August 22, 2004

The sun transiting into the nurturing sign of Virgo marks the beginning of an extremely productive cycle. Virgo is an expert at correcting, improving and adding any elements that will ultimately contribute to growth. This evergreen energy can be directed toward a special project, a relationship or an area of your life that needs attention.

ARIES (March 21-April 19). Loved ones need to shine and may seem to eclipse your light for a short while. Your graciousness will be long remembered. It’s not a good day to use your cell phone while driving – in fact, maybe it’s never a good day for that.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). Your luck is augmented by everything you read and absorb. A friend who has known you forever will remind you of past lessons – as if you needed someone to do that. It’s a double insurance you won’t repeat the mistake.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). Most of your day is spent catering to the needs of your loved ones, but that’s also where your satisfaction is greatest. Tonight, do what will awaken your senses. Knowing your limits will allow you to make the most of a situation.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). You’ve got creative energy to burn off and could produce something outstanding while merely fooling around. People around you add to the magic. They feel free to express themselves, and you get the benefit of that mood.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). Old-fashioned values and manners are seriously underrated by most people, but not you. Your attention to social rules may seem to go unappreciated, but truly classy people take note. You go down on an "A" list of sorts.

TODAY’S BIRTHDAY (August 22). Your imaginative approach to relationships gives you many wonderful memories this year. You’re enriched by what people bring to your life in the next seven weeks. When you’re not expecting a thing, you are given much. Finances are abundant as a direct result of a decision you make in December. Love signs are Aquarius and Scorpio. Your lucky numbers are: 40, 2, 11, 53 and 32.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). You’re sensitive to subtle energy shifts, which will help you navigate family complications. You could very well be the one who makes everyone get along. The tone you set is infectious. A Capricorn romance is all consuming.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct.23). Think before spending, and ignore pressure that salesmen and spouses may put on you. That goes away, but debt will linger on. Singles, don’t move in with aggressive energy. Give elusive dates space, and they’ll return faster.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov.21). Your affinity for people who think like you is matched only by your fascination with people who don’t. Welcome diversity in all areas of your life. The more influences you have, the better you’ll be able to express yourself.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec.21). You’re in a position to criticize and may even be asked or paid to give your opinion. But just when you judge what is outside yourself, you might see it reflected inside. Apply your moral compass to only your own situation.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan.19). There will be no shortage of events in which to test your social (or possibly psychic) skills. The jovial atmosphere includes a bit of mischief that’s not to be taken too seriously. Be a good sport. Tonight, be quick to forgive.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb.18). You’re the ray of hope! You can change people’s thinking by painting a picture of a better future. It’s OK for you to want nice things and a luxurious environment. Don’t be ashamed of your outstanding taste.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20). You’re fearless and could be the perfect "guinea pig" for trying a new technique or method. Many prospects don’t help you as much as one good one will. Sometimes, limitations can be more liberating than wide-open options.

FORECAST FOR THE WEEK AHEAD: The energy of Virgo is like getting new blood in an old company. The very anticipation of action causes action. All comers bring their best selves to the "party," partially because it’s polite and partially because they are afraid of being outdone. Virgo energy is competitive, serious and practical. It instills the knowledge that the quickest way from Point A to Point B is probably revealed on a map. Without a map (or business plan or project outline, as the case may be), there’s a feeling of being ineffective (no, not that!). One of the worst things to be under the Virgo sun is ineffective, as it is instantly noticed by the rest of the world. Virgo is about correcting and improving so that we can grow into the people we’ve always wanted to be. On Tuesday, Mercury continues its retrograde transit into Leo, which inspires a thorough review of recent events. You’ll be faced with your own patterns, and this is a chance to decide which ones to keep and which ones to interrupt or end for good. The moon waxes toward the full moon on Sunday – finish up those lagging projects quickly.

CELEBRITY PROFILES: Shania Twain is still country music’s top-selling female star. Her songs are familiar but give that fresh-on-the-radio feel even after being heard countless times. Twain is able to pare down the fluff and leave just the good stuff for her fans. But Virgo gals like Twain are not just going through the motions. Their feelings go deep, and they tend to reveal them in a professional and polished manner.

If you would like to write to Joyce Jillson, please go to www.creators.com and click on "Write the Author" on the Joyce Jillson page, or you may send her a postcard in the mail. To find out more about Joyce Jillson and read her past columns, visit the Creators Syndicate Web page at www.creators.com. – Copyright 2004 Joyce Jillson