Aries March 21 - April 20

Symbol: The Puppy
Yes I know that traditionally Aries is the sign of the Ram symbolized by the horns but honestly.....Aries has less in common with the hyperactive head-butters we all know from nature programs and more with a group of puppies bashing beans as they all rush after the same ball. Besides, the ram doesn't come close to conveying the idea of the unswerving loyalty that an Aries will demonstrate to loved ones.

Glyph: The Wagging Tail
Again, traditionally, the ram's horns are meant to symbolize Aries' headstrong, headlong, head first attitude. As the first sign of the Zodiac Aries are meant to lead the rest through the cycle of the year. The way a puppy on a leash "leads" on a walk. Which means that the rest of the world is more conversant with their hind ends.

Key Words: I Saw It First
While this is probably true, seeing isn't always understanding. Aries will exert a great deal of energy on something worthless, like a puppy chasing a car it can never drive. It's a kind of primitive value system that says if it's moving it's prey and therefore worth pursuing. This makes it difficult for them to sit still and appreciate what they actually have. And, in an environment with a lot of moving targets, an Aries will be too distracted to actually follow through on anything.

There is a reincarnation theory of Astrology that says this is an Aries' first physical manifestation on Earth. Which is probably why they have a puppy's enthusiasm for everything new, and are much more successful when presented with some firm guidelines. Everybody (except me) has at some point been completely exasperated by an Aries friend's vigor, determination and total naivete. But they're too darn cute to actually be mad at.

Not only does Aries need to learn what they want from life, but also, what's worth wanting, and what's an appropriate way of getting it. They do this by paying very close attention to other people to see what they want and how they get it. Arians are impressionable but also discriminating. They frequently gravitate to earth signs whose success is often more material and therefore visible than that of the other elements.

Aries itself is a fire sign and there is indeed a discernible warmth and a glow about them. They are often misrepresented as being hotheads with short fuses, but in reality are just passionate about absolutely everything they do.

Next week we'll talk about Aries in love. Whether you are an Aries or you're in like with an Aries, I'll tell you what matches are a good bet.