LAST EDITED ON 12-27-12 AT 07:41 AM (EST)

Good Evening ...

I haven’t been particularly fond of Survivor: Philippines. But I have been fascinated by the interplay of its personalities. So I’ve put together this last-minute, abbreviated Signs of Survival just in case other members might enjoy a peek at the Final Four from my perspective.

And I might be back a little later with posthumous decorations …

MALCOLM FREBERG – EARTH/TAURUS
TAURUS SOLE SURVIVORS – NATALIE WHITE

THE TAURUS PROFILE
Positive Traits
Patient and Loyal
Warmhearted and Loving
Persistent and Determined
Rooted and Sensuous
Negative Traits
Jealous and Possessive
Resentful and Inflexible
Self-indulgent and Greedy
Slow and Brooding

This Sign’s characteristics are solidity, practicality, extreme determination and strength of will - no one will ever drive Taurus, but they will willingly and loyally follow a leader they trust. They are stable, balanced, conservative and law-abiding citizens and lovers of peace (possessing all the best qualities of the bourgeoisie). They will do everything in their power to maintain the security of the status quo.

So, on rare occasions a Taurus may be an obstinately and exasperatingly self-righteous, unoriginal, rigid, ultraconservative, argumentative and querulous boor: stuck in a self-centered rut. And, whether their characters are positive or negative, they need someone to stroke their egos with a frequent, "Well Done!" Luckily, Taurus has a knack for attracting praise. It is amazing how people will bend over backwards to please them.

They are faithful and generous friends with a great capacity for affection. But Taurus rarely establish intimacies outside their social rank (to which they are ordinarily excessively loyal). And in the main, they are gentle, even-tempered, good-natured, modest and slow to anger. If they are provoked, however, they can explode into violent, uncontrolled outbursts. Lurking within every serene Taurus is the potential for a seething rage that re-establishes a sense of order by force. Equally unexpected are their occasional sallies into humor and exhibitions of fun.

Those with the Sun in Taurus can be the most down-to-Earth of the Signs, so naturally they revel in earthly pleasures. Taurus has a strong aesthetic taste. And allied to his appreciation of all things beautiful is a love for the good things of life: pleasure, comfort, luxury and good food and wine. Their sensuality is legendary, whether they’re cooking up a sumptuous feast or turning on their tantalizingly slow charm.

More firmly rooted in the physical world than the other Signs, Sun in Taurus can be as immovable as a mountain: it’s hard to get a Taurus to rush into anything and that can be frustrating to everyone else. But once they make a decision, it’s usually a sound one. And that same stubborn deliberateness keeps Taurus fixed on a goal long after others have given up. Moreover, these natives don’t like to be pushed around by what they consider flights of fancy. Changes in their surroundings or routines disturb their equilibrium. And if the change is too abrupt or fundamental to his comfort, the shock may be too much for the Bull. He may actually become physically ill.

Taurus are known as the “builders” of the Zodiac and in their work they are industrious and ambitious: unafraid of getting their hands dirty and at their best in routine positions of trust and responsibility where there is little need of urgency, little risk of change and a pension at the end. Yet they are creative and are also often founders of enterprises where the fruits are of their own labors.

Romantically Speaking: Taurus are motivated by a desire for material and emotional security and when they’ve found a suitable partner they’ll stay put where they are and carefully cultivate a stable, deeply rooted life. Respect them and allow them to take their sweet time doing things, and all will be well.

On the down side, their reluctance to discard the familiar can sometimes cause Taurus to linger in a relationship that they’ve outgrown.

DENISE STAPLEY – FIRE/SAGITTARIUS
SAGITTARIUS SOLE SURVIVORS – VECEPIA TOWERY

THE SAGITTARIUS PROFILE
Positive Traits
Optimistic and Freedom-loving
Curious and Sporting
Good-humored and Straightforward
Expansive and Philosophical
Negative Traits
Blindly-optimistic and Careless
Irresponsible and Superficial
Flippant and Promiscuous
Tactless and Restless

Sagittarius have a positive outlook on life and are full of enterprise, energy, versatility and adventure: eager to extend experience beyond the physically familiar. They delight in travel and exploration: Sagittarius are genuinely intrigued by foreign cultures and even when their finances preclude traipsing the globe Sagittarius travel in their minds.

And their bright, cheerful demeanors can be disarming. It’s an uncomplicated style that invites you to drop your defenses, too, and just “be.” This makes for a fun friend who knows all the best ethnic restaurants and will be more than happy to stay out ‘til the wee hours.

Ambitious and optimistic (even when their hopes are dashed), their strongly idealistic natures are able to withstand disappointments without being affected. They are usually honorable, honest, trustworthy, truthful, generous and sincere (with a passion for justice). They are characteristically on the side of the underdog and are prepared to be rebellious.

Non-conformists, Sagittarius hate being bound to rigid social confines or pigeonholed into strict routines that don't give them plenty of breathing room. Even more than physical restrictions, they'll loathe mental confinement. Sagittarius have both profound and broad minds: equipped with foresight, good judgment and keen intuition. As a result, they are often fascinating conversationalists and correspondents. Think Mark Twain. Think Sagittarius.

Known, too, for their spontaneous philosophical ramblings, these natives don’t seem to get bogged down in emotional complexities. So those who love them may wish for more depth: more feeling. And there are times when they are shockingly blunt. It’s unnerving to be the target of a direct hit. But that same tactless personality can be a beacon of light in confusing times. Leave it to a Sagittarius to step into a messy tangle and sum up the situation with blinding clarity. They’ll be willing to speak the truth when all others hide in confusion. This makes them invaluable friends who can guide you back to a clear path when you need honesty rather than enabling.

And in a curious twist of fate, Sagittarius, who are often accused of clumsiness, are also credited with extraordinary grace and coordination when engaged in purposeful physical activity: most particularly sports and dance. In everyday activities, however, the Sagittarian can be surprisingly less dignified. Though the December-born athlete may break the record for high jump, he'll stumble over his shoelaces walking onto the field.

Sagittarius are much more adept at adapting than inventing and are at their best when working with colleagues whose talents compliment, rather than compete with, their own. But Sagittarius can sometimes be exacting, domineering and inconsiderate in the work place: scorning the inadequacies of others while expecting fulsome recognition of their own skills and effort.

Moreover, they can be (and frequently are) impulsively angry. And, when angry, both male and female Sagittarians can be vicious: employing with precision those words or actions that will most severely wound their adversary. On the other hand, they are magnanimous in forgiving offenses and quick to make amends for their own intemperance.

Romantically Speaking: The same notable physicality that attracts Sagittarius to vigorous athletics and bold travel-adventures often extends to their intimate relationships and their flexible, lusty, anything-goes attitude can cause them to take a walk on the wild side.

So, the ideal partner for them is above all a friend and a partner in life’s great adventure who understands the needs of a true free spirit.

However, more apt then the average to make an uncongenial alliance, their innate restlessness (which, if excessive, often jeopardizes more than their own stability) will often compel them to use even the most satisfying ménage as a base from which to … depart.

MICHAEL SKUPIN – AIR/AQUARIUS
AQUARIUS SOLE SURVIVORS – JENNA MORASCA, TODD HERZOG, YUL KWAN

THE AQUARIUS PROFILE
Positive Traits
Friendly and Humanitarian
Progressive and Pioneering
Original and Inventive
Eccentric, Independent and Intellectual
Negative Traits
Intractable and Dogmatic
Perverse and Unpredictable
Unemotional and Detached
Isolated

The Sun in Aquarius has been called the “rebel” of the Zodiac because of their total commitment to their unique vision. They’re uncompromisingly anchored in their own lives and grant that same autonomy to others.

And, because Aquarius instinctively appreciate diversity and have a sustaining confidence in their own convictions, they are extremely tolerant of the behaviors and opinions of others. So, with an innate sense that everyone should “do their own thing”, Aquarius often seem to be detached – and friendly – at the same time.

Noted for their altruistic and progressive natures, Aquarius possess strong-willed, forceful and attractive personalities that present themselves as one or the other of two core types: the first shy, sensitive, gentle and patient; the second exuberant, lively and exhibitionist. Both types are humane, frank, serious-minded, genial, refined and often ethereal and idealistic. The last quality, however, is tempered with a sensible practicality.

So, while the Aquarian nature is known as eccentric, that is only because it follows that personal golden thread of inspiration to the limits. Another name for this could be genius, since it pushes out into the road less traveled and then goes yet further. And while this sometimes leads to great achievement, there’s always a chance that it can also lead to isolation. However, quick, active and persevering (usually interacting with others with reason, moderation and good humor), the native’s distain for the status quo – unlike the social activism of Sagittarius or the overt revolt of Aries – is most usually held in check by a quiet optimism: that things, given time and patient crusade, will improve.

Rather, his more subtle rebellion most usually manifests itself in unconventional dress or grooming, erratic behaviors and wry (devastating) sarcasm.

Too, despite the magnetic, forthcoming and open personality of the extrovert Aquarius and the humanistic traits of both types, neither makes friends readily. They do not give themselves easily - perhaps their judgment of human nature is too good for that - and are sometimes accounted condescending and cold. Even in the intimate companionship that they instinctively seek, they are fiercely independent. They dislike interference by others, however helpfully intended, and will accept it only on their own terms. But once they decide that another is worthy of their friendship, Aquarius are tenacious and extraordinarily loyal compatriots.

However, if they are deceived their anger is terrible. And if disillusioned (usually because their own idealism causes them to demand more of others than is reasonable) Aquarius do not forgive.

Aquarius work most effectively within a group environment provided that they are recognized as having a leading role in the project. They’re tuned into a different frequency, and have a vast mindscape that seems to make them self-sufficient. In other words, they’re happy to spend time alone. Yet as a sign of paradoxes, the Aquarius is also drawn to groups and “communities.” Able to quickly identify the undercurrents of gatherings, they are adept at helping people act together to accomplish a goal. They’re usually at the forefront of a cause: often before it becomes safe or fashionable.

Aquarius have a feeling of unity with nature and a desire for knowledge and truth that makes them admirable scientists: most especially astronomers and natural historians. These are the ones with a faraway look, most likely thinking brilliant and futuristic thoughts. Their minds seem to roam the outer edges of what is possible, and many of them make the impossible a reality as pioneers in science and technology.

And their quirky, wholly original take on life gives them an edge should they venture into the Arts. The Aquarius talent for mimicry and parody serves them well as character actors or comedians. Their avant-garde tendencies are often expressed in writing (most usually poetry), public service broadcasting and musical innovation. And their altruism may find its voice in welfare fields or education.

Romantically Speaking: The Aquarius remains a sovereign being who needs an intellectual rapport to sustain a romance. An ideal mate inhabits a parallel universe and from it is able to accept the physical and mental distances that the Aquarius personality imposes. And it is often very surprising to see how much love can grow in the space between two people.

LISA WHELCHEL – AIR/GEMINI
GEMINI SOLE SURVIVORS – JUD “FABIO” BIRZA

THE GEMINI PROFILE
Positive Traits
Adaptable and Versatile
Eloquent and Witty
Intellectual and Engaging
Charming, Youthful and Lively
Negative Traits
Nervous and Restless
Superficial and Inconsistent
Cunning and Duplicitous
Rumor-Mongering

Gemini, the Sign of the Twins, is dual-natured, elusive, complex and contradictory. To them, life is a game that must always be full of fresh moves and continuous entertainment and free of labor and routine. Charmers and clowns, they often wear a silly grin that seems to say that they get the cosmic joke that all is, after all, well: it’s really okay to sample everything from the smorgasbord of life.

And, since they’re always finding something absurd to giggle over, you might hear the laughter of Gemini Suns before you see them. They’re great wits and their interest in people often thrusts them into the role of social ice breaker.

Their good qualities are attractive and come easily to them. They are affectionate, courteous, kind, generous, and thoughtful - provided none of the activities resulting from expressing these traits interferes too greatly with their own lives and comforts. And in social situations, even at their worst they are never dull - there is usually playfulness below the surface and they can be exhilarating conversationalists.

However, often referred to as the dilettante of the Zodiac because they’ll try anything once and usually do, the Gemini needs to be able to reinvent himself many times and to follow the threads of inspiration wherever they lead. And that innate quality can make these natives seem restless and inconsistent.

So, although Gemini may be hard to pin down and a bit challenging to deal with, if you can accept the shape-shifting nature of their personalities, they make excellent friends.

But be warned that like chameleons, they absorb and reflect every change in their environment and can become pessimistic, sullen, peevish and self-centered prattlers, boasters, liars and cheats if circumstances force them to struggle in any way.

Gemini have a keen and intuitive intelligence. They love cerebral challenges and though they dislike the labor of learning, their mental agility, energy and insatiable curiosity afford them a voracious appetite for knowledge. Many Gemini become veritable walking encyclopedias. And if a Gemini finds a subject worthy of his incredible kaleidoscopic mind, these individuals have the capacity to become masters of an art or science.

So, although their intellect is strongly analytical and sometimes gives them so great an ability to see both sides of a question that they vacillate and find it hard to make decisions, their cleverness and ingenuity may also very well be used to control and unify the duality of their natures into a most efficient unit. If faced with difficulties, they have little determination to worry at a problem until they find a solution - they will pick the brains of others.

Any work that combines quick-wittedness with a change of surroundings suits Gemini. They are often skilled manipulators of language and are usually very successful diplomats, academics, authors, poets, journalists and lawyers (albeit they are more brilliant than profound and more interested in theory than in practice). And any and every sales venue is, of course, sweet home to them.

Romantically Speaking: The Gemini knows that the world is vast and full of endless fascinations to explore and so they need an intellectual rapport with their mate. The ideal companions for them are individuals who think at their same speed of light.

They need a certain kind of space to grow, and those who do manage to stay close to Gemini don’t try to hold on too tightly. Because, if the door of a relationship is open for them to come and go at will, they’ll usually, over time, prove their own brand of faithfulness.

Below is the profile for a Sign that I think was extremely influential in the Season's dynamics. Note: I haven’t yet identified Sun Signs for RC, Carter, Katie or Roxanne. So it is possible that there were more than four Pisces in its camps.

JONATHAN, JEFF, ZANE AND PETE – WATER/PISCES

THE PISCES PROFILE
Positive Traits
Romantic and Sensitive
Compassionate and Idealistic
Imaginative and Unworldly
Intuitive and Creative
Negative Traits
Escapist and Self-Indulgent
Secretive and Vague
Weak-willed and Gullible
Impressionable and Overwhelmed
Petulant

Pisceans are deservedly popular with all kinds of people in part because their easygoing, affectionate, malleable and submissive natures offer no threat or challenge to stronger and more exuberant characters. But they will not be able to maintain for very long friendships or associations with those who are too materialistic.

As the last of the twelve Zodiac Signs, Pisces is said to contain aspects of them all. This makes the Pisces Sun so changeable as to appear not to have one singular identity. It's as if they merely touch down in this human reality and remain only long enough to try on a few personas. Consequently, those with the Sun in Pisces can seem to be "somewhere else" half the time.

And because their natures are often too otherworldly for practical purposes – they tend to exist emotionally rather than rationally and instinctively rather than intellectually – the nine-to-five life is not easy for them.

So it is important for these individuals to find a sense of purpose in order to avoid just drifting: their sensitivity makes them more vulnerable to escapism through addictions or personal dramas than are other Signs. The challenge to Pisces natives, then, is to somehow integrate their affinity with the more subtle planes into constructive working relationships.

Fortunately, Pisceans are usually versatile and intuitive; quickly master new skills; observe and listen well; and are receptive to new ideas and atmospheres. And all these factors can combine to produce remarkable creativity in literature, music and art. This is the sign of the mystic poet, and a creative pursuit gives Pisces the motivation to be disciplined. And bringing structure to the vast imagination and shades of emotion flowing within the Pisces nature is a great achievement.

Similarly, in medicine and social work, Pisceans find an outlet for their empathy and mercy while their professional statures curb the likelihood of their being taken advantage of. And, if they're typical March-born, they are not elitists: saint, sinner, murderer, thief, liar, rich or poor - deserving or undeserving - the Piscean instinctively recognizes the worth of the individual and can overlook the apparent causes of their circumstances.

But the fact that the Pisces Sun leads with a compassionate heart can be both a blessing and a curse. Many are remarkably wise and self-sacrificing when it comes to helping the vulnerable or those down on their luck. But this noble trait can take them down a path of being used and abused before they learn to set strong boundaries and they are better working either by themselves or in subordinate positions. Most would be afraid to manage more than a small department, worrying always that they would fail in a crisis.

Romantically speaking: Pisces fare well with a guiding-hand type who understands the fluidity of their nature. And life with a Pisces means having a bridge to unseen worlds of the heart and imagination. Awesome!

Note

Post #13 contains the Names, the Elements and the Sun and Moon Signs for the Survivor: Caramoan Favorites

Post #14 now contains the Profiles for all of the Earth Signs: Capricorn (Cochran and Corinne), Taurus (Malcolm and Andrea) and Virgo (Absent from the Favorites)

Post #15 now contains the Profiles for all of the Water Signs: Cancer (Dawn), Scorpio (Francesca and Brenda) and Pisces (Phillip)

Post #16 now contains the Profiles for all of the Fire Signs: Aries (Absent from the Favorites), Leo (Absent from the Favorites) and Sagittarius (Erik)

and

Post #17 now contains the Profiles for all of the Air Signs: Libra (Brandon), Aquarius (Absent from the Favorites) and Gemini (Absent from the Favorites)

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