Leo July 23-August 22

Leo is represented by the lion. It is a fire sign ruled by the Sun emphasizing magnetism. Characteristics of Leo energy include optimism, creativity, generosity, pride, overbearing, cruel, pretentious, and boastful.

Heracles (a Greek hero of epic renown) was made to undertake 12 labors as punishment for crimes he committed in his youth. Heracles' First Labor was to quickly find and destroy the Nemean Lion, a monster that had plagued Nemea for some time and was believed impossible to kill. His arrows bounced off, his sword broke, and finally he decided to use brute strength. He wrestled the lion, strangled it and skinned it using its own claws. The spirit of the once-dangerous lion, Leo, was placed in the sky as a thing of beauty.

Leos were born to lead and are most effective when in a position of command. Leos are straightforward, uncomplicated individuals who know what they want and pursue it with enthusiasm and a creative spirit. Leos possess a strong positive nature and don't shrink from adverse circumstances. They are not easily daunted, and will persist through the most formidable circumstances.

Leos are proud people, with an idealistic and humane nature. They are basically outgoing, happy, kind and generous. Self expressive, intelligent and broad minded, they are philosophically inclined. They tend to be stubborn, and will hold onto a belief, or stick to a course of action through thick or thin. They are direct and to the point and lead with their emotions. Because of their positive nature, they tend to expect the best, and when things don't turn out as they had expected, they react immediately and badly. Quick tempered, blunt and nasty when they have been affronted, they are deeply hurt by malice or hostility. Although, they may suffer from short bouts of depression when life doesn't meet their expectations, they bounce back quickly and move on with their normal cheerful and demonstrative nature. Leo walks forward always, head held proudly and face turned towards the sun.

Origins In Mythology
To our ancestors, the qualities of the Lion were associated with rulership and divinity. Wherever this animal was encountered, its characteristics were attributed to gods and goddesses. For many cultures, the symbol of a lion serves as a guardian. Lion figures stand fast against darkness and evil intent in the doorways of palaces, temples, and in the rituals of the Chinese New Year. It is not hard to recognize some of these same attributes in those born under the Sun sign of Leo.

Notable Leos: Jacqueline Kennedy, Napolean Bonaparte, Bill Clinton, Mick Jagger, Amelia Earhart, Arnold Schwarzenegger, King Louis XIV, Heath Capps

BOOYA!