TODAY’S BIRTHDAYS

Aries (March 21-April 19): If you feel pressure to say what the other person wants to hear, you’re being (perhaps subtly) manipulated. Take a step back. Consider the relationship. Proceed with caution.

Taurus (April 20-May 20):

If you find yourself stretching for some easy way to describe yourself, you shouldn’t have to at this point. It’s a hint that the other person just isn’t getting you — not your problem. Other people will. Move on.

Gemini (May 21-June 21): If you’re going to worry, make it work for you. Worry provides you with a quick look at potential pitfalls and a peak into your unconscious mind. Categorize your worries into reasonable and unreasonable. That’s a start.

Cancer (June 22-July 22):

If you’ve been pessimistic and distrustful, it’s only out of a need to protect and defend yourself. You’re also brave and confident once you’ve made your mind up — a joyful pioneer.

Leo (July 23-Aug. 22): From love to shampoo, everything has its cycle. What worked before may work again, although maybe not quite as well. Put feelers out for new alternatives.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Adults don’t always do the adult thing, and children can take on adult responsibilities that rob them of carefree youth. These missives need to be recognized and set right.

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 23): You’ll scrutinize your work or habits before another person has a chance to. This way, you know you’re putting your best self forward. It’s an extra effort.

Scorpio (Oct. 24-Nov. 21): Vitality follows those on the edge of the known. Anyone doing what they know they can do is playing it too safe to feel successful. Also, the one who is the least afraid of looking foolish wins.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19):

No human is constantly on the spiritual high road. Anyway, a lower indulgence may serve you just fine. It’s one of those crazy days when the superficial thing you think might make you happy actually does.

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18):

There’s no need to seek opportunities Actor-comedian Tim Conway is 85. Singer Cindy Birdsong is 79. Rock musician Dave Clark is 76. Rock musician Carmine Appice is 72. Actor Don Johnson is

69. Actress Melanie Chartoff is 68. Movie director Julie Taymor is 66. Movie director Alex Cox is 64. Actor Justin Ross is 64. Rock musician Paul Simonon is

63. Movie director John Lee Hancock is 62. Democratic Party activist Donna Brazile is 59. Country singer Doug Phelps (Brother Phelps; Kentucky Headhunters) is

58. Movie producer-director Reginald Hudlin is 57. Actress Helen Slater is 55. Actor Paul Kaye (TV: “Game of Thrones”) is 54. Actress Molly Price is 53. Actor Garrett Wang is 50. Actor Michael Shanks is 48

for heroism. Be consistent and cheerful, just like you usually are. That’s what everyone needs right now. And don’t be surprised if this makes you indispensable.

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20): Future you is sending a message back in time: Please don’t block me into long contracts. Future you is going to need some freedom to do the future-you endeavors you can’t conceive of from where you’re standing today.

Today’s birthday (Dec. 15):

You’ll act on behalf of those unable or unwilling to take action themselves. This you do out of a sense of duty, but that doesn’t mean you have to be too serious in your approach. Execute the task with a light heart. The year will be marked by whimsy flights and remembered for the strange and fun environments you visit. More highlights of the solar return include the attainment of meaningful jewelry or personal treasure, a new turn in a relationship and a commute that presents opportunity for daily improvement. Taurus and Pisces adore you. Your lucky numbers are: 9, 30, 22, 27 and 14.