Born in August

by Aditha Dissanayake

If June is the month of weddings, then August surely is the month of birthdays. Ask anyone around you. Chances are either their own birthdays fall in August or they know at least a dozen friends, cousins or relatives who celebrate their birthdays in August.

According to Dr. Louis Turi, the author of "I know all about you", the month of August is governed by the all-powerful Sun and by the magnanimous sign of Leo.

So, if you were born in August, "you are naturally attracted to professions involving the arts, public life, medicine, research, management, and any endeavours that could offer you a chance to shine". Says Dr. Turi. "Just as the Sun's rays penetrate the depths of the rainforest, you were born with the potential to bring and promote life to all that you touch. You have a lot to offer others and the world, providing you exercise control over your ego and authoritative nature".

Eccentric and proud

Those who are born in August are said to have a fixed motivation for success. Strong and dominant, they nurture a formidable desire to organize and rule others. If they become too overbearing, others will then teach them the lesson of humility, where they will be forced back to start from scratch.

Moreover, if you were born in August, destructive outbursts of emotions and unfettered pride are enemies of your success. Acting eccentrically or with pride and without forethought is your weakness.

"Women born in August are stunning, intellectual, magnetic, and attract others with their enthusiastic solar power." Says Dr. Turi. They are protective and dedicated mothers. The desire for fame however, could also make them overbearing and force them to try to live through their children's accomplishments.

Those born in August are also said to nurture a subconscious fear of death and decay. But nature gives them a strong mind and a robust body. If you were born in August you are bound to love animals, especially cats.

To get back to the phenomenon of ever so many birthdays in August. Minoli Ismail says "My birthday falls in March. But... let me see how many I know celebrate their birthdays in August" She opens her palm and folds one finger after the other as she narrates a long list of names "My father, his sister, three of my cousins, my brother's fiance... about seven altogether". She throws her hands up in amazement. Here's one mystery she can't solve.

A lady dressed in a t-shirt and long skirt, who has been listening to us, joins the conversation. " Yes it is surprising how many birthdays fall in August. In my office, we have had birthday cake continuously from our colleagues, this month. Beginning from the 1st of August, almost everyday has been somebody's birthday."

August 1 to 23

According to the Western Almanac if your birthday falls somewhere between 1st August and 23rd August, your sun sign is Leo. Jill Davies, in her book "Everyday Astrology" says "There is nothing modest about Leo." If you are a Leo, you are an extremely proud creature and you have many qualities in which you can justly take pride: you are generous of spirit, affectionate, charismatic and creative.

But pride is also your downfall. You find it almost impossible to admit you might be in the wrong, and pride combined with the fixed nature of your sign, can result in bloody mindedness and obstinacy.

But allowances should be made for the lion; for if you are a show off it is because you have been the centre of attention all your life. If you are bossy it's because you are the best person to wear the "I'm in charge" badge.(And) when it comes to romance, Leo has written the book. Your tender and skilful love-making will leave your partner starry-eyed, and feeling cherished and adored.

Born on 18th of August, 1986, Ravi, who has just started his first job, is thrilled with the last bit about a Leo. "Boy! Am I all that? Tender and skilful?" he asks in wonder. His older brother frowns at his enthusiasm. "There is plenty of time to find out. You don't even have a girl-friend yet".

I watch Ravi's shoulders sag in dismay. Then, he brightens up when he recalls the nice girl at the reception in his office. Perhaps he wouldn't have to wait all that long.

August 24 to 31

But what about those born between August 24 and 31? Their star sign according to the Western almanac is Virgo. Everybody belonging to this sign are supposed to be precise and methodical in their thoughts, says Davies. They are perfectionists and their main fault lies in their obsession with analyzing everything to death.

In love, they approach their intimate relationships not as matters of the heart but as academic exercises. When they make love they are precise and efficient. Quiet, contained and competent Virgo is a sincere and dependable person who is supportive and considerate of the less fortunate, says Davies.

An unknown writer living in the 19th century had allocated birthstones for every month in the calendar; garnets for January, pearls for February, bloodstone for March, diamonds for April, emerald for May, Agate for June, ruby for July, sapphire for September, opal for October, topaz for November and turquoise for December. (Notes and Queries, 11th March 1889).

And for August? Here is a suggestion to all those who are wondering what kind of birthday present they could buy for someone born in August. Buy a sardonynx - the birthstone for August, for as the unknown author had written "the August born without this stone/ Tis said must live unloved and alone". You wouldn't want this to happen to someone you know, would you?