July 01, 2002

A day of unorthodox behaviors makes it seem as though the lunatics have taken over the asylum. Avoid knee-jerk reactions, and let the loopy people you have to deal with on the job or at school do themselves in. Slowly move ahead with long-term projects, plans and goals. If you've been researching an issue, you find incredibly valuable information today.

ARIES (March 21-April 19). Hobbies are relaxing, therapeutic and downright sexy to those who are lucky enough to see you in action. Statements may be retracted, and if you overlook the errors of another, you can make a fast friend.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). If you can't have artistic license in your job, you'll retaliate in sneaky ways. Encourage a loved one's creative attempts, even though you secretly don't get it. Two or three admirers appear on the scene at once!

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). Money flows consistently but from varied sources. Take a client's complaint seriously. Double duty stimulates you to do your best work. Singles determined to find love are successful when they are a bit less aggressive.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). Surprise! You may actually enjoy what you profess to be irritated by. Work and school assignments prove to be sources of inspiration. First impressions are crucial at interviews, auditions and meetings.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). A temporary setback on the job or in matters of child rearing is the result of a small oversight. It is safe to explain your dilemma to a loved one. A close friend's argument is convincing but wrong for you.

TODAY'S BIRTHDAY (July1). A cascade of power begins flowing in August and grows exponentially by December. By 2003, you won't recognize your life as you transform into the person you've always known you could be. In September, a mentor or guide unselfishly shows you what to do, giving you the tools and even the funds to proceed. Love strikes while you're vacationaing this summer. Your lucky numbers are: 5, 16, 18, 26 and 38.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sep. 22). A lover's forgetfulness is maddening, but it doesn't reflect directly on you. Constant interruptions keep you from being as productive as you would like. Colleagues and partners are receptive to constructive criticism if you are, too.

LIBRA (Sept.23-Oct.23). It is tempting to take advantage of a position of authority but very dangerous to do so. Get closer to a potential love interest by expressing your feelings. Honesty with a loved one is the only way to regain trust and openness.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). If you are certain that you did something correctly, do not apologize. Friends are ready to take you on a spending spree, but you should wait until a paycheck comes in. Thoughts of a new love are distracting on the job.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). Younger relatives seek approval, but this isn't obvious. A little attention from you means more to others than you think. It is more difficult to be honest, but it takes much less energy in the long run.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan 19). By joining a group, your power increases. Colleagues reach a breakthrough, and you benefit, too. Showing appreciation makes you feel good. Introduce friends who are well suited to each other. Luck involves a settlement.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). Image is important on the job. A surprise visit from a loved one brightens the day. Avoid dipping into savings to purchase unnecessary items. Your white lie saves a colleague from embarrassment – just don't make it a habit.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March. 20). Money considerations aren't everything. Put financial matters in the proper perspective – it's only money. If you offend anyone in the morning, go back in the afternoon to make amends. Think of ways around an office crisis.

ASTROLOGICAL QUESTIONS: "After taking care of my two sons, husband and elderly mother, and working at a local supermarket, I feel I have no life. I am a Cancer born in 1955. Is there anything good in my future?"

Yes! This is exactly why astrology can be helpful. First, Saturn (the planet of responsibility) is very prominent in your 2002 chart, so no wonder you are feeling burdened. However, you will soon find the way to lighten your load. A surprise bonus, windfall or favor in mid-August gets the renewal ball rolling. In September, a change in work hours puts you in a fun, new social atmosphere. In October, you are asked to contribute one of your talents to a charity event and get great feedback. Your husband unexpectedly suggests this might be a future source of income. As for your mom, Cancerians often have the nagging guilt that they aren't doing enough for their parents, when actually they are some of the most dutiful children.

CELEBRITY PROFILES: George Michael, pop sensation of the '80s and '90s, is a tenderhearted Cancer who used his music for charity when needed. He could rise to the occasion again this year as world politics create situations that pull on his heartstrings. His ties to supermodels could come into play as glamour will be big for him this summer.

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Copyright 2002 Joyce Jillson