May 25-31, 2005

Gemini (May 21–June 20)

Fix the slow drip on your kitchen tap, seal that drafty bedroom window, or repair those hard feelings with your landlord. You can do any number of little things this week that will make your house feel safer, more secure, and more comfortable—in other words, more like a haven, a home. You need that security more than you think, which you'll realize, with relief, once you have it. Also, it's far more achievable than you ever imagined. Yeah, it's never going to be perfect, but it could be a lot better than it is, with a minimum of effort. Get to it.

Cancer (June 21–July 22)

Cancers are fanatically loyal to their families. Tragically, the feeling's not always mutual. What some Cancers see as protective love, others can view as stifling control. For you, love transcends all. For some people, stuff like politics, practicalities, and the need for privacy can get in the way. Nothing's likely to change this week about who's close to you and who's not—except for your attitude. It's an ideal time to come to terms with the shape your family's in, good or bad, and assess whether or not improving it is actually in your power. If not, best to let it go, no?

Leo (July 23–Aug. 22)

Movin' on up. . . . You could have that deluxe apartment in the sky soon, or its metaphorical equivalent, provided you roll up your sleeves and put in some effort this week. You now have the chance to network with big fish from reservoirs larger than your relatively tiny pond. It's time to get out there and sell yourself, but be careful. Some people grab the spotlight, and feel like they have to put on a show to justify it. Resist that urge. You're already larger than life; adding drama will just make you gaudy and unlikable. Be absolutely real. That's all you need: your normal everyday self and a bright light. Try it. You'll shine.

Virgo (Aug. 23–Sept. 22)

Get the fuck outside. Your apartment is clean enough, damn it. There's a big, exciting world out there beyond your well-organized existence. It may even be in need of some of your energy, but that's not important. What matters is what you need, whether you realize it or not: thrills, new experiences, inspiring people. All you have to do is go out and find them. It may take some work, so don't give up and go back to alphabetizing your DVDs when nothing jumps out at you on your five-minute walk around the block. Go to where the energy is. You know where I mean. You'll find what you're looking for there, and then some.

Libra (Sept. 23–Oct. 22)

Every city I've lived in has had its share of "wild" animal denizens, living alongside humanity. New York's full of rats; San Francisco, raccoons. Los Angeles plays host to coyotes. Berlin has foxes. Each of these species has carved out its modern existence by successfully adapting to new circumstances and environments. I mention these animals—often referred to as "pests"— because their strength is yours, as well. You have the adaptability to survive and thrive in swiftly changing situations—only sometimes you don't let yourself do it. Go with the flow, Libra. It's nature's way. And being on the endangered- species list isn't as glamorous as it sounds.

Scorpio (Oct. 23–Nov. 21)

A battle of wills looms. Don't go rushing off to don an emotional suit of armor and pick weapons, though. Instead, go naked into the fray and see what happens. One of your intimate relationships is at a turning point. You'll either fall (or explode) apart, perhaps never to come together again, or you'll achieve a new level of closeness and trust. Getting to that enviable place will probably involve some serious emotional cleansing, though, a sort of scouring of built-up interpersonal grunge. It's hard work, and being encumbered with weapons and chain mail would only make it impossible. Don't guarantee estrangement; leave your shields and catapults behind. Yeah, that means your "enemy" can get near enough to tear out your hair, but also close enough to kiss and make up.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22–Dec. 21)

How honest are you about your relationships? Don't take this the wrong way; I know you're a good-hearted, forthright, trustworthy person. But most Sags, especially when they're young, take a lot more than they give. This can lead to habits that get you into trouble in more serious, long-term relationships. At some point—like this week—your partner will demand some balancing of the scales. If they're asking for more from you, don't get defensive or start backing out. Chances are, you owe it to them. Maybe not; only you can ultimately judge what you're able and willing to give. My advice? If there's any doubt at all, give your lovely loved one its benefit.

Capricorn (Dec. 22–Jan. 19)

Work is piling up. This is a crappy time to look far into your future, because whatever brightness lies there will be obscured by the mountains of little shit stacked up in front of you. It's overwhelming, but try not to let it get to you. Make lists, organize yourself, and resolve to never give up, lest you get buried in the mess. Diligence and discipline are two of your strengths (thankfully, because you'll need them now). Don't worry about next year, next month, or even next week. You've got enough work on your plate right this second. Finish that. Then we'll talk about dessert.