Horoscope: Dec. 24

ARIES (March 21-April 19). Your passion will inspire others, even those who don't share your subject of interest. It's not the topic that matters anyhow; it's your intensity level. There is great joy coursing through your veins.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). You can read about an experience and get a taste for it, but what really counts is firsthand experience. Wherever possible, put yourself in the situation. There is no substitute for real life.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). Stay keen to interpersonal dynamics. The one who is in charge doesn't always have a title. The one running the show may be the smallest, youngest and weakest.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). Begin with the end in mind—the end you want, that is. Don't even think about the end you don't want. Avoiding pain won't work half as well as aiming for pleasure.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). Some shrink from danger, others seek it, and still others meet it when they must—that's you. Risk doesn't bother you, as long as it's calculated. You'll get busy assessing your odds.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). The surface of things will tell one story, but the whole story requires more effort. When they know you are really interested, they will want to tell you the truth.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). The actors know it, and now you do, too—it's hard work to be someone you're not, but it can be fun and enlightening work, as well. A bit of pretending will expand you.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). Once you establish your standards, you will live up to them—and so will those around you. Each choice you make to improve your health and vitality will greatly enhance your personal life.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). You know the secret: The seemingly mundane is actually quite miraculous. That's why you try to understand the science behind things and figure out what makes them work.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). You will anticipate what others need before they need it. You'll be humble and honest, even as you sell yourself. Just don't forget the part where you sell yourself—it's necessary.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). An enchanting presence lets you know you are wanted, not needed. This is the ideal dynamic. The pressure is off, and you feel you can really be yourself.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20). People tell you much more than you wanted to know, and this will entertain you. You'll learn of colorful pasts and secret intentions. Maybe you should write a book.

TODAY'S BIRTHDAY (Dec. 24). Pick up the phone and call—you'll get what you want. In February, sense what's on the horizon for your group, and lead the way. The summer highlights your diplomatic skills. You'll make friends in high places and enjoy exclusive and expensive arrangements. The person you meet in August will brighten your future. Scorpio and Libra people adore you. Your lucky numbers are: 29, 1, 11, 33 and 14.