Formerly infatuated friend ready to move on

DEAR HARRIETTE »

I have been infatuated with someone for far too long — years, actually. Recently, though, I have come to see this man for who he is: an opportunist, a user, someone who thinks mostly about himself. This hurts to realize, but it also helps me create some distance. I heard from him recently and I wasn't as responsive as usual. He said that in the past I was always immediately quick to reply. That's true. He acted hurt. I've been hurt for years. Do I have that come-to-Jesus meeting that we probably need or do I just let it go and accept that we are in different places? Do you think that if I tell him how he has taken me for granted for years, he will understand? — Next Steps

DEAR NEXT STEPS » From your newfound perspective,

Happy Birthday: Do everything in your power to reach your goal. Stay focused on what matters most. Your numbers are 8, 14, 21, 29, 35, 42, 47.

Birthday Baby: You are attentive, determined and wise. You are talkative and entertaining.

Aries (March 21-April 19): Expect to face opposition and consider it an opportunity to advance your agenda. Play to win and you will. \*\*\*

Taurus (April 20-May 20): Review details and consider where your energy, time and skills will do the most. \*\*\*

Gemini (May 21-June 20): Trust your instincts and act. Apply pressure to force issues that will continue to grow if left alone. \*\*\*\*

Cancer (June 21-July 22): your behavior already is showing this man that you have changed. It may benefit you both if you say out loud where you are. Tell him that you know you haven't stood up for yourself enough in your friendship. Don't fault him. Instead, say that you have turned a corner and want more in your life, especially from someone as dear to you as he is. Ask if he is ready to step up and be a better friend. If not, you should continue to be reserved. Don't allow space for him to use you anymore. You may be pleasantly surprised that he makes a bigger effort to think about you, but it is important to remember that people are who they are. He's not likely to transform into a different person overnight, but his efforts may come to match your needs if he truly cares about you.

Too many choices will bog you down. Simplify your life by cutting back and concentrating on what makes sense and offers peace of mind. \*\*

Leo (July 23-Aug. 22):

Trial and error will get you where you want to go. A reunion will allow you to resolve unfinished business. \*\*\*\*\*

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22):

Take care of unfinished business and move on to something that excites you. \*\*\*

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Fix up your space to accommodate something you want to pursue. Participate in events that offer introductions, opportunities and potential partnerships. Make a lifestyle change that encourages emotional, physical and financial stability. \*\*\*

DEAR HARRIETTE » I am growing closer to my brother now that we are getting older. It is really nice — and somewhat surprising. A few years ago, I honestly thought we wouldn't talk again because every time we would communicate, it would turn into an argument. I don't know why it was so bad or even what specifically happened to make things better now. I am curious, though. I don't think I am doing anything differently. What I see is that he is being kinder to me and far less judgmental. Do I bring this up to him and ask why he had a change of heart toward me? I don't want to start a fight again, but I am curious.

— Turning the Page

DEAR TURNING THE PAGE » Why spoil the moment? No need to rip off a scab while the wound is still healing. It will be much more productive

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): A domestic change will offer convenience and more time to spend on personal gratification and gains. A chance to incorporate something unusual into your daily routine will lead to exciting connections and potential partnerships. \*\*\*

Sagittarius (Nov. 22Dec. 21): Take a pass on anything that doesn't fit your agenda. Fine-tune your plans, and recognize the contributions people in your sphere bring to enhance your performance and progress will be yours. Romance is in the stars. \*\*\*\*\*

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Take a closer look at where your money goes. A couple of changes at home can lower your overhead and ease financial stress. for the two of you to rebuild your relationship naturally. Who cares why he has had a change of heart? In the end, being able to have your brother in your life in a positive way is making you happy. It sounds like he is enjoying it, too. Focus on the present moment. Find more ways in which you can authentically connect with each other. If ever past sensitivities come up, allow the conversation to follow its natural course, but resist the desire to place blame or to criticize. Just be in the moment.

Don't let anyone pressure you to do something you can't afford. Stick to basics and focus on what makes you happy. \*\*\*\* Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Apply pressure, if necessary, to disassociate yourself from someone pushing you to do something questionable. Take charge; send a vibe that will not let anyone take advantage of you. Own the stage, say what's on your mind and do what's best for you. \*\*\*

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20): Consider what you can do and how before you initiate a move. Listen to your intuition and run your options by someone with experience. A well-thoughtout plan with discipline and drive will lead to a positive outcome. A reward awaits you. \*\*\*