Weekly horoscope (July 21-27) 

For All Signs: Contrary to popular parlance, the sun sign is not necessarily who you are, but who you are becoming as you grow and gain maturity. This developing identity may have more or less support from other parts of oneself, as symbolized by the location of the moon and the planets of the solar system at your birth. Those who are born at a time when one or more of the other bodies of the solar system are in their sun sign will identify more with the character traits of that sign. If the sun has no extra support at birth, you may not feel a strong kinship to your sign. If so, then check out the traits of the previous sign or the one that follows.

Aries: Your planetary avatar is making no new aspects. There will be a flurry of activity on or around July 29, then quiet until Mars changes signs on August 2. This is a good time to catch up on those piles of paper and generally finish projects in preparation for a shift of attention as August begins.

Taurus: An older person may offer you a gift from your family of origin. Perhaps it represents an "inheritance" that arrives early or a special keepsake. It is meant to grace your home and increase your sense of family ties. It is generally a challenge to move forward. You are pinned in place right now.

Gemini: Communications with significant others may be misunderstood, snarled, or lost altogether. Do not make assumptions about what others mean. Ask questions and clarify for best results. You may be absent-minded this week. It's a time in which you may lose keys, tickets, and other small items. Be alert for these potential errors.

Cancer: The full moon in Capricorn on July 19 may still have you reeling with feelings. Sometimes the full moon brings a revelation about yourself or someone else in your life. This one shines a spotlight on your primary relationship(s). The situation is one in which you have been the giver. The other may have taken advantage of your good nature.

Leo: The sun returns "home" to your sign this week. You likely will find it to be energizing. Now is the time to focus on new plans for this next year of your life. Take a fresh look at where you want to direct your energy. While the Sun continues its path through your sign, notice how its warmth is bringing inspiration into your life.

Virgo: The "rules" and the world's expectations have you tied up like a pretzel right now. The harder you struggle, the tighter those binds seem to become. It's like a Chinese puzzle. Sometimes if you relax on the control issues, the solution comes through. Give it some space.

Libra: It is possible that you feel trapped by work and family obligations at this time. This will lighten up next week. Do your best and don't flog yourself if it is not perfect. Social and romantic life is favored this week. You may be mixing business and pleasure in a pleasant combination. Proceed with caution, even though everything feels right at this time.

Scorpio: Your activities are slowing and the pace is declining as you move toward the end of August. Don't worry. A new focus begins in August. For now it is time to bring current projects toward an end. You may even have more time on your hands. A good use is to exercise more and strengthen your body. In turn, this will strengthen your mind and make you feel better overall.

Sagittarius: You have a green light on activities related to travel or travel plans, education and publishing, and interests related to the law. Your willingness to accept the rules and regulations as required will be helpful in getting things accomplished. Activities involving the Internet and some much-needed reasearch are favored at this time.

Capricorn: The full moon was in your sign on July 19. During this week information comes your way concerning your primary relationship. This is a time in which you will gain perspective on yourself in relationship to others. Repetitive psychological processes are becoming visible to you, for good or ill. Look past what you feel and focus on what you are doing and the effects that it has on yourself and others involved.

Aquarius: The goddess Venus is in your 7th house in a harmonious relationship to Saturn, your planetary ruler. This is a good time to discuss issues within a relationship because you are steady of mind and likely to be realistic, in relation to yourself as well as others. The relationship may be a partner or a friend. Though you intend to keep your promises, remember that even the best intentions sometimes go astray.

Pisces: Give yourself plenty of rest and take your vitamins. You are in a physical and/or emotional low, but it's not one that you won't recover from. Allergies may kick into gear for a short time. Stay low and maintain a quiet routine. The summer heat is having a strong effect on you, so stay indoors and don't feel restless. You may feel like you have to get out and about, but it's better to rest and stay cool.

Are you interested in a personal horoscope? Vivian Carol may be reached at 704-366-3777 for private psychotherapy or astrology appointments. There is a fee for services. Website: www.horoscopesbyvivian.com.