By Jack Fertig

Forecast for Sept. 6-19, 2005

ARIES (March 20 - April 19): Take some friends to church -- or synagogue, or mosque, or whatever religious institution you grew up with. The point is not to convert them, but to get insights into your own background and baggage. What you least like hearing will prove most helpful.

TAURUS (April 20 - May 20): Arguing with the boss can be chalked up to fragile egos. Yours is the only one you can keep in check. What would your parents say? And how would you like to respond? Get that out of the way before handling the boss.

GEMINI (May 21 - June 20): Arguments are almost inevitable now. Almost. Worries about money (or self-worth?) are the underlying triggers. Make sure you're able to have someone -- preferably an older sibling or a "sister" -- with whom you can discuss those issues.

CANCER (June 21 - July 22): Sexual issues are up for you. Remember you have nothing to prove, and buying new toys or fetish-wear won't help. If getting old is part of the problem, then being mature and taking charge is the answer.

LEO (July 23 - August 22): We all have inner doubts and fears, and nobody's perfect. What you really hate is that imperfection is true of you, too. Be honest and open with your partner or a trusted friend. Not admitting your flaws will magnify them and make you intolerable.

VIRGO (August 23 - September 22): Good friends can help settle your doubts and worries, but also may confirm some of them. As bad as things may be, your worries just magnify the problems. You need a reality check.

LIBRA (September 23 - October 22): Being too creative at work can come across as flaky or threatening to your superiors. Keep communications open, and welcome constructive criticism from colleagues. Any entertainments or morale-boosters you devise now should be kept simple.

SCORPIO (October 23 - November 21): Challenged by new ideas? Retreating into traditional beliefs will not help. That's what "fundamentalism" is! Better to accept the challenge. Arguing with a teacher can help both of you to learn, but stay respectful.

SAGITTARIUS (November 22 - December 20): Pushing beyond your familiar sexual limits is OK, but be very careful! Confused signals can get you into dangerous situations. In any new kinky activities, make sure to be clear about safewords, proper instructions, etc.

CAPRICORN (December 21 - January 19): Working on new erotic techniques could open questions about personal morality and responsibility. Your partner could goad you or be a drag; there will be some discomfort either way. Communication, though an effort, remains the answer always.

AQUARIUS (January 20 - February 18): Sweetly listen to anything your partner (or a close friend) has to say about cleaning up your act. You don't have to agree or follow the advice, but at least consider it. It could catalyze a better approach.

PISCES (February 19 - March 19): Showing off in sports or at the gym is sure to get you hurt. Maintain a moderate level of activity. If you need to show off, focus on your artistic insights and your ability to express things beyond most people's imaginings.

Jack Fertig has been working as a professional astrologer since 1977 and is a founding member of the Association for Astrological Networking. He can be reached for consultations at (415) 864-8302, through his Web site at www.starjack.com, and by e-mail at QScopes@qsyndicate.com.