Report

Those born on August 14 hold up a mirror to the human condition, and are generally one of two types. The first type actually embodies the characteristics of their age—its style, philosophy, strengths and weaknesses. Usually these August 14 people are not particularly aware of what they represent nor are they interested in commenting on it. The second type is made up of those who comment and analyze, seeking to lay bare the foibles of their world, whether it be their own private circle or society at large. Themes of reflection and revelation run through the lives of August 14 people. They often take leadership roles but almost always as guides or teachers (not necessarily formal instructors, but perhaps teachers through example or the sharing of experience). Usually those born on this day have little or no interest in ruling, dominating or dictating to others. Yet, paradoxically, exceptional people born on this day can come to dominate their field, and therefore be looked upon as leaders. Two areas which more highly evolved August 14 people are driven to ponder are those of personal integrity and mortality, as well as the ephemeral nature of all human experience. Those August 14 people who are analysts of life around them usually understand the importance of humor in communicating their ideas, and the foolish, ironic and awkward aspects of human social life do not escape their penetrating gaze. In holding a mirror up to people (their family, friends, public, associates or employees) they allow others to see themselves as they really are. Sometimes such August 14 people use exaggeration and grotesquerie to attract attention or demonstrate their point. Others may react to their irreverence with delight, laughter or disgust but inevitably find that something insightful has been expressed. They may also be prompted to consider themselves in light of what has been said, and see if the shoe fits. August 14 people who are not commentators but embodiers of the human condition very much wear their heart on their sleeve. They cannot really hide their faults or their problems. But though their struggles are painfully evident, they are perhaps representative of what many others are experiencing. Thus such August 14 people not only garner sympathy from those who empathize with them but also admiration from those who look to them for answers. Though this type of August 14 person may be lacking in self-awareness they are nonetheless in touch with the concerns of their age. August 14 people are often drawn to relationships in which their mate becomes a mirror of their own inner self which it is naturally difficult for them to see. This animus or anima figure who is the object of their love is often a projection of their own best and worst traits, and in some cases an extreme personality in which one or two characteristics are dominant.

Numbers

Those born on the 14th day of the month are ruled by the number 5 (1+4=5), and by the planet Mercury. Here the tendency of the August 14 commentator type to be rational and analytical is enforced (given an extra mental boost by the influence of the Sun, Leo’s ruler). Changeable behavior and a need for impulsive action may also be observed in those ruled by the number 5. August 14 people must learn to master these impulsive feelings, yet at the same time be open to gradual (rather than sudden or abrupt) change when it furthers their cause and that of those dependent on them. Fortunately, the number 5 bestows a resilient character which can recover quickly from the hard knocks of life.

Archetype

The 14th card of the Major Arcana is Temperance. The figure shown is a guardian angel who protects us and keeps us on an even keel. The card cautions against all forms of egotistical excess. Positively seen, Temperance modifies passions in order to allow for new truths to be learned and incorporated into one’s life. Because Temperance may indicate negative qualities of passivity and ineffectiveness, August 14 people must resist trendiness and try to establish their own styles, techniques and systems of thought if possible and stick to them with conviction.

Health

August14 people should use their knowledge of the times and human activity to help shape healthy life patterns for themselves. Difficulties with the heart and circulatory system, often due to dietary imbalances, tobacco or drug abuse, can be dealt with through working with a good physician or natural healer. Moderate exercise is a part of the rebuilding program—walking, jogging, mild aerobics and swimming are good for a start. A healthy appetite for food must be kept within bounds, with an emphasis on whole wheat (barring allergies), corn or rice, limited dairy and meat consumption and an increase of fresh garden vegetables.

Advice

Apply your understanding of the human condition to your own life; turn a mirror to yourself. Evaluate your personal processes and monitor them regularly. Do not lose your spontaneity but moderate it. You can change yourself if you want to.

Meditation

If you want to know what to do next, just look around you. The clues are there