A key can open a kingdom, a seed can grow the mighty oak, a glance can start a love affair in motion. On this first day of Pluto's retrograde, we're reminded of the power concentrated in certain small things. It could be that an entire experience is colored by what seems minor. This retrograde draws attention to where the power has been hiding.

ARIES (March 21-April 19). Self-care isn't always about doing things; it's also about not doing things, or doing things at a comfortable pace. Rest is essential. Sleep long hours when you feel you need it. It's part of what keeps you quick and strong when it matters.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). This is the kind of day that could be written into a field report. You really are a fascinating subject, whose decisions, instincts and odd preferences could be studied. Someone loves your signature moves and lets you know.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). When people say what they'll do, you believe them. But if they don't deliver, you don't continue to listen to what they say, because words are essentially meaningless. It's what they add up to that matters.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). It's good to be needed. In the thrust of the day's activities, you get the sense that you're fulfilling your purpose. But the part of each day in which no one expects anything of you? If that's your favorite part, count yourself "normal."

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). It seems the usual surroundings have run dry. So, you stop looking out there for excitement. Deliberately imagine what could be fun, intriguing and worth pursuing next. Your mind offers ideas like movie trailers for your future.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). In a good group, victories are more fun and setbacks are easier to handle. In the wrong group, it can feel like the opposite. Credit is diluted, blame is spread unevenly, losses feel heavier too. The group should make your life easier.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). Sometimes saying yes to life means saying yes less often. This is one of those times. Progress comes when you focus on one thing, do it well and keep at it to completion. The accomplishment will give you continuing confidence.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). It can feel like you're living in two different worlds depending on your state. When emotions run hot, don't make any big decisions. Because those decisions won't match your wants and needs on a typical day.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). Is there something daunting about the future? You've felt this way before. You can handle what's next. Just look at what you've already done. That proof builds confidence. Keep noticing even small wins because it helps you stay motivated.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). You'll get clarity debating an idea with someone you respect. In defending your position, you'll listen closely for opportunities to refine your thinking. The experience sharpens your mind and builds confidence in your ability to hold your own.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). You've cultivated a distinctive taste for something trivial — tea, pens, socks, playlists — the subject matters less than the act of refining your preferences. Discernment builds identity. People with taste feel more like themselves and it radiates as confidence.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20). Ultimately, a deal will come together because it feels right. A meeting of the minds matters more than some of the other details. Terms can be hashed out by people on the same wavelength.

TODAY'S BIRTHDAY (May 6). Life is rich with new experiences in your Year of Lucky Beginnings. It will be fun to find out that you're good at certain things from the get-go. Three times you'll strike gold on the first try. More highlights: You'll head projects and lead the group to successes they didn't know were possible. You'll come up with theories that move a study forward. Spontaneous magic will hit your romantic sector. Leo and Gemini adore you. Your lucky numbers are: 27, 39, 12, 24 and 18.

CELEBRITY PROFILES: "Ocean's 14" is in pre-production with the all-star cast featuring the ever-charming George Clooney. Clooney's embodiment of the qualities of Venus-ruled Taurus is undeniable. Charm, groundedness, a love of the finer things and a timeless physical appeal are part of the package. Clooney also has a strong sense of social justice and civic duty, which is why the United Nations has named him a Messenger of Peace.

For more Holiday magic, visit HolidayMathis.com. To find out more about Holiday Mathis and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.

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