People talk about the benefits of slowing down to "smell the roses," but the events that actually cause such slow downs — traffic, long lines, missed connections, etc. — are often met with annoyance. Venus offers us a challenge as she slips into the "show me" sign of Leo. Walk the talk. Beauty is all around at every moment, ripe for the taking.

ARIES (March 21-April 19). You'll awaken with a new perspective. It's been a while since you were this objective about your own life. When you really think about it, you rather like where you've landed.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). You may have to explain this to someone: Just because you are privy to information doesn't mean it's yours. It belongs to the person who gave it to you and is not to be given away to another.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). Your awareness will be heightened. You won't assume that everyone is looking out for everyone else. You'll look out for you and yours. Sometimes you have to be your own biggest fan.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). You're excellent at operating with your team. You try to see things as your team members might see them. Also, you'll have the overriding sense that you are stronger together than you are apart.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). You'll show people that you care and demonstrate exemplary character through simple matters of respect — for instance, turning off your phone to give your full attention to the people you're with.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). You'll experience an increased sense of purpose, and yet your purpose may be strangely difficult to put into words. Try anyhow. The exercise will focus you powerfully.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). No one will give you time for reflection; it's something you'll have to steal. Decide how you're going to spend your time, and let everyone know what you're doing.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). You'll see people constantly during this busy day. You'll move in and out of environments, always saving some of your energy for the next meeting. Make notes as you go because you're not likely to remember all of the details.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). Someone will recognize your talent. This person also may have an opinion as to which way you should take your gifts. It's worth a listen, but if a ride on the bandwagon is offered, don't jump.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). Take action, and you'll also be taking control. Take responsibility, and you'll also be taking ownership. Take offense, and you'll also be taking time and energy away from your success mission.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). If someone badmouths another person, they will, if given a reason, do the same to you. Your wise instincts kick in. You recognize and avoid toxic people and behaviors.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20). It's true that you're adept at reading body language, but that's not the entire reason you're hyper-aware of someone's opinion of you (even though the person never voices it). You also can read minds.

TODAY'S BIRTHDAY (Sept. 6). You respond well to challenge and will do amazing things under pressure in 2013. Capricorn and Libra people adore you. Your lucky numbers are: 2, 15, 49, 3 and 10.

ASTROLOGICAL QUESTIONS: "My mom and dad are about to get the shock of their lives. I am 18 and have decided that I don't want to go to college yet. I want to pursue music. I've played guitar and harp since I was 10, and I've been told I'm good. I've started writing songs in private. I want to study music and see where it will take me. Maybe I'll be famous. How should I break the news to them? What do I tell them? I'm a Libra."

Libra people are artists at heart, and they harmonize in many ways with the rest of the world. Music has obvious appeal, partly because musicians quite literally play for a living. But make no mistake: As a profession, music is about as competitive as it gets. A very small percentage of musicians make their living solely from music. Having a plan will be crucial to your success. Where will you live? How will you support yourself? Will your parents allow you to live at home while you study music? If so, how will you contribute to the household? I encourage you to tap into your innate sense of balance. Many musicians have part-time jobs that allow them to focus on music while still being able to support themselves.

CELEBRITY PROFILES: Virgo comedian and bestselling author Jeff Foxworthy hosts the popular game show that asks "Are You Smarter Than a 5th Grader?" And though he's a redneck humorist, his masterful comic approach exudes a sophisticated artistry that only can come from years of experience and practice. Foxworthy was born when Mercury, Venus and Uranus were in the sign of entertainment.

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