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NEW MOON IN LEO - April 27-May 3

Your little black book is busy, and someone has recently managed to close a deal. On Monday, a moment of strength will present itself; the downside is that you may feel constrained by other people's choices — and for a sign like yours, this is particularly frustrating. Look ahead to the weekend: You will be able to spend some time with your partner, or to spark something with someone that intrigues you.

TEMPO: allegretto frenato


There's still some tension in the workplace, especially on Monday. This change is unnerving and someone is not keeping their promises. You'll see from the summer that choices will have to be made. This is also a week for love — actually, tormented, complicated or even impossible love. Couples need not be afraid but will face an unexpected event or expense.

TEMPO: adagio con sbuffi


In the professional sector there has been plenty of talk, but not many consequences. For example, some agreements should be formalized, but economic issues or delays seem to prevent this. Your days are filled with a slight feeling of anxiety, and Tuesday and Wednesday will go in slow motion. Be diplomatic, but demanding. This weekend, love and food will abound. A new meeting brings a sweet taste; all the ingredients you need are there, but sample them … in small bites.

TEMPO: andante rallentato


The positive trend at work continues. As mentioned last week, negotiations are underway — or you are looking to expand your range via new projects, a transfer or, in some cases, a new job. A peak of strength will be recorded mid-week, and this might make a difference. It's always a good time for lonely hearts to look around, even if you don't really feel like it. The weekend brings controversy for couples.

TEMPO: pizzicato leggero


It can't be said that you're missing love. What is certain, however, is that something is not quite right. There are several reasons: work right now is worrying you and making you nervous; distance; family responsibilities; excessive expenses for your house or upcoming wedding — or, worst of all, unrequited love. Only one solution: Be patient and pragmatic and you'll find a way to stay afloat.

TEMPO: andantino a lavoro


The amount of work is increasing and it feels like there's no way you'll be able to do everything. Someone is trying to support you but between personal pride and failure, they're just getting on your nerves. Even in love there is plenty of bickering with your better half, especially relating to household expenses. For those in crisis, the best advice is reflection. However, even now, something is beginning to unlock. Over the weekend, especially if you're single, take a little trip to relax. Anything can happen …

TEMPO: adagio spazientito


The beginning of this week may see a proposal for collaborative work that could develop in the coming months. For some it will be a gamble, or something totally new. In general there is more movement and this finally puts you back on track. Couples will have face issues relating to investments or the home. Those who have had recent "discoveries," it's time to love without delay — especially lonely hearts from Friday on.

TEMPO: allegro in rilancio


Distrust is the main theme of this period. There are tensions, especially around Monday, concerning work. An agreement that you have dragged for some time now fails to unlock and creates anxiety. It's the same climate in love: Couples are concerned about limited finances in view of future projects; those in crisis are on the verge of breaking up, while those in a new relationship are not convinced. A weekend of relaxation is just what you need.

TEMPO: adagio diffidente


Fatigue is setting in. Tuesday and Wednesday are heavier, less lucid days. It will possible to discuss a deal or an agreement — but you should do so with caution. It's better to be rational and find a compromise. Saturn and Jupiter protect projects of love, but a certain distance is settling in couples. Lonely hearts prefer friends right now — especially this weekend.

TEMPO: adagietto affaticato


Work is in progress for the arrival of Jupiter's trine in August. Even now, however, you are in motion to make some important changes. This will be demonstrated on Tuesday and Wednesday when a confirmation, a good opportunity or a rekindled relationship will return — together with enthusiasm. It's a good time to propose and present yourself: Why don't you pick up an old project? In love, everything is allowed, you just have to want it. Relationships that have run their course will end. There will be a small drop in the weekend.

TEMPO: allegretto rifiorito


With the exception of Monday, when there will be tensions at work, this week will go more smoothly. We are still in a period of calm, in which changes will be allowed. Some news may come from Friday on with Mercury's trine. The weekend excites lonely hearts and someone in particular will tickle your curiosity, but there's a catch — they're engaged, or one of your close friends.

TEMPO: andantino alleggerito


Another strong week at work. You have recently made new contacts that soon will be crucial to your career choices. You are resolute and, right now, business counts. There will be some tension and fatigue around Tuesday and Wednesday. Distance will be felt with your partner when it comes to love. There are distracting concerns for the future at work, but those who have been in crisis since the weekend can begin to make things clear with their partner. Part-time relationships are in store for lonely hearts.

TEMPO: andante energico

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LGBTQ Plus

My Wife, My Boyfriend — And Grandkids: A Careful Coming Out For China's Gay Seniors

A series of interviews in Wuhan with aging gay men — all currently or formerly married to women — reveals a hidden story of how Chinese LGBTQ culture is gradually emerging from the shadows.

Image of two senior men playing chinese Checkers.

A friendly game of Checkers in Dongcheng, Beijing, China.

Wang Er

WUHAN — " What do you think of that guy sitting there, across from us? He's good looking."

" Then you should go and talk to him."

“ Too bad that I am old..."

Grandpa Shen was born in 1933. He says that for the past 40 years, he's been "repackaged," a Chinese expression for having come out as gay. Before his wife died when he was 50, Grandpa Shen says he was was a "standard" straight Chinese man. After serving in the army, he began working in a factory, and dated many women and evenutually got married.

"Becoming gay is nothing special, I found it very natural." Grandpa Shen says he discovered his homosexuality at the Martyrs' Square in Wuhan, a well-known gay men's gathering place.

✉️ You can receive our LGBTQ+ International roundup every week directly in your inbox. Subscribe here.

Wuhan used to have different such ways for LGBTQ+ to meet: newspaper columns, riversides, public toilets, bridges and baths to name but a few. With urbanization, many of these locations have disappeared. The transformation of Martyrs' Square into a park has gradually become a place frequented by middle-aged and older gay people in Wuhan, where they play cards and chat and make friends. There are also "comrades" (Chinese slang for gay) from outside the city who come to visit.

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