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Home Archives for August 2010

August 29, 2010

English Idioms and Expressions With "ALL"

English Idioms and Expressions With ALLWhat is an idiom (ideeum)? An idiom is an expression, word, or phrase whose sense means something different from what the words literally imply. Idioms usually do not translate well. In some cases, when an idiom is translated into another language, either its meaning is changed or it is meaningless. On this post, we are going to learn common idioms using "ALL", including their closest meaning(s) in Bahasa Indonesia.
Happy learning.

IDIOMSMEANINGINDONESIANEXAMPLE
All-nighterWork or study all nightBekerja/belajar semalam-suntukPulling an all-nighter before exams is not a good habit.
All overVery fond (of something)Sangat menyukai sesuatuShe's all over the latest fashions.
All shook upExtremely excited, worried, or disturbed about somethingSangat senang, khawatir, atau terganggu oleh sesuatuShe's all shook up about her mother's illness.
All that and then someMore than what has been mentionedLebih dari yang sudah dikatakanHe did all that and then some to get the new job.
Go all the wayDo something completelyMengerjakan dengan sepenuhnyaThey went all the way for the championship.
Dash it all!Expression used when very upsetUngkapan yang dipakai saat merasa sangat kecewaDash it all! I didn't do well in the test.
For all I knowBased on what I know (mostly implying displeasure)Setahu saya (umumnya untuk mengisyaratkan kekecewaanFor all I know, the government will increase the fuel price this month.
Free for allCrazy, free, non-restricted activity (generally a fight)Gila, Bebas (biasanya untuk pertarunganIt was a free for all! Everyone went crazy!
Have it all togetherBe very poised, successfulSangat mapan, suksesHe has it all together. The house, the wife, the kids, the great job - everything!
Hold all the acesHave all the advantagesUnggul, memiliki keuntungan atau kendaliUnfortunately, Rita holds all the aces right now. We'll have to do what she says.
Know all the anglesBe very clever about somethingSangat pandai dalam suatu halHe knew all the angles and answered our questions satisfactorily.
Not all thereNot intelligent, not completely focused on an activityKurang cerdas, tidak benar-benar fokus pada sesuatuThe student was not all there. He couldn't answer my questions.
Of all the nerve!Expression of anger at someone's behaviorUngkapan kemarahan atas perilaku seseorangOf all the nerve! Did you see how she treated me?
Once and for allFinally (usually putting an end to something)Akhirnya (dipakai untuk mengakhiri sesuatuWe need to stop this conflict once and for all!
Pull out all the stopsMake every possible effortmelakukan segala upayaI pulled out all the stops on the test.
Can't win them all.Expression of acceptance after a loss or disappointmentUngkapan setelah mengalami kekecewaan atau kekalahanYou did your best in the match and I'm proud of you. You can't win them all.

August 19, 2010

Wawasan Kebangsaan Sebagai Solusi Krisis Nasional

Wawasan Kebangsaan Sebagai Solusi Krisis Nasional
D
i "Nasionalisme Setelah 65 Tahun Indonesia Merdeka", kita sudah melihat adanya fenomena merosotnya semangat nasionalisme di tengah krisis multi-dimensi yang tengah melanda masyarakat kita akhir-akhir ini. Kita setidaknya bisa menyimpulkan bahwa salah satu penyebab penurunan kualitas dan tatanan kehidupan berbangsa dan bernegara adalah melemahnya konsep wawasan kebangsaan dalam berbagai aspek kehidupan modern sekarang ini. Dengan demikian, konsep wawasan kebangsaan yang terwujud dalam implementasi nilai-nilai dasar wawasan kebangsaan diharapkan akan dapat menjadi solusi bagi kita untuk bangkit dari keterpurukan nasional akibat krisis multi-dimensi tersebut.
1. Konsep Wawasan Kebangsaan
Konsep wawasan kebangsaan sebenarnya telah tercetus pada waktu diikrarkannya Sumpah Pemuda tanggal 28 Oktober 1928 sebagai tekad perjuangan bangsa yang merupakan konvensi nasional tentang pernyataan eksistensi bangsa Indonesia yaitu: satu nusa, satu bangsa, dan menjunjung bahasa persatuan bahasa Indonesia.
Wawasan Kebangsaan adalah suatu wawasan yang mementingkan kesepakatan, kesejahteraan, kelemahan, dan keamanan bangsa sebagai titik tolak dalam berfalsafah berencana dan bertindak. (Parangtopo, 1993)
Sebagai suatu cara pandang, wawasan kebangsaan menentukan cara suatu bangsa mendayagunakan kondisi geografis negaranya, sejarah, sosial budaya, ekonomi, dan politik serta pertahanan dan keamanan dalam mencapai cita-cita dan menjamin kepentingan nasionalnya. Wawasan ini juga menentukan bagaimana bangsa itu menempatkan dirinya dalam tata cara berinteraksi dengan sesama bangsanya serta dalam pergaulan dengan bangsa-bangsa lain di dunia internasional.

Dalam wawasan kebangsaan, terkandung komitmen dan semangat persatuan untuk menjamin keberadaan dan peningkatan kualitas kehidupan bangsa. Selain itu, wawasan kebangsaan menghendaki pengetahuan yang memadai tentang tantangan masa kini dan mendatang serta berbagai potensi yang dimiliki bangsa.

Nilai wawasan kebangsaan yang terwujud dalam persatuan dan kesatuan bangsa memiliki 6 (enam) dimensi manusia yang bersifat basic dan fundamental, yaitu;
  1. Penghargaan terhadap harkat dan martabat manusia sebagai mahluk ciptaan Tuhan Yang MahaKuasa,
  2. Tekad bersama untuk berkehidupan kebangsaan yang bebas, merdeka, dan bersatu,
  3. Cinta tanah air dan bangsa,
  4. Demokrasi atau kedaulatan rakyat,
  5. Kesetiakawanan sosial,
  6. Masyarakat adil dan makmur.
2. Pentingnya Penerapan Nilai-Nilai Dasar Wawasan Kebangsaan
Apabila kita menelaah kembali satu-persatu masalah yang telah dan sedang terjadi di negara kita akhir-akhir ini, kita akan dapat melihat dengan jelas pentingnya pemahaman konsep dan penerapan nilai-nilai wawasan kebangsaan di negara kita.

Sebagai contoh, maraknya kemaksiatan di tengah masyarakat serta korupsi dan manipulasi dikalangan pejabat terjadi karena menurunnya moral keagamaan bangsa kita. Meskipun negara kita adalah negara dengan jumlah pemeluk agama Islam yang tertinggi di dunia, nilai-nilai keTuhanan masih berupa ritual yang dipahami sebatas simbol dan belum menjiwai perilaku keseharian masyarakat maupun para petinggi negara kita.

Contoh-contoh nyata lainnya adalah lepasnya Timor-Timur dari pangkuan Republik Indonesia, insiden-insiden bernuansa makar yang terjadi di Papua, Aceh, dan Maluku, kerusuhan etnis di Sampit dan Ambon, serta terorisme yang sedang menghangat akhir-akhir ini. Bagaimana mungkin seorang anak bangsa mau melakukan pemboman di negeri sendiri dan mengorbankan saudara sebangsa, jika mereka memiliki rasa cinta tanah air yang tinggi? Yang juga mengherankan adalah munculnya golongan-golongan radikal yang tidak lagi menghormati Pancasila sebagai dasar negara dan sang Merah Putih sebagai bendera nasional, padahal di satu sisi, kepentingan dan keselamatan mereka dijaga dan dihormati oleh negara. Inilah akibat dari hilangnya tekad kebersamaan sebagai suatu bangsa dan rasa cinta tanah air sehingga kepentingan golongan menjadi suatu hal yang harus diperjuangkan di atas kepentingan negara dan masyarakat.

Pengkhianatan terhadap kedaulatan rakyat yang membawa kerusakan terhadap kehidupan demokrasi juga merupakan hal yang biasa terjadi saat Pemilihan Umum berlangsung. Kesetiakawanan sosial juga telah semakin luntur. Masyarakat yang adil dan makmur masih belum terwujud ditandai dengan masih tingginya kesenjangan sosial antara si kaya dan si miskin.
3. Aspek Penting Dalam Penerapan Wawasan Kebangsaan
Untuk mengatasi dan mencegah semua masalah tersebut di atas, penanaman dan penguatan konsep yang diwujudkan dengan penerapan nilai-nilai dasar wawasan kebangsaan menjadi agenda yang harus segara dilakukan jika kita ingin menyelamatkan bangsa dan negara kita. Dalam menerapkan konsep wawasan kebangsaan, Seminar Pendidikan Wawasan Kebangsaan (1993) mengemukakan perlunya 2 (dua) aspek sebagai berikut:
  1. Aspek Moral, mensyaratkan adanya perjanjian diri (commitment) pada seseorang atau masyarakat untuk turut bekerja bagi kelanjutan eksistensi bangsa dan bagi peningkatan kualitas kehidupan bangsa.
  2. Aspek Intelektual, menghendaki pengetahuan yang memadai mengenai tantangan-tantangan yang dihadapi bangsa serta potensi-potensi yang dimiliki bangsa.
Konsep tanpa adanya komitmen untuk bertindak ibarat mimpi di siang bolong. Karena itu, harus ada suatu gerakan moral berskala nasional, entah apapun namanya, resmi maupun tidak resmi, sebagai suatu statemen nasional untuk bersama-sama mendukung serta menerapkan nilai-nilai wawasan kebangsaan. Media-massa sebagai penyalur informasi memegang peranan penting dalam hal ini dan harus memiliki komitmen tinggi terhadap pemulihan semangat nasionalisme. Kebebasan pers harus dimaknai secara bertanggung-jawab, sehingga konsep wawasan kebangsaan selalu tersosialisasikan dengan baik kepada masyarakat. Hal yang terasa sepele namun cukup bermakna misalnya adalah penayangan film-film dokumenter tentang perjuangan bangsa, serta pemutaran lagu-lagu nasional di televisi pada jam-jam yang cukup efektif untuk membentuk karakter dan kesadaran masyarakat tentang kehidupan berbangsa dan bernegara.

Komitmen yang bersungguh-sungguh dari segenap lapisan dan komponen bangsa secara langsung maupun tidak langsung akan menggugah semangat dan intelektualitas bangsa sehingga mereka selalu waspada dan siap menghadapi tantangan-tantangan era modern dengan segenap potensi yang ada. Pada gilirannya, penerapan konsep wawasan kebangsaan yang baik akan dapat membentuk manusia Indonesia seutuhnya dan masyarakat Indonesia seluruhnya sebagai obyek dan sekaligus subyek usaha pembangunan nasional menuju masyarakat adil dan makmur berdasarkan Pancasila. Amin.

Referensi:
  • "Pendidikan Wawasan Kebangsaan", Tantangan dan Dinamika Perjuangan Kaum Cendekiawan Indonesia, Lembaga Pengkajian Strategi dan Pembangunan & PT Gramedia Widia Sarana Indonesia, Jakarta, 1994.
  • Dimensi Rohani dan Wawasan Kebangsaan Dalam Pengembangan Sumber Daya Manusia, Bintoro Tjokroamidjojo, 1996.
  • Wawasan Kebangsaan Dalam Kerangka Negara Kesatuan Republik Indonesia, Drs. Idup Suhady, M.Si dan Drs. A.M. Sinaga, M.Si, 2006.

August 17, 2010

Nasionalisme Setelah 65 Tahun Indonesia Merdeka

Nasionalisme Setelah 65 Tahun Indonesia Merdeka
Suatu pagi dalam sebuah upacara bendera di sekolah, saat pengibaran bendera Merah Putih sedang berlangsung dan hampir seluruh peserta upacara memberikan hormat kepada bendera nasional kita, banyak di antara siswa, baik putra maupun putri, tampak bergurau dan tertawa cekikikan, seolah sang Dwi Warna tidak memiliki arti apa-apa.

Ketika hal itu saya utarakan kepada seorang teman yang juga guru dari daerah dan sekolah lain, jawaban yang saya terima justru lebih mengejutkan. Dia berkata, "Di tempat saya, jangankan murid, gurunya pun asyik bergurau dan ngobrol saat penghormatan bendera berlangsung." Menyedihkan bukan?

Hal ini cukup jauh berbeda jika dibandingkan dengan masa ketika saya masih duduk di bangku sekolah. Setiap kali bendera Merah Putih sedang dikibarkan dalam upacara bendera, bisa dikatakan seluruh peserta termasuk murid-murid yang bisa dibilang bandel sekalipun segera memberikan penghormatan dengan khidmat. Bahkan seorang teman pernah berkata bahwa dia selalu merasa sedih setiap hening cipta karena dia selalu teringat wajah seorang pahlawan yang gugur dalam perang kemerdekaan yang pernah dilihatnya dalam film dokumenter di TV.

Nasionalisme Setelah 65 Tahun Indonesia Merdeka
Itu dulu. Sekarang? Kalimat "Untuk mengenang jasa para pahlawan yang telah gugur demi kemerdekaan Indonesia, ...." bagi telinga kita tak ubahnya bagai suatu kalimat klise sebagai bagian dari rutinitas wajib yang tak bermakna. Mari kita ingat lagi, apakah yang sedang kita pikirkan saat kita menundukkan kepala dan mengheningkan cipta? Apakah kita benar-benar merenungkan betapa besar pengorbanan dan jasa para pahlawan bangsa demi kemerdekaan dan kedaulatan negara? Apakah kita pernah memikirkan betapa beruntungnya kita yang terlahir dan hidup di alam merdeka tanpa harus berjuang mengangkat senjata dan mempertaruhkan nyawa di antara desingan bom dan peluru?

Saya pernah merasa kecewa sekaligus sedih ketika dalam sebuah curah pendapat di Facebook, seorang mahasiswa yang aktif dalam sebuah organisasi agama melontarkan pemikiran yang secara tidak langsung menafikan keberadaan negara dan pemerintahan Indonesia. Secara singkat, saya bisa meraba bahwa baginya tidak ada nasionalisme dalam agama.

Pada umumnya, kehidupan bermasyarakat dan bernegara di era modern seperti sekarang memang bisa dikatakan sudah jauh dari semangat kebersamaan dan nasionalisme yang dulu pernah menjadi motor penggerak perjuangan para pahlawan kita. Konsep wawasan kebangsaan semakin pudar dan tenggelam dalam hiruk pikuk era globalisasi.

Jangan merasa kaget ketika dalam sebuah reality show TV swasta, seorang artis penyanyi bertubuh montok dan sexy tidak bisa lagi menyanyikan lagu-lagu nasional yang dulu pernah dihapalnya di bangku SD. Jangan pula merasa heran kenapa anak-anak SD jaman sekarang tidak lagi bisa menyanyikan lagu-lagu nasional kita. Mereka lebih fasih menyanyikan lagu-lagu pop ketimbang lagu-lagu perjuangan yang memupuk semangat nasionalisme. Jangan salahkan anak-anak kita jika mereka lebih menyukai film Ipin-Upin buatan Malaysia daripada sinetron-sinetron anak Indonesia yang hanya menyajikan kekuatan-kekuatan aneh, mahluk-mahluk konyol, serta pembodohan dan hal-hal tak masuk akal lainnya.

Mengapa film-film yang mendidik seperti si Unyil atau Jalan Sesama masih sangat sedikit dibanding film-film anak tak bermutu? Karena memang kebanyakan produser film dan lagu hanya memikirkan segi keuntungan daripada nilai-nilai moral dan nasionalisme yang harus disampaikan kepada anak-anak. Sebagai hasilnya, anak anak kita tumbuh menjadi generasi Naruto, generasi 1 Piece, generasi Sponge Bob, atau generasi Ipin-Upin yang hampir tidak lagi mengenal identitasnya sebagai anak Indonesia.

Saat menonton berita di TV, wajah "terkini" nasionalisme bangsa kita akan semakin jelas tergambar di depan mata. Jangan bertanya arti nasionalisme kepada sosok semacam GT yang tanpa rasa bersalah tega mengemplang pajak yang terkumpul dari hasil jerih-payah rakyat. Jangan juga bertanya apa arti solidaritas sosial kepada para anggota dewan yang dengan enaknya berlenggang-kangkung mengadakan kunjungan ke sana-sini di saat banyak rakyat miskin yang babak-belur dihajar oleh si Eko (baca: ekonomi). Jangan juga bertanya tentang kepentingan rakyat kepada mereka karena di saat rapat, mereka ternyata lebih memilih tidur atau bolos, bahkan nonton film porno secara sembunyi-sembunyi daripada memikirkan nasib rakyat yang dulu dirangkulnya erat-erat saat kampanye legislatif.

Juga tidak perlu heran jika anda melihat para pembesar parpol yang tidak kebagian "kursi" ramai-ramai mengkritik pemerintah yang dianggapnya tidak becus, seolah mereka lupa bahwa ketika masih duduk di "kursi"nya yang empuk, mereka adalah bagian dari "ketidak-becusan" itu. Jika anda pindah saluran TV, janganlah kaget jika anda melihat mahasiswa fakultas A tawuran dengan mahasiswa fakultas B tanpa alasan yang jelas dan masuk akal, tak ubahnya murid-murid SD di jaman saya sekolah dulu. Jangan lagi kaget jika berita selanjutnya adalah tentang sekelompok pemuda kampung X yang tawuran dengan kelompok pemuda kampung Y hanya gara-gara bersenggolan saat berjoget dalam suatu konser dangdut, seolah mereka lupa bahwa dulu para pemuda dari Sabang sampai Merauke pernah berikrar bahwa mereka adalah SATU BANGSA dan SATU TANAH AIR.  Janganlah heran jika kelak, generasi mendatang akan menginjak-injak sang Merah Putih demi terpuaskannya gaya hidup atau terwujudnya faham yang mereka anggap benar.

Nasionalisme Setelah 65 Tahun Indonesia MerdekaSaya benar-benar tidak bisa membayangkan perasaan para pejuang kemerdekaan (jika masih hidup) yang telah rela meletakkan nyawanya diujung senjata dan berkorban demi sang Merah Putih. Kita seolah tidak lagi mampu menghargai pengorbanan mereka. Bahkan mungkin kita telah lupa bahwa mereka pernah ada, pernah hidup di suatu masa, lalu gugur demi kemerdekaan yang ternyata tidak mampu kita maknai dengan baik.

Ya Allah, ampunilah kami atas ketidak-mampuan kami dalam menghargai dan membalas jasa para pahlawan kami.

August 04, 2010

Learn Personality Adjectives through Zodiac

Aries - The Liar (March 21 – April 20)
Keywords: Daring, Risk-taker, Energetic, Friendly, Careless, Impulsive, Childish.
Aries is the first sign of the Zodiac and associated with fresh vigor and new beginnings. It is said to have an enthusiastic, adventurous, aggressive, humorous, passionate, and pioneering character but one which is also prone to selfishness, boastfulness, intolerance, impulsiveness, and impatience. Outgoing. Lovable. Spontaneous. Not one to mess with. Funny. Excellent kisser. Extremely adorable. Loves relationships, Addictive. Loud.
Learn Personality Adjectives through ZodiacColors: Red and white.
Vulnerable parts of the body: Head and face.
Complaints: Headaches, black eyes, nose bleeds, and insect bites.
Birthstone: Diamond.
Flowers: Poppy (red), geraniums, honeysuckle, and hollyhocks.
Positive: Adventurous, Energetic, Pioneering, Courageous, Enthusiastic, Confident, Dynamic, Quick-witted
Negative: Selfish, Quick-tempered, Impulsive, Impatient, Foolhardy, Daredevil, Careless, Childish


Taurus - The Tramp (April 21 - May 20)
Keywords: Stubborn, Stable, Cautious, Comfort-seeker, Deliberate, Slow
Taurus is the second sign of the Zodiac and associated with material pleasure. Individuals born under this sign are thought to have a calm, patient, reliable, loyal, affectionate, sensuous, ambitious, and determined character, but one which is also prone to hedonism, laziness, inflexibility, jealousy, and antipathy. Aggressive. Loves being in long relationships. Likes to give a good fight for what they want. Extremely outgoing. Loves to help people in times of need. Good kisser. Good personality. Stubborn. A caring person. One of a kind. Not one to mess with. They are the most attractive people on earth!
Learn Personality Adjectives through ZodiacColors: Brown, russet, and turquoise. 
Vulnerable parts of the body: Neck, throat, shoulders, and upper torso.
Complaints: Stiff necks, sore throats, and earaches.
Birthstone: Emerald.
Flowers: Rose (red), daisy, lily, and daffodil.
Positive: Patient, Reliable, Warmhearted, Loving, Persistent, Determined, Placid, Security-loving
Negative: Jealous, Possessive, Resentful, Inflexible, Self-indulgent, Greedy, Slow, Stubborn


Gemini - The Irresistible (May 21 – June 21)
Keywords: Alert, Adaptable, Friendly, Superficial, Curious, Restless, Talkative
Gemini is the third sign of the Zodiac and associated with youth and versatility. Individuals born under this sign are thought to have a sociable, fun-loving, versatile, lively, communicative, liberal, intelligent, mentally active and friendly character but one which is also prone to moodiness, inconsistency, superficiality, restlessness and laziness. Nice. Love is one of a kind. Great listeners. Very good in the you know where... Lover not a fighter, but will still knock you out. Trustworthy. Always happy. Loud. Talkative. Outgoing, very forgiving. Loves to make out. Has a beautiful smile. Generous. Strong. The most irresistible.
Learn Personality Adjectives through ZodiacColors: Yellow and light blue.
Vulnerable parts of the body: Arms, hands, fingers, lungs, and nervous system.
Complaints: Respiratory problems and various nervous conditions.
Birthstones: Agates.
Flowers: Lilac, azalea, and lily-of-the-valley.
Positive: Adaptable, Versatile, Communicative, Witty, Intellectual, Eloquent, Youthful, Lively
Negative: Nervous, Tense, Superficial, Inconsistent, Cunning, Inquisitive, Restless, Talkative


Cancer - The Cutie (June 22 - July 22)
Keywords: Moody, Nurturing, Sensitive, Shy, Possessive, Family-oriented
Cancer is the fourth sign of the Zodiac and associated with family and domesticity. Individuals born under this sign are thought to have a kind, emotional, romantic, imaginative, sympathetic, nurturing, and intuitive character, but one which is also prone to changeability, moodiness, hypersensitivity, depression, and clinginess. The Most Amazing Kisser. Very high appeal. Love is one of a kind. Very romantic. Most caring person you will ever meet! Entirely creative. Extremely random and proud of it. Freak. Spontaneous. Great in telling stories. Not a fighter, but will knock your lights out if it comes down to it. Someone you should hold on to.
Learn Personality Adjectives through ZodiacColors: White, silver, and pale yellow.
Vulnerable parts of the body: Breasts and stomach.
Complaints: Stomach aches, food allergies, and hysterics.
Birthstones: Ruby and pearl. These gems uniquely illustrate the two contrasting sides of the Cancerian personality; hard and determined as well as soft and vulnerable.
Flowers: Water lily (lotus), iris, poppy (white), carnation (white) and southern magnolia.
Positive: Emotional, Loving, Intuitive, Imaginative, Shrewd, Cautious, Protective, Sympathetic
Negative: Changeable, Moody, Overemotional, Touchy, Clinging, Unable to let go, Shy, Possessive


Leo - The Lion (July 23 – August 22)
Keywords: Creative, Generous, Flamboyant, Egotistical, Selfish, Attention-seeker, Optimistic
Leo is the fifth sign of the Zodiac and is associated with the keywords magnanimous, generous, hospitable, caring, warm, authoritative, active and open. Leos are typically pictured as very dignified and regal. They are hardworking, ambitious and enthusiastic; however they are prone to laziness and can often take "the easy way out." They are known to be exuberant, extroverted, generous with a natural dramatic flair and very creative. They are typically very self-assured, and love taking center-stage in whatever arena they are in. Great talker. Attractive and passionate. Laid back. Knows how to have fun. Is really good at almost anything. Great kisser. Unpredictable. Outgoing. Down to earth. Addictive. Attractive. Loud. Loves being in long relationships. Talkative. Not one to mess with. Rare to find. Good when found.
Learn Personality Adjectives through ZodiacColors: Gold, royal blue, purple, and red.
Vulnerable parts of the body: Back and heart.
Complaints: Overexertion, heart murmur, and various types of back pains.
Birthstone: Sardonyx.
Flowers: Dahlia, yellow lily, poppy (red), marigold, sunflower, and heliotrope.
Positive: Generous, Warmhearted, Creative, Enthusiastic, Broad-minded, Expansive, Faithful, Loving
Negative: Pompous, Patronizing, Bossy, Interfering, Dogmatic, Intolerant, Selfish, Egotistical


Virgo - The One that Waits (August 23 – September 22)
Keywords: Helpful, Practical, Analytical, Timid, Skeptical, Finicky, Hypocritical
Virgo is the sixth sign of the Zodiac and associated with purity and service. Individuals born under this sign are thought to have a diligent, analytical, self-sufficient, controlled, orderly, and modest character but one which is also prone to fussiness, perfectionism, harsh criticism, coldness, and hypochondria. Dominant in relationships. Someone loves them right now. Always wants the last word. Caring. Smart. Loud. Loyal. Easy to talk to. Everything you ever wanted. Easy to please. The one and only.
Learn Personality Adjectives through ZodiacColors: Blue, yellow, gray, tan, navy, and lilac.
Vulnerable parts of the body: Sinuses, respiratory system, and bowels.
Complaints: Colds, flu, allergies, and constipation.
Birthstone: Sapphire.
Flowers and plants: Aster, chrysanthemum, ivy, and fern.
Positive: Modest, Meticulous, Reliable, Practical, Diligent, Intelligent, Analytical
Negative: Shy, Fussy, A worrier, Overcritical, Harsh, Perfectionist, Conservative, Skeptical


Libra - The Lame One (September 23 – October 22)
Keywords: Tactful, Objective, Lazy, Avoids conflict, Indecisive, Cultural, Strategist
Libra is the seventh sign of the Zodiac and associated with justice. Individuals born under this sign are thought to have a pleasant, articulate, charming, charismatic, fair, artistic, social, refined, diplomatic, even-tempered and selfsufficient character, but on the negative side, also thought to be indecisive, flirtatious, extravagant, lazy, analytical, frivolous, impatient, envious, shallow, aloof, and quarrelsome. Nice to everyone they meet. Their love is one of a kind. Silly, fun and sweet. Have own unique appeal. Most caring person you will ever meet! however not the kind of person you wanna mess with... you might end up crying....
Learn Personality Adjectives through ZodiacColors: Ivory, pink (or rose), turquoise, and blue.
Vulnerable parts of the body: Kidneys, lumbar region of the back, and ovaries.
Complaints: Lower back pain, and the problems caused by too much sugar or rich food
Birthstone: Opal.
Flowers: Roses (white or pink), daisies, violets, asters, and orchids.
Positive: Diplomatic, Urbane, Romantic, Charming, Easygoing, Sociable, Idealistic, Peaceable
Negative: Lazy, Indecisive, Changeable, Gullible, Easily influenced, Flirtatious, Self-indulgent


Scorpio - The Addict (October 23 - November 21)
Keywords: Strong-willed, Secretive, Possessive, Vengeful, Investigator, Passionate
Scorpio is the eighth sign of the Zodiac and associated with intensity, passion, and power. Individuals born under this sign are thought to have a complex, analytical, patient, keenly perceptive, inquisitive, focused, determined, hypnotic, and self-contained character, but one which is also prone to extremity, jealousy, envy, secretiveness, possessiveness, cruelty and cunning. Extremely adorable. Intelligent. Loves to joke. Very good sense of humor. Energetic. Predict future. Great kisser. Always get what they want. Attractive. Easy going. Loves being in long relationships. Talkative. Romantic. Caring.
Learn Personality Adjectives through ZodiacColors: Red, black, midnight blue, and emerald green.
Vulnerable parts of the body: Reproductive organs and excretory system.
Complaints: Headaches, infections, and fevers.
Birthstone: Topaz.
Flowers: Anemone, heather, and gardenia.
Positive: Determined, Forceful, Emotional, Intuitive, Powerful, Passionate, Exciting, Magnetic.
Negative: Jealous, Resentful, Compulsive, Obsessive, Secretive, Obstinate, Vengeful, Investigator


Sagittarius - The Promiscuous One (November 22 – December 21)
Keywords: Independent, Truth-seeker, Traveler, Talkative, Theatrical, Athletic, Tactless, Over- confident.
Sagittarius is the ninth sign of the Zodiac and associated with travel and expansion. Individuals born under this sign are thought to have a straightforward, dynamic, highly intelligent, extremely clever, ethical, humorous, generous, open-hearted, compassionate, and energetic character, but one which is also prone to restlessness, impulsiveness, impatience, recklessness, and kiddishness. Spontaneous. High appeal. Rare to find. Great when found. Loves being in long relationships. So much love to give. Not one to mess with. Very pretty. Very romantic. Nice to everyone they meet. Their Love is one of a kind. Silly, fun and sweet. Have own unique appeal. Most caring person you will ever meet! Amazing in the you know where..!!! Not the kind of person you wanna mess with, you might end up crying.
Learn Personality Adjectives through ZodiacColors: Maroon, tan, navy, orange, and cobalt blue.
Vulnerable parts of the body: Thighs, hips, and, to some extent, the feet.
Complaints: Effects of unrestricted diets or an overly indulgent pursuit of other pleasures.
Birthstone: Ruby and turquoise.
Flowers: Huge mums, hydrangeas, dahlias, and peonies.
Positive: Optimistic, Freedom-loving, Jovial, Good-humored, Honest, Straightforward, Intellectual, Philosophical
Negative: Blindly optimistic, Careless, Irresponsible, Superficial, Tactless, Restless, Talkative, Over-confident


Capricorn - The Passionate Lover (December 22 - January 19)
Keywords: Mature, Ambitious, Responsible, Designing, Patient, Goal-seeker, Traditional.
Capricorn is the tenth sign of the Zodiac and associated with hard work and business affairs. Individuals born under this sign are thought to have an ambitious, modest, patient, responsible, stable, trustworthy, powerful, intellectual, perspicacious and persistent character but one which is also prone to coldness, conservatism, rigidity, materialism, and dullness. Love to bust. Nice. Sassy. Intelligent. Sexy. Predict future. Irresistible. Loves being in long relationships. Great talker. Always gets what he or she wants. Cool. Loves to own Gemini's in sports. Extremely fun. Loves to joke. Smart.
Learn Personality Adjectives through ZodiacColors: Chocolate brown, royal and navy blue, dark green, charcoal gray, and red.
Vulnerable parts of the body: Bones and joints (especially the knees), teeth, and skin.
Complaints: Sensitive skin, allergies, broken bones, worrying too much can also result in physical problems.
Birthstone: Garnet.
Flowers: Camellia, orange blossom, carnation (red), baby's breath, and magnolia.
Positive: Practical, Prudent, Ambitious, Disciplined, Patient, Careful, Humorous, Reserved
Negative: Pessimistic, Fatalistic, Miserly, Grudging


Aquarius - Does It in the Water (January 20 – February 18)
Keywords: Stubborn, Societal, Mental poise, Opinionated, Unconventional, Musical, Rebellious
Aquarius is the eleventh sign of the Zodiac and associated with future ideas and the unusual. Individuals born under this sign are thought to have a modest, creative, challenging, inquisitive, entertaining, progressive, stimulating, nocturnal, and independent character, but one which is also prone to rebelliousness, coldness, erraticism, indecisive, and impracticality. Trustworthy. Attractive. Great kisser. One of a kind. Loves being in long-term relationships. Extremely energetic. Unpredictable. Will exceed your expectations. Not a fighter, but will knock your lights out.
Learn Personality Adjectives through ZodiacColors: Silver, aqua, and purple and the more electric shades of pink and blue.
Vulnerable parts of the body: Shins, ankles, and circulatory system.
Complaints: Cramps, allergies, sudden illness, freak accidents, and various nervous disorders.
Birthstone: Amethyst.
Flowers: Gladioli, tiger lily, trillium, bird of paradise, and jack-in-the-pulpit.
Positive: Friendly, Humanitarian, Honest, Loyal, Original, Inventive, Independent, Intellectual
Negative: Intractable, Contrary, Perverse, Unpredictable, Unemotional, Detached, Rebellious, Sttuborn


Pisces - The Partner for Life (February 19 – March 20)
Keywords: Vulnerable, Shy, Unrealistic, Compassionate, Unstable, Theatrical, Risk-taker, Self-pitying
Pisces is the twelfth and last sign of the Zodiac and associated with human emotions. Individuals born under this sign are thought to be tolerant, modest, dreamy, romantic, humorous, generous, emotional, receptive, affectionate, and have an honest character, but are also prone to exaggeration, fickleness, passiveness, hypersensitivity, and paranoia. Caring and kind. Smart. Center of attention. High appeal. Has the last word. Good to find, hard to keep. Fun to be around. Extremely weird but in a good way. Good Sense of Humor. Thoughtful. Always gets what he or she wants. Loves to joke. Very popular. Silly, fun and sweet.
Learn Personality Adjectives through ZodiacColors: Pale green, purple, rose, and gray-blue.
Vulnerable parts of the body: Feet and lymphatic system.
Complaints: Swelling, allergic reaction to drugs, sore feet, and psychosomatic illness.
Birthstone: Aquamarine.
Flowers: Orchid, lilac, wisteria, water lily (lotus), poppy (white), and pansy.
Positive: Imaginative, Sensitive, Compassionate, Kind, Selfless, Unworldly, Intuitive, Sympathetic
Negative: Escapist, Idealistic, Secretive, Vague, Weak-willed, Easily led

Sources:
http://esl.about.com/
http://www.0800-horoscope.com/