Imagine sitting down to watch a cloud formation that doesn't appear to be moving. Yet the longer you sit, you begin to perceive slight — and then larger — shifts. Is the cloud changing, or is your consciousness slowing down enough to perceive it? As Mercury meets Uranus today, when we become quiet, worlds open.

ARIES (March 21-April 19). You are sticking to the rules and you can already see why honesty pays. Others may not be as ethical as you, though. A tiny bit of skepticism now keeps you from buying into a false story and being taken advantage of.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). Be disciplined wherever possible. This will come a bit easier to you today. And for further incentive, there are consequences for needless self indulgence that you'll want no part of.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). The stars bring you a sense of relief — a stressful situation is finally handled, or an event that was taking most of your focus is over now. Your interactions at home are more gratifying as a result.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). You like the people around you. In fact, if you had to choose again, you would choose them all over again. Express your satisfaction with great enthusiasm and you'll learn that the feeling is mutual.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). Conflicts move past you because you resolve not to be a part of the drama. Tonight, you'll guide someone younger than you and in the process learn a few things yourself.

TODAY'S BIRTHDAY (APRIL 27). This year there's something in you that is determined to use any adversity you encounter as a tool to become sharper, stronger and more loving. Lead with that and you will attain an important goal by summer's end. Your confidence is partly due to physical improvements in August. Leo and Libra are your supporters. Your lucky numbers are: 5, 47, 22, 1 and 45.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). You've had enough of thinking of yourself, your goals, your problems. It's now quite invigorating to immerse yourself in someone else's (ideally, a Leo's) fun or challenges.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). Amazingly, you're able to empathize with people whose lives are almost completely unlike yours. It's a talent that will lead you to a deeper understanding of not only the world around you, but your inner world.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). You're extremely good at keeping secrets, especially if they are your own. Consider coming out with one if them for the sake of bonding with someone you love. The truth will unite you.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). The stars hook your feelings up to an amplifier and play them out loud. Where you once felt unsure of yourself, you now know, for better or worse, where you stand.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). You're finding new reasons to celebrate others. You'll see a sign of progress, appreciate the small creation someone made or applaud a risk that pays off. Support others and you get supported.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). You'll see someone who's working the plan, and the plan is working. Follow that person! It takes far less time and energy than stubbornly trying to wing it in some untried fashion.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20). You'll be selling something — an idea, product or yourself. Use very few words for your "pitch" and choose them well. You're brilliant when you're brief. Taurus is especially open to your suggestions.

FORECAST FOR THE WEEK AHEAD: For some, observing nature is a popular pastime, and for others, studying human nature is more satisfying; but in the astrological cosmology, the two are virtually inseparable. For example, this week two "personal planets," (think closer to Earth, and thus, our day-to-day lives,) Venus and Mercury, change signs, reciting love poetry to both Earth and us, her earthlings. Venus in Taurus is a true nature lover, where we appreciate the quiet peace of an oak tree while listening to our favorite tunes or walking in the park on a spring day (aren't the simple pleasures the headiest?) As for Mercury, he's the word on the street and the word is movement, entering Gemini. A breath of fresh air stimulates thoughts, curiosities and a flurry of communication. Oh, did I say movement? Saturn in Virgo directs from retrograde this week. Father Time turns the big clock in the sky, marking decisive and positive changes for those long-term plans. Saturn works best under the KISS principle, so keeping your goals workable, simple and manageable appreciates over time. As the celestial bodies mirror our interconnectedness to all things this week, Mother Nature delivers glorious springtime.

CELEBRITY PROFILES: Jessica Alba has said, "My theory is that if you look confident you can pull off anything — even if you have no clue what you're doing." Their secret is out. Taurus Sun signs — many of whom are blessed with copious talent, beauty and artistry — actualize their talents by cultivating unshakable inner security. This year motherhood gives Jessica another chance to act "as if."

Holiday Mathis is the author of "Rock Your Stars." If you would like to write to her, please go to www.creators.com and click on "Write the Author" on the Holiday Mathis page, or you may send her a postcard in the mail. To find out more about Holiday Mathis and read her past columns, visit the Creators Syndicate Web page at www.creators.com.

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