Horoscope for the Week of July 4, 2004

Tip of the Week:

Happy Birthday is in order to both Canada and the United States. It is interesting to note that our two nations celebrate their birthdays just three days apart. Birthdays are a significant aspect of Astrology. Beyond the day, year and place, Astrologers also like to work with the time of birth. While the time is not entirely necessary to glean valuable information about a person's character strength, weaknesses and destiny it does help greatly to fine-tune the interpretation.

It might be of interest to note, that a skillful Astrologer can determine the birth time (based on the first breath a new born baby takes) by asking a variety of questions about events in the life of the client. Some Astrologers go as far as to double-check even the staunchest assertion of a person's birth. Often, findings reveal that the hospital staff or whoever is recording the birth is often, at least a minute to five off the exact moment of the first breath - and this is determined by the actual date of key events in the life of the client. This testifies to the play of destiny in life, however, contrary to many opinions, this does not eliminate the fact that free will is also operative. Both are possible despite the apparent paradox. In fact, it would seem that we are to respect both as aspects of life.

By the way, the first breath of a nation is the moment of signing of those legal documents that seal the contract as lawfully binding. Declarations are not enough! By the way, July 4, 1776 marks the signing of the declaration of independence in the United States, however, according to American historians; the actual date of signing is November 15, 1777. Many Astrologers who acknowledge this fact maintain that July 4 is the "people's chart" while the November date is the U.S. governments. The jury is still out on that one.

In any case, to the peoples of our neighboring nations: Blessings for a Happy Birthday!

Aries (Mar 21 - Apr 20)

The momentum is more exciting and playful and your overall mood is rising to meet it. You feel creative and perhaps sporty. The full moon a few days ago signals popularity and conscientiousness about your reputation. New levels of security and independence are growing. Deciphering where you fit best on the social and professional scene are likely themes. Paying more attention to your health will bring positive results. Tend to your self-esteem as well as your body.

Taurus (Apr 21- May 20)

Many thoughts and feelings are racing through you these days. You may feel as though your life has suddenly accelerated. Desires for emotional security and affection vie with the urge for more independence and space. You can have both especially if you clarify your feelings with those close to you. Gatherings with family and other activities like renovations are keeping your busy close to home. Realistically, there may be some very real problems lingering. See through blinding emotions and clarify intentions.

Gemini (May 21 - Jun 20)

Creating more security and confidence continues in the spotlight. Whether playing or working you have more energy available to you. At best, this is helping you to assert yourself. Balancing fun in the Sun with daily duties and chores is bubbling beneath the surface of your mind. Romantic feelings are teasing you into flirtatious behaviour. Creating a strong sense of unity in all that you do with all the people in your life is central. Create balance by clarifying healthy boundaries.

Cancer (Jun 21 Jul 21)

An assertive and pioneering mood continues to spur you onward. In certain respects, you feel Serious and ambitious. Opportunities of one kind or another are knocking and you are eager to answer. Tending to the many details is part of the deal. Cashing in on inventions or creations of some kind is possible. Do your best to keep pace and avoid worrying because it represents the illusion of control over external factors and is a form of mental imbalance. Self-control begins with being present in the moment.

Leo (Jul 22 - Aug 21)

The first signs of your emerging wave of energy and power are now washing in on your shores. This is a good time to take action on the many details, that others seldom see. Improving upon the quality of your service and lifestyle in general is ideal. This may include marketing and/or acquiring specialized tools and equipment. As old beliefs, attitudes and values steadily dissolve their associative perceptions and behaviour patterns follow suit. Let them go and return to start!

Virgo (Aug 22 - Sep 23)

Making new friends and letting go of existing relationships makes this an awkward time. You do feel quite expansive, however, and are ready to explore new horizons. Fortunately, a bold and courageous inspiration is here helping you through any blocks and turbulence. You would like to explain all the feelings you are experiencing yet might be having difficulty finding and/or expressing the words. Perhaps you can write down your feelings so that you may communicate them late.

Libra (Sep 23 - Oct 21)

Tending to business is bringing out the leader in you. You are sober to existing realities and rebellious all at the same time. Through the process, you are discovering new facets of your being. Changes in your overall lifestyle continue to keep things uncertain. Purging unnecessary wants and desires may be a liberating experience. Establishing a new attitude about home and security is part of the plot. Conscientious and strategic efforts regarding business are important.

Scorpio (Oct 22 - Nov 20)

Creating a greater and perhaps a deeper sense of unity continues as a central theme. This may well include your partner, family and perhaps your community. Taking the charge to lead the troops feels natural. You are eager to see lines of division dissolve. A cooperative attitude is necessary for you to advance to the next level. This implies deepening connections and increasing lines of communication. Let intuition and imagination guide you to create a realistic strategy.

Sagittarius (Nov 21 - Dec 20)

Clearing the old to make way for the new continues in the headlines. With each day, your determination to bowl through all opposition increases. Even if you are not entirely sure of the outcome, you are not about to let others know it. Avoid counting your earnings and celebrating your success until all the bids are in. Information and ownerships are changing hands and the status quo is changing. See the bigger picture and be ready for surprises with contingency plans!

Capricorn (Dec 21 - Jan 19)

Deepening bonds and commitments on relationship fronts continues. To this end, you are eager to dig deep and conduct some research. You want to make sure that your delivery is personal yet sharp and precise as well. The time has come to decree your rarity and that of others. Despite fears and other set backs you are willing to extend your efforts beyond duty. To gain inspiration, count your blessings. Despite that fact that there is a destiny, there is also free will. Choose well!

Aquarius (Jan 20 - Feb 19)

Tending to your needs continues. Deciphering the difference between what you want and what you need calls for discernment. Consider that the less you need and want the more security you have; this is an irony that more and more people are awakening to in our materialistic society. In your fight for love and justice, look to the demons in your own mind and heart more fully and thoroughly than in the newspapers and other media. Humility, gratitude and simplicity are your greatest assets now.

Pisces (Feb 20 - Mar 20)

Fresh thoughts and feelings for creative expression are yours to now enjoy. Perhaps gracious gestures or inspirational words or epiphanies are igniting your passions. In any case, facing fears is necessary for you to advance to the next level. This is a good time to engage with sincere efforts. Whatever else, be patient with your progress and recognize that learning must occur at all levels of your being. Allow your inspirations to flow onto paper, at least in note form. Intend to capture all your visions in writing so you can act on them directly later.