TAURUS (April 20-May 20): How long do you want to live? Before you answer, remember that thousands of scientists are engaged in research to crack the code of the aging process. They will ultimately make breakthroughs that could allow you to be healthy and vigorous for many more decades. In the meantime, the astrological omens suggest this is a perfect moment to meditate on what you can personally do to promote your own longevity. What habits of mind and body can you cultivate that will keep you forever fresh? And now I drink a toast to your coffin, Taurus. May it be fashioned of lumber obtained from a hundred-year-old cypress tree whose seed will be planted this week.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): You’re being called on to meet a higher standard. You’re being asked to boost your output or take on more responsibility or show you can handle greater expectations. While it’s understandable if that’s unnerving, I urge you to keep it all in perspective. Remember what journeyman basketball player Jon Koncak said when assigned the task of replacing his team’s departed all-star, Shaquille O’Neal. Reporters asked him if he felt a lot of pressure. “Not at all,” he replied. “Pressure to me is being in an airplane and the pilot dies and they ask me to fly the plane.” The challenge you face may be daunting, Taurus, but it’s nothing like that.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Happy Valentine Daze, Taurus! After careful meditation about what suggestions might enrich your love life, I’m advising you to celebrate an Honesty Festival with the person you love best or with the person you *want* to love best. Speak from the depths as you reveal the hidden fears and longings and joys that have been unspoken until now. And let these words of wisdom from Thoreau be the motto that guides you: “Between whom there is hearty truth there is love.”