A conjunction of the sun and Mercury will bring attention to things that don't want any attention. Secrets, scandals, sore feelings — if it's uncomfortable, this Scorpio alignment is interested. While you follow your curiosity, expect that others will be doing the same. If there's something you'd like to hide, the best place will be in plain sight.

ARIES (March 21-April 19). You'll be contemplating a purchase today. Here's something to consider: Experiences will make you happier than physical items. Things bring clutter to your life that experiences do not.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). When you have something to prove, you'll stand independently. But what do you have to prove right now? Likely, it's more important that you work harmoniously with others. Together, you'll get things done.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). Your talent for flattery will get you everywhere today. You'll lay it on like a baker puts icing on the cupcake — just thick enough to add some sweetness to the main event without overpowering it.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). Today's scene could trigger your shy tendencies. This is appropriate for the situation. Scientific studies suggest that socially anxious individuals are often also highly intelligent.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). Your realistic view may contrast with someone's airy-fairy ideas. This will provide the kind of conflict that could either result in continued disharmony or in a brilliant and workable plan.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). One of your favorite ways to express admiration is silently. The perfect moment to do this will arise, and however quiet your praise may be, it will be felt on many levels.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). Someone going through a moment of low self-esteem will require your compassion. Someone with an overblown sense of self will require your compassion. Your compassion is required all around.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). The ancient Greeks believed that the number of people invited to a dinner party should exceed three and stop at nine. This wisdom will apply to an event you are planning.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). Emotions are volatile now and won't take long to go from lukewarm to overheated. When things get intense, take three deep breaths and then take on the world with a softer approach.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). You recently witnessed someone around you making a mistake. This really does warrant discreet mention, as it can be easily righted, which will benefit all.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). You know what the other person wants; you're just not sure if you're willing to provide it. The price tag may be more emotional than financial and this makes it costly.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20). Disagreements that seem to be about money are actually about power. Knowing the source of the problem will help you solve it. Tonight brings laughter with a true friend.

TODAY'S BIRTHDAY (Nov. 17). The year will answer your prayers. A guide will emerge over the next six weeks, perhaps in the form of a teacher or course. What you learn will carry you through January's intense challenges, and you'll come out stronger and able to make improvements. March through May will bring beauty into your world. Leo and Cancer adore you. Your lucky numbers are: 4, 3, 38, 22 and 19.

ASTROLOGICAL QUESTIONS: "I'm a Scorpio born 10/25/83 I will be 32 in a couple weeks. I'm the mother of six children, and I want (need) to know what I can do to be financially stable. I've struggled for so long and never given up, but I feel really bad for my kids because I can't afford things for them that my friends can get for their children. They do have fewer kids than I do, though. I'm so sick of living in low-income housing and living on food stamps. I daydream about living in a big beautiful house where my kids have their own rooms and own beds and toys and they are so happy, but I do it so much I feel like its real. My question is: Am I wrong for daydreaming and getting my hopes up too high, or will something happen to change our lives?"

First: In a house where there is love, compassion and kindness, siblings are far more valuable than a big room with lots of things in it. Consider that your children may already have more advantages than you think. Also: The nature of Scorpio energy is to transform. What will happen to change your lives is you . Your daydreams have real power. Follow through and make a plan.

CELEBRITY PROFILES: Rachel McAdams stars with Mark Ruffalo in "Scandal," a film based on the true story of the Boston Globe's uncovering of a scandal within the Catholic Church. This role seems custom made for a Scorpio, the sign that specializes in rooting out the truth. McAdams was born when the sun, Venus and Uranus were all in magnetic Scorpio. Her natal Jupiter is in Leo, the sign of entertainment.

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