HAPPY BIRTHDAY for Thursday, Dec. 15, 2016: This year you make headway in reaching an important goal. You also could see a friendship grow in importance. This person will be instrumental in expanding your horizons. If you are single, you will meet people easily when out and about. You also are likely to meet someone through your work. If you are attached, the two of you could spend more time together than you have in a long time. Because of both of your caring, you will bond more deeply. CANCER is as emotional as you are fiery.

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Tension builds because of a misunderstanding. A power play forces your hand. The only way to win a power play is not to get involved. Opportunities occur that allow you to express your needs. A loved one makes you an offer that you can’t say no to. Tonight: Mosey on home.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): A conversation could shake you up more than you realize. If you detach, you will understand that what is happening is meant to be positive, even though it might be overwhelming. You gain a lot of insight as a result. Tonight: Hang out with friends.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Do a brief assessment, if need be. You could be overwhelmed by everything that happens with the holiday season. Sort through what is necessary to do immediately. Prioritize as well. A child or loved one puts a smile on your face. Tonight: Be disciplined when it comes to spending.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Misunderstandings happen inadvertently. You might find a partner or a select group of people to be somewhat testy and difficult. Understand what is going on with a loved one by imagining what it might be like to be in his or her shoes. Tonight: Do your own thing.

LEO (July 23-Aug 22): You might want to slow down a bit. Consider building up a reservoir of energy, as you will be entering a hectic few days where you will need it. Meanwhile, worry less about the completion of ho-hum errands. Do only what you must. Tonight: Time for beauty sleep.

VIRGO (Aug 23-Sept 22): Sometimes, you are not as grounded as you might like to be. An associate or two might need some extra time, perhaps as a result of a meeting. Friends seem to be a source of rewards once you get past your first reaction to their news. Tonight: Make plans for the weekend.

LIBRA (Sept 23-Oct 22): You have a way about you that keeps coming through for you in different situations. Know that a boss is observing you. You are likely to make a good impression, even if you don’t know who this person is. Tonight: Don’t count on going to bed early —not that you’ll want to.

SCORPIO (Oct 23-Nov 21): Look past the obvious. See more of what is going on behind the scenes. Once you have a better grasp of what is happening on multiple levels, you will be more content. You also will spend less time wondering what to do. Tonight: Buy some holiday concert tickets.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22-Dec 21): One-on-one relating elicits unusually successful results. It makes no difference if you are shooting the breeze or having an important talk with a boss. Remain poised, even if someone becomes demanding. You know how to say “No.” Tonight: Respond to a loved one’s request.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22-Jan 19): Enjoy being in demand; embrace your popularity. Don’t lose sight of who and what is important. Your sense of humour emerges when dealing with a parent or older friend. You are going through some changes, and others could be reactive. Tonight: The only answer is “Yes.”

AQUARIUS (Jan 20-Feb 18): You might be one of the few people who is working as hard as you can. Many of your associates could be distracted by the holidays. Do not feel pressured by someone else. Just know what is going on with him or her, and judge how involved you want to be. Tonight: Out late.

PISCES (Feb 19-March 20): You might want to be less disciplined and more spontaneous. A friend could be very judgemental about your whimsical behaviour. Know that this person just wishes he or she could let go like you do. There is some jealousy at the base of his or her reaction. Tonight: Be naughty.

(c) 2016 by King Features Syndicate Inc.