September 17, 2003

The Virgo sun reminds us to keep improving, and the focus today is on creating better relationships. Family expectations demand that we please others first, but luckily, it’s not difficult to figure out how to do this while Venus is transiting Libra. The Gemini moon opens a breezy, upbeat line of communication. Cut through materialistic views.

ARIES (March 21-April 19). You see what you want. Instead of getting jealous of those who already have it, you get busy. The one who can focus reaches the goal. Being able to visualize yourself doing things the correct way will determine your success.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). You don’t mind taking responsibility for a job, as long as you have the resources available to do it right. Negotiations go well between you and other earth signs (Capricorn and Virgo). The definition of a relationship may be blurry.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). You might still be wondering whether or not a new acquaintance really likes you. You can safely call this person a "friend," but realize that he or she is guarded as a person and will take longer than most to open up.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). New living arrangements could save money, but don’t make any move for strictly financial reasons. Settle the issues that still keep you apart from an old friend or an ex; you can work it out tonight.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). Keep in touch. Neglected friends will soon fall out of your circle completely unless you make the effort. Sometimes, a postcard in the mail is enough to prove you care. Auspicious partners are Sagittarius and Scorpio.

TODAY’S BIRTHDAY (September 17). Everyone knows you’re beautiful, but a genius, too? An intellectual approach to problem solving serves you well this year. Your job becomes everything but tedious in November. In December, your nerves of steel appeal to Sagittarius and Scorpio – as long as you show your softer side, too. Financial luck in February is not too good to be true. Your lucky numbers are: 10, 9, 28, 43 and 18.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). Group decisions can go either way. One misguided influence can cause the rest to follow suit. Someone with a foreign accent or an education very different from yours could bring the most wisdom to your dealings.

LIBRA (Sept.23-Oct.23). Wealthy friends may be intimidating, so remind yourself that life is not a contest to see who can amass the most material items the fastest. You sparkle with personality tonight if you turn energy in an outward direction.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). Excitement can serve to push things forward, so don’t get too worried. Express what is in your heart to strengthen romantic bonds. For financial help, be candid with a Taurus, and you’ll get advice that’s the real deal.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). You and your partner are not on the exact same journey – you’re two distinct people! As you grow in spiritual awareness, your union shifts and changes, but that doesn’t mean you should bail when you get out of sync.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). Your attitude can make a difference between a business arrangement that is pleasant and successful and one that’s a constant drag. Wins have to do with selling an idea or finally convincing someone close to back you.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). You might not want to be where you end up today, but stick with it. A little discomfort can be very character building, and you’ll gain admirers for your ability to roll with life. Drastic moves are not favored.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20). In your mind, a special project seems like a wonderful idea, but you still don’t seem to be moving ahead. It’s easy to tell that the benefits outweigh the deficits, but your emotional side remains difficult to convince.

ASTROLOGICAL QUESTIONS: "I was born Jan. 30, 1986. My home life isn’t too great. My parents have been giving me a harder time than my siblings. I always seem to be doing things for them, and I am tired of submitting. I was wondering if it’s a good time to rebel now or if I should wait until their moods change for them to let me be a little free. My mom is 38 and born Dec. 18. My dad was born March 8 and is 54."

I know you’re dying to go wild, but your "rebellion" will be far more effective if you contain and channel this energy. Here’s the plan I’d suggest. 1) Get a job outside the home. It can be anything, as long as it has set, consistent hours and as many of them as you can take on. This act alone will stop most of the bothersome requests they make of you because you simply won’t be available to do their bidding. 2) Start becoming independent in every way you can under their roof. This means providing your own transportation and paying for your own clothing, entertainment and even food. 3) Sock as much money away as you can. 4) Hang in there one more year, and then, move out.

CELEBRITY PROFILES: Four-time Tour de France champion Lance Armstrong is a cancer survivor, best-selling author and inspirational figure to many. With his four luminaries in the sign of personal best, Virgo, the constant battle to improve himself is a sheer joy for this courageous man. This year, Armstrong could work with nutritionists and doctors to develop a health product that helps millions of people feel better and stronger.

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Copyright 2003 Joyce Jillson