Free Will Astrology: June 27-July 3, 2012

SAGITTARIUS [November 22–December 21] From the 14th through the 18th centuries, many towns in England observed a curious custom. If a couple could prove that they had gone a year and a day without ever once being sorry they got married, the two of them would receive an award: a side of cured pork, known as a flitch of bacon. Alas, the prize was rarely claimed. If this practice were still in effect, you Sagittarians would have an elevated chance of bringing home the bacon in the coming months. Your ability to create harmony in an intimate relationship will be much higher than usual.

CAPRICORN [December 22–January 19] "If I had my life to live over," said Nadine Stair at age 85, "I would perhaps have more actual problems, but I'd have fewer imaginary ones." I suggest you write out that quote, Capricorn, and keep it close to you for the next six months. Your task will be to train yourself so you can expertly distinguish actual problems from imaginary ones. Part of your work, of course, will be to get in the habit of immediately ejecting any of the imaginary kind the moment you notice them creeping up on you.

AQUARIUS [January 20–February 18] Astronomer Percival Lowell (1855–1916) was instrumental in laying the groundwork that led to the discovery of Pluto. But he also put forth a wacky notion or two. Among the most notable: He declared, against a great deal of contrary evidence, that the planet Mars was laced with canals. You have the potential to be a bit like him in the coming months, Aquarius: mostly a wellspring of innovation but sometimes a source of errant theories. Be humble and ask for feedback.

PISCES [February 19–March 20] Throughout the 16th century and even beyond, European explorers trekked through the New World hunting for the mythical land of El Dorado: the Lost City of Gold. The precious metal was supposedly so abundant there that it was even used to make children's toys. The quest was ultimately futile, though it led the explorers to stumble upon lesser treasures of practical value—the potato, for example. After being brought over to Europe from South America, it became a staple food. I'm foreseeing a comparable progression in your own world during the coming months: You might not locate the gold, but you'll find the equivalent of the potato.