Horoscopes

Aries (March 21-April 19): In some ways you feel like you’re finally getting the respect you deserve, and in other ways it feels like too little too late. Why isn’t this enough? That’s a valid question. Perhaps the attention is coming from the wrong person. Taurus (April 20-May 20): Pushing won’t make things happen any faster. Back off instead: That might work. Certainly people will want to rush to you when you give them a compelling enough reason and then leave the right amount of space between you. Gemini (May 21-June 21): You can’t help but be curious, and your compassion makes it difficult for you to shut a door once it’s ajar, therefore people will open up to you whether you want them to or not. Cancer (June 22-July 22): The factfinding part of your mission could go on longer, but the law of diminishing returns would apply. You have all of the information you need to make your decision. Leo (July 23-Aug. 22): Whatever game you choose to play, you’ll be good for the game. Your high level of sportsmanship will bring out the best in your opponents. You’re especially well-matched with Sagittarius and Aries. Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Your point of view isn’t wrong, though it may seem a little stale today. You’ve seen things from this angle for too long. Spin the globe. When it comes to worldviews, all reference points are relative. Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 23): Because you put care into the little things, people will trust you with the big things. From dressing yourself to presenting big projects, attention to detail is what will make the difference. Scorpio (Oct. 24-Nov. 21): Wrap up those loose ends, because a new chapter is opening up for you very soon. You’re about to meet someone who will help you do the very thing you’ve wanted to for so long but never had the opportunity to. Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Smiles improve moods. Even fake ones. So does sunshine. So do hugs. The things that make you feel happier may seem corny to you, but don’t let that stop you from trying them. Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): You appreciate agreeable people, but you’re more likely to trust those who disagree with you, since it takes nerve to disagree with someone as strong as you. Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Choose your words carefully. Semantics matter. That’s why car dealers advertise “preowned vehicles” instead of “used cars.” Consider which words might give you an emotional advantage. Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20): You don’t have to work in so-called “artistic” media for what you’re doing to be considered an art. Love is an art. Walking is an art. Artistic impulses will be validated by like minds who see the deeper levels.

To write to Holiday Mathis, visit www.creators.com/ author/holiday-mathis and click “Contact.” DEAR ABBY » I have been married for 17 years to the love of my life. I met her 40 years ago while we were growing up in the same neighborhood. Last year she decided our marriage is over. Nine years into our marriage, I became an alcoholic. Try as I might, I couldn’t find a way to stop drinking. Year after year she stuck by me, hoping something would change. I never laid a hand on her, but I was verbally abusive at times while I was drinking.

Last year I found out that, due to my drinking, I had developed a heart condition that may end my life. I think it was the last straw for her because even after getting the news, I continued to drink. Seven months ago she told me we are done.

Since the day she said it, I have been clean and sober, and my heart is getting stronger. I have tried contacting her, but she won’t return my calls or letters. I know the trust is gone, but I so badly want my wife back. I don’t think she believes I’m finally sober because we have gone down this road many times.

How do I prove to her that I have changed and it will no longer be an issue? This is breaking my heart and has given me an insight into what she must have been feeling all these years. — Learned the hard way in

Indiana

DEAR LEARNED » The best way to prove to your wife that you have changed and won’t fall off the wagon again is to continue living a clean and sober lifestyle. If you have friends or family in common, when they see what you are accomplishing every day, they may mention it to her. Even if you receive no response, continue writing to her and describing how your health is improving. I can’t guarantee it will bring her back, but it may help.

DEAR ABBY » My boyfriend and I have been together for two years and are doing great. We both have careers we enjoy. However, he makes more money in a week than I sometimes earn in a month. Neither of us has financial problems, but I feel like this makes him superior to me.

Am I shallow for comparing the two of us this way? He assures me that he will love me the same regardless of how much money I make, or even if I choose not to work at all.

We have been talking about buying a house and moving in together. Should I give in and let him “take care of me,” or consider higher-paying job opportunities that would allow me to feel better about myself and pull my fair share of the weight?

--- Kristin in New York

DEAR KRISTIN » You need to ask yourself why your self-esteem is tied to how much money you earn. According to your boyfriend, you ARE pulling your fair share of the weight. You say you enjoy your career. I would hate to see you sacrifice it in order to go to a job every day that you may be less happy doing because you earn less than your boyfriend.

Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips, and was founded by her mother, Pauline Phillips. Contact Dear Abby at www.DearAbby.com or P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069.

For an excellent guide to becoming a better conversationalist and a more sociable person, order “How to Be Popular.” Send your name and mailing address, plus check or money order for $7 (U.S. funds) to: Dear Abby, Popularity Booklet, P.O. Box 447, Mount Morris, IL 61054-0447. (Shipping and handling are included in the price.)