Written in the Stars Challenge
Our little weekly paper has the most interesting Astrology section. Lately, I've been turning there first just to see what tidbits of wisdom it might have for me. Not for how to live my life... but as a writing challenge. Most of the time it's just a collection of sentences that don't seem cohesive but always seem to inspire at least one idea.
I thought we'd run with that idea for this challenge. I've collected a couple of weeks worth of papers and augmented it from other publications. Each "sign" (section) will have 15 sentences. The goal, as always, is to write 5 unique stories (or art) from 5 unique prompts (no duplicating prompts) BUT there will be a special banner for anyone who completes 12 stories by using 1 prompt from each section.
The rules are simple:
1. Pick a prompt.
2. Write a story for that prompt.
3. Post story to the community and anywhere else you would like.
4. Pick a new prompt and start all over again at No. 1.
Do this 5 times and you'll get a HEY, I COMPLETED A CHALLENGE banner. Do this 12 times with a prompt from each "sign" (section) and get a HEY, I'M SPECIAL banner. Anything less than 5 stories will get a HEY, I TRIED banner.
You have from this moment on August 25th until December 1st to complete stories for this challenge.
How do you use the prompts?
You can use the prompts in a couple of different ways. You can use the sentence as a simple prompt, like you would with anything else here at the community. Or you can use it as an actual astrological announcement in the story For instance: John Sheppard put the paper down with an air of finality. "Well, it's decided. We can't hunt Wraith today because my horoscope tells me that I should think about doing an indoor activity."
The Prompts:
ARIES (March 21-April 19)
A1. You have tough standards.
A2. You love it when a person makes you laugh.
A3. Look at life in a different way.
A4. Money will continue to be a touchy subject.
A5. There's a person close to you whose conservative thinking will make you impatient.
A6. Hold steady until the last day of the month.
A7. It's the perfect time to find true love.
A8. You just won't be sure yet if it's a long trip or a day just to get away.
A9. Relationship tension will melt away.
A10. You'll have a chance to right a past wrong.
A11. Deep, deep within the shadowed recesses of your mind.
A12. It shapes your behavior.
A13. Something will happen this week.
A14. You'll know where you stand.
A15. Positive events will keep you motivated.
TAURUS (April 21-May 21)
B1. Start putting your money where your mouth is.
B2. Sooner or later, your time will be up.
B3. The weekend will be enchanting thanks to a lovely interplay.
B4. Find someone new.
B5. It might be so sudden you'll feel dumbstruck.
B6. Try to maintain your health.
B7. Still, after so much delight, expect some turbulence.
B8. You can't grow your talent or your intelligence by willing it to expand.
B9. With as little emotion and doubt as possible.
B10. Have faith.
B11. Friends will encourage you to get out of the house.
B12. Try not to be overly influenced by others.
B13. Good fortune favors you on Thursday.
B14. There will be something deeply satisfying about going through all the motions.
B15. Pace yourself to avoid a pileup of to-dos.
GEMINI (May 21-June 20)
C1. The last thing you need is more worry.
C2. Think of ways in which your loved ones need your care and protection.
C3. You'll prevent problems.
C4. This will be a month filled with unexpected joys.
C5. If it's an offer you think you can't refuse, think things over carefully.
C6. Fame and honors will be yours.
C7. Reach resolution in order to move forward.
C8. Choose upbeat people with whom to mingle and enjoy.
C9. It's about time you throw one of your famous soirees.
C10. You change the world for the better by connecting good people together.
C11. The next few weeks will be extra busy so start preparing
C12. You let yourself do what you feel like doing instead of forcing things along.
C13. It's simply unnecessary to exert your will at every juncture.
C14. You will find help in crafting a master plan to fortify your finances.
C15. It will make you stronger in the end.
CANCER (June 22-July 22)
D1. Take full advantage to pack and go but make sure that everything is in order.
D2. You've been facing considerable responsibilities at home with your family lately.
D3. Expect fireworks!
D4. You'll be dealt a strong hand.
D5. There are elements of your life you simply can't change right now.
D6. Work on your way of thinking about reality.
D7. You don't really know how to celebrate.
D8. Others will willing join.
D9. You'll shine in your corner of the world.
D10. Empty your mind onto paper.
D11. You'll know exactly what it is you're dealing with.
D12. Things are beginning to percolate in your career.
D13. You'll finally think clearly when it comes to money.
D14. You don't expect another person to adapt to your needs.
D15. If you want your turn, seize it.
LEO (July 23-August 22)
E1. You would prefer a win-win situation.
E2. Don't be too quick to judge appearances.
E3. Look beyond the border of opportunity.
E4. Fortify your well-being.
E5. You'll be unusually creative and hungry to learn new things.
E6. There will be troublesome clauses you could overlook in haste.
E7. Cupid will work hardest for you when you're not at home.
E8. You'll have to swat admirers away.
E9. A project begins with a brainstorm.
E10. That's not going to happen.
E11. Bad ideas will come first, and you'll have to press on through until you get to the good ones.
E12. You haven't been feeling like yourself lately.
E13. Be passionate about what you believe.
E14. A spark of romance is almost a given.
E15. You may have to face consequences of a decision you made in haste.
VIRGO (August 23- September 22)
F1. The universe has a present for you.
F2. You're in danger of being manipulated.
F3. You'll need it a week later.
F4. You may get a thrill in ways you never imagined.
F5. You will realize how unique you are.
F6. The truth is you could do the same thing and still be different from each other.
F7. Celebrate their originality.
F8. Avoid making any big changes in the next few days.
F9. You will have a lot of choices to consider.
F10. There is an intelligence above language.
F11. You'll sense the feelings leap off of them.
F12. You might want to buy a lottery ticket.
F13. Consult an expert to ease apprehensions.
F14. This is only a preview of the truly romantic gifts coming.
F15. Be prepared for what is waiting for you.
LIBRA (September 23-October 22)
G1. Given the close contact you have, there could be an argument.
G2. What you're trying to accomplish cannot be done alone.
G3. It will increase the chances for a wrong assumption or miscommunication.
G4. You'll have a much clearer picture of what you want and need from a partner.
G5. You will be tempted to put things on your to-do list that do not belong there.
G6. Remember: you deserve to be happy.
G7. The world you inhabit this week is fraught with strange complications and oddities.
G8. Use humor as a coping mechanism.
G9. This wil attract friends who want to laugh with you.
G10. It's alright to take other's advice once in a while.
G11. There's something, or more likely, someone, you have to deal with directly.
G12. Suddenly you will see the advantage that is there.
G13. It's best to finish up current projects rather than entertain new offers.
G14. Act in a more purposeful, productive way.
G15. Jarring events could send a project off the rails.
SCORPIO (October 23-November 21)
H1. Expand your circle of friends.
H2. The month will end on a somber note.
H3. Take no risks at that time.
H4. There's trouble to be sorted out.
H5. Try to forget all you've heard.
H6. There's so much going on daily that it's easy for you to feel scatterbrained and make mistakes.
H7. You love the sound of foreign accents.
H8. Even though you are satisfied at home, you may secretly long to go where people live and communicate differently.
H9. Proactive efforts should show reward in short order.
H10. You won't have to lift a finger to find love - it will find you.
H11. Home is where the heart is so stay home and watch a movie.
H12. If you can't seem to repeat a past success, don't worry about it.
H13. Consistency is overrated.
H14. New successes will soon be yours.
H15. You'd be wise to focus on deadlines.
SAGITTARIUS (November 22-December 21)
I1. Lately, it hasn't been a priority.
I2. Imagine your own utopia - it's unlike what anyone else would imagine.
I3. Get back on track with a feeling of purpose and meaning.
I4. You'll become more popular.
I5. Be ready to jump in head first.
I6. Look for inspiration.
I7. It's critical you give any projects the time they need.
I8. There are many perks that spring from the heightened sensitivity you will experience this week.
I9. You may also be a bit on edge.
I10. Your inner reality won't always match what is going on in the outer reality.
I11. A relationship is strained.
I12. Don't be so excited about so much responsibility.
I13. Take a break from the job of comparing and contrasting your natural gifts with the gifts of those around you.
I14. Everyone is equal and different.
I15. You'll either be moved to comfort a friend, or conversely, leave one behind.
CAPRICORN (December 22-January 19)
J1. Consider taking a restful yet horizon-widening vacation.
J2. Look for another fortunate break.
J3. Work may seem arduous.
J4. You'll have enough distance to look back with a shrug and smile.
J5. You'll be eager to grow your mind, and teachers show up to help.
J6. You have to know where the holes are before you can fill them in.
J7. You need a break from things.
J8. Start jotting down ideas.
J9. There will be a fair dose of tough love, though there will be tender moments.
J10. Criticism and rejection are not the same thing.
J11. Someone who has constructive opinions is actually rooting for you.
J12. Barrel forward with home improvement projects.
J13. A major expense will come up but don't let it unnerve you.
J14. Perhaps these are not the most ideal and favorable conditions.
J15. You wouldn't dream of spoiling the magic by pointing out the tricky smoke, mirrors and magnets.
AQUARIUS (January 20-February 18)
K1. You'll have zero difficulty tolerating the same person everyone else seems to be running from.
K2. You might say that dealing with eccentricity is one of your talents.
K3. Romance will run high away from home, so these days could be ripe for love.
K4. Decide what you want to achieve.
K5. Set a plan, stick with it, and get ready for a push.
K6. You need your friends and they need you.
K7. Aristotle's exact birth date is unknown.
K8. Thinks are about to heat up.
K9. Don't let your temper get the better of you.
K10. Creativity isn't always easy.
K11. You are willing to risk playing the fool.
K12. Your daring will pay off in both beautiful and practical ways.
K13. Keep the trip simple and close to home.
K14. You'll be ready to initiate your plans.
K15. At the very pentacle of your chart.
PISCES (February 19-March 20)
L1. The path to good fortune and radiant health is well-lit.
L2. Your best moments are coming.
L3. Few things will go right.
L4. A certain difficulty may seem important, but it won't last.
L5. Consider moving away from the issue and dismissing it.
L6. It was never yours to solve.
L7. Bide your time because change is on the horizon.
L8. These events are not what you expect.
L9. Your level of happiness will depend largely on what you are thinking about.
L10. Pick your thoughts like you pick wildflowers.
L11. Financial unrest has plagued you off and on.
L12. Now is the time to name your price.
L13. Avoid conflicts with your mate.
L14. You have a strong sense of who you are, and therefore, you know what you can rely on yourself to do.
L15. This week you'll find people who can fill in the blanks.
Do you have any questions? Ask below.
GO! Have fun!
I thought we'd run with that idea for this challenge. I've collected a couple of weeks worth of papers and augmented it from other publications. Each "sign" (section) will have 15 sentences. The goal, as always, is to write 5 unique stories (or art) from 5 unique prompts (no duplicating prompts) BUT there will be a special banner for anyone who completes 12 stories by using 1 prompt from each section.
The rules are simple:
1. Pick a prompt.
2. Write a story for that prompt.
3. Post story to the community and anywhere else you would like.
4. Pick a new prompt and start all over again at No. 1.
Do this 5 times and you'll get a HEY, I COMPLETED A CHALLENGE banner. Do this 12 times with a prompt from each "sign" (section) and get a HEY, I'M SPECIAL banner. Anything less than 5 stories will get a HEY, I TRIED banner.
You have from this moment on August 25th until December 1st to complete stories for this challenge.
How do you use the prompts?
You can use the prompts in a couple of different ways. You can use the sentence as a simple prompt, like you would with anything else here at the community. Or you can use it as an actual astrological announcement in the story For instance: John Sheppard put the paper down with an air of finality. "Well, it's decided. We can't hunt Wraith today because my horoscope tells me that I should think about doing an indoor activity."
The Prompts:
ARIES (March 21-April 19)
A1. You have tough standards.
A2. You love it when a person makes you laugh.
A3. Look at life in a different way.
A4. Money will continue to be a touchy subject.
A5. There's a person close to you whose conservative thinking will make you impatient.
A6. Hold steady until the last day of the month.
A7. It's the perfect time to find true love.
A8. You just won't be sure yet if it's a long trip or a day just to get away.
A9. Relationship tension will melt away.
A10. You'll have a chance to right a past wrong.
A11. Deep, deep within the shadowed recesses of your mind.
A12. It shapes your behavior.
A13. Something will happen this week.
A14. You'll know where you stand.
A15. Positive events will keep you motivated.
TAURUS (April 21-May 21)
B1. Start putting your money where your mouth is.
B2. Sooner or later, your time will be up.
B3. The weekend will be enchanting thanks to a lovely interplay.
B4. Find someone new.
B5. It might be so sudden you'll feel dumbstruck.
B6. Try to maintain your health.
B7. Still, after so much delight, expect some turbulence.
B8. You can't grow your talent or your intelligence by willing it to expand.
B9. With as little emotion and doubt as possible.
B10. Have faith.
B11. Friends will encourage you to get out of the house.
B12. Try not to be overly influenced by others.
B13. Good fortune favors you on Thursday.
B14. There will be something deeply satisfying about going through all the motions.
B15. Pace yourself to avoid a pileup of to-dos.
GEMINI (May 21-June 20)
C1. The last thing you need is more worry.
C2. Think of ways in which your loved ones need your care and protection.
C3. You'll prevent problems.
C4. This will be a month filled with unexpected joys.
C5. If it's an offer you think you can't refuse, think things over carefully.
C6. Fame and honors will be yours.
C7. Reach resolution in order to move forward.
C8. Choose upbeat people with whom to mingle and enjoy.
C9. It's about time you throw one of your famous soirees.
C10. You change the world for the better by connecting good people together.
C11. The next few weeks will be extra busy so start preparing
C12. You let yourself do what you feel like doing instead of forcing things along.
C13. It's simply unnecessary to exert your will at every juncture.
C14. You will find help in crafting a master plan to fortify your finances.
C15. It will make you stronger in the end.
CANCER (June 22-July 22)
D1. Take full advantage to pack and go but make sure that everything is in order.
D2. You've been facing considerable responsibilities at home with your family lately.
D3. Expect fireworks!
D4. You'll be dealt a strong hand.
D5. There are elements of your life you simply can't change right now.
D6. Work on your way of thinking about reality.
D7. You don't really know how to celebrate.
D8. Others will willing join.
D9. You'll shine in your corner of the world.
D10. Empty your mind onto paper.
D11. You'll know exactly what it is you're dealing with.
D12. Things are beginning to percolate in your career.
D13. You'll finally think clearly when it comes to money.
D14. You don't expect another person to adapt to your needs.
D15. If you want your turn, seize it.
LEO (July 23-August 22)
E1. You would prefer a win-win situation.
E2. Don't be too quick to judge appearances.
E3. Look beyond the border of opportunity.
E4. Fortify your well-being.
E5. You'll be unusually creative and hungry to learn new things.
E6. There will be troublesome clauses you could overlook in haste.
E7. Cupid will work hardest for you when you're not at home.
E8. You'll have to swat admirers away.
E9. A project begins with a brainstorm.
E10. That's not going to happen.
E11. Bad ideas will come first, and you'll have to press on through until you get to the good ones.
E12. You haven't been feeling like yourself lately.
E13. Be passionate about what you believe.
E14. A spark of romance is almost a given.
E15. You may have to face consequences of a decision you made in haste.
VIRGO (August 23- September 22)
F1. The universe has a present for you.
F2. You're in danger of being manipulated.
F3. You'll need it a week later.
F4. You may get a thrill in ways you never imagined.
F5. You will realize how unique you are.
F6. The truth is you could do the same thing and still be different from each other.
F7. Celebrate their originality.
F8. Avoid making any big changes in the next few days.
F9. You will have a lot of choices to consider.
F10. There is an intelligence above language.
F11. You'll sense the feelings leap off of them.
F12. You might want to buy a lottery ticket.
F13. Consult an expert to ease apprehensions.
F14. This is only a preview of the truly romantic gifts coming.
F15. Be prepared for what is waiting for you.
LIBRA (September 23-October 22)
G1. Given the close contact you have, there could be an argument.
G2. What you're trying to accomplish cannot be done alone.
G3. It will increase the chances for a wrong assumption or miscommunication.
G4. You'll have a much clearer picture of what you want and need from a partner.
G5. You will be tempted to put things on your to-do list that do not belong there.
G6. Remember: you deserve to be happy.
G7. The world you inhabit this week is fraught with strange complications and oddities.
G8. Use humor as a coping mechanism.
G9. This wil attract friends who want to laugh with you.
G10. It's alright to take other's advice once in a while.
G11. There's something, or more likely, someone, you have to deal with directly.
G12. Suddenly you will see the advantage that is there.
G13. It's best to finish up current projects rather than entertain new offers.
G14. Act in a more purposeful, productive way.
G15. Jarring events could send a project off the rails.
SCORPIO (October 23-November 21)
H1. Expand your circle of friends.
H2. The month will end on a somber note.
H3. Take no risks at that time.
H4. There's trouble to be sorted out.
H5. Try to forget all you've heard.
H6. There's so much going on daily that it's easy for you to feel scatterbrained and make mistakes.
H7. You love the sound of foreign accents.
H8. Even though you are satisfied at home, you may secretly long to go where people live and communicate differently.
H9. Proactive efforts should show reward in short order.
H10. You won't have to lift a finger to find love - it will find you.
H11. Home is where the heart is so stay home and watch a movie.
H12. If you can't seem to repeat a past success, don't worry about it.
H13. Consistency is overrated.
H14. New successes will soon be yours.
H15. You'd be wise to focus on deadlines.
SAGITTARIUS (November 22-December 21)
I1. Lately, it hasn't been a priority.
I2. Imagine your own utopia - it's unlike what anyone else would imagine.
I3. Get back on track with a feeling of purpose and meaning.
I4. You'll become more popular.
I5. Be ready to jump in head first.
I6. Look for inspiration.
I7. It's critical you give any projects the time they need.
I8. There are many perks that spring from the heightened sensitivity you will experience this week.
I9. You may also be a bit on edge.
I10. Your inner reality won't always match what is going on in the outer reality.
I11. A relationship is strained.
I12. Don't be so excited about so much responsibility.
I13. Take a break from the job of comparing and contrasting your natural gifts with the gifts of those around you.
I14. Everyone is equal and different.
I15. You'll either be moved to comfort a friend, or conversely, leave one behind.
CAPRICORN (December 22-January 19)
J1. Consider taking a restful yet horizon-widening vacation.
J2. Look for another fortunate break.
J3. Work may seem arduous.
J4. You'll have enough distance to look back with a shrug and smile.
J5. You'll be eager to grow your mind, and teachers show up to help.
J6. You have to know where the holes are before you can fill them in.
J7. You need a break from things.
J8. Start jotting down ideas.
J9. There will be a fair dose of tough love, though there will be tender moments.
J10. Criticism and rejection are not the same thing.
J11. Someone who has constructive opinions is actually rooting for you.
J12. Barrel forward with home improvement projects.
J13. A major expense will come up but don't let it unnerve you.
J14. Perhaps these are not the most ideal and favorable conditions.
J15. You wouldn't dream of spoiling the magic by pointing out the tricky smoke, mirrors and magnets.
AQUARIUS (January 20-February 18)
K1. You'll have zero difficulty tolerating the same person everyone else seems to be running from.
K2. You might say that dealing with eccentricity is one of your talents.
K3. Romance will run high away from home, so these days could be ripe for love.
K4. Decide what you want to achieve.
K5. Set a plan, stick with it, and get ready for a push.
K6. You need your friends and they need you.
K7. Aristotle's exact birth date is unknown.
K8. Thinks are about to heat up.
K9. Don't let your temper get the better of you.
K10. Creativity isn't always easy.
K11. You are willing to risk playing the fool.
K12. Your daring will pay off in both beautiful and practical ways.
K13. Keep the trip simple and close to home.
K14. You'll be ready to initiate your plans.
K15. At the very pentacle of your chart.
PISCES (February 19-March 20)
L1. The path to good fortune and radiant health is well-lit.
L2. Your best moments are coming.
L3. Few things will go right.
L4. A certain difficulty may seem important, but it won't last.
L5. Consider moving away from the issue and dismissing it.
L6. It was never yours to solve.
L7. Bide your time because change is on the horizon.
L8. These events are not what you expect.
L9. Your level of happiness will depend largely on what you are thinking about.
L10. Pick your thoughts like you pick wildflowers.
L11. Financial unrest has plagued you off and on.
L12. Now is the time to name your price.
L13. Avoid conflicts with your mate.
L14. You have a strong sense of who you are, and therefore, you know what you can rely on yourself to do.
L15. This week you'll find people who can fill in the blanks.
Do you have any questions? Ask below.
GO! Have fun!