Weekly horoscope Aug. 25-31) 

Virgo The Virgin (Aug. 22-Sept. 22):

It is possible you are wanting to start a business or develop a creative enterprise. The economy is not going to recover rapidly, so keep your investments small at the beginning and invest more on positive results later. Circumstances may be forcing a decision on the subject of whether or not to have a child.

For All Signs: The cosmic square between Saturn and Pluto began late 2009 and continues its influence through 2010 and beyond. It represents a demand to eliminate unnecessary and/or dead structures in our lives. It calls for breakdown of almost any structure and rebuilding with integrity. Its darkest aspect generates a type of paranoia in which we distrust anything or anyone that we cannot see fully. Breakdown must happen periodically, so we will cleanse our lives of overgrowth and/or dead forms. It is a necessary fact of life and resembles preparing the ground for a new crop. The birth to death continuum is constant. As individuals we must not allow our minds to run rampant with fear at this time. Change is scary to most of us. But we will be far more at peace if we recognize that we must remove decay and start again from firm ground. In the paragraphs that follow, I will describe how this square will affect us individually. Read both your sun and ascending signs. Those who are born early in their signs (21st to 26th) especially feel this energy now.

Aries: Your career demands an overhaul. This may come via reorganization of the hierarchy, or moving the workplace. You may be given a different job or at worst, no job for a time. Don't fight it. Think about how you can grow through adapting to change. Your partner is struggling over issues of family and identity. Partnerships are up for renewal.

Taurus: Any misdoing in the legal and ethics department in life will likely be brought to exposure. If you are clean, stay that way. You may not be thrilled with changes in the workplace at the moment, but you really cannot afford to leave. Take care of the stress by pouring energy into bodywork and exercise.

Gemini: Issues concerning debt, insurance, inheritance or family resources are under pressure. One or more children, even as adults, are experiencing the stresses of the economy. If you are of childbearing age, you may be pressured to make a difficult decision. Romantic or creative life is at a standstill while you re-evaluate your true needs.

Cancer: Downsizing is a good idea for you, but your partner may oppose this option entirely. Seek a trusted friend or counselor to help you negotiate a solution to the issues facing each of you now. Young adults may feel forced to part from each other during this period. A separation in an unseasoned relationship could be helpful to regain perspective.

Leo: Your work and daily routine are being overhauled. The pressure is on in the workplace and among co-workers. Avoid the inevitable ego battles. If you are not happy with this situation, consider learning a new trade or skill that will help you redefine yourself. Pour considerable energy into self-help and self-improvements.

Libra: Changes in family circumstances may be causing you to rethink yourself or to adapt to an altered identity. You will be learning things about yourself and your family that you never before knew. Solitude is comforting while you deal with your identity and search for a new direction. You are not the people-pleaser you once were, but now what do you put in its place?

Scorpio: You are up for an entire change of lifestyle and cleansing of the critic who plagues you. Your career is becoming unworkable in your life, so a new education is on the horizon. If you accept these changes as positive, your ego will not feel so pounded by the inner critic.

Sagittarius: Your income will be coming from a different source. It is possible that the Powers That Be may reduce your hours or your salary. Consider developing skills and resources in another field over the next couple of years. You may be feeling increased responsibility related to friends and their welfare.

Capricorn: This square is tied to your identity and your career. Its manifestation depends on your stage in life. At this time you may take on a career challenge greater than ever. On the other hand, if you are older, you realize it is nearing time to let go of the reins. The state of your health is key in this situation.

Aquarius: During the three years following November 2009, you may be spending time traveling or working on a new education. Issues of ethics and morals are presented for your consideration. Any leftover demons or secrets from earlier in your life may surface for cleansing. Revelation of old family secrets may alter your perspective.

Pisces: If you have a business with a clientele, you can figure that their access to funds is diminished in general. You need to think about offering new services or products that cost less (both to yourself and your clients). Resources that you share with others may be reduced. Keep a careful eye on investments.

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.)