The sun in Sagittarius sends out an invitation to spar and the one to answer back is Uranus in Pisces. Like boxers in the ring, much depends on the internal fortitude. Winning is a function of training as much as it is a spiritual matter. Whoever succeeds between now and the 13th will be required to overcome surprising obstacles to do so.

ARIES (March 21-April 19). One of your favorite people will stir up some excitement in the form of invitations or new projects. Your reasons for liking this person is evident in the laughter and fun you have every time you're together.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). Excelling at physical activities or games may be your focus on this highly competitive day. Repetition and drills will strengthen you so that when it comes time to show your stuff, you're more than ready.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). You have to believe that you deserve to have the thing you want or it will continue to elude you. In a soul-searching moment, check your self-esteem. When it's in line with your desire, you are unstoppable.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). You're sensitive so you realize how dreadfully easy it is to shake and rattle a person's faith in himself. That's why you go the opposite direction, looking for any way you can to build up the people around you.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). One leap in maturity will make your whole life happier. You could go from hoping you'll strike it rich to knowing that you have it all. The way you focus is what makes things unsatisfactory or wonderful.

TODAY'S BIRTHDAY (DECEMBER 10). You will get to know many new people this year and will take great pleasure in learning as much as you can about them. Your humor bonds you with loved ones through the holidays. Work projects find acceptance and support in March. Your financial picture gets sunny in April. June is romantic. Travel in October. Leo and Gemini adore you. Your lucky numbers are: 4, 2, 13, 20 and 17.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). You can make a difference in how business around you is run. Go to the terribly boring meeting with every intention of making things better. Your sense of organization and structure will save the day.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). You're the one with all the big ideas — and the small ideas, the good ones, some of the bad ones, too ... The point is that you're overflowing with inspiration, so write them all down or record yourself.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). Most people are talking too much these days, but you have a success secret. To be understood, be brief. You're so convincing with a few well-chosen words that you command instant respect.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). It's amazing what kindness can achieve. You get an example firsthand when someone notices and compliments a change in you. It makes you want to stick with your plan and continue improving.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). You're liberal when you dole out pats on the back and declarations of "bravo!" Now you require that same level of enthusiasm from you to you. Yes, it's well deserved, and you won't progress far without it.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). Your verve and tenacity is dazzling. Why doesn't everyone see it? Only the ones who are in your league can identify with your star quality. Concentrate your efforts on those people.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20). Learning what to do is easy. What's difficult is getting yourself to actually do it. Cut out the negativity that's working against you (probably coming from your own head) so that you can work in a congruent manner.

HOLIDAY COPING STRATEGY: This holiday season brings families together, mostly for better, but sometimes for worse. Keep your connection on the up and up by following these coping strategies for the holidays. ARIES: While many signs benefit by being more assertive and honest with family, Aries is already more honest and assertive than necessary. A gentle, non-confrontational approach to communication is favored. Lie if you must. Defer if you can. Try flattery and sweetness, then duck out. This strategy of staying out of the fire may seem difficult for you at first, but you'll be surprised at how much energy you gain by steering clear of the drama. TAURUS: When things get hectic and there are many different personalities involved, adhering to a schedule, or at least an order of events, helps you maintain your sanity. Listen up and ask questions so that you're in the know about the holiday logistics. Once you figure out what everyone is doing, you can relax. GEMINI: Others may get stressed over the holiday hubbub, but you really enjoy it. So you don't need a strategy so much as a purpose — to help others have as much fun as you. Revel in the hilarious conversations and the lively exchanges of advice, gifts, food and wit.

CELEBRITY PROFILES: Happy birthday to Raven-Symone a 23-year-old entertainment veteran. She's been modeling since infancy and was on "The Cosby Show" at age 4. Sagittarians are known for their worldly sophistication, and Symone lives up to the reputation with charisma and business savvy to spare. She has taken control of her career by becoming a producer of her television and movie projects.

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