IN THIS CUSP, command meets caution, passion meets perfectionism, and fire meets the earth.

While these seemingly disparate personality traits may bring balance to the Leo-Virgo, there is an undeniable conflict in this cusp that makes those born into it feel, at times, as though they are torn between two extremes.

conflicted ⁄ persuasive ⁄ activist

One way to think of the polarities is as a war between introverted and extroverted. The Leo-Virgo cusp is one of leadership and communication but also one of independence and secrecy. A major skill set is knowing exactly what to say at the right time, and this cusp can be wonderfully persuasive when they get behind a cause, which brings us to the activist at the heart of the Leo-Virgo cusp. A happy place for this Sun and Mercury-ruled cusp is in the mix, working with people to solve a problem. But, when transparency and vulnerability is of the utmost importance, their desire for privacy and tendency for secrecy can be their Achilles heel, and their innate desire to pull away can cause conflict within the group dynamic.

Interestingly enough, intimacy is something that this cusp craves, but something that does not come easily. Vulnerability, the most important aspect of intimacy, is something that the Leo-Virgo struggles with. Not so much with the vulnerability of others, but within themselves. It's hard to be vulnerable when you hold so many secrets, when silence is your go-to emotional mode. And it's hard to explain that instinct to others when half the time you are loud, direct, and communicative.

So, if you are a Leo-Virgo cusp, consider that push and pull next time you are faced with a confused loved one. Sometimes, your desire to keep things to yourself makes those around you feel alone, and that's not what you want. See if you can find the words to say what you are feeling — even if those words are "I don't know."

And, if you know a Leo-Virgo cusp, give them time. Continue to share with them your most vulnerable moments, but don't expect them to immediately open up. Do your best to understand that they are struggling with their own boundaries around self-protection.