To leave the scene better than it was when you came into it is always the goal, and usually it's not so difficult to accomplish. But the more intricate and elaborate a scene is, the trickier it can be tricky to improve. Luckily, the Uranus retrograde inspires a more measured approach to the matter. Start by observing carefully and admiring greatly. That in and of itself will cause a slight improvement — perhaps all that's necessary.

ARIES (March 21-April 19). You have a tendency to turn down anything you don't feel was properly earned, but chances are, if it's coming your way, you've either earned it or you will, sooner or later. Take the compliment when it comes. Take the award, the success, the win. Just say, "Thank you."

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). Most people are slaves to context. Therefore, there's so much about context that can't be conquered. The environment dictates a mode, and then all fall into that manner of behaving. People who break out of their context (you) are amazing and exciting. That will be the theme of the week.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). So it's been said: Make a plan, the gods laugh. Then again, sometimes it goes a different way. Make a plan, the clouds part, the wind clears the way, and you follow through in perfect harmony with the elements. Both ways will happen this week. One makes a good result, the other a good story.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). The individual dots, blots and blurs of paint don't mean anything in and of themselves, but as part of the painting, their meaning is integral. The system you are situated in may seem somewhat arbitrary to you until you step back far enough for your mind to grasp the overarching organization of this picture.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). Without conflict, there's no story. Without contrast, we can't see what's there. You're not one to shy away from these things. Tension and fear will actually energize you. Conflict may be at the root of your greatest creativity. You'll rise up to meet the challenge of a heightened atmosphere.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). If you could travel back in time to chat with your past self, you'd probably mention a few things, namely about moments wasted in worry. Now, imagine you could take a visit from your future self. What do you think that message will be? Your imagination really does know. Listen to the wisdom it has to impart.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). You're now leaning in a direction. If life allows you to lean further, do it. Don't be afraid. It is a luxury to be able to develop yourself in the direction of your desiring. It takes time to immerse yourself in a subject. Do it and document your progress as you go. Truly, these chances do not come every week.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). It's a good week to be more selective in your choice of what to do and whom to do it with. If you leave too big of an opening, you won't like what creeps in to fill the gaps. Tighten the plan; leave little to chance. Also note that often the success of the plan depends on expectation management.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). Science and religion used to go together, but now they're on the outs. The relationship has spun into a perpetual rift. This week it's better to avoid touchy topics such as religion, politics and even diet. There are deals and friendships to be made. Build social inroads with innocuous pleasantries.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). There's learning to be had by breaking down an interaction to its finer levels to analyze the pieces. This kind of lesson, however, is best done privately. Just as explaining the joke spoils it, going back over the moments will break the spell. For a magic effect, do like the magicians do: Keep your own secrets.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). You'll use that superstar smile so often this week that it's becoming a regular fixture on your face. Emotional warmth is something most people want to be near, even when it's hot outside. The weekend features fun with someone who can hold up his or her end of a conversation. There's real potential here.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20). You may not talk to yourself out loud, but there's a steady inner dialogue chattering through you as you process the world. This week, the talk may be too much, too often, and in general you'll benefit from a calmer, quieter mind. Exercise, meditation and writing all help to hush an over-active thought stream.

THIS WEEK'S BIRTHDAYS: Remarkable discoveries, hidden joys, exciting developments — and that's just the first six weeks. This is truly a shining gem of a year. Part of what makes it great will be the company you keep. You've a knack for attracting people who delight you and others who challenge you. Both are essential to your growth and your joy. Love takes on many hues at the end of 2017. Investigate new employment opportunities in November and May. February brings a windfall.

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