LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): In many cultures, the dove has served as a symbol of divinity, purity, and peace. To Muslims and Christians, for instance, it represents the Holy Spirit. In contrast, the pigeon is often regarded as a nuisance whose prolific droppings are an eyesore and health hazard. And yet the terms "dove" and "pigeon" are used interchangeably for many species of birds; they're essentially the same. I mention this, Leo, because I think you'll have a dove-pigeon thing happening for you this week. A certain situation will have both a lyrical, harmonious side and a banal, bedraggled aspect. They go together; you can't have the dove without the pigeon.

(this one's for you, Russell!) *on the phone with the helpdesk guy at my new ISP, trying TRYING to get hooked up with Jetstream, Telecom's DSL - the helpguy I ask the other help guys to transfer me to* helpguy: heh, you have three applications with us, I'll just delete a couple that were unsuccessful. michelle: I know, the entire universe is conspiring against me. *doing helpdeskguy things like deleting old applications and completing new applications - you know that nice quiet time when you can listen to the helpguy breathing, typing, and whispering to himself as he works* helpguy: is that music there or here michelle: I don't know, what can you hear helpguy: something soft and laid back michelle: *turning volume down* can you hear it now? helpguy: no michelle: then it must've been me.. it's *realises and laughs* "the man i love" by diana schuur helpguy: *surprised and smiling tone in voice* oh you play that for me? michelle: of course! you're getting me Jetstream! I would bear your children! helpguy: *laughed* well don't go getting yourself into trouble! michelle: I'm really pleased you're going to all this trouble to help me out. helpguy: no problem, michelle, always a pleasure chatting with you. Call me tomorrow to find out what the status of your application is.