YOUR HOROSCOPE

FOR THE WEEK BEGINNING 24 DECEMBER 2017

ARIES March 21-April 20

A friend of mine used to say, ‘I’m always right — even when I’m wrong!’ He was joking (I think!) but we all like being on the moral high ground. Sometimes, in our scramble to get to the top, we step on other peoples’ feelings, while other folk never admit to an error because they don’t want to lose face. As Christmas approaches, the pressure mounts. We all want to be full of seasonal joy. As Mercury’s retrograde movement comes to an end, and your ruler links to Neptune, be sensitive, keep an open mind, and all will be well. IN YOUR LOVE LIFE: You sense a foreboding. How seriously you should take this cause for concern? Not at all. Don’t nurture negativity.

TAURUS April 21-May 21

A watched pot never boils...’ but I don’t need to remind you of that! You know perfectly well how slowly watched pots boil, because there’s one that you haven’t been able to take your eyes off – and I’m not talking about the Christmas gravy! The progress you’re making seems incremental, and you’re worrying that your plan will never be cooked. But you’re about to find answers to questions that will bring peace and goodwill. As Venus converges with Saturn, you’ll see a meaningful return on the time and energy you’ve invested. IN YOUR LOVE LIFE: It is possible now to end a self-perpetuating cycle of argument in your emotional life.

GEMINI May 22-June 22

S ome people claim to be able to read minds. A much larger group is certain that such abilities are trickery. Sceptics accept every possibility but one — that a few amongst us really do have special, and unusual gifts. Although you might not be developing a ‘third eye’, as Mercury turns direct, you’ll finally start to understand someone better this festive week. With your new insight, deeply held misunderstandings can be peacefully resolved. If you embrace what’s been so hard to see, a healthier, happier time lies in store. IN YOUR LOVE LIFE: Your pathway, in the past, may have seemed like a wobbly tightrope. Destiny now makes your route clear and inspiring.

CANCER June 23-July 23

V enus is entering your opposite sign. That’s not just good news for your love life. That’s great news for your unloved life! Because just as something was starting to prove difficult, and daunting, Venus’ conjunction with Saturn will help you to see its value. With delightful timing, the cosmos offers you the chance to appreciate what you have, and who you have it with. Just don’t sacrifice long-term dreams for short-term pleasures. There are ways in which you can ease your burden, and advance your prospects too. IN YOUR LOVE LIFE: I cannot stress strongly enough how glorious your longterm outlook is. I suspect you are not convinced. Trust me.

LEO July 24-August 23

O ften our colleagues are no more than that. They’re simply the people we need around us to get things done. And given how much time in life is devoted to work, that can sometimes make life feel a little lonely and restricting. But this week, you’ll find yourself surrounded by more kindness than you’re used to. It will creep out of crevices and seep into the fabric of your days. Any doubts and fears about your future can, for the time being at least, be set to one side. You can relax over the festive season. Go on! You deserve it! IN YOUR LOVE LIFE: You may be worrying too much. Confidence is coming, though, to envelop you in a kind of protective shoe.

LIBRA September 24-October 23

F rom an evolutionary point of view, holding a grudge makes sense. If we remember the reasons for the stresses we’ve faced, our chance of repeating the situation decreases. That’s the theory anyway! But, as we prepare to repeat familiar rituals, (that bring their share of challenges), it’s good to remember that such a perspective closes us to new opportunities. How much you’re willing to forgive, and how much you can afford to forget is up to you. This festive week, if you’re kind to yourself, those around you will benefit too. IN YOUR LOVE LIFE: Could someone else be stuck, and your only crime is to be involved with them? Find a fault and fix it. Success awaits.

VIRGO August 24-September 23

M ost of us have experienced déjà vu. Although there’s no scientific explanation for it, some people interpret such feelings as signs of faith. There’s a strong sense that what you’ve experienced in the past is now powerfully affecting you. You’ve been through, and learnt, a lot. As Mercury turns direct, if you can see why a situation has turned out the way it has, then, with your unique sensitivity, and natural communication skills, you’ll find that you can stand strong and enjoy your role as peacemaker over the festive week. IN YOUR LOVE LIFE: You may need to think again about what you’d like to banish from the garden of your emotional life.

SCORPIO October 24-November 22

W hen we say something’s too good to be true, are we describing what we see, or how we see it? Mercury’s retrograde period created a climate of insecurity. Now, as Venus and Saturn converge, it’s understandable that you’re wary of letting down the protective barriers you’ve placed carefully around you. But if you limit the kindness you give, you’ll limit the amount you receive. Mars in your sign is encouraging you to be boldly generous. Be true to these principles, and the festivities this week really can be too good to be true. IN YOUR LOVE LIFE: You don’t need to explain everything on your mind to let your hopes or fears be known. Subtle hints should be enough. SAGITTARIUS November 23-December 21 Y our senses are alerted if you even suspect the possibility of a trap. Being forced to do anything causes your stress levels to rise, and a desire to run in the opposite direction. So, is this week fraught with challenges? As Mercury turns direct in Sagittarius, rather than seeing yourself as vulnerable prey, picture yourself as the hunter – and talented one at that. You have the social skills and presence to create a scenario in which you can feel comfortable. If you take good stock of your surroundings, you can enjoy the festive feastings.

IN YOUR LOVE LIFE: Something is troubling you; so try to relax, and be as philosophical as you can manage to be. It’s all going to be okay.

CAPRICORN December 22-January 20

A new idea is as vulnerable as a snowflake. Bright, sparkly and unique, it’s a precious gift. But with one gust of criticism or a blast of doubt, our insights and creative thoughts can melt away. While Mercury was retrograde, harsh winds may have buffeted your plans. But, don’t let the memory of a recent tempest stop you from sailing into clearer waters this week. Keep true to your vision, and consolidating gifts will appear — not just under the Christmas tree either. Tangible support from those you value is on offer. IN YOUR LOVE LIFE: Don’t think of a relationship as ‘success’ or ‘failure’. Embrace inconsistency. Nurture your sense of humour. All will be well.

AQUARIUS January 21-February 19

V enus was a popular figure in ancient mythology. And, although polyamory wasn't unusual for the Greek and Roman gods, they were quick to be jealous too. As Venus conjuncts your traditional ruler, you're being encouraged to sharpen the focus of your feelings. This doesn't mean that you should focus only on your nearest and dearest. But a concentrated dose of well-aimed charm, and kindness will go a long way this festive week. With your charismatic powers being heightened, you can bring joy to the proceedings! IN YOUR LOVE LIFE: No matter how scary you believe a situation is, you have just enough power now to make everything okay.

PISCES February 20-March 20

I f you search under the tower, just to the right of the space shuttle, you’ll find the sledge waiting. People in your life haven’t been exactly speaking gobbledegook, but they’ve been hard to understand. You’ve listened intently, thought about all the messages you’ve received, and you’re still none the wiser. Normally, this wouldn’t matter so much but, as you move into the festive week, you’d love to understand more. Mercury is turning direct. It’s not just Christmas that’s coming, it’s clarity and clear communication too. IN YOUR LOVE LIFE: Is someone working against your best interests? Maybe it’s a good time to reconsider what your best interests are!