Quite often, people who are born on the cusp have traits of both signs.

Keywords f o v t h e

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Astrologers often use keywords to describe Sun signs. Even though we’re all much more complex than a handful of adjectives, keywords make the meanings of the signs easier to remember.

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If someone in your family is an Aries, for a m p l e , then several of the keywords under Aries probably will describe that person. As you read through these keyword descriptions, jot down the name of anyone you know born under a particular sign. T Aries: Outgoing, energetic, independent, aggressive, enthusiastic, but can be headstrong, impulsive, and self-centered. An Aries I know: 8 Taurus: Stable, steady, reliable, persistent, determined, but can also be stubborn and plodding. A Taurus I know: II: Gemini: Quick-witted, adaptable, flexible, intelligent, versatile, but can be wishy-washy and easily swayed by new ideas. A Gemini I know: 2 Cancer: Sensitive, nurturing, intuitive, protective, family-oriented, but can also be self-indulgent, clinging, oversensitive, and obsessed about the past. A Cancer I know: Leo: Warm, generous, courageous, confident, dramatic, but can also be attention-seeking, self-centered, and insensitive. A Leo I know: Virgo: Practical, sensible, precise, detail-oriented, seeking perfection, but can also be fussy and critical. A Virgo I know:

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Libra: Cooperative, refined, relationship-oriented, companionable, but can also be indecisive, fawning, and judgmental. A Libra I know: Scorpio: Vibrant, emotional, passionate, intense, but can also be obsessive, vengeful, and jealous. A Scorpio I know: f l Sagittarius: Independent, honest, enthusiastic, outgoing, risk-taking, traveloriented, but can also be blunt, restless, a loner. A Sagittarius I know: 18 Capricorn: Productive, competitive, disciplined, ambitious, down-to-earth, but can also be dominating and rigid. A Capricorn I know: N Aquarius: Innovative, likes new ideas, group-oriented, a visionary, but can also be rebellious, detached, eccentric, uninvolved. An Aquarius I know: X Pisces: Sensitive, imaginative, inspired, sympathetic, deeply receptive, compassionate, but can also be gullible, self-deceiving, self-pitying, introverted, and over-sentimental. A Pisces I know:

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a fun thing t o do. Using t h e keywords f o r each sign, have your friends read through t h e descriptions without telling t h e m t h e sign, and have t h e m pick o u t t h r e e descriptions t h a t fit t h e m .

When I did t h i s with my friends, n o t many people picked t h e description f o r their own Sun sign! Nearly all o f t h e m s a w thernselves as independent (Aries) , innovative (Aquarius) , imaginative (Pisces), o r competitive (Capricorn)-things t h a t m o s t o f us w a n t t o be. Things g e t really interesting when you have your friends read t h r o u g h t h e descriptions and pick t h r e e t h a t apply t o you. I t gives you a l o t o f insight i n t o how your friends see you and how

Even though we’re focusing on the Sun and Moon in this book, it’s a good idea to know something about how all the planets function astrologically. In particular, you should take a look at the planet or planets that rule your sign. For example, if you’re the Aries that we keep using as an example, then it’s to your benefit to understand how Mars, your ruler, influences you. Before we describe them, here’s a summary of the planets, their keywords, and their astrological symbols.

Planet

Keyword

Symbol

Sun

Self

0

Moon

D

Communication

v

~

Mercury

Love

Venus

Action

Mars Jupiter

I

I

Action Expansion

Saturn

Restriction

Uranus

Revolution

Neptune

Imagination

Pluto

I

Q

Transformation

I

4

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8

In the Western practice of astrology, the Sun is the most important planet. It describes the overall theme of your life, as well as your potential, ego, individuality, willpower, and your general creative abilities. It can represent your father and other authority figures. The Sun is the second fastest moving body in the solar system. It takes about a month to move through a sign and a year to circle the Zodiac. Sun sign astrology is the focus of most astrology books, sites, and daily or monthly horoscopes. It doesn’t require any special tools and you don’t have to look up anything in an appendix. Due to its importance in the astrological scheme of things, an astrologer can make predictions based just on your Sun sign by studying the movements of the other planets in relation to it. The daily motion of the planets form aspects, or geometric angles, to your Sun. Based on this, an astrologer can pinpoint broad patterns that may come into play on a particular day or month. This is the basis of newspaper horoscopes. Astrologers usually look at the faster moving planets to make these predictions-the Moon, Mercury, Venus, Mars, and Jupiter. The Sun rules Leo. Because the Sun is the center of our universe, it’s no wonder that Leos love being the center of attention!

The Moon represents the inner you-your emotions, habits, attitudes, sense of security, and intuition. It shows how you were nurtured when you were a young child and describes what kind of nurturer you are. It often describes your mother or other maternal figure in your life, or your most nurturing parent. The Moon has a lot to say about the breadth of your imagination, so it’s connected to your creativity as well. It is the bridge between the collective mind-what psychoanalyst Car1 Jung called the “collective unconscious”-and your personal world. All of us are able to tap into the collective mind through dream recall, meditation, and mind/body disciplines like yoga and t’ai chi. Quite often, the Moon is intimately connected to your general health because your emotions definitely impact your health. When we feel really good about ourselves and our world, we tend to be in better health. In India, Tibet, and other Eastern countries where astrology is practiced, the Moon is considered to be more important than the Sun because it embodies the red you-your private, feeling self, out of which everything else in your life is born. The Moon is the fastest moving celestial body, changing signs about every two and a half days and circling the Zodiac in about 28 days. Because the Moon represents the “mother” of us all, it’s no surprise that many Cancers are nurturing, caring people.

Mercury represents your intellect, your left-brain logical mind, and your mental picture of the world. It symbolizes communication, messages, education, travel, teaching, your brothers and sisters, neighbors, and friends. It describes your adaptability, cleverness, capacity for analysis, and ability to learn. Mercury rules the signs of Gemini and Virgo. This is why people born under these two signs are excellent communicators and networkers, and tend to be clever and quick.

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Mercury whizzes around the Zodiac in just 88 days. Yet, every several months, it turns retrograde-that is, it appears to be moving backwards. The backwards movement is actually an optical illusion. It’s like the sensation experienced when riding in a train and another train whizzes by in the opposite direction. If you look out the window, it appears as though the other train is going backwards. But Mercury retrograde is much more than an optical illusion. It doesn’t change the essence of what Mercury represents. Instead, its expression changes in ways that can be irritating. You could say that it’s the Friday the 13th of the Zodiac, except it goes on for about three weeks.

During a Mercury retrograde, you may have misunderstandings with your friends, plans change at the last moment, delays and annoying mishaps occur, you miss your bus to school-that sort of thing. Computers sometimes go awry and appliances go berserk. E-mail messages vanish in cyberspace, telephone messages get lost, and straightforward comments are misinterpreted or misunderstood. Traffic tie-ups result in a late arrival at school and you miss an important test. You lose your homework and your teacher doesn’t accept your excuse. Your cell phone goes dead during an important conversation... and on and on. But do these annoying things really happen more often during Mercury retrograde than other times of the year? Most astrologers swear that they do, especially at the beginning and end of the period. Why is this true? Skeptics say it’s just a matter of perception; while it looks as if Mercury is going in reverse, we perceive our ability to communicate as ‘moving backwards.’ But Mercury Retrograde is not really true, they say. Well, tell that to the people who experience repeated communication problems and delays during those times. Linking miscommunication to Mercury retrograde may not make sense in the way we ordinarily look at things, but it still happens. The logic of astrology, you see, is the same logic found in any divination system. In other words, just as an adept tarot reader can find patterns and meaning in the seemingly random draw of the cards, an astrologer reads the cosmic language of the stars. In the interpretation, the stars reflect our lives.

So even though the planets don’t reverse directions, the appearance that they do affects us in subtle ways. As a result, aggravating incidents occur whether we believe in Mercury retrograde or not. So what can we do about it? The best way to approach Mercury retrograde is to take advantage of it. There are things to avoid, but also things to do during these times. For example, try to avoid being interviewed for a part-time job or by a college recruiter. If you have your driver’s license and want to buy a car, wait until Mercury goes direct. Likewise, avoid starting a new relationship. If you do so, it may be short-lived. Don’t try to force anything. O n the other hand, it’s a good time to work on term papers or study for tests. Complete all your reading assignments. Do everything that you’ve been putting off. When you’re doing homework, check all the facts. If you’re sending anything through the mail, send it early. Send two copies of important e-mails. Get organized. Clean your room. Repair anything that’s not working. Keep a book or magazine with you when you’re out because there may be delays. Warning: Don’t use Mercury retrograde as a crutch to avoid commitments. Be aware that there might be some minor snags in communication, but don’t allow your fears to control your life. Instead, you should always look for the silver lining in the dark cloud of Mercury retrograde. During one such period, we traveled from Florida to California with no problem, but the return trip was another matter. The flight was overbooked-a typical Mercury retrograde event- and some people would not

be able to take the flight. We were right near the counter when an airline official asked for several people to give up their seats in exchange for free tickets. We jumped at the offer, got three free tickets, and boarded another plane to our destination just an hour later. That was an example of a Mercury retrograde event working to our benefit. All the planets go into retrograde from time to time. The Sun and Moon never go retrograde. Because Mercury is so close to the Sun and moves rapidly in its orbit, it goes retrograde more than any other planet. See Table 3 on page 42 for all of the Mercury Retrograde dates from June 2003 to the end of 2007.

Think of romance and love, beauty, the arts, and your ability to attract people with whom you’re compatible. Venus describes your taste in art, music, literature, movies, and just about every other artistic area you can think of. Venus also describes your refinement-how you come across to other peopleand has some influence on how you earn and spend money. Venus describes how sociable you are, your charm, and your affections. If you walk outside in the evening, Venus is often one of the first “stars” you see. Next to the Sun and the Moon, it’s the brightest object in the heavens. It‘s the “star” you wish on when you wish upon a star.

Venus orbits the Sun in 255 days and spends about a month in any given sign. It can also turn retrograde, and when it does, your love life tends to become a bit confusing or chaotic. Musicians and other artists often have Venus prominent in some way in their natal horoscopes. Both Taurus and Libra are ruled by Venus, which is why people born under these two signs enjoy beautiful surroundings, may be involved in some facet of the arts, and can’t tolerate dissension and arguments.

Mars represents your physical and emotional energy, your capacity for aggression, independent thought and action, drive and ambition, and describes what is likely to push your buttons. For such a relatively small planet, its astrological influence is powerful. Ancient astrologers had enormous respect for and fear of Mars. They associated it with violence, rage, accidents, and injury. Although these traits still hold true, modern astrologers have gained a deeper knowledge of Mars and are quick to point out that the energy of this fiery planet ignited the advancement undertaken by mankind that leads us from the realm of primitive cave dwellers into our modern technological world. Aries is ruled by Mars, which is why people under this sign are independent, strong-willed, and usually have fiery tempers. Scorpio is co-ruled by Mars, which is why Scorpios are loners.

Jupiter stands for luck, success, expansion, capacity for optimism, and joy. Sounds too good to be true, doesn’t it? Jupiter’s position in your natal chart tells you where you will be lucky in life. Jupiter is the largest planet in our corner of the universe. Its diameter is 11 times that of Earth and it takes 12 years to cycle through the Zodiac. Jupiter was known to the ancient Greeks as Zeus, the greatest of all the Olympian gods. He presided over the Olympian games and was the god of weather, justice, and royal power. The Romans called Jupiter the founder of justice and power, so it’s natural that this huge planet is associated with such grand and wonderful things. Jupiter rules Sagittarius, which explains why people born under this sign are usually fun-loving, enjoy travel, and are always looking for the “bigger picture” in any situation. This planet also co-rules Pisces, its influence evident in the wonderful imaginations that mark people born under this sign.

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Saturn represents restrictions, limitations, self-discipline, caution, and organization. It’s all about the structure of your reality. Its energy is the polar opposite of Jupiter, its fellow slow-moving planet: expansion versus restriction. Fortunately, the influences of Saturn aren’t all as negative as they might appear.

As you get into your later teens, you begin to make more and more decisions about your life and future. Some of your choices, which initially look good, might turn out otherwise. That’s where Saturn energy enters the picture. Saturn, like a great father, is a teacher. It allows you to learn and gain strength through difficulties. Some things take tinie to develop, and Saturn is about time and the wisdom gained through its passage. Even if you make all the right decisions, there is no escaping Saturn and the associated lessons. Generally speaking, you often feel invincible during your teen years-nothing will harm you. Saturn shows you otherwise, and learning that at an early age can save you difficulties later in life. So Saturn really isn’t about limiting you. It’s about understanding that personal growth and happiness are inevitably linked to responsibilities and obligations. Saturn rules Capricorn, which is why many people born under this sign are so serious and responsible. It also co-rules Aquarius, so people born under this sign are always aware of their responsibilities within the larger world-family, community, and society.

Uranus represents the urge for freedom, innovation, originality, independence, insight, and ideas. It symbolizes the rebel and rules electricity, technology, aviation, computers, and everything on the cutting edge. Uranus relates to unexpected and sudden changes, flashes of inspiration, and amazing coincidences.

Discovered in 178 1 after the development of the telescope, Uranus takes 8 4 years-literally a lifetime-to journey through the Zodiac. Known as the 'higher mind,' Uranus is the force for awakening higher consciousness. LJranus rules Aquarius and the Aquarian Age. Its influence on people born under this sign is most apparent in their love of freedom.

Neptune represents illusion, mystery, inspiration, deception, and confusion. It governs things behind the scenes, endowing psychic powers. Where Saturn stands for reality, Neptune deals with imagination, creativity, and idealism. It influences the visionary, the dreamer, the artist, and the musician. Neptune energy relates to the employee who has left the workplace as a freelancer to strike out on his or her own. The danger for young people is that they may strike out too soon, grasping for the elusive Neptunian energy, only to end up falling flat. You need to prepare yourself to play the game of life before striking out on your own, Likewise, the Neptunian energy might attract young people to a spiritual sect that is insulated and isolated. Again, following this path at an early age as a means to escape responsibilities and the shortcomings of the everyday world would be a mistake. Neptune rules Pisces. Its influence on people born under this sign is apparent in their compassion, imagination, and intuitive abilities.

Pluto represents release, regeneration, renewal, transformation, reincarnation, rebirth, and good and evil. This planet was discovered in 193O-the smallest planet in our solar system. Because it’s the farthest planet from the Sun, it takes 248 years to circle the Zodiac. Despite its size and distance from the Sun, its influence is powerful. In mythology, Pluto is the god of the Underworld. Therefore, in astrology, Pluto often symbolizes everything that is hidden and secretive, happening behind the scenes, or out of sight. It rules Scorpio and its influence on people born under this sign is most apparent in their secretive natures and their ability to get to the bottom of any mystery.

*?

Table 3: Mercury Retrcgrade ~ r i i r 1,

2003-Deceirfber' 31, 2007

2 0 0 3-2 0 04

2004

2005

2006

2007

8/28-9120: Virgo

416-4130: Taurus, Aries

3120-4112: Aries

3120-3125: Aries

21 14-318: Pisces, Aquarius

12117-1 16/04: Capricorn, Sagittarius

811 0-912: Virgo, Leo

7/23-8116: Leo

7/4-7129: Leo, Cancer

6115-71 10: Cancer

11/30-12/20~ Sagittarius, Capricorn

11/14-1214: Sagittarius, Capricorn

10128-1 1117: Scorpio

10112-1 112: Libra

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Mgm's Story Here's w h a t happened t o me on my summer when Mercury was retrograde. I didn't really believe in Mercury retrograde because I didn't w a n t anything bad t o happen. Well, guess what? I t still happened.

I t was in t h e middle o f t h e afternoon and we were driving t o A t l a n t a t o v i s i t my cousins. We had a b o u t 100 more miles t o go when, suddenly, t h e van s t a r t e d acting weird. I t l o s t power and we were stopped on t h e side o f t h e road in t h e middle o f nowhere with c a r s and t r u c k s speeding by. I t t o o k a b o u t t h r e e hours before we g o t help. A n d t h a t was j u s t t h e beginning o f t h e trouble. The transmission was trash and we were s t u c k in a small t o w n with no car. The guy a t t h e gas s t a t i o n said i t was going t o t a k e t w o weeks t o g e t t h e new transmission. Two weeks! No way were we going t o wait. So we ended up selling t h e van f o r a very bad price and buying a new one.

So, yeah, if Mercury retrograde is about delays, I believe i t .

*'#3'*

0

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Fire, air, earth, and water: it sounds like an elementary school science class, doesn't it? Not only is the world comprised of these four elements, but so is astrology. Every sign has an element connected to it that helps define its nature and characteristics. Aries, for instance, is a fire sign. This which helps explain why people born under this sign are so dynamic, impatient, and action-oriented.

Elements also explain a lot about compatibility among the signs. Fire feeds fire, so it makes sense that fire signs are compatible with each other. Because fire needs air to exist, fire and air signs are also compatible. O n the other hand, but look what happens when you toss a handful of earth on a fire or turn a hose on it. It sizzles, smokes, and dies. It’s no surprise then that earth and water signs generally aren’t compatible with fire signs, but aye compatible with each other. You might argue that your parents are a fire and an earth sign and they’ve been Compatible enough to stay married for 20 years. But they probably have other compatible points in their birth horoscopes. Remember: we’re talking about only a part of the astrological picture,

Fire signs are enthusiastic, impulsive, and action-oriented. They’re good at initiating things, but not so great at finishing what they start. They’re usually warm, generous, and affectionate, but can also be impatient and temperamental. Their lives are all about movement and action. They’re most compatible with fire and air signs. Aries people are great at coming up with ideas and getting something off the ground. If their interest in something is sustained, they can stick to anything they start. Yet, they’re easily bored and when they walk away from something-whether it’s a school project or a relationship-they rarely look back.

Leos are actors. Even when they aren’t actually on stage or in movies, their lives involve dramatic events, relationships, and situations. They live for the drama. Their emotions run deep, and once they fall in love it’s usually for keeps-unless you mistreat them by not showing how much you appreciate them. Sagittarians are gregarious and love their freedom. They’re travelers, nomads, and seekers. They’re the ones who wake up one morning and decide to head to Sri Lanka with nothing more than a backpack and an ATM card. They often have an interest in spiritual or occult matters that deepens as they get older.

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Earth signs are grounded, stable, dependable, and the builders of the Zodiac. They’re security-conscious, practical, and make excellent planners and strategists. They may not be the speed freaks that fire signs are, but they nearly always finish what they start. They can be incredibly stubborn. They’re most compatible with other earth signs and with water signs. Taurus perseveres. No other sign is as grounded in physical reality. They love the outdoors, often enjoy solitary pursuits like camping, hiking, and running, and many have a deeply mystical side to their personalities. Their senses are highly attuned to physical life and they are here to explore it to the fullest.

When they create something-a piece of art, a novel, a house, a life-they do it with the utmost care and perfection. They’re also the most stubborn sign around. Virgos are also builders, but their building begins in the mind with an idea or a goal. Whatever they’re building has to be perfect-the perfect straight edge, the perfect note, the perfect A+, or the perfect relationship. They thrive on details-whether it’s details about the latest gossip or details on a map of the world! They know that without perfect attention to details, anything they construct will fall apart. Capricorns build empires and careers. They’re the CEOs of the Zodiacthe people who run the school newspaper or govern the student body. They’re focused, tireless workers. They are the movers and shakers who don’t seem to need much sleep and who are happiest when they’re directing the action.

Air signs live through their intellect. They’re sociable, excellent communicators, networkers, and the “idea people.” They sometimes spread themselves too thin and, as a result, may appear to be flighty and scattered. They get along best with other air signs and with fire signs. Geminis know everybody. These networkers connect facts, people, and ideas. They’re insatiably curious, mentally restless, and sometimes so adaptable that their beliefs and opinions change to fit those of their friends and families.

Libras seek the perfect intellectual balance in everything. They get their way through cooperation, are often artistically or musically inclined, and can charm anyone. For Aquarians, the mind is a temple. They’re the intellectual visionaries of the Zodiac who honor individuality in all people. They value objectivity, yet hold on to their ideals.

w a t e v s k p s ( c a m c e v , s c o r p i o , Pisces) Water signs live through their emotions and intuition. They’re the most sensitive group and are often downright psychic. They can be secretive and rarely forget an emotional hurt. They’re most compatible with other water signs and with earth signs. Cancer’s emotions and intuition are strongest when dealing with the areas that Cancer rules, such as the home and family, real estate and personal property and nurturing of the self and others-the deeper, subjective parts of the self. Scorpio, the most emotionally intense sign of the Zodiac, excels in penetrating to the heart of any mystery in any of the areas that it rules, including resources shared with others, death and rebirth, reincarnation, recycling, the affairs of the dead, insurance and taxes, and the occult. Pisces’ emotions and intuition are exceptionally strong in every area in which they get involved. Many of them are mystically inclined, with astounding imaginations and compassion.

Astrological signs are also classified according to their qualities-how they use energy. The three groupings are cardinal,jxed, and mutlzble with four planets to a group-one from each element.

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The cardinal signs are the creators. They initiate action, generate ideas, and are usually self-starters. Entrepreneurs and inventors, and people who pioneer new ideas and belief systems or cutting-edge trends are often cardinal signs. Their energy tends to move in a forceful, singular direction.

The fixcd s i g ~ ~ TOUPZCS, s: Leof s c c y i o , ~ q u ~ r i u s The fixed signs seek to stabilize what the cardinal signs have created. They’re generally certain about who and what they are, have set opinions about everything, and don’t change their minds easily. They are dependable and durable. Their energy is used in a practical, focused way.

The mutable signs are adaptable. Put them into any situation and they’re able to mold themselves to fit it. In some way, each mutable sign is hungry for

information. This hunger is one of the dominant forces in their lives. They can be so changeable that they’re difficult to pin down or pigeonhole. Their energy is primarily of the intellect. These same categories apply to the signs, regardless of whether we’re talking about the Sun, Moon, another planet, or some other point in the birth horoscope. When astrologers refer to someone as a double air sign or a double mutable sign, they usually are talking about the Sun/Moon combination. But they may also be referring to the Sun or Moon and the Ascendant-the sign that was rising at the time of birth. Even though a discussion of rising signs is beyond the scope of this book, your rising sign is the third most important point in your birth horoscope. Megan, for example, is a double Virgo-Sun and Moon in Virgo. She is also a triple mutable sign because Pisces was rising at the time she was born. This makes her practical and grounded (the Virgo influence) and adaptable (the triple mutable influence). I am a double Taurus-Sun and rising in Taurus. But because I have a Virgo Moon, I am also a triple earth sign.

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A TeeM viewpoint

To g e t an idea o f how compatible you are with t h e r e s t o f your family or friends, look up t h e Sun and Moon

signs o f five people and j o t down t h e information in t h e space provided on page 53. In my family, everyone has an e a r t h sign Moon, which makes us emotionally compatible. My mom has a Gemini Sun, s o she's a mutable sign j u s t like I am. That makes u s flexible and adaptable t o new s i t u a t i o n s . My d a d h a s a Virgo Moon j u s t like I do, s o on an emotional and intuitive level, we're flexible and adaptable

My closest friends are either e a r t h or water signs.

3. 4.

5.

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Sure. Almost everyone knows her or his sign. But now we can get into some detail. You’ll probably learn more here about your sign and the signs of your friends than you’ve ever read. What’s more, we’ll talk about stuff that matters. We’ll talk about love interests-who’s compatible and who’s not. We’ll get into what’s cool and what’s not, your potential in life, and even what you probably look like! Then, we’ll get into your style. It’s all about how you express the whole you. It’s as much about your passions and pet peeves as it is about your preference in clothes, colors, food, philosophies, and beliefs. We’ll also put you in touch with your Psi Q. That‘s your psychic intelligenceyour intuitive barometer, and your capacity for knowing what you can’t possibly know. It’s your ability to obtain information through intuition rather than through logic or reasoning. Finally, we’ll finish with your own personal magic. So let’s start out with Aries, the first sign of the Zodiac.

who

YOUA v e

Let’s say it like it is. You’re impulsive, impatient, independent, and anyone who has a problem with any of those traits is probably not someone you care to know. Your freedom is as vital to you as breathing air and pity the fool who tries to squelch or even restrict it. Bottom line, Aries: You don’t do well with authority, unless you’re the one who is calling the shots.

This can be a problem in your teens, when it seems like everyone-from your parents to your teachers-is telling you what to do. Everywhere you turn, it appears that someone is trying to impose rules and restrictions on your independence. As you get older, these traits will work to your advantage because they are hallmarks of a leader, a pioneer, and a visionary who isn’t afraid to go where no one else has gone before. But for now, your best bet is to cultivate patience and channel your vast, creative energy into whatever it is that you love. As a cardinal fire sign, you’re a doer, always active, moving and taking risks, and restless for adventure. The nature of the adventure isn’t as important to you as the fact that you’re adventuring-climbing mountains, camping in the wilderness, or competing on the soccer field. And you me competitive, eager to pit yourself and your talents against others with the same talent. You have strong opinions and aren’t shy about expressing them. When you believe something is right or wrong, you say it even though it may go against what the authority is saying. You stand by what you believe, a rare and valuable trait at any age. But it may not make you the most popular kid in school or even the favorite kid at home because what you believe may make waves. Besides, you’re not always right. The first time you realize this, it may come as something of a shock. But hey, that’s part of growing up. No one is always right. There will be many instances in your life when you are so on target, and your cutting edge ideas

are appreciated and acknowledged that you forge ahead with all the spirited independence that’s needed to break new ground.

You’re a complete original, Aries. You aren’t afraid of anything. Put you in a theme park with the biggest, meanest roller coaster on the planet, and you’re at the head of the line. You’re primed for the adventure of being hurled through space at 80 miles an hour, spun upside down, inside out, and spat out the other side. For you, risk is what makes everything else worthwhile. As you get older, the risks you take will become more sophisticated. People with whom you work will see you as the idea person, the one who isn’t afraid or timid to try new techniques to achieve a goal. As long as you pay attention to your instincts, you won’t go wrong. The thing you have to be aware of-now and later in life-is your impatience. Yes, it’s true that many people don’t get it as quickly as you do, that they don’t grasp ideas with your ease. But that’s no reason to snap at them (even when you don’t mean anything personal by it) or to throw up your hands and walk away. The other side of this impatience issue is that you’re easily bored, and when you’re bored and impatient, you can be tactless. Try to think before you blurt out something that may hurt someone’s feelings. That’s definitely not cool. Put yourself in that person’s shoes.

When you’re really excited about something, you want to get everyone else excited about it too. Quite often, your enthusiasm is so infectious, it sweeps like a fire through the group and things get done faster. The danger in any kind of group endeavor is that you like to be in charge-you like to be the boss. Later on in your life, this same need will urge you to work for yourself, to be your own boss. But until you’re out on your own, your need to seize control of everything can create major problems. Chill, Aries. That’s the remedy.

Watch out for the Aries! As a sweetheart, you’re an experience others don’t forget quickly. You’re about passion and fire. You’re impulsive and rash. You might be too much for the meeker types who are startled by your intensity and aggressiveness. You probably initiated the relationship. However, you need to know that you are appreciated and loved, and if you don’t get it, you move on. Romance with you means movement and activity. You go out to movies, concerts, and anywhere the action is.

This one is loaded. Because other people see you as a leader, you attract people from just about every sign. Yet, you’ll be more compatible with some than with others. Because our Sun signs are just apart of who we are, these guidelines

are intended only as broad generalities. This is why you may have romantic interests in signs that are listed under “worst matches.”

Avles cf?mpntib;l;tg Best romantic matches: Aries, Leo, Sagittarius, Gemini, Libra, Aquarius. Worst romantic matches: Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn, Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces. Opposites attract: Libra. Best buddy: Aries, Gemini, Aquarius, Leo, Sagittarius. Best thrillhave1 buddy: Aries, Sagittarius, Leo, Cancer, Capricorn, Libra Most trustworthy friend: Someone with a fire sign Moon. As good as it gets: Someone with an Aries Moon, regardless of that person’s Sun sign.

?h y siccz 1 -rmits Aries people often have narrow chins, arched eyebrows, and hair that is reddish or has reddish highlights. Due to their abundant energy, they should get a lot of rest, regular exercise, and eat a minimum of red meat. Their heads and faces are the most vulnerable parts of their bodies. When they get sick, they may run high fevers.

How does the saying go? You’re limited only by your imagination. This applies to you, Aries. Think big and you’ll live big. Think small and you’ll live small. If you use your fearlessness and risk-taking to move ahead and embrace the moment, you’ll achieve your potential. If you let your impatience get in the way of your better judgment-of what your instincts are telling you-you’ll falter. It doesn’t get any clearer than that. You’re an adventurous innovator, daring enough to accept the new and unusual. You can best achieve success through the creative arts or by cultivating a sense of appreciation. Don’t permit anyone to tamper with your potential. You possess something unique-a style of your own. You can be the inventor rather than the manufacturer, the creative artist rather than the commercial artist, the novelist rather than the journalist, the architect rather than the contractor, and the painter rather than the illustrator. The choice is yours.

Passions: Sports, athletics, speed in every shape and form, new ideas, working independently, creative people, action and doing rather than passive activities, interactive games, starting anything interesting, living spontaneously, breaking rules that make no sense to you, and being the first to do everything.

Pet peeves: Plodding people, followers, boredom, repetitive activities, strict rules, dishonesty, being told something is true without an explanation why, and any slow method of transportation. Colors: Deep reds, and any bold, vibrant color. Fashion: Convenience and comfort, zany clothes, body piercings, and hats. Foods: You are an adventurous eater, who will try anything once. Preference for hot, spicy foods. Animals: Any animals that are large, flashy, and loveable, but not too dependent. Motto: “I can do it better myself.” Beliefs: Experience everything at least once, follow your impulses, and be spontaneous. “I’m here to sample a little of everything.”

Your natural ability in this area is high. These gut feelings have been a part of your life since you were very small. They are so much a part of who you are that you probably don’t even think about them. You feel something deeply, act on it, and that’s it. Quite often, these gut feelings show up through your impulses. Maybe you’re humming along on any given day when suddenly you feel an impulse to do something you haven’t done before or to do something differently, to break the routine. So you follow this impulse and something wonderful and unexpected happens. This is how intuition works in its rawest form.

The best way for you to refine this ability so that you can summon it when you need it, is to simply become aware of it. When you have an impulse, take a moment to reflect on what exactly you're feeling. If the impulse won't harm anyone or anything, then explore it, and see where it leads. With practice, as you learn to reflect on and explore these feelings, you'll become familiar with their texture, their reality. The more familiar you are with these gut feelings, the easier it will be to summon them when you need quick answers and guidance. How can you summon it? Just shut your eyes and ask for what you need. It will be that simple for you.

Personal magnetism: This is your unique brand of magic. Your personality is so charismatic that it provides you with all the tools you need to create your own opportunities and to achieve whatever you want. You can make friends with anyone.

To be a friend o f an Aries, you b e t t e r be a follower. You do what they do. If you try t o take t h e lead in t h e relationship, they j u s t ignore you. Well, maybe I'm a l i t t l e tough on them. B u t t h a t ' s what I've found and until I see different, I'll s t i c k with t h a t opinion.

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While Aries is busy exploring new territory, Taurus is settling it, cultivating the land, and using his resources for practical purposes. Where others falter and move on, Taurus is determined and stays with it for the long haul.

As a Taurean, you’re stable, persistent, and aligned with the Earth. You’re like Ferdinand-a quiet, placid bull. But let’s be honest. If you’re attacked, you see red, and your anger is something to be reckoned with-fierce and stubborn. Fortunately, it takes a lot to get you angry. You have an interest in material gain and the finer things in life. But you’re also creative and intrigued by mystical realms, religious miracles, Earth Magic, Shamanism, alternate realities, and anything that explores the far reaches of the human condition. These two interests-the material and the non-materialseem contradictory, but not to you. You are a purposeful, determined person of power. You always feel like you need to be moving ahead-or rather plodding along. When others give up the quest after racing forward, you continue on slowly but surely, making your way at your own pace. Once you’ve decided something is worth pursuing, there’s no stopping you. If you get stuck in your creative efforts or are delayed by other matters that consume your time, you get moody, grumpy, and morose. Little things irritate you and you remain down in the dumps until you’re moving ahead again. While you may be efficient and steady, you’re not particularly excitable. In fact, too much excitement feels chaotic to you, and you‘re glad to return to your quiet space.

c o o l clad

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You’re fond of nice, high-quality stuff-the best there is to offer. Whether it’s clothing, home furnishings, or a vehicle, the luxurious, yet affordable, is what you strive to achieve. So it’s not surprising if you’re driving to school in a well-appointed S U V or a shiny sports car while your teachers are in compacts or mini-vans. If you’re not doing it in reality, then you’re probably dreaming about it. In fact, for many teens, the best thing might be a dream rather than reality when it comes to luxurious accommodations or fast vehicles. Instead, look at the smaller things and you should be able to see your inclination toward luxury. Maybe you buy the most expensive sneakers or the best jeans. Perhaps you should decorate your room in an elegant, tasteful style, possibly with an imported handwoven rug or an original work of art. Whatever it is, your room is a comfortable place to escape and recover from your day’s activities. You’re a sensual, tactile person with a strong appreciation of form and beauty. The finer things in life appeal to you, whether it‘s a work of art or a comfortable well-made leather chair. At the same time, you are in tune with nature and enjoy the beauty of the outdoors. Living on the edge of a pristine forest or having a mountain or lakeshore view would be ideal. Little else compares to a hike in the woods, especially in the Fall when the weather is cool, but comfortable, and the trees are wearing their earth tones-reds, yellows, oranges, and browns.

Those of you who are physically oriented take pride in your bodies. You may favor individualistic sports, such as surfing, or physical activities, such as running or yoga rather than team sports. You are competitive and do well where endurance and stamina are required. What’s not cool: Losing your cool. But it happens, especially when someone backs you into a corner, challenges you, or threatens you. The “bull’s rush” can be fierce and anyone in your way better clear out. While you take your time, you don’t like being called lazy because you’re not. Likewise, you don’t like being hurried or pushed into doing something when you’re not ready. While spending money seems natural, you despise not having any money.

You’re definitely a romantic, ruled by Venus, the planet of love. A special date without flowers seems to be missing something. Okay, maybe the teen male Taurean is not exactly the flower sort of guy, but he can easily imagine walking hand-in-hand under the moonlight along a beach. The female Taurean, in particular, might like her sweetheart to recite a poem, or at least a few lines from a popular song to her on a special night. Just taking a long drive with no destination in mind, talking, and listening to music would be fine.

You can be somewhat possessive. Your sweetheart is yours, and yours alone. If you could, you would hide away your romantic prize so no one else could come between you and the object of your affections. This tendency can be softened somewhat by assuring your Taurus that you are as sincere as he or she is. This attitude can be a big problem. Your sweetheart initially might be impressed by your dedication, but just wait. No one likes being held captive, even if it‘s a mental captivity. You need to distinguish between your collections of material things and your relationships. Believe it or not, the two are not synonymous,

Because you’re well-grounded, you attract people of all signs who see you as a fixture in their lives, an island amid turbulent seas. Most astrologers say that we’re better off with people who share the same element we do or with those who feed our element-earth with water, for instance. Generally speaking, that means you’re most compatible with other earth signs as well as the water signs. But let’s take a closer look.

TiU YUS C m I pntibility Best romantic matches: Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn, Cancer, Pisces, Scorpio. Worst romantic matches: Aries, Leo, Sagittarius, Gemini, Libra, Aquarius.

Opposites attract: Scorpio. Best buddy: Virgo, Taurus, Capricorn, Cancer, Pisces. Best thrill/travel buddy: Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn, Aquarius, Leo, Scorpio. Most trustworthy friend: Someone with an earth sign Moon. As good as it gets: Someone with a Taurus Moon, regardless of that person’s Sun sign.

? h y s i c a 1 T-vaits Many of you are identifiable by your necks, which are often thick and sturdy. Taureans tend to be attractive people with broad foreheads, and many retain their youthful appearances, long after others show their age. Regular exercise and a nutritious diet are vital to their good health. They should be moderate in their consumption of junk foods.

You finish what others start. You have the stamina and drive to succeed, whereas others give up. By taking advantage of your practical nature and determination, you can achieve your goals. When you have faith in something, you stick with it. You also plan ahead and plod ahead. Others with less patience act on the spur of the moment and quickly move on to something else.

You have a knack for finding opportunities in areas others overlook or avoid because of some perceived stigma. Rather than avoiding it, you take advantage of the situation, seeing the silver lining in the dark cloud. What some people see as junk, you may see as valuable antiques, once they are refurbished. You can find success in the arts, including music, dance, and sculpture. You also have potential in a financial career, such as banking, accounting, or anything dealing with antiques or the sale of art. Also consider landscaping, farming, and working with the land. You should avoid entering a profession where speed is more important than thoroughness. The competition might finish ahead of you, but in most cases your work will be superior. For example, you would fare better at writing magazine articles than brief newspaper reports with tight deadlines.

Passions: Food, gourmet cooking, health foods, nutrition, alternative medicine, financial security, history, archaeology, mystical experiences, and the real mysteries of life. Pet peeves: Pushy, fast-talking people, insincerity, austere living conditions, and deadlines. Colors: Any shade of brown or green. Earth colors. Fashion: Khakis that are dressy and comfortable. Nothing too radical, but it would be fun to dress up in clothes from another century.

Foods: While some of your friends may favor the fast-food circuit, your idea of a good meal definitely doesn’t mix ‘food’ and ‘fast’ together. A long, leisurely meal would be more favored. If you can’t always go out and order a meal, you can learn to cook for yourself. You’re a natural, and if someone gave you a gourmet cookbook for your birthday, you wouldn’t return it. While rich foods are tempting, Taureans tend toward slow metabolisms and should avoid fatty foods as much as possible. Your interest in the physical wellbeing attracts you to health foods, vitamin supplements, and alternative medicine. You’re interested in looking good and staying healthy, and eating right is a big part of that. Animals: A loyal companion. A golden retriever would be perfect. Motto: “I’ll succeed because I won’t give up.” Beliefs: Do it right, no matter how long it takes.

Your ability in this area is strong and related to earth. You can explore some of the deepest aspects of mystical realms because you are so thoroughly grounded. You’ll never lose your mental stability. You can see to the core of any matter and know whether it’s intrinsically of value or a dead end. Your psychic power can be enhanced through nature. A hike through a forest or meditating on a mountaintop can raise your intuitive awareness. The

study of shamanism, the practice of yoga, or any form of Earth Magic, can create cosmic awareness.

Sensuality is what really matters. In romance, you attract what you need. You don’t need to pursue it. In following your life’s path, you’ll literallyfeel your way to success, intuitively encountering all the necessary contact points. You’ll succeed because you won’t quit. Your determination is part of your magic. You know that the only way of failing is to give up, and you won’t do that.

You are versatile, changeable, curious, and quick-witted. While Aries discovered the new territory and Taurus settled it, you are organizing it and networking to get things done in new ways. The symbol or glyph for Gemini is 11, the Roman numeral for 2, which fits perfectly for the sign that is pictured as a pair of twins. You have a dual nature,

like a double-edged sword. You cut one way, and you can also cut the other way. Verbal communication is the framework of your being. You can talk your way out of almost anything or into almost anything. They’d love you on the debate team. If you’re discussing a controversial subject, you can look at it from one side, then the other, and you can probably win the debate on whichever side you chose to take. Arguing with a Gemini can prove fruitless and frustrating. If the argument is personal, you can talk circles around your critic as your words slice one way, and then slash another. Gemini is ruled by Mercury, which means you’re all about ideas and communicating them. Your brain is a sponge that soaks up information. You can cover a lot of material rapidly. You don’t necessarily know every subject in great depth, but you can pick up enough information to sound knowledgeable to everyone, with the possible exception of an expert in the field. Not only do you think quickly, but you also act in the same manner. How you react to circumstances depends upon your mood, which accounts for Gemini’s reputation as having dual aspects of personality. If things don’t go your way, you tend to sink into a dark mood. During those times, you might get very quiet and refuse to speak to anyone, or you will confront whoever is in your path, and there’s no reasoning with you. You’re happiest when you have more than one interest consuming your attention. This allows you to move from one thing to another and back again in typical Gemini fashion.

You change your mind frequently. You may tell a friend you’ll meet her at the mall at a certain time, then call at the last minute and say you won’t be there after all because something else has come up. Yet, you really dont like it when other people do this to you. Your challenge is to calm your overactive mind. Meditating 20 minutes every day can help you relax. Take several long deep breaths, then gradually slow your breathing. Let your mind wander for a few minutes, then try to focus on a single word, such as love or peace. You can also focus on your breath, seeing it as a stream of soothing white light coming in and going out. This practice will help relieve tension and dispel your nervous energy. You’re adaptable and often moody. Because your personality is so multifaceted, your friends and family are rarely sure which twin is present today.

Your room is wired with a computer, television, DVD, cell phone, and video games. You’ve got it all or want it all, and you’re probably using them all at once. You’ve got strong opinions and surprise people with your point of view. They wouldn’t have expected it of you. What’s not cool: Being bored, staying at home with nothing to do and no one to talk to. You’ll do anything to avoid this situation. That‘s why you surround yourself with diversions. You also hate being stuck in a rut and doing the same thing over and over again. So change is cool, but routine isn’t.

Love I fitevests Geminis put their minds ahead of their bodies and emotions. Even a relationship that begins primarily out of sexual attraction won’t last if there’s no mental camaraderie. Usually, you will seek a friendship first with someone of the opposite sex. Once the mental rapport has been established, then a closer relationship might develop. Geminis can be quite fickle in their affections, sometimes carrying on more than one relationship at a time. You may tire of one person because the relationship doesn’t feel right, and then move on to the next one. Ideally, you’ll find someone who is as versatile as you, whose interests change from time to time, and who adapts to new and varying situations. This can present its own problems, with the two of you running off in different directions. But even this is preferable compared to getting into a rut and repeating the same old arguments over and over again. Hopefully, you’ll find someone who is willing to grow and change along with you, someone who will understand your eccentricities, and accept you as you are. Once your Gemini heart is won, especially as you move into adulthood, you will be willing to love deeply and form a stable relationship.

You're popular and attract a lot of people through your wit and charm. You can get along with just about anyone on a superficial level. Until people get to know you, you tend to surprise them with your outspoken opinions. Astrologically, you're most compatible with other air signs and with fire signs because fire feeds on air.

C;eyLthi CoyLtpcrtL'bilitg Best romantic matches: Gemini, Aquarius, Sagittarius, Libra, Aries, Leo. Worst romantic matches: Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces and Taurus, Capricorn, Virgo. Opposites attract: Sagittarius. Best buddy: Gemini, Leo, Aries, Libra, Aquarius. Best thrill/travel buddy: Gemini, Libra, Aquarius, Sagittarius, Pisces, Virgo. Most trustworthy friend: Someone with an air sign Moon. As good as it gets: Someone with a Gemini moon, regardless of that person's Sun sign.

Physiccll T-vclits Geminis often have hair that is unusual in some way. They are usually slender, wiry people with a lot of nervous energy. They benefit from breaks in their routines or from not having any set routine at all. Regular physical exercise helps ground their energy. They tend to eat on the run, and although they enjoy good food, they aren’t interested in learning to cook. Food isn’t the main focus of their lives. The weakest parts of their bodies are their lungs, so they tend toward respiratory and nervous ailments.

y o u v PoteAticl 1 You’re inquisitive and probably a fast reader. You speed through books, magazines, and newspapers as if you’re racing toward a deadline. Your curiosity drives you ahead. You’ve got a lot of questions and you keep seeking answers. As you do so, you try to make connections between bits of information and ideas. You can put things together that don’t seem to naturally go together, but you can do it and make it work. You excel in any type of work that provides diversity and a chance to stretch your mind to its fullest extent. It doesn’t matter if the work is in the public or behind the scenes -as long as it’s not the same old thing, day after day. You’d make a good counselor because one part of your duality is that you are

always ready to listen. Your love of language gives you a special way with the written word. You could write articles, political speeches, plays, novels, or anything that allows you diversity or a chance to make use of your curiosity. You could be a journalist, a librarian, a politician, an actor, or a researcher. You would also do well in sales because of your verbal skills and your ability to convince. As long as it’s not boring, you can do it. You might have several careers in your life, maybe even two at the same time. When you move on to something new, it’s not necessarily because you hate what you’re doing-unless, as we said, you’re bored to death. Your tendency toward versatility and adaptability leads into new areas and new challenges. Although there’s something said for stability and staying in the same field, you have the opportunity to build on what you’ve learned and the experience you’ve gained. With each new accomplishment, position, or career change, you go higher and higher toward your goal of satisfying your curiosity. But guess what? There’s always something else that‘s new to learn.

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Passions: Getting into a good debate, and having a chance to express your opinions and demonstrate your talent with words. It doesn’t matter that you might change your mind on the subject later, it’s the process that counts. You are also passionate about the chance to master a new skill, travel to a new

place, explore something unfamiliar, or meet new people. Meeting or beating a deadline and staying busy is important to you. Pet peeves: Tedious people, boring homework assignments, anything routine, and rituals from the past that no longer make sense. Colors: Yellow. Fashion: There are two types that fit with the duality of your sign. O n one hand you like outrageous fashions with bright, eye-catching colors that make you stand out. O n the other hand, some days you turn chameleon-like by blending in as you show your changeable self. Foods: For most Geminis, food isn’t very important. The idea that some people plan foreign vacations around the food and restaurants of a city probably makes you laugh. For you, food and convenience go together. You like anything that you can prepare quickly or that you can eat on the run. Taste isn’t that important. However, there are times when you’re lured by food, especially when you’re hungry and are offered a wide variety of foods, like at a special family event or party. Animals: Independent and versatile animals that can fend for themselves when you’re not home. Two cats would do fine. Motto: “I think, therefore I am.” Beliefs: If it doesn’t work one way, try another.

Whatever intuitive abilities you possess can be multiplied through the use of a divination system, and the more complicated the system, the better. You could expand your abilities through an exploration of astrology, Numerology, or tarot. Even if you are highly intuitive, you probably wouldn't do well in laboratory telepathy experiments because the repetition would bore you. O n the other hand, the research field of parapsychology would fascinate you. Designing psychic experiments and exploring paranormal realms as an investigator would suit your personality.

The mind is all that really matters to you. In romance, you attract other thinkers. In following your life's path, your ability to handle a variety of tasks simultaneously works to your advantage. Your wit is your magic. You can succeed by using it to create your own business, your own product, and your own stamp of excellence.

personalities in in one one body, body, and and you you can can personalities never tell t e l l which which one one youfre you're going going to t o be be never with on any given day. Life with a Gemini isn't boring, but sometimes it

Imagination, caring, and nurturing characterize this sign. While the first three signs discovered, settled, and expanded the territory, Cancer civilizes it, making it feel like home. In fact, Cancerians are well-known for being domestic, but they’re also shrewd and have excellent memories. Although they forgive, they’re not likely to forget.

You’re a kind, gentle person, unless you’re wounded. Then you may become vindictive and sharp-tongued. Emotionally, you act and react just like the crab, the symbol of your sign. You move from side to side, avoiding confrontations, and usually aren’t too comfortable discussing your feelings. If things get too nasty, you’ll simply withdraw into your shell, like a crab folding in its appendages. You’re sensitive to the needs of others, and nurture and care for them whenever possible. However, sometimes you direct your energy toward others rather than dealing with your own problems. If someone asks you about a personal matter, you may tend to hide your feelings by sinking into your protective shell. Stop being frightened or timid around adults or those in charge. Your challenge is to get out and do things, rather than hanging around the house. Physically, you benefit from swimming or any water sport. Don’t turn down opportunities to spend a day at the beach.

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You’re something of a couch potato. You enjoy staying at home where you’re comfortable. If it’s a choice of going over to someone else’s house or having friends over to your house, chances are that you’ll be inviting them to your place. And if it’s a weekend night, why not have them stay overnight? You’re family-oriented and your friends are an extension of your family.

Your parents usually go along with your wishes in regard to your friends. They’d rather see you at home instead of worrying about where you are and what you’re doing as the hour gets late. But they don’t really have much to worry about. You like to play it safe. You’re not one to disappear into the night on a big adventure. You feel terrible when you make someone else feel bad, and it can take awhile for you to shake off this feeling. While you like to help others, you don’t like others telling you what to do. You hate feeling lost. Whether it’s on a trip to another city or in your mind-a feeling of being disconnected-it doesn’t matter. You need to know where you are in relationship to your home.

In matters of love, you’re not only affectionate, you’re truly passionate. Emotions are an enormous part of what you are about, but you can be evasive in romance. You may be coy and flirtatious as you feel your way into a relationship. Some Cancers dislike the courtship of romance and prefer to get right down to the important questions: Are we compatible? Do we love each other? Once you’ve established a relationship, you might get somewhat possessive and overprotective of your sweetheart. If one of your parents is a Cancer, you know what I mean. They’re the same way with their children.

You’re so dedicated to that one special person, you never give up on him or her. For better or worse, you will hang on to the end, even after it’s apparent that you should move on.

Phc, MSiCCll 7-va its It’s likely that your face is round and that your eyes are unusual in some way. In fact, your eyes reveal a depth to your personality, a doorway to your soul. Your entire body may have a certain roundness to it, although you aren’t necessarily overweight. You benefit from water sports-swimming, surfing, sailing. The more regular physical exercise you get, the better you feel and the healthier you look.

chemistvy a ~ compatibility d Most astrologers say that you’re better off with people who share the same element you do or with those who feed your element-earth with water, for instance. Yet, you might not mix well with Scorpios because of their intensity. Likewise, the duality of Pisces might drive you crazy. Let’s take a closer look.

Best romantic matches: Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces, Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn. Worst romantic matches: Aries, Leo, Sagittarius, Gemini, Libra, Aquarius.

Opposites attract: Capricorn. Best buddy: Cancer, Virgo, Taurus, Scorpio, Pisces. Best thrill/travel buddy: Cancer, Pisces, Scorpio, Aries, Libra, Capricorn. Most trustworthy friend: Someone with a water sign Moon. As good as it gets: Someone with a Cancer Moon, regardless of that person’s Sun sign.

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You’re sensitive, with fluctuating moods that ebb and flow like the sea. But you don’t let that stop you from achieving your goals. You may waver along the way, feeling sad, doubtful, or disappointed in others. But you’re a cardinal sign, and you will move purposefully ahead. You might do well in a medical profession or in counseling and psychology, as long as you work directly with patients. Teaching is another possibility. Also, you might enjoy running a daycare center or working in a nursing home. A Cancerian doctor would be happy working in the old-fashioned way by visiting patients in their homes. Running an alternative healing center might also appeal to you. Another possibility would be to establish a home-based business where you’d feel comfortable balancing your home life and work life. Not only do you thrive in a home environment, but you prefer working on your own. The help

others offer can be confusing and no help at all. Also, you balk at taking orders, especially from rude, insensitive bosses. The challenge in creating and thriving in a home-based business will be creating a strong sense of self-discipline and responsibility. You need to be willing to change when the time is right. Cancerians often hold on to a job, a career, a project, or an idea far too long. Faced with change, you may feel so unsure of yourself that you become immobilized. Yet, you are a cardinal sign and have the resources to pull out of these temporary moods and forge ahead.

YOUVstyle Passions: Your room must be a comfortable nest where you can relax and recharge. Sitting at home with a favorite snack nearby and the phone to your ear as your friends confide their problems to you one after another is just the sort of evening that fits your sign. Pet peeves: Selfish people who only care about themselves. Also, people who think you’re a pushover who don’t see that you’re somewhat cunning as well as gentle and helpful. Colors: White, silver, and blues. Fashion: You’re not likely to dress in a way that shows off your personality. In fact, the opposite may be true. You might dress to cover who you are. So

clothing is like a protective shield, a shell. That doesn’t mean your clothes are frumpy. In fact, you may dress very stylishly. It’s just that your clothes tend to hide your sensitivity. Foods: The term ‘comfort food’ was probably coined by a Cancerian. You prefer a home-cooked meal to restaurant food, especially if it’s the fast-food variety. When it comes to snacks, you’ll go for whatever is quick and easy. Animals: Any kind of pet that’s cuddly and won’t run away from home. Motto: “I feel for you.” Beliefs: Home is much more than a place to sleep. It’s your castle, the center of existence, and it’s deeply rooted to emotions about the past. You might say, “Life is experienced through the emotions, and the past is never far behind.”

You are naturally intuitive. Some Cancerians are extremely psychic. They channel their abilities through their emotions. You go well beyond simple hunches about who’s on the other end of a ringing phone. You can avail your emotions to heal and help others. You’re so sensitive that you’re empathetic. You know how someone feels. You experience the sensations yourself so you know exactly what that person needs. But it goes beyond analysis. Your presence is a healing force.

It all starts in the home where you gain a sense of security and strength that you can take with you into the world. You nurture, comfort, and provide support. You're diplomatic and usually achieve your goals.

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Leo, ruled by the Sun, stands at center stage, confident and courageous. Leo is about self-expression and creating power. The planets revolve around the Sun, and the people in your life revolve around you. At least, that's the way you see it, and if you're a typical Leo, it's probably true.

It’s not surprising if you’re considered one of your school’s leaders, and that you’re popular with your fellow students and teachers. Even if you’re not that outgoing at school, you’re probably the center of the universe at home. Everything revolves around you. The symbol of Leo, the lion, speaks for itself. He is “King of the Beasts,” and that’s the role you strive to achieve. There’s nothing arrogant about it. You are simply following your path. You crave personal recognition, and sometimes you act recklessly in your attempts to achieve it. To some, it might look as though you’re showing off. But through it all, you manage to maintain a sense of dignity and usually gain the admiration that you seek. You’re generous and high-minded when you overcome an opponent. Although sometimes you may be defeated, you are never conquered.

You’re energetic and proud, like the lion, and your natural dignity gives you a sense of flair. To go along with it, you’re looking forward to a life of glamour, luxury, and living life to its fullest. You may even have experienced delusions of grandeur in this regard. That’s okay. It’s part of the Leo personality. At the same time, you enjoy bringing light and warmth to others. You’re generous with your time and money. Sharing your abundance with others comes as natural as spending it on luxury items.

At any gathering, you’re immediately the center of attention. You can’t help it. It’s just who you are. Your radiant energy floods everyone around you and your enthusiasm is contagious. You don’t hide anything, neither your good attributes nor your bad ones. When something goes wrong, you let people know how you feel. Again, you can’t help it. O n the other hand, while you get attention, you don’t always get the admiration and recognition you feel you deserve. And it’s definitely not cool when people think that you’re arrogant or insensitive. You hate being rejected. Actually, you do care about people and those sentiments run deep. Your challenge, though, is to avoid manipulating others. You don’t always need to control every situation, show off, and turn your friends into an audience. They probably don’t like it, at least not for long. Remain your usual high-spirited self, but don’t take advantage of your dominant personality by overpowering others. As long as you’re warm and giving, you’ll get the admiration you so badly want.

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Leo rules the heart, which can mean that you give generously of yourself. It also means that you’re passionate and have a strong attraction to the opposite sex. Your warmth and charm are infectious and you know it. You can also be impulsive, particularly when your ego is stroked. Teen Leos, in particular, need

to control their impulsiveness when it comes to matters of the heart or it could result in disappointments and heartbreak. Leos want to feel needed and to know that they are loved before they commit entirely. Once they commit, everything is bigger than life and brighter than the Sun. Courting a new love is often a series of dramatic gestures: expensive gifts, chauffeur-driven limos, and backstage passese for your favorite band. Even though such ideas might be out of reach, that doesn’t mean that you don’t dream about it.

Another fire sign is good for a Leo simply because their energy levels are similar. The polar opposite of Leo is Aquarius, and a relationship between these two fixed signs could work well. An Aquarian might elevate a Leo’s consciousness to a wider world beyond himself or herself.

LeLn ccmp ntibility Best romantic matches: Leo, Aries, Sagittarius, Gemini, Libra, Aquarius. Worst romantic matches: Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn, Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces. Opposites attract: Aquarius.

buddy: Leo, Libra, Gemini, Aries, Sagittarius. Best thrill/travel buddy: Leo, Aries, Sagittarius, Aquarius, Scorpio, Taurus. Best

Most trustworthy friend: Someone with a fire sign Moon.

As good as it gets: Someone with a Leo Moon, regardless of that person’s Sun sign.

?hysica 1 T-vaits If you’re a typical Leo, your hair is something special. Your mane attracts attention and compliments. If you happen to keep your hair short, then you may project your Leonine attributes through flamboyant clothing. Your thick hair might frame regal features and compelling eyes. Your natural warmth and buoyancy is reflected in your eyes.

You don’t like getting stuck in a subservient job. As a teen, that kind of job may be your only choice for a summer job or part-time work after school. But you won’t remain in such subordinate positions for long. You’ll be seeking something with more independence and responsibility. A job where you deal with the public would be ideal. You could become an actor, a television personality) a well-spoken politician with a following, or a charismatic leader of a company. You’d also make a good teacher, performing for your students on a daily basis. You might also enjoy working with animals in some capacity.

You have the potential for high achievement. You could start out as an usher in a theater and later own the theater. O r if you develop your dramatic ability, you might become a star, appearing on the screen of that theater.

YOUVstyle Passions: Dressing flamboyantly, being surrounded by admirers, helping others and being praised for it, and living lavishly, which you feel you deserve. Pet peeves: People who aren’t loyal, who don’t admire you, people who argue with you, taking orders from someone else, and living in less than luxurious accommodations. You hate being marginalized. Colors: Gold, orange, and red. Bright, bold colors. Fashion: Showy and extravagant apparel that shows off your style and your ability to pay for it. As you get older, your clothes may get more conservative, but they’ll still carry hefty price tags because you believe that style and class come with a price. Foods: Diversity and delicacies. You enjoy a fine meal in a luxurious setting. Yet, your tastes and your needs may be two different matters. Leos generally benefit from a low-fat diet because their hearts are the body part that may be the source of potential problems. Animals: Wouldn’t it be nice to have a horse or three? Not just ordinary horses, though. Perhaps Arabian stallions-the most majestic and expensive.

But you may have to settle for a large and devoted dog that will follow you and always remain loyal. Motto: “I am at the center.” Beliefs: You are here to help and entertain. You bring light and hope.

You’re all about self-expression. Although you are extroverted in nature, you need to dig deep for your inner qualities and bring them to the surface. As you express yourself through drama, fashion, or whatever suits you, you sense your potential. You have an intuitive knowledge about what you can and will do. Whenever you have doubts about your abilities, feel vulnerable, or are afraid that you can’t meet your image, just sit quietly and draw down the light from the Sun to illuminate your inner self and inner resources. It’s all there waiting for you to call upon it and put it to use in the outer world.

You’re confident that there’s an underlying magic in the world because you experience it. When you need help it arrives and often it comes in unexpected ways. New possibilities arise for you when it seems as though there is no chance to resolve a problem.

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So I guess I belong there." Right. The is, Leos Leos love love tthhee attention a t t e n t i o n and and ffaacctt is,

Ruled by Mercury, you are bright, observant, and analytical. You’re probably very good at taking tests, at least when you study! You seek to continually improve yourself as well as help others when the opportunity presents itself. You’re not perfect, but you’re working at it. You’re organized, industrious, and know how to attend to details. You keep everything in order. *?

You probably have an excellent memory. You’re able to read something several times and remember what you’ve read. You undoubtedly do well on standardized tests. You can be critical of others because they don’t measure up to your high standards. You may feel that you carry the burden while others slack off. Yet, you don’t begrudge others for not doing their part. Once you’ve made your critical assessment, either spoken or withheld, you tend to let it go and forgive until the next time. It’s your way of showing patience. Like Gemini, you’re mentally agile, but because of your attention to detail you tend to delve deeper into subjects. Although you are oriented toward high achievement, you are more interested in the process than the outcome. In other words, getting an A in physics is important, but understanding the material in a meaningful way is more crucial.

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Just because you’re organized doesn’t mean that you’re compulsively tidy. In fact, if your mother knew the common attributes of your sign, she might wonder what kind of Virgo you are, especially after looking at the condition of your room! But hey, you know where everything is. You have your own way of organizing. That makes sense to you. Besides, you don’t have the time to put everything neatly away in the drawers or closet, and you hate to throw anything away that you might want later,

You’d rather have one interest to which you devote your time rather than a bunch of things that happen to be popular. It’s much more interesting for you to dig deep and become an expert rather than knowing a little about a lot. It doesn’t matter whether it’s a sport, a mental activity, or a career goal. The same sentiments apply, You dislike it when people show off or boast. Sometimes these people are attracted to you because they detect that you’re somewhat reserved and cautious, so they want to show you how bold and daring they are. You don’t need that kind of person around you. In fact, you have your own daring and wild side. You just don’t show it in public very often.

Love 1 vttevests Even though the symbol for Virgo is a virgin, it doesn’t by any means you’re untouchable and lack interest in love and romance. In fact, rather than representing purity and abstinence, the virgin is related to the harvest and productivity. As an earth sign, you’re a sensual individual, who wants to be touched and loved. However, you also consider love from a practical standpoint. You’re not likely to fall head-over-heels for someone solely because of his or her looks. You may consider it, but you’re naturally attracted to that special person who is intellectually your equal, someone who will stimulate your mind and creative

abilities. When this match is found, you’ve got just what you need to keep you satisfied and challenged. If the mental connection isn’t there, the relationship ultimately won’t work out.

You and other Virgos seem to have a magnetic pull toward each other. You’re so much attuned to one another that a Virgo you’ve just met might be able to finish your sentences for you. You know how he or she feels, and vice versa. Another good match is Gemini, who is also ruled by Mercury.

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zi ,“ C‘!!X lpQt L K l L t Best romantic matches: Virgo, Gemini, Taurus, Capricorn, Pisces, Scor-

pio, Cancer. Worst romantic matches: Leo, Sazittarius, Aries, Libra, Aquarius. Opposites attract: Pisces. Best buddy: Virgo, Taurus, Capricorn, Scorpio, Cancer, Pisces. Best thrill/travel buddy: Virgo, Taurus, Capricorn, Pisces, Gemini, Sagittarius.

Most trustworthy friend: Moon in an earth sign. As good as it gets: Someone with a Virgo Moon, regardless of that person’s Sun sign.

?hysicL2l Tmits Virgos usually have slender builds and are attractive. Some Virgos have a sharpness about their features. Because Virgos fret and worry so much, their physical ailments usually manifest first in their stomachs. This can happen when you’re concerned about giving a public performance or lecture.

You’re always concerned about doing a good job and doing it efficiently. This will work well for you when you’re ready to move into a career. You also understand the importance of carrying out a duty and strive for perfection in your work. You probably will look for a job in which you are working for the benefit of society. A few possibilities include becoming a social worker, a teacher, a doctor, a nurse, or working in another capacity in a hospital, clinic, or hospice program. Also consider working with children or animals.

Passions: Knowing everything there is to know about a particular subject and getting all the details down.

Pet peeves: People who are superficial, especially those who don’t take responsibility for what they do. Colors: Blues, soft greens, and earth tones. Fashion: Whatever you wear, you select it carefully. It’s not likely to be something outrageous. O n the other hand, it’s not likely to be shabby either. Foods: You’re fussy about food. You may have a few favorites, possibly very few, and you’ll go out of your way to find them. If you take a trip overseas, food is a major concern. Because of your discriminating habits, you may become a vegetarian if you’re not one already. Animals: You might like to have a menagerie, but your practical side knows that you can give more attention to one or two pets. Motto: “It must be perfect.” Beliefs: It makes sense to do things the proper way the first time.

You could be called a practical visionary. Some Virgos are capable of expansive vision, a sense of knowing about something that is usually achieved through hard work. This vision might be limited to an area that you have examined in great depth. Your natural tendency is to analyze and rationalize, but you can get so worked up over a subject that you gain intuitive flashes.

Precision is your special magic. You are capable of creating the finest detail, For example, if it relates to a drawing everyone in class is making, others look simplistic and cartoonish next to yours. Your work has the details of a photograph.

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This is my sign so I know it better t h a n most. We Virgos are picky perfectionists. B u t we're definitely n o t as n e a t and tidy assome astrologers say room. Oh, if any parents are reading this, please don't try t o make us e a t s t u f f that we don't like.

Your nature is to keep everything and everyone around you on an even keel. You tend to bring out the best in others. You mediate and harmonize others, and you do so in a fair way. You’re a team player and an excellent strategist. You know how to make use of the power of suggestion.

The scales of justice, the symbol of your sign, means that decision-malung, and balancing and weighing the options are central themes in your life. Some Libras act decisively, but others tend to vacillate as they look at every angle of an issue. Even though you are courteous and amiable, you’re definitely not a pushover. You use diplomacy and intelligence to get what you want. When people get angry, you immediately try to resolve whatever differences have cropped up. But when you face adversity, you can have trouble making decisions. O n rare occasions, you let loose your anger, and when you do, you leave nothing unsaid. You spell out every transgression that has occurred. Fortunately, your anger is usually short-lived, but the outburst may .leave you feeling unsettled for some time afterwards. While you’re great at bringing balance and harmony to others, your challenge is to find balance within your own life. Oftentimes, you can make tough decisions for others, but in your own life you become indecisive and uncertain of how to proceed. You tend to spend too much time weighing all the various factors, carefully considering one side and then the other. Because you can see the values of both sides, you tend to overanalyze.

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You tend to love beauty in all of its guises-art, literature, music, mathematics, and the human body. Your room is tastefully decorated, and you like to keep it neat and orderly, displaying all your things. You enjoy buying new stuff

whenever you can. After school, you’re more likely to be found in your room listening to music, playing on the computer, or reading a book than hanging around with your friends. Although you get along with others, you probably have one special friend in whom you confide. You do your best to stay clear of anything that is grim, crude, vulgar, or garish. If your friends rent Night oftbe Living Dead from the video store, you’ll take a rain check, stay home, and watch a romance. You intensely dislike anything that you find unpleasant. In particular, you despise arguments and avoid them at all costs.

You’re a romantic and are naturally drawn toward beauty. You seek an attractive sweetheart who appeals to your romantic ideal. You’re loyal and tend to flourish in long-lasting relationships. When things get out of balance, you usually are the one to apologize. You know how to say you’re sorry. Even when a relationship has gone sour, you’re not likely to initiate the breakup. You don’t like to hurt anyone’s feelings and you want to avoid disharmony. As a result, you may remain in a relationship longer than you should. Warning: Even though you are usually levelheaded and in control, you have a tendency to lose yourself in sensual pleasures without any thought of the

consequences. This is especially true when you find someone who meets your romantic ideal.

You’re sociable and can get along with just about anyone, but you are most compatible with other air signs, as well as Leo and Sagittarius. You gravitate toward people who reflect your refined tastes and aesthetic prefernces. Sometimes an earth sign, such as Taurus, can ground you. A water sign, such as Cancer, can offer fluidity of emotion that you lack.

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Best romantic matches: Libra, Aquarius, Gemini, Leo, Sagittarius, Aries. Worst romantic matches: Scorpio, Pisces, Cancer, Capricorn, Virgo, Taurus. Opposites attract: Aries. Best buddy: Libra, Leo, Sagittarius, Aquarius, Gemini. Best thrillhave1 buddy: Libra, Gemini, Aquarius, Aries, Cancer, Capricorn. Most trustworthy friend: Anyone with an air sign Moon.

As good as it gets: Someone with a Libra Moon, regardless of that person’s bun sign.

? h y s i c a l 7-vaits Librans, like Taureans, are ruled by Venus, and usually possess something distinctive in their appearances. It could be compassionate eyes, a well-formed body, or beautiful hair. They tend to be slender and attractive. Because Libra rules the lower back and diaphragm, withheld emotions manifest first in those areas of the body. Libras benefit from physical exercise, particularly anything that strengthens the back and maintains general flexibility.

y o u v poteuttial You have a finely tuned sense of fair play and an ability to see all sides of an issue, but you need to work on your ability to make tough decisions. Once you've achieved that skill, many interesting professions are open to you. You probably would make a good lawyer, judge, accountant, artist, editor, musician, and parent.

Passions: Inspiring cooperation and keeping everything in harmony. Pet peeves: People who are obnoxious, disruptive, and vulgar. Colors: Pastels.

Fashion: You tend toward simple outfits, but you have a knack for wearing accessories that set you off. The female Libran might find a scarf that dresses up an ordinary outfit, while her male counterpart might wear suspenders with his jeans and T-shirt. Libras love jewelry. Foods: You’re probably fussier about the dCcor of a restaurant than you are about the food. Your favorite comfort food might be succulent fruits. Your sweet tooth encourages you to carefully examine all the desserts that are offered, but you have to balance your desire for a sweet delight with your concern about maintaining a healthy diet. Animals: How about a pair of lovebirds! Motto: “I balance, I harmonize.” Beliefs: When people get along, the world moves.

Librans rely more on intellect than intuition, and logic over emotions. By balancing intellect against intuition to reach decisions, you achieve a state of higher understanding that goes beyond the comprehension of others. In this manner, you accomplish things that you didn’t know were possible. For example, if you’re facing a big test at school and you’re asked to join several friends who are getting together to study, you need to think about the advantages and disadvantages first. Maybe they’re all serious students and you’ve

studied successfully with them previously. You even might’ve been the one to bring everyone together. However, this time you sense that when everyone gets together there will be far more socializing than studying. The others don’t understand your decision when you tell them that you’re going to stay home and study on your own.

In resolving differences and bringing people together, you act with grace and good humor. Think of the famous song, Imagirze, by fellow Libran John Lennon. It‘s about peace and stripping away the differences that separate people around the world.

pin them down on something like -Friendship. They want t o offend anyone. Definitely ask them t o make a choice

between two people. You‘ll be waiting a long time for an answer. Sure, I know good a t bringing people together and keeping everyone happy. But like I said, put them on the spot and they j u s t

You have an innate curiosity and suspicion of easy answers that compels you to probe deeply into whatever interests you. You can dig out hidden facts and seek the meaning behind the smoke screens that adults sometimes create for teens. Many of these smokescreens concern sex-an area of keen interest to Scorpios.

For example, you no doubt figured out at an early age that babies don’t come from storks, even if that was the story you were told. You unravel any watered down version of the truth that you detect. In school, you may have heard a guest speaker talk about the value of abstinence until marriage. During the question-and-answer period, typical Scorpios in the audience will prod the speaker with piercing questions. “Is that what you did?” Or, “What if I don’t plan to get married until I’m 402 Am I supposed to avoid sex for two decades of my adult life?” The intensity and depth of your emotions deeply affect your life. Sometimes you might think that your emotions rule your life. As a child, you may have experienced sudden outbursts of temper when you didn’t get your way. When your feelings were hurt, you cried and cried. As a teen, when you want your way, you’re not always diplomatic about how you get it. This is especially true when you are certain that you deserve what you seek. How you act now is not the way you’re always going to be. Like all teens, you will change as you get older. But Scorpios, in particular, usually face some major transformation in their lives at some point. It may be within a few years from now or it may not take place until later in life. But something big is bound to happen and it will change the way you see life.

What’s c o o 1 a lnd what’s N o t Even though you usually get what you want, there’s never quite enough of it. You can’t help it. You always want more. Even Scorpios who have everything they need still have an itch for something more, something they can’t always define in material form. Your room is your fortress. You’ve probably got locks on the door to protect your secrets.. .or your secret life. You turn the music on and you’re in your own world. What goes on in your room is your own business, and you’re not going to give up your secrets very easily. If you’re looking to have your own car, you’ll probably want one with darkly tinted windows, that way your privacy is protected. You won’t have someone examining you at every stoplight, but you can look out and study them. There’s nothing you despise more than people who have nothing better to do than poke into your business. A close second is people who think you’re a terrible person because you’re a Scorpio. They inevitably fail to see that Scorpios are vibrant, high-energy people who are passionate about many things. Instead, they look at you as someone who must be obsessive, vengeful, jealous, and unforgiving. Give me a break, you might say. There? more to me than that.

Love I f i t e v e s t s You’re intense, passionate, and very sensitive. No other sign brings such raw emotions into relationships. The rawness probably isn’t something that you particularly like. In fact, even as a teen, you may already have had your heart broken a time or two. If you’ve allowed someone new into your life, your sweetheart probably doesn’t understand your raw emotions. But there’s no question that they’re woven through the fabric of your relationship. This intensity might emerge in passionate vows of love. O n the other hand, it might manifest as jealousy, anger, or endless questions. Finding the right person who understands and accepts you is a challenge that you face.

Scorpios are usually compatible with Taurus because they are polar opposites and balance each other. The water of Scorpio mixes well with the earth of Taurus. However, both signs are fixed and that can mean intense disagreements in which neither sign is willing to move an inch. Scorpios can also be compatible with other Scorpios.

Best romantic matches: Scorpio, Pisces, Cancer, Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn. Worst romantic matches: Gemini, Libra, Aquarius, Aries, Leo, Sagittarius. Opposites attract: Aries. Best buddy: Scorpio, Cancer, Pisces, Capricorn, Virgo. Best thrillhravel buddy: Scorpio, Cancer, Pisces, Leo, Aquarius, Taurus. Most trustworthy friend: Someone with a water sign Moon. As good as it gets: Someone with a Scorpio Moon, regardless of that person’s Sun sign.

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Typical Scorpios are robust and well-built. They often have deeply set, penetrating eyes. An aura of personal mystique and magnetism usually surrounds them.

Many Scorpios possess an exceptional talent of some kind into which they pour their energy. It might be a hobby rather than a profession, but there could be a chance to convert it into a livelihood. Scorpios make excellent actors,

detectives, spies, and teachers. They also make good journalists, surgeons, tax specialists, undertakers, parapsychologists, and mystery writers. Whatever you pursue, you will always have a mission: Seek out and discover the truth and let others know about it.

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Passions: Well, how about passion itself! Pet peeves: People who don’t accept you as you are. Colors: Dark reds and blacks. Fashion: You could dress to kill if the situation called for it, but you’d rather wear subtle clothing that allows you to blend in with the crowd. You’ll stand out from the others when the time is right. Foods: Sharp, sour, or bitter foods that jolt your sense of taste. You also enjoy raw vegetables and fresh fruit. Animals: A pit bull, a doberman, or a boxer. Motto: “I desire.” Beliefs: When people are passionate about what they do, the world t r ansf.0rms .

Your intuition is well-developed and it’s often easy for you to pick up the thoughts of others. This ability allows you to extract secrets that would never be revealed to others. Some Scorpios are extremely psychic, with rich inner lives and passionate involvement in metaphysics.

Your magic is your intensity and power, your ability to let go of the old, to renew yourself and transform.

they're big crybabies. When they g e t older, they can be plain mean. Well, not all o f them. My grandmother's a Scorpi0 and shels always very sweet. She's the quiet kind o f Scorpio. You know she's g o t some secrets, something mysteriand I think she can read minds.

Your love of learning is the basic aspect of the Sagittarian energy. If you are a student, as most teens are, you are in your element when you’re in class. Well, you may not want to admit it, especially regarding any class where the teacher is too demanding and has too many rules and regulations. This is because you love freedom and despise restrictions. But overall, you do well in school. After all,

Sagittarius rules higher education, law, religion, philosophy, and abstract theories. Represented by the centaur, Sagittarius aims to shoot its arrows straight and true. You are honest, just, and generous. You tell it like it is. You also maintain a positive attitude. You dream of expanding into new realms, exploring areas that lie just beyond the boundaries of current knowledge. However, if your energy is channeled into a narrow focus defined by rigid beliefs, you could turn toward religious fanaticism and self-righteousness. This tendency seems at odds with the independent, freedom-loving nature of Sagittarius, but the fire of religious conviction and blind adherence to dogmas can overpower the Sagittarian sense of liberty.

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Jupiter, which rules your sign, is a planet of expansion. That bodes well for travel, and you probably dream of visiting far-off places. Journeys of all sorts appeal to you, and you gain knowledge and experience whenever you travel. You see life as an adventure and you enjoy pondering the big questions. You want to know the meaning of it all. Although your interests might be serious and high-minded, you do have a good sense of humor. It’s a good thing, too. Otherwise, others might see you as pretentious and overbearing. You’re naturally interested in outdoor activities and enjoy getting plenty of exercise. Part of you is also a party animal that wants to stay up all night long with

friends. Another part is the explorer, who wants to expand beyond the mundane activities of daily life and delve into the depth of consciousness to unravel the secrets of the universe. But your ego ofien gets in the way, delaying your explorations. You’re annoyed by timid folks who spend all their time acting normal and following all the rules. Your challenge in dealing with other people is to act with more sensitivity. Because of your straightforward nature, you can be blunt and sometimes jump to conclusions without taking all the factors into consideration.

Love I htevests Your fascination with travel and exploration may result in putting off making a commitment to another person. You don’t want anything to impede your sense of freedom. However, when you do fall in love, you do so without reservation. You literally wear your heart on your sleeve. You’re dedicated and expect the same from your sweetheart. Because of your outgoing, irrepressible nature, your sweetheart may find it a challenge to keep up with you and your demands. You need to learn to step back and not pressure your friend to keep up with your pace. When you allow that special person space to work things out in his or her own time, the relationship will work much better.

GI L/Ld CO mp GI t i b i 1it y You’re extremely independent-so independent that Aries would be a good match. Leo, another fire sign, might need too much ego boosting for your style. You’re also compatible with air signs, and you tend to get along especially well with Aquarius. This is because Aquarius is interested in cutting-edge thought, new ideas and future trends, while you are interested in the big picture.

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