STARGAZING

one of the world’s top astrologers, writes a weekly forecast for Friday

Your stars for the week ahead.

ARIES MARCH 20 – APRIL 18

Events or others’ arrogance may justify standing your ground. Still, first, ask a few questions. There’s so much in transition, that things won’t be what they seem. Besides, with your ruler Mars accenting both plans that are dear to your heart and exciting new projects, your time is far better spent focusing on your own objectives than debating the rights and wrongs of others’ plans and ideas.

TAURUS APRIL 19 – MAY 19

The obstacles you’ve been contending with, and continue to face this week, may be unfair. However, unlikely as it seems, each is in some way instructive, about practical matters, costs or, probably, who you can trust. None of this is easy and, in fact, certain revelations are disheartening. Still, for ages you’ve suspected something was amiss. At long last, you’re learning exactly what it is.

GEMINI MAY 20 – JUNE 19

Although the period during which your ruler Mercury is retrograde is renowned for the confusion it triggers, what you’re learning in the process of untangling those mix-ups isn’t just informative, it’s explaining a lot. This being the case, discuss the issues behind that confusion in detail. What you discover about the circumstances and people involved could lead to insights as pivotal as they are overdue.

CANCER JUNE 20 – JULY 21

The dilemmas you’re facing aren’t that complicated but, rather, they require the cooperation of a range of individuals whose only true link is you. This means, on one hand, asking favours of them but, also, demanding they work together to either end certain persistent dilemmas or take thrilling opportunities to the next stage – or both. Whatever the case, make it clear how vital their role is.

LEO JULY 22 – AUGUST 21

While certain individuals may declare their commitment or shared passions, their actions suggest otherwise. True, it’s a chaotic period and they might be distracted by other events or pursuits. But what’s more likely is they’re rethinking their priorities. If so, it’s time for a polite but forthright discussion about your place in their lives and, in turn, your future plans with them.

VIRGO AUGUST 22 – SEPTEMBER 21

Since your ruler Mercury is retrograde, it is triggering the typical confusion. While some events are disruptive, as often they’re informative. Now, however, you’re recognising certain once-solid arrangements must change, and swiftly. This means rethinking even the most minor of details. Here, too, this process is demanding but, equally, it’s long overdue and will result in badlyneeded improvements.

LIBRA SEPTEMBER 22 – OCTOBER 21

You don’t mind going along with excessive demands, as long as you respect those in charge. Still, for weeks you’ve had to bow to their will. While, often, events have been interesting, you’re wondering how long this will continue. The end comes around the 8th, when sudden events not only justify recent demands but, also, make it clear why these were of such importance to begin with.

SCORPIO OCTOBER 22 – NOVEMBER 20

Powerful as your intuitive streak is, setbacks or clashes with others can obscure your vision. Not only is that the case now, the changes you’re dealing with are so unexpected, and perplexing, you’re bound to question them. The trick? Set aside doubts, then proceed slowly. What you learn will convince you to take things to the next stage, and the next one after that, too.

SAGITTARIUS NOVEMBER 21 – DECEMBER 20

Ordinarily you’ve no problem with the confusion triggered by the retrograde Mercury and, in fact, often its unexpected twists lead to exciting encounters. However, not everybody is as easygoing, especially when business or money are involved, which seems to be the case. The solution? Get whatever facts or figures you can, making it very clear they’ll change, and despite your best efforts, probably more than once.

CAPRICORN DECEMBER 21 – JANUARY 19

If you’ve been paying close attention to the unsettling planetary activity during the early part of the year, instead of worrying about disruptive changes, you’ll have recognised them as the potential breakthroughs they are. While plans are unlikely to last as first conceived, even sudden changes are far better and, often, more promising than anything you’d imagined possible. Remember that, and the rest is easy.

AQUARIUS JANUARY 20 – FEBRUARY 18

While Aquarians are said to be trendsetters, sudden changes in your own life are quite another matter. Yet the move, last year, by your ruler Uranus into a new position, and to accent the structure of your life, combined with the current powerful planetary shifts, indicate that even disruptive changes are worth exploring. Each is leading to a breakthrough, as timely as it is unexpected.

PISCES FEBRUARY 19 – MARCH 19

It’s the rare Pisces who’s a control freak. Yet recent events have demanded you rethink elements of your lifestyle and longstanding arrangements you regard as stable. While your dismay is understandable, times are changing and so, too, must these. Within days, encounters, offers or unexpected ideas will hint at what’s next. After that, leaving elements of the past behind won’t seem nearly a tragic.