Today’s Birthday (08/26/12).

You’ve been paying your dues. Recognition flowers, blessed by two eclipses this year. Take advantage, and run with it. Choose activities that grow your education and skills. Communication, creativity and expression thrive, especially after October. Relationships provide opportunities.

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 7 — You’re being tested and you can do well. Your friends are impressed. Anticipate a big change in financial affairs. New evidence threatens complacency.

Taurus (April 20-May 20) —

Today is a 5 — Step out of your comfort zone. Try something unexplored. You’re motivated to make a difference. What you know in your heart will prove to be accurate.

Gemini (May 21-June 20) —

Today is a 7 — Do the work and profit; think long term. Someone acknowledges you, but don’t get arrogant. When confusion reigns, consider another option until you find the one that works.

Cancer (June 21-July 22) —

Today is a 7 — Take care of a friend, and it comes back to you. The two of you share dreams. Turn challenges to your advantage. Find new ways to increase productivity.

Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) —

Today is an 8 — Focus on your work for the next couple of days. Passions stir, and that’s a good thing. Ask somebody to fuss over you. You’re special, and lucky.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) —

Today is an 8 — Immerse yourself in art. Go to a museum, or make your own masterpiece doing what you love. Don’t be afraid. Your past work speaks well for you.

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) —

Today is an 8 — Home is where the heart is. Renew a tradition, or invent a new one. Despite the temporary confusion, everything seems possible. Enjoy the results and congratulate the team.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) —

Today is a 6 — Now is a good time to start a writing project. Find inspiration nearby. Don’t be afraid to be intimate. You get farther with a friendly boost. Postpone romance.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) —

Today is an 8 — Concentrate and start making profits today or tomorrow. There’s more where that came from. Leap forward, but don’t fall for a trick. Spiritual values emerge.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) —

Today is a 5 — Draw upon inspiration rather than perspiration now. There are hidden resources at hand. Support your friends, and let them support you. Don’t spend it all in one place.

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) —

Today is a 7 — There’s no need to go into the same cheeseless maze; try something new. Or stay home and work around your place. Your intention could get thwarted. Meditation helps.

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) —

Today is an 8 — Play with friends for awhile. Listen to their suggestions, and think it through. The more promises you keep, the more wealth you’ll reap.