CANCER

As the fourth sign of the zodiac, Cancer represents the fourth stage in the evolution of man. In Cancer the need is eternal survival through perpetuation of the species. It is the sign of fertility and nurturing and the "mothering" instinct is at its' strongest in this sign. It doesn't mean all of them are gourmet cooks or excellent housekeepers, but they all want to feel part of a family. They enjoy feeding others as much as they enjoy feeding themselves. They are also ready to supply emotional nurturing to anyone who appears to be in need. When upset, they tend to use food as consolation, which in turn, often results in problems with excess weight.

Cancerians are doers. They set out to accomplish a goal and, one way or another, they want to obtain their goals. In spite of their emotional nature, they are strong-willed and have no trouble expressing what they want, then finding a way to get it. The Crab is their astrological symbol and there are certain crab-like gestures directly associated with the behavior of Cancerians. At the slightest provocation or threat the crab quickly hides in the sand or retreats into a shell until safer times are at hand.

Cancers make fabulous partners for home-loving people. The Cancer's nest is where he feels safest and at his most secure.

Cancer natives react emotionally to everything they experience in life. They must express their feelings. They wear their hearts on their sleeves. Many Cancerians succeed in life because their genuine concern for the welfare of others inspires loyalty as well as cooperation.

If you have a Cancer for a friend, you know what loyalty and devotion mean. Cancer people usually make their friends when they are young and keep them for life. And due to their sensitivity, they are easily hurt if the friends in question do not return their devotion. They will forgive. But Cancers never forget. The Moon, ruler of human emotions, rules the sign of Cancer. Their biggest struggle is to avoid becoming prisoners of their own emotions. However, once they feel comfortable in a situation or relationship, they open up and relax completely. Once they learn to keep excess emotions in control, their intuition can be remarkably accurate. Their emotional insecurity makes them want to hang on to things. They hate to throw anything away, and many end up avid collectors. When they receive criticism, even constructive criticism, they tend to take it as a personal affront instead of using it to attain personal growth and maturity.

Favorite Cancerian sports are swimming, fishing, sailing and other water activities. They also enjoy skiing, ice skating, and mountain climbing. Cancerians are creative. Living or spending time near the water is a relaxing, as well as creatively stimulating environment for Cancerians.

Cancer colors are white, silver, and pale yellow. Vulnerable parts of the body are the breasts and stomach. Stomach aches, food allergies, and hysterics are the usual afflictions of Cancerians. Cancer rules silver, and the ruby as well as the pearl are considered Cancerian birthstones. The ruby, a variety of corundum, is one of the hardest minerals known, while the pearl is soft and easily scratched. These gems illustrate the two contrasting sides of the Cancer personality; hard and determined as well as soft and vulnerable. Cancerian flowers are the water lily (lotus), iris, poppy (white), carnation (white) and southern magnolia.

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