> STARS

IF TODAY IS YOUR BIRTHDAY: Curious and inventive, you are filled with wonder at the world. When you focus you mustn’t get discouraged if success is not immediate. You do brilliantly the second half of this year. Taurus builds a contented family with you.

ARIES (MARCH 21-APRIL 19)

Others find it hard to relate to your inner fantasy life. Communicate about important issues, but don’t try to convert others to your way of thinking. Keep a positive mind. You create your own bliss or misery with the power of thought.

Tonight: Quiet meditation.

TAURUS (APRIL 20-MAY 20)

A vision of the future comes through dreams or meditation. It is easier to make the right choices. Communication with those you care for improves. Kind friends from the past are in touch.

Tonight: Don’t take it personally if a familiar group breaks up.

GEMINI (MAY 21-JUNE 20)

Your ambitions and expectations about work are high, and a competitive spirit builds. Be patient and thoughtful. Eventually your value will be more widely recognized. Background research and testing of techniques lead to success.

Tonight: Develop greater depth of concentration.

CANCER (JUNE 21-JULY 22)

Your enthusiasm and energy are high. Studies, travel and conversation generate agreeable ideas and experiences. Your zest for the novel and intriguing is fulfilled. You might feel restless. Get both sides of the story if there is disturbing news. Tonight: Postponing travel.

LEO (JULY 23-AUG. 22)

An old problem is solved, and you gain deep understanding of a new subject or task. Concentrate — you will discover new mental potentials. You will be changed by external events. It is a time of adjustments; identify newly developing conditions. Tonight: Transportation issues.

VIRGO (AUG. 23-SEPT. 22)

As the zodiac’s best analyst, you offer constructive criticism to those you love. Be sure to balance this with words of praise and encouragement today. A working or learning environment can generate romance.

Tonight: A favourable time to make a love connection.

LIBRA (SEPT. 23-OCT. 22)

Your sign has a special association with the kidneys. Strengthen your lower back with stretching — it’s another vulnerable area. Your health might have been affected by the demands of someone close to you. That trend is ebbing now.

Tonight: A healthier, stronger cycle is starting.

SCORPIO (OCT. 23-NOV. 21)

The reputation for passion linked to your sign will be in evidence today. Your yearning for depth and intimacy with your nearest and dearest may manifest. For an even more intense bond, try exploring early childhood memories and dreams with your beloved.

Tonight: Date night.

SAGITTARIUS (NOV. 22-DEC. 21)

Put responsibility first, play by the rules and act conservatively. All unusual for your sign, but it will help today. Try to be tolerant of the failings others show and like them nevertheless. Your efforts will be rewarded. Tonight: Good humoured conversations restore your faith.

CAPRICORN (DEC. 22-JAN 19)

Listen to ideas proposed by others, but do not be coerced against your better judgment by aggressive types. Keep good company. Befriend a neighbour or two. Short, impromptu journeys lead to unexpected delights and opportunities. Tonight: Transportation problems are solved.

AQUARIUS (JAN. 20-FEB. 18)

Your cash flow is on the way to increasing and your standard of living will improve. All will be well if you aren’t extravagant. Resist the temptation to overextend though. Welcome extra work, and pursue opportunities. Your efforts will be rewarded. Tonight: Relax.

PISCES (FEB. 19-MARCH 20)

Today finds the planets giving you a renewed sense of confidence and support. Suddenly, harmony returns. Your cherished beliefs are supported, and you create success around your most important goals. Bravo. Tonight: Exactly as you want it. It is time to indulge yourself.

BORN TODAY: Writer Mervyn Peake (1911), neurologist Oliver Sacks (1933), actor Tom Hanks (1956)