Under the Sagittarius sun and the Aquarius moon, we think of those whose needs are more basic, urgent or pronounced than our own. As one 19th-century Sagittarian journalist and abolitionist suggested, "Never respect men merely for their riches, but rather for their philanthropy; we do not value the sun for its height, but for its use." — Gamaliel Bailey

ARIES (March 21-April 19). Many will offer help, opinions, ways for you to spend your money. Get away and listen to your own inner guidance. You won't regret the decisions you make independently.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). You have lofty aims. Human failings must be accounted for, too. Knowing it's not going to be easy, you'll go after your goals with the fortitude required to meet them. Otherwise, what's the point?

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). You'll be drawn to mysterious types — those who seem like they're hiding something good. Can you be discreet? People sense whether or not you can keep a secret.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). You'll pose important questions. How can you judge the worthiness of a pursuit? What is a worthwhile use of your time? The answers will start a lifestyle change.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). Your day will be filled with pleasures to savor, like the taste of your favorite drink, the iridescent thrill of an unpredictable sky and the dulcet sound of a loved one's voice.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). The best part of your day includes a harmonious assemblage of personalities. Look around and appreciate the people you've attracted in your life. You fit together.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). You feel so strongly about your loved ones that you know you'll do all you can to be there whenever they need you. If you could sum up your emotions in one word, that word would be "always."

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). The joy of life is dancing under your skin. You'll share your taste, zest and spring. You may even be able to get a smile out of that depressed person you know.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). Organization and happiness go hand in hand. Sometimes there's a natural order, and life falls into an easy groove. Other times, order is an ideal that requires effort to maintain.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). You'll encounter people far more reserved than you. Don't take it personally. You may be willing to take social and financial chances that others simply can't afford to take at this time.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). Your social savvy will come in handy. Stay aware of the subtle cues. If someone wants to give you a gift, let it happen. Accepting graciously is an act of generosity.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20). Something surprising will be revealed. You could learn of intriguing relationship developments or get wind of the sordid details of someone's past.

TODAY'S BIRTHDAY (Dec. 16). You'll feel connected to loved ones and will be able to share openly. This helps you have confidence in other areas of life. You'll make a mound of money in January and May. 2013 brings an interesting and meaningful new relationship. You'll finally be able to focus on taking care of yourself in February. Pisces and Aries people adore you. Your lucky numbers are: 50, 3, 26, 1 and 16.

FORECAST FOR THE WEEK AHEAD: According to Greek mythology, Venus, like many attractive young females, likes to travel with an entourage. The grouping might include a winged Zephyr to blow her hair with gentle breezes, a maiden to carry a high-fashion garment for her or a muse to perfume the air around her with sweet music. But the most constant member of her entourage is Cupid, the winged baby armed with a bow and a quiver of arrows, ready to target whomever Venus chooses to pierce with the acute sickness of desire. This week, Venus transits into Sagittarius. Cupid will draw the bow.

In Sagittarius, Venus will invigorate love lives everywhere with spicy variation, excitement, culture and a snappy sense of timing. Singles will feel emboldened to cast a wider net and mix in different circles. New and surprising social configurations will emerge. There's an openness and a curiosity about how romance is played in other parts of the world. In some cases, blinders will be lifted. In other cases, passion ignites. Infatuation starts its slow, devouring burn.

Neptune offers a warning in the form of a squared aspect: Take the ride of romance, but don't mistake the illusion for reality. Remember that most magic can be accomplished with smoke and mirrors.

CELEBRITY PROFILES: Krysten Ritter currently stars in the television comedy series "Don't Trust the B—— in Apartment 23" and, unlike her character, has a real-life reputation for being bubbly, outgoing, charming and compassionate. Her sun, Mercury, Uranus and Neptune in Sagittarius served her well as an international model, as these influences indicate sophistication and a love of travel. Venus and Mars are well positioned for luck in musical, political and philanthropic ventures

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