For Sunday, May 5, 2002, those with birthdays today: The unexpected occurs professionally. Learn to flex. Give up rigidity, and success will greet you. Be sensitive to others, especially groups that give you strong insight and direction. Partners don’t always understand you and your need to learn to be more creative in your self-expression. If you are single, you will meet a significant other, probably before fall. If attached, your relationship will develop to a new level.

The Stars Show the Kind of Day You’ll Have: 5-Dynamic; 4-Positive; 3-Average; 2-So-so; 1-Difficult

Aries (March 21-April 19)

• You might stop and smell the roses today or, maybe, listen to your body. Take a time-out from socializing, though you might be having a grand old time. Read the Sunday paper. Take a walk, enjoying the foliage. Tonight: Early to bed.

• Sometimes you can be way too responsible. Kick back and do something enjoyable. Friends would love to have you join them. A loved one finds your presence to be most delightful. Don’t undermine the moment. Tonight: Where the crowds are.

• You might need to take a break from all the action going on around you. A boss or parent might need some extra time or attention. Don’t hesitate to ask for the support you need. Tonight: Get a head start on tomorrow.

• Someone appreciates your attention. Listen to a loved one carefully and honor his or her request. Perhaps this person would like less attention and would like to do something different. Let your mind relax. Tonight: Take in a movie.

• Though you like to call the shots, allow a partner to dominate and make choices. Schedule some quality one-on-one time together spontaneously. If you need to, cancel plans for this person. Tonight: Go along with the program.

• Give up being diligent about projects, errands or anything else of that nature. Others seek you out. Stop holding back, and go for more of what you want. Let go of work and practicality. Tonight: That’s more like it!

• After recent events, you might decide that a more subdued activity feels right. Indulge a partner or loved one more completely by being nurturing. Sometimes romance needs to take a back seat — like now! Tonight: Get a good night’s sleep.

• You’ve played away, now calm down and dote on those on the home front, even if it is just you and your pet! You might be amazed by what a good time you have. Scratch off what you have to do. Tonight: Order in.

• Speak your mind. Often you hint or make a suggestion. Others need to hear what you think. You could be shocked by how another values money. Lecturing this person won’t make a difference. Tonight: At a favorite spot.

• * Your personality radiates outward. Others seek you out because of the comfort you naturally bestow on them. Be the host or hostess with the most. Invite others over for an unexpected get-together. Tonight: Let it happen.