Horoscopes by Holiday by Holiday Mathis

Are you the kind of person who avoids controversy and backs down from conflict? Do you hate to disagree or make anyone unhappy? If you have to deliver news that is not likely to be well-received, get it over with this afternoon. The assertive Aries moon takes away some of the fear. The best approach is quick and direct — like removing a Band-Aid.

ARIES (March 21-April 19). You'll wisely listen to the unspoken messages people send you today. Something that seems negative in the moment will help you become better and keep you on track.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). There was a time in the not-too-distant past when things came easier. It might just feel uphill both ways today. That's about to change, but when it does, don't lose the fortitude you've developed.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). The words you speak have a way of coming to pass. Even those off-handed expressions hold some power. You could have an epiphany about something you often say, realizing what it actually means for the very first time.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). You do what you want to do, your way. That's the natural order. When someone tries to boss you around, nip it in the bud. Make it known from the beginning that it isn't going to work.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). Some people make friends wherever they go. You are one of those people. So don't be surprised when one of those new acquaintances turns out to hold a key to your career's future.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). You haven't been doing anything that different lately, but for some reason you have more energy for your work, plus some left over for those you care about. Vitality sometimes comes in waves, and right now you've definitely got it.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). You've been considering an upgrade of your transportation situation, but you've been waiting for just the right moment. Pick out a color — that moment is near.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). An unexpected gift brings a momentary reprieve from financial pressure. It's just a patch, not a plan. But do enjoy the stroke of good luck while you think about other ways you might make a bit more dough.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). You learn something about your boss that makes him or her seem a little more relatable to you. You realize that beneath the roles we are compelled to play, we are all just people who need people.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). Ask a friend for assistance.

As hard as it is to do, the people who love you genuinely want and need to help. Giving will fill them with purpose. They just need the opportunity. Give them one.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). Remember when you used to draw? There's something therapeutic and anciently human about putting a seen or imagined picture to paper. Scribble for fun. It will release your true playful nature.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20). What do you do when you're dancing to the beat of your own drummer and he starts playing a waltz? Why, you find a partner, of course. Then dance your way into a dreamy evening.

TODAY'S BIRTHDAY (Oct. 30). Your radiant personality attracts abundant love and attention. Friendships become central to your activities. Bonds are made stronger. January brings a wave of interest in your pet project. Follow through. Your influence will be far-reaching. You'll change the world, one person at a time. May brings a big commitment. Leo and Taurus people adore you. Lucky numbers are: 7, 3, 22, 50 and 19.

WEEKEND LOVE FORECAST: ARIES: You wisely understand that you'll have more to offer a loved one after you've pursued your own dreams and goals. TAURUS: Do not talk about an ex with your current love, even if what you have to say is neutral. No matter how you phrase things, jealousies will arise. Best to say nothing. GEMINI: Your friends lead you to potential loves, or a sweetie will lead you to new friends. CANCER: There is no need to go too deeply into your past with someone you are just getting to know. Remain mysterious. LEO: You'll receive a thrilling invitation. VIRGO: Focus your care on those who appreciate it and will demonstrate it with a touching display. LIBRA: Your energy improves when you spend time with a certain person — and don't spend time with those who are draining to be around. SCORPIO: A loved one will be impressed with how well you fit into his or her world. SAGITTARIUS: Spiritual matters will be worked out in a physical way. CAPRICORN: The moment will arise: You will captivate the attention of someone you've long been interested in. AQUARIUS: A love triangle is featured. PISCES: Love is a melding of worlds. Compromise to make it work.

COUPLE OF THE WEEKEND: Libra and Sagittarius are two sophisticated signs that have a wide range of interests and a broad definition of beauty. Both signs are lifelong learners, though Libra tends to be more bookish and Sagittarius learns through experience. They are open-minded and believe that being in love means you are willing to extend yourself in new ways, do things differently, compromise and go with the flow.

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

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