The idealistic, intellectual, contemplative and often shy 7 stands apart from all other single-digit numbers in one very important way. The 7 is a potential gateway to the fulfillment and wisdom that Kabir, Gurdjieff, and other masters talked and sang about. It is the seeker. It does not take anything at face value, and never gives up on the big questions, "Who am I? Why am I here?" Your Expression number is 7. This may come as a surprise to you, because this most spiritual/philosophical of numbers is flanked by two very different influences, the 8 Heart's Desire and 8 Personality. This is similar to a hermit having Donald Trump and Gordon Gecko as neighbors - except all three exist within you.

The 7 and 8 have nothing in common, but they will compete for your attention throughout your life. Your 8 Heart's Desire gives you drive, ambition, and a good sense of business. You are authoritative and do not step aside for anyone. Unlike the 1, you are not necessarily stubborn, but you are dogged and determined when it comes to reaching your goals. This outgoing, forceful number also appears as your "outer" Personality number (the part of you others notice when you first meet). This largely obscures the serious, inquisitive idealism of your 7, a number that is not at all ambitious.

~first~, your challenge is to reconcile the obvious contradictions in this combination. Understanding the position each number holds in your chart can help.

The 7 Expression is like a blueprint. It lays out the ground rules, sets limitations, and determines the function and form of your life ahead. It describes your talents, abilities, and shortcomings, particularly in the way they affect your career and productive life. The 7 is contemplative, analytical, and somewhat solitary. A 7 in this position suggests you need to learn from life as well as from books. Your ultimate goal is to attain insight and understanding, and to become a beacon of light for others, without becoming dogmatic or burdened by religious concepts.

Your 8 Heart's Desire is a good balance to the internal nature of the 7. More than any other number, the 8 has a pragmatic, results-oriented attitude. It pursues big goals and needs to be in charge. Be mindful, however, not to allow your dynamic 8 energy to overshadow your inquisitive 7. You may be tempted to surrender to the capitalistic, dog-eat-dog mentality of an Ayn Rand disciple.

Ignoring the needs of your 7 Expression can be detrimental. If you are unable to balance these opposing influences, you may find success financially or in other ways, but you are unlikely to find true happiness and fulfillment. The emptiness resulting from an unfulfilled 7 drains gratitude and joy like a vacuum. It is crucial that you find a balance. Devote a fair amount of your time and energy to the mystery of life, in study and contemplation.

In your personal life, romance and long-term commitment are possible, especially if you find a partner with upbeat, dynamic numbers. Someone who does not take things too seriously would be a good fit. A partner with a 3 (upbeat and creative, with a sense of humor) and a 5 (dynamic, adventurous, versatile) could soften the sharp angles of your 8 and uplift the serious 7.

You should probably marry or commit to a relationship later in life, preferable after age 30. This would give the 7 and 8 time to find a comfortable balance.

Now let's look at each of your core numbers individually.