If you believe that love is a verb, then it follows that relationships are work. Today's conjunction of Mercury and Venus aims to lighten that workload. There is still a degree of effort required, but it will be an enjoyable sort of exertion. We understand one another for the most part, and with good communication, much can be accomplished.

ARIES (March 21-April 19). Some say that security is illusory, and that it doesn't exist on this earth at all. Still, to feel safe is a basic human need. You will supply a feeling of safety to another person to whatever degree you possibly can.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). Unlike the relationships portrayed in the media, the real issues between people usually can't be resolved within a half-hour episode. But today's case might be an exception. It actually could be just that simple.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). You'll be inspired by someone else's journey, and it makes you want to go out and try harder. Ask for help or maybe even some kind of sign to point you in the right direction. The communication lines are open.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). There is such a thing as expressing emotions way too vividly. Your heart goes out to the one whose feelings are amplified and on display. You'll have a calming, stabilizing effect on this person.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). Your opportunity radar is in full swing. Consider your past mistakes, as they hold the clues you need to make the most of what's being presented. You'll find solutions where none existed before.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). You'll get a head start on a situation, but don't rely on your advantage. Remember the tortoise and the hare. Don't run so fast that you burn out and need a nap. Pace yourself and avoid distraction.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). Some say that friendship with yourself is needed before you can be friends with anyone else. But it doesn't always go in that order. Today, a good friend teaches you to befriend yourself.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). The adrenaline rush of romance isn't always related to another person. Today, you could just as easily fall in love with an idea, activity or story. Whatever your focus, the sensation will be sweet.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). If you're being offered a grim or simply uninspiring array of choices, refuse to choose. Walk out. There are better choices somewhere else.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). The attainment of lightweight goals provides little reward. Insurmountable goals can never be attained, so what's the point? Deep satisfaction comes from aiming for what's substantial and doable.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). This isn't a game show. You have the right to change your decision. It's easier to do when you don't fully commit to any option in the first place. Keep your schedule and your mind open.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20). The authority figures might be just as clueless as the ones they are trying to manage or lead. Your answer is as good as anyone's and probably a lot better, so trust yourself.

TODAY'S BIRTHDAY (June 1). Life is a flow, and you're moving along with it better than ever this year. An act of surrender will bring you a bit of magic this month. You'll make important decisions in July affecting where and how you live. Practice and training are featured in September. October investments reap rewards in February. Cancer and Virgo people adore you. Your lucky numbers are: 4, 5, 31, 24 and 15.

WEEKEND LOVE FORECAST: ARIES: Your heart goes out to someone, and the energy of it can be felt by that person. TAURUS: You're assertive in relationships without being aggressive, so you'll earn respect. GEMINI: Be careful not to overextend yourself, thus taking valuable time away from other important things like having as much fun as possible. CANCER: If you're single, it's a good time to play the field and connect with many different people. Also, couples have fun mingling in groups. LEO: Make it clear that you're available even if you think it should be obvious. VIRGO: You feel comfortable in your own skin, so others loosen up around you. LIBRA: You express your sense of humor in your own way — a way that goes well with other air signs, by the way. SCORPIO: You know the secret. Instead of searching for love, you just give your love, and it comes back to you. SAGITTARIUS: Being a friend first is important to the development of a relationship. CAPRICORN: Find out what you have in common so you can include another person in your world. AQUARIUS: You feel ready to open up a little more with someone you trust. PISCES: A good argument can be enjoyable.

COUPLE OF THE WEEKEND: The sun in Gemini and the moon in Scorpio have these signs intrigued with each other this weekend. Gemini likes to talk, and Scorpio is an excellent listener, so this works well for the couple. Gemini will relax into Scorpio's quiet strength and will love how soulful Scorpio understands the twins. The stars add sizzle to the social scene when these two get out to experience the nightlife together.

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