What’s Your Sign?

BORN THIS WEEK: Your ruling planet, Mercury, endows you with a gift for writing. Have you considered penning the world’s greatest novel?

ARIES (March 21 to April 19): A heads-up alert to all free-spirited Ewes and Rams: Be wary of a deal that could result in compromising your independence. Check every detail before making a commitment.

TAURUS (April 20 to May 20): New facts emerge that help put an irksome workplace situation in perspective. Meanwhile, pay more attention to a family member who needs your wisdom and strength.

GEMINI (May 21 to June 20): A slight setback in plans is nothing to worry about. Use this delay to deal with a number of matters you might have ignored for too long. Expect news from someone in your past.

CANCER (June 21 to July 22): You’re entering a period of stability. Use it to straighten out any outstanding problems related to a very personal situation. Also, pay closer attention to financial matters.

LEO (July 23 to Aug. 22): As much as you love being a social Lion, you might well benefit from staying out of the spotlight for a while. You need time to reflect on some upcoming decisions.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 to Sept. 22): A difficult family situation im-proves, thanks to your timely intervention. You can now start to focus more of your attention on preparing for a possible career change.

LIBRA (Sept. 23 to Oct. 22): An on-the-job change works to your benefit by offering new opportunities. It’s up to you to check them out. Meanwhile, a stalled romantic situation starts up again.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23 to Nov. 21): That flare-up of Scorpian temperament cools down, leaving you more receptive to suggestions about changes that might need to be made in your personal life.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22 to Dec. 21): An unusual period of indecisiveness is frustrating. But things soon clear up, allowing the sage Sagittarian to make those wise pronouncements again.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22 to Jan. 19): You might feel that you know best, but it’s not a good idea at this time to try to force your opinions on others. Best advice: Inspire change by example, not by intimidation.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20 to Feb. 18): Some setbacks could affect your plans to fortify your financial situation. But things start moving again by early next week. Mean-while, enjoy your resurgent social life.

PISCES (Feb. 19 to March 20): Show that often-hidden steely spine of yours as you once again stand up to an emotional bully. You’ve got the strength to do it, especially as friends rally to your side.