It's the eighth day of the eighth month of the eighth year! And the moon is in the eighth sign of the zodiac — Scorpio. Numerology and astrology are extended family members, both celebrating the mystical aspect of existence. The number eight has varied meanings in many traditions, including prophecy, consciousness, wealth and infinity.

ARIES (March 21-April 19). You're tough. You get knocked down and say, "I meant to do that." On some level, it's no fib. You know that taking the small knocks of life is par for the course when you're on a path that's worthy of you.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). Every personality is different. You're appreciating what even the most difficult people can bring to your life. It turns out that the persnickety personalities have more to contribute now than the complacent ones.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). Staying focused is a challenge. There are so many distractions to keep you from getting down to business. Consider that these seemingly superfluous interests may really be the main point.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). You're a cheerleader to someone else's talent — a guardian of this person's inspiration. Your willingness to root for the cause, even when your friend finds it difficult to be confident, is a testament to your character.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). You're centered and ready. The world tests your resolve and all you say is "bring it on." Tonight: How can you sleep through chaos? Children wake up, dogs bark and dreams stir you.

TODAY'S BIRTHDAY (AUG. 8). All modesty aside, this year brings many fantastic reasons to be proud of yourself. The next seven weeks find you in rare form, powerfully seizing one fine opportunity after another. Romantic feelings surface. September and January are particularly lovely, though affection is lavished on you all year. Virgo and Pisces are adoring fans. Your lucky numbers are: 20, 11, 4, 43 and 19.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). You're included in privileged communication. You may wish you weren't by the end of this, but there is something of great value to be gleaned here. Understanding who you're dealing with is half the battle.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). As the sign of the scales, you know that justice is all about balance. What seems unfair in the short run works out quite nicely over a long stretch of time. Trust in the mysterious ways of karma.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). You'll be dealing with social snafus, including apologies and/or other forms of drama. You'd rather not dwell on the whole mess. Luckily for them, you are a master of changing the subject.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). You'll be choosing people to help you with a project. Pick the kind of people who could conceivably see things through to completion while you're off on your next adventure.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). Your community needs you, and you need them. It's so fulfilling to devote your energy to a group purpose. Get focused tonight. Pen and paper are your finest concentration aides.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). You are in control of a relationship. It's comforting, but also a lot of work. For one thing, you make the decisions and take responsibility when the decision you made seems like it wasn't the best one.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20). Making promises now is tempting, but try not to get caught up in the moment and say something that could cause you stress at a future date. Stay cheerful, supportive and noncommittal.

WEEKEND LOVE FORECAST: ARIES: Your opinions are valid, but avoid criticism. They care more about what you think of them than the issue at hand. TAURUS: You reveal more about yourself to someone in a quick talk than you had in weeks. GEMINI: You're transforming, in a good way. People recognize this and say so. CANCER: Spontaneity is romantic. Embrace your curiosity to liven up love. LEO: A relationship may not provide a clear course of action yet, but there is one practical step you can take. VIRGO: Your wit and resourcefulness increase your popularity, making you unflappable in the eyes of others. LIBRA: The temptation is to over-think a heart concern. Spend time in nature to stay centered and grounded. SCORPIO: Pay attention to what's being discussed and circulating around you for clues about what's going on with your partner. SAGITTARIUS: There's strength in numbers. You come across as a unified front and feel infinitely supported. CAPRICORN: An alternate viewpoint causes you to explore the particulars of your own thoughts. AQUARIUS: By revealing secrets and fears, you reach a new level of courageous intimacy in love. PISCES: Seek out others — bounce your stuff off them. Their response will guide you back home.

COUPLE OF THE WEEKEND: With the sun in their sign right now, Leo is emboldened to go after their heart's desire. When wondering who to invite to the party, Leo could call up a Pisces to see what's shaking. Each is intrigued by the pizzazz of the other, and are equally popular for their passionate hearts. When Leo's vibrancy excites Pisces, and Pisces lavishes flattery on Leo, a love connection quickly earns VIP status.

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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