By Minerva

Starcast

Brace yourself for a celestial game of musical chairs. While Mars stirs the stew in quirky Aquarius, Saturn runs interference. The more you try, the harder it gets. On Friday, voluptuous Venus moves into flirty Gemini. Longterm commitment won’t come easy.

Aries (March 20April 18)

Behind that brash bluster, you rams are such romantics! Independent, of course, but that’s part of your charm. With Venus driving your charm and chat center, selfexpression is a priority now.

Taurus (April 19May 19)

Mars is a powerful career counselor. Currently his mojo is focused on your leadership skills and public persona. A mega goal that has thus far eluded you should pay off now.

Gemini (May 20June 19)

The call toward adventure is strong, as is the eternal student in you. There’s something you’ve wanted to do for a long, long time. It’s your turn. Take it. Those who hesitate frequently get lost.

Cancer ( June 20July 21)

The force is with you as Mars gives the green light to expansion plans. Think grand old green as in money. You can score extra cash now; just beware of a scheme that seems too good to be true.

Leo ( July 22Aug. 21)

Use your intuition to keep a contract on track. The current residence of Mars in your oneonone sector is about partnerships of one sort or another.

Virgo (Aug. 22Sept. 21)

You’re so cool and efficient that coworkers can feel intimidated. That’s particularly true now with Mars adding muscle to your bustle where every day issues are concerned. Tact should be the No. 1 power tool in your kit.

Libra (Sept. 22Oct. 21)

Libras have the devil’s advocate role down; just don’t be a brat about it. Such a temptation with Mars heading the cosmic SWAT team in your fun house. Play nice!

Scorpio (Oct. 22Nov. 21)

Mars issues a clarion call for family togetherness. Phone home and — while you’re at it — schedule prime time with a contractor or at least a cleaning service. Even a scintillating Scorpio like you needs to address root issues once in a while.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22Dec. 20)

Mars, otherwise known as Mr. Aggressive, delivers a jab in the midsection to personal communications. That’s a good thing. You’ve been quiet too long. Connections made now, memos sent and blogs posted will bring 2020 into focus.

Capricorn (Dec. 21Jan. 18)

No doubt about it, people and their money can get tricky. Annoying too! A wild card in the hand of a fire sign (possibly a Leo) won’t help either. Fortunately, you’re a past master/mistress at wheeling and dealing. Play your hunches.

Aquarius ( Jan. 19Feb. 17)

Aquarians are cool. Nothing ruffles you. Or so it seems. Mars in your sign is a reminder of what a hottie you really are. You’ll want to raise the ante, push to the max.

Pisces (Feb. 18March 19)

You Pisceans have hurled yourselves over the cliff of experience more than once. Sometimes wings sprouted, sometimes not. Though you know the drill, a reality check remains in order. What’s bugging you is an issue from the past.

Minerva’s Mailbag

Q: I’ve always been fairly lucky economically, but lately my investments have gone sour and, as if that weren’t bad enough, my work hours have been cut back. What’s wrong? (I’m a Capricorn.)

A: It isn’t fun having Saturn in one’s sign, but this too shall pass (on or around December). In the meantime, battening down the hatches isn’t a bad idea. Saturn is all about discipline. Think instead of conservative plans, funds, etc. that build slowly.

To ask Minerva a question, go to www.ask minerva.com or write to Minerva, Sunday Datebook, San Francisco Chronicle, 901 Mission St., San Francisco, CA 94103.