January 08, 2004

The moon enters Aquarius, joining love planet Venus in the philanthropic, generous sign. It’s a perfect setup for bringing out the altruistic side of human nature. Give to those who don’t have and those who do alike. We all need something to fill up our soul, and that’s a sense of connection.

ARIES (March 21-April 19). Let go of fear – you’ll see the bright side soon. This is an excellent time to cherish the relationships you’ve built. An unexpected gift, like fresh-cut flowers or a thoughtful card, reminds loved ones of your powerful connection.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). There is so much to do, and yet it all seems to stand stiff if an important cog in the wheel breaks. Keep humor and philosophy handy. No matter how stressful a situation gets, avoid overindulging in sensory gratification.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). Quench your appetite with only the best foods, the most fulfilling passions and the most beautiful sights. You get immense satisfaction through your appreciation of surroundings. Extend invitations, and find reasons to laugh.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). It’s challenging to get the right message to the right person. However, it’s not too late to pay someone back for kindness that is, by now, part of history. Lucky signs to share with are Capricorn and Taurus.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). A loved one’s action is bewildering. It’s pointless to waste time figuring someone out now since the answers are readily apparent after the weekend. Just accept others, shortcomings and all, and go on your merry way.

TODAY’S BIRTHDAY (January 8). You’ve got the magic touch! Just be careful what you wish for – your happiness is dependent on one person, and that’s you! In the seven weeks to come, hard work and creativity lead to a promotion. Large purchases improve living conditions in March. Spring relationship commitments are lucky. August is particularly lucky for financial aspects. Your lucky numbers are: 40, 20, 11, 34 and 50.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). Try everything twice, as the second time is lucky. Seeing an old love gives you ideas, and this too, is worth a shot. You can do anything by taking one step at a time. Tonight, you are seen as charismatic.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). Streamline your obligations, and start saying "no" when you used to say "yes." Too many cooks will ruin the proverbial soup. It’s time to step into the leadership role. Financial problems are worked out in the final hour, and what a relief.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). You sparkle. You’ll feel driven to go, go, go, but calm down, and do less instead – it’s more effective. Finding the right relationships for you or making an existing one work out is a focus. You’re better off taking bold risks.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). Those who keep to tradition and honor the position of others will succeed with flying colors. Money is not crucial to the success of today’s events, so don’t spend too much. Whatever happens, rely on your intelligence.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). Relax your expectations, and this is a splendid day! A communication gap would slow you down a bit, but it’s nothing personal. You try to get in touch with people of influence. Eventually, your persistence pays.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). Motivation and common sense are yours in plenty, so use them generously, helping those who seem to have little of either. The day could feel like a mad rush to the finish line. Consider that your deadline is self-imposed.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20). A rigid schedule is unproductive, not to mention impossible because so many people want to see you. Keep it loose, and you’ll be amazed by all you can accomplish. Postponing waste your time and energy. Do it now!

WHEN THE NEW YEAR SMILES ON AMBITIOUS SOULS, HERE’S HOW TO TAP INTO YOUR INNER GO-GETTER (PART THREE OF SIX): Motivation comes from all types of sources, and each of us has a different way of finding that inner energy. The new year will be the kind of year that helps those who help themselves. How will your sign find motivation in 2004? LEO: Such a leader, you decide what you’re going to do and then do it, period, and you usually have the stamina to follow through. The thing is, you are in danger of re-inventing the wheel, a clear waste of time. Don’t skip the research part of your project in order to get the high of being in action. You need mentors, who can tell you honestly the strengths and weaknesses of your project. Aquarius and Scorpio are ideal advisers. VIRGO: This year, you’re much better off working in terms of fun people – try Gemini and Libra. When alone, you can get so caught up in the nuances of a task that the big picture becomes a dim memory. This is a good way to get in touch with that most hideous of emotions, energy-sucking despair. If you keep broad-thinking folks nearby and consult them often, your energy will remain strong.

CELEBRITY PROFILES: The smooth, crystalline voice of Dido has made her a very original and very popular young artist. Her chart suggests that in personal matters, she takes life in stride, not worrying much, giving love freely without expectations and rarely taking offense. But business is where she really invests her feelings. The ordinary rejections and wins of the music business are something she takes deeply to heart!

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Copyright 2004 Joyce Jillson