Being a relatively weak physical specimen (as compared to the lions, wolves and sharks) the survival of mankind is dependent on fighting, fleeing and forbearance. Whatever challenges this new journey of Venus through the hostile climate of Aries brings our way, we will be better, sharper and stronger on the other side.

ARIES (March 21-April 19). There are plenty of available options, but the ones that meet the criteria of being the right thing at the right time in the right way are few and far between. Trust in life's unfolding today. Relax, align yourself, and wait for it.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). This is a day for acceptance. You'll meet a wide range of personalities and deal with more than a few different behavioral styles. No one's style is better. You can learn from everyone.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). Just when you were starting to relax into the current scene, a diversion erupts. This is an exciting twist! You may not change your course, but you'll sure approach with heightened attention.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). Low confidence could actually be a good thing for you today. Those who think they already have it nailed won't make the extra effort to be remarkable. Where the overconfident fail, you'll succeed.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). Once in a while you look around you and wonder, "How did I get here?" Even you couldn't repeat the steps if you had to. And the journey ahead will be equally as whimsical.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). Ben Franklin suggested you get to bed early and wake up early, but what did he know about your life? Your internal clock has its own sort of wisdom and efficiency. Try to be patient as it adjusts today.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). You are sometimes too proud and independent for your own good. Let people give to you. Money, gifts, help, attention — whatever it is, if it feels sincere and unencumbered by strings, you should take it.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). Just because something is silly and mindless and fluffy-fun doesn't mean it's stupid. If you're attracted to it, and it makes you smile and maybe ponder or wonder or think — this is valid enough.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). If you try and study yourself, very few insights are likely to emerge. However, in the process of studying someone you admire or a subject of fascination, you'll learn much about yourself.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). Whether the expenditure is emotional or financial, the purchase price will be negotiable. Decide what you can afford and then back down from that to what you really want to pay. Be bold. Name your price and go from there.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). It takes a strong person to ask for and take in honest criticism, but it will be well worth your while, because there is something just beyond your usual awareness that will be incredibly helpful for you to know.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20). To get what you need without wondering why you need it or telling yourself that you shouldn't need it: that is to really trust in the universe and your own intuition.

TODAY'S BIRTHDAY (Feb. 3). Realizing that you can't keep everything the way it is and still get what you want, you'll approach this solar return with scrutiny. What can you trade? What are you unwilling to compromise about? Tough questions will lead to a plan that nets you a superstar transformation by the end of May. July brings a windfall. Leo and Scorpio adore you. Your lucky numbers are: 5, 38, 14, 22 and 19.

WEEKEND LOVE FORECAST: ARIES: You'll get what you want by being the bigger person. Give in on some of the smaller points. TAURUS: Your affection will be returned in kind. GEMINI: Wit trumps physical beauty, but you'll hit the bonanza and get both in one person! CANCER: There's a high level of trust in a relationship, and you'll be careful to protect that. LEO: Your honest, unique and flawed interactions will be much more effective than a canned perfect one could possibly be. VIRGO: It will be your pleasure to keep the air flowing under the other person's wings. LIBRA: You want to build on the relationship. One brick at a time, though. SCORPIO: Of all your social options, the one who plays with you the best will be the most intriguing. SAGITTARIUS: Relating to another person is different from outdoing another person. CAPRICORN: The problem is a lack of love, entertainment, interest, excitement — and both parties are looking for a mutually agreeable solution. AQUARIUS: Temporary arrangements need but a few kinks worked out to become long-term. PISCES: Trivial matters are only fun to get into if they involve flirting. If not, withdraw fast.

COUPLE OF THE WEEKEND: The friction between Taurus and Aquarius this weekend causes sparks. To the untrained eye these two may seem almost to dislike each other, but to one experienced in human dynamics, it's clear that their sparring is a way of generating excitement. Sensual, reasonable Taurus and intellectual, eccentric Aquarius could switch roles with one another this weekend, giving the relationship fresh interest.

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