HOROSCOPE

Born today, you have been endowed with a fine mind, and the ability to think creatively even in the face of serious issues and events. Indeed, you are at your best in two situations: either that in which you enjoy the freedom to let your mind wander and hit upon whatever idea it chooses in the moment, or that in which you — and others, perhaps — face a clear and present danger and are called upon to devise a strategy for avoiding it. It is these two extremes that shape your life: routine leisure and the stress of immediate challenges. You not only know how to think outside the box, but you thrive on doing so — and you never settle for something routine when you feel that a little more thought can produce an idea, a plan or a strategy that is far better than any previously conceived.

You are not an overly competitive person, and indeed you would rather work with someone than against him — or her — to create something as partners rather than destroy any possibilities through enmity. You are glad of other people's success, and never covetous; jealousy is not a part of your makeup. You have a quick wit, and the ability to play with words effectively.

You mustn't turn up your nose at anything someone else offers today, as you may be in a similar position yourself very soon. Fair is fair!

You'll want to avoid the same kind of namecalling that was so hurtful to you in the past. You must deal instead in truth and substance.

The rewards you are after may be out of reach even after a productive day such as this one. This tells you something about your goals.

You want to engage in something that challenges you on a new level today. Someone comes to you with a project that fits the bill.

You're after nothing new, but your efforts are attracting attention in an unusual way. You can use this to further your agenda.

You know how to do certain things, and these will be highly valued today — but toward evening you may come upon a formidable obstacle.

Self-protection is important throughout the day, but you may find that protecting someone else at your expense is perhaps more essential.

You've been raising certain issues that the powers-that-be have chosen to ignore. Today, they're not able to ignore them any longer. You may have difficulty doing something new today, but further study will see you getting the hang of it, surely. Don't give up! You may be the cause of your problems right now, and only a good friend can shake you out of your current funk. Let this happen!

You'll be excited to see someone under your care demonstrate his or her new abilities today — and you may be inspired, as well. You can learn an important lesson today from someone younger than yourself who has progressed further in the same line of work.