Thought for the Day: In the days surrounding Mercury's change of direction to the far side of the sun, we always notice delays in transportation, complications in communication and technology glitches.

If today is your birthday-The next 12 months are bound to be full of drama, adventure, challenge and excitement, but you will make marvellous progress. The reward for your effort will be a life full of spiritual and emotional satisfaction. Happy birthday to Shakira, 32.

Aries (March 21 — April 20)-The basic characteristic of life is change. This is good, as long as you are prepared to adapt. A recent upsetting development means that what once seemed impossible is now becoming quite feasible.

Taurus (April 21 — May 20)-climbed long and hard and it seems to you now that there has been no real reward. Soon, there will be a great sense of fulfillment. Gemini (May 21 — June 21) Don't doubt a recent brave decision because things are getting stormier. In time, you will see that you left behind a rut and entered a world of true emotional satisfaction.

Cancer (June 22 — July 22) Since every cloud has a silver lining, one needs to collect to be a wise investor. If you notice some spectacular cumuli gathering, you have cause to celebrate.  Leo (July 23 — Aug. 22) Mars, the planet of power, will take you a step closer to what you aspire to have. And Mercury's return to direct motion will bring some constructive long-term progress.

Virgo (Aug. 23 — Sept. 22)-There are two ways to get on a train. One is to run alongside and leap on; the other is to wait for it to stop. Let things slow down to your pace. Libra (Sept. 23 — Oct. 23) Progress appears to have come to a standstill in an important part of your life, but this is temporary. Get ready for an upbeat and positive change in your fortunes.

Scorpio (Oct. 24 — Nov. 22)-A complicated and emotionally torturous ordeal has caused you to dwell on your shortcomings. Even when you think you're at your worst, you are truly exceptional.  Sagittarius (Nov. 23 — Dec. 21).

Put aside your misgivings and self-doubt. Persistence and consistency in the dogged pursuit of your noble cause will soon deliver sweet redemption.  Capricorn (Dec. 22 — Jan. 20) Things look good; however, you are not about to get everything you want, nor shake yourself free of every problem. You will, though, see a significant improvement in at least one key area.

Aquarius (Jan. 21 — Feb. 19)-You now have all the talent it takes to make your mark. And you have more than enough stamina. Summon your confidence and draw on your experience. The results will be spectacular.Pisces (Feb. 20 — March 20)Go ahead and take a chance. Be willing to let the universe surprise you. Be daring and you'll be surprised how lucky you are.