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Today’s Birthday (05/18/16). Prioritize sweet time with family and friends this year. Steadily grow your nest egg. It’s all about passion. Weave it into your work for new discoveries this spring that lead to a busy two-year phase. Balance stillness with movement. A new personal door opens, before team changes this autumn. Listen for the heart.

To get the advantage, check the day’s rating: 10 is the easiest day, 0 the most challenging.

 Aries (March 21-April 19)

— Today is a seven — Study and review your resources today and tomorrow. A profitable opportunity requires consideration, then action. Watch for hidden agendas. Keep teachers satisfied. Clean any messes.

Taurus (April 20-May 20)

— Today is an eight — It’s a good time for getting your message across. Develop strong partners today and tomorrow, taking advantage of diverse talents and views. Intuition dictates timing. Discuss decisions before announcing.

Gemini (May 21-June 20)

— Today is an eight — Concentrate on your assignment today and tomorrow. Verify that your theory holds weight before jumping on board. An unexpected guest or circumstance requires graceful coordination. Think quickly, but move slowly. Keep your word.

  Cancer (June 21-July 22)

— Today is a seven — Education blossoms over the next few days. You’re developing a new perspective from interests. Find what you need. Get lost in diversions and entertaining pursuits.

 Leo (July 23-Aug. 22)

— Today is a six — Your education requires more attention. The gentle approach works best now. Listen to other perspectives, rather than forcing an outcome. Don’t spend on something that doesn’t feel right.

 Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

— Today is an eight — Sharpen your concentrated focus (because you can) over the next few days. Studies, research and writing projects come together. Present your argument tactfully, anticipating resistance. Defuse tension with humor and a smile.

 Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22)

— Today is a nine — Pour energy into your work for extra credit over the next two days. Keep a positive balance. Watch your steps, to avoid pitfalls.

 Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)

— Today is an eight — Take time for personal matters over the next two days. Stay in communication with your support team to navigate changing circumstances. No more procrastination. Use your power responsibly.

 Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)

— Today is a five — There’s no need to hurry. Conditions are improving. Wait and plot your course today and tomorrow. Observe, prepare and adapt to changes at the top. Hold off on a decision. Clean messes.

 Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

— Today is a seven — Confer with allies for the next two days. Your friends are your inspiration. Guard against being impetuous or impulsive. Committees are especially effective. Bounce ideas around until one sticks.

 Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)

— Today is a nine — Extra coins in your jar provide a self-esteem boost. Conserving resources can be a simple adjustment. Consider long-term costs, and invest for quality. Present your numbers for a professional prize.

 Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20)

— Today is a seven — You’d like to spread your wings. Take a long look and clear the way. Refine your itinerary. Trim the fantasy to fit the budget. Don’t follow blindly. Answer the tough questions.

(Astrologer Nancy Black continues her mother Linda Black’s legacy horoscopes column. She welcomes comments and questions on Twitter, @lindablack. For more astrological interpretations visit Linda Black Horoscopes and www.nancyblack.com)

(c)2016 bY NANCY BLACK. DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.