Journal Publication

Living with Diligence and Frugality for Peace and Prosperity with Good Deeds as the Best Strategy In these challenging times, when disasters are widespread, the best way to ensure a peaceful life—besides being cautious—is to practice good deeds and accumulate virtue. In the year of the Fire Monkey (2016), the world has not only become increasingly troublesome, but many previously unimaginable crises have also emerged in various places. For this reason, it is advisable for travel enthusiasts to thoroughly understand safety concerns before embarking on trips. Today, most people live under the shadow of pressure, leaving little room for leisure. On the other hand, if the economy continues on this trajectory, the consequences will be dire. Whenever possible, it’s recommended that entire families, young and old, seek stress relief in nature—parks, beaches, forests, and mountains are ideal destinations. However, I have personal safety concerns regarding crowded amusement parks and cruises. For those with religious beliefs, attending spiritual cultivation courses is also a good option, but it is essential to first objectively understand the origins of the faith—whether it is righteous or misguided, good or evil—to avoid falling into harmful practices. True and upright religions should coexist peacefully, but any faith that forbids its followers from interacting with others and shrouds itself in mystery is questionable in most cases. Frugality is a virtue, especially leading up to 2020. Everyone should learn to live diligently and frugally to endure the trials of the global environment. Based on my predictions, the days leading up to the spring of 2020 will be challenging. However, once this period passes, the world will return to a prosperity not seen for many years! To seize this opportunity, it is suggested to pay attention to Feng Shui practices. For instance, declutter your home or shop by discarding or donating excess items to ensure the smooth circulation of energy, which impacts wealth and health. Regarding clothes and household items like bedsheets and bedding, neutral colors such as beige, light gray, and pale green are ideal for this year and the next to balance the year’s fiery energy. This principle of “slow fire refining true gold” has, for decades, helped many people rebuild after setbacks. Recently, several friends have reported frequent illnesses or injuries among their household members. Upon investigation, I discovered that their bedrooms were cluttered with old and new electronic devices, causing fire-related energy disruptions. Once these were removed, their health improved significantly. There is an unwritten rule in Chinese culture: "One's appearance reflects their heart." Often, after long separations, a single glance can reveal a person’s moral cultivation. A face radiating kindness often belongs to someone who has accumulated good deeds, while a sinister look between the brows can indicate moral issues. This is a fundamental skill in physiognomy and is discernible to those experienced in life. Based on our long-standing observations, while a person’s fate, as indicated by their Eight Characters (Ba Zi), is difficult to change, their destiny, shaped by their actions and cultivation, is entirely alterable. This has been proven time and again. In recent years, marriage problems have become increasingly common across all social classes. For those facing such difficulties, I recommend that individuals rely on their efforts to resolve them. Remember, "praying to gods or Buddha" will not solve these issues and is a waste of money. Instead of pinning hopes on incense and candles, take a calm and practical approach to find mutually acceptable solutions. My previous article, "The Gods Cannot Mend Broken Mirrors," unexpectedly saved dozens of families on the brink of collapse, becoming a much-discussed success story. From a Feng Shui perspective, there are often clues in homes indicating potential marital problems. The most common sign is a mirror facing the bed in the bedroom. Other issues include beams or sharp corners pressing down on the bed, which can lead to separation. Furthermore, if the door aligns directly with the bed, occupants often suffer illnesses. These Feng Shui basics are widely known. To ensure lasting harmony in relationships, addressing these issues early is a wise move. Do not wait for problems to worsen before seeking remedies. As for the U.S. presidential election, this year’s contest is truly extraordinary. Beyond the usual mudslinging, even members within the same party are openly attacking their candidate. Such occurrences are unprecedented and likely never to be repeated. Analyzing the situation, it seems Republican candidate Donald Trump’s poor interpersonal relations and propensity to make enemies have led to this. Had he studied The Art of War and practiced following the will of Heaven and loving people, winning the presidency would have been much easier. From an astrological perspective, Trump, born under the sign of the Dog, lacks the elements of Metal and Water in his Eight Characters. The strong presence of Earth in his chart indicates poor interpersonal relations, a tendency to hold grudges, and impulsiveness over calmness—traits difficult to control. The next two years, governed by the Rooster and Dog signs, will only intensify these challenges. On the other hand, Democratic candidate Hillary Clinton has a balanced Eight Characters, with Water guiding her chart. This suggests she is often aided by benefactors and can overcome dangers. Although the email scandal remains unresolved, her astrological forecast indicates fewer troubles than Trump’s. Ultimately, regardless of who becomes president, ordinary people must strive to live peacefully and prepare for the future.

Feng Shui May Reveals Hidden Clues for the Uncertain Election's Result Last year, a popular topic was whether Donald Trump would run for president. If he ran, could he pass several hurdles? Ultimately, could he secure enough party votes to become the Republican nominee? My daughter, Pun Yin, in her column for Resident Magazine (December issue), analyzed Trump’s fortune for the Year of the Monkey based on his five-element compositions(Chinese astrology). She advised readers to prepare for the overwhelming momentum he might bring. Her predictions about the political climate were as follows: “An unconventional, unpredictable, temperamental, and gutsy opportunist will capture dominance, leaving traditional opponents behind.” Recently, in both public and private settings, I am often asked: “Who has the upper hand in the current contest between the two presidential candidates?” This is a significant matter concerning the future of the world. I cannot offer careless answers. However, as someone well-versed in feng shui and destiny studies, I am willing to discuss their characteristics, strengths, and weaknesses from this perspective. In Chinese metaphysics, success often involves more than just individual traits—it may also be influenced by feng shui factors, such as one’s living or ancestral environments, which can determine outcomes. Hillary Clinton’s Strengths Out of respect for women, let us discuss Hillary Clinton first. Her characteristics include walking with steady, measured steps. When facing the camera and the public, she naturally exudes an authoritative aura. Particularly in interactions with crowds, she can immediately switch to a warm and approachable demeanor. This innate charisma surpasses even her husband, Bill Clinton. However, in confrontational settings, such as debates, her piercing gaze combined with precise gestures often leaves her opponents flustered, enabling her to seize the upper hand. Donald Trump’s Dynamics On the other hand, Donald Trump, emerging from the real estate world, has surprised many by taking on seasoned politicians and outperforming them. His “fearless warrior” spirit has sometimes led him to make enemies everywhere. While he has risen to prominence within his party, his interpersonal relations still fall slightly short. To avoid losing at the final hurdle, he should urgently strive to build alliances and improve his public image. Trump is widely known for his affinity for extravagant gold decor, reflecting a personality akin to that of wealthy individuals who flaunt their riches. This penchant for “gold” aligns with his “metal” element in Chinese metaphysics, which may have both positive and negative effects. If overdone, it could lead to diminishing returns. Furthermore, Trump often appears with his family members and advisors, which may give an impression of solidarity. However, this strategy could backfire by making voters wary of nepotism. A Global Perspective Based on metaphysical predictions, we anticipated multiple shocks and adjustments in the global financial markets during the Year of the Monkey. For this reason, in previous articles like Investing in Bricks, we advised readers to shift their investments toward long-term growth assets such as real estate. This article was written before the UK’s Brexit referendum, and the unexpected result occurred before publication. For prospective homeowners, the silver lining is an extended period of low-interest rates, providing more opportunities to secure favorable property deals. Amid ongoing global uncertainty, individuals should plan carefully for their family’s future, focusing on frugality and securing a stable home. For those holding cash, there may be opportunities to acquire properties at a discount. However, as this is an election year, economic forecasts should be taken with caution. Objective observation of trends across industries is essential before making decisions. Feng Shui Tips for Children’s Bedrooms For families with children, here are some feng shui tips to foster their growth and well-being: Avoid Clutter: Do not leave clothes, hats, shoes, or socks scattered around the room. Such habits can instill irresponsibility in children. Straightforwardness is Key: Ensure bedroom doors are properly aligned. Slanted doors can lead to mishaps. Adequate Lighting: A bright room promotes cheerful personalities, while dark rooms can result in gloomy dispositions. Choose Appropriate Posters: Avoid inappropriate or extreme posters (e.g., nudity or superheroes). These can lead to distractions or skewed behavior. Ventilation: Train children to open windows daily to refresh the room. This improves vitality and focus. Mind Bed Placement: Avoid placing beds under beams, near large appliances, or directly in line with the doorway. Improper positioning can lead to health issues. Color Matters: Avoid excessive use of blue (linked to melancholy) or pink (associated with unrealistic thoughts). Opt for neutral tones like beige, ivory, light gray, or pale green, which align with the Five Elements and encourage balanced growth. Colors and the Presidential Candidates Trump’s preference for gold aligns with his “metal” element in BaZi, which strengthens his fortune. However, his ostentatious “tycoon” style reflects a love for status and unchecked ambition. In feng shui, excessive stimulation can lead to erratic thinking. This article, written before the July 18 Republican National Convention, predicts that Trump’s nomination journey will face internal resistance, resulting in dramatic and contentious moments. Unlike the traditional party conventions, Trump’s unconventional approach, relying on family members and opportunistic allies, contrasts sharply with Clinton’s strategic endorsements from respected politicians, business leaders, and celebrities at the Democratic National Convention. The Importance of Timing, Location, and Harmony This presidential election demonstrates the importance of “timing, location, and harmony.” These factors are indispensable for leadership. While Trump’s financial empire has flourished under favorable feng shui elements, the political arena follows different rules. To succeed, a leader must be steady, well-respected, and widely supported. Who do you place your trust in?

Key Considerations When You Tend to Buy Home in Autumn and Winter New York, a melting pot of diverse ethnicities, has long been known as the "City of Immigrants." Living here means working hard and chasing dreams; while not everyone achieves their aspirations, success stories are abundant. This is largely because the city offers countless opportunities. However, differences in customs, beliefs, and lifestyles across communities mean that careful consideration is necessary before purchasing a home. Factors like proximity to markets, quality of nearby restaurants, and the distance to family and friends are key. For families with school-aged children, the quality of the school district should be a top priority, as it greatly influences property value. The positioning of the front door, the main room, and the kitchen are critical to a home's overall energy and should be assessed for good or bad fortune before making a decision. Natural Light, Leaves, and Snow: Vital for Evaluating Energy Flow In autumn and winter, with yin energy rising and yang energy waning, daylight hours are limited. The best time to view a property is between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. Viewing too early or late may lead to misjudgments due to inadequate lighting. Begin by examining the property’s surroundings for signs like uneven terrain (higher in front, lower in back), cracks in walls, overgrown vegetation, moss, or water stains—all of which are major feng shui red flags. Be cautious of leaves or snow concealing the ground, potentially hiding underlying issues. Take note of where fallen leaves gather. This affects maintenance responsibilities and could spark disputes with neighbors. Many neighborhood conflicts stem from such issues. Indoor lighting is another critical factor. Some homes may seem bright in autumn and winter due to bare trees and sparse foliage, but come spring and summer, dense greenery can severely reduce natural light. Fixing such issues may be costly, and legal constraints might limit solutions, leaving the home dim for half the year. This is more common than one might think. If these issues arise, it’s often a sign of hidden problems with the property’s energy flow. Purchasing such a home without addressing these issues could lead to regret. Some buyers may be drawn to homes surrounded by dense trees. Feng shui categorizes this as a "trapped beast" scenario, which is considered highly inauspicious. A wise buyer avoids such properties. Assessing the quality of neighbors is another key rule for choosing a home, as it helps prevent future headaches. Neighbors Matter for Peaceful Living Living among diverse ethnic groups or near strongly devout communities should be approached cautiously. Such areas may experience heightened activity due to religious practices, including late-night worship or festive traffic congestion. Purchasing a home in such locations could result in unexpected inconveniences. Finding an ideal home is like finding a life partner: challenging but rewarding if done right. Proper preparation is essential for success. Requesting demographic and income data from your realtor about the area is a consumer right. To verify, observe the types and conditions of vehicles in the neighborhood as an indicator of residents' economic status. Good Feng Shui and Location Go Hand in Hand Focusing solely on personal preferences risks overlooking critical factors—a major feng shui mistake. People and places have their respective energies, and their alignment matters. This principle, proven over centuries, remains highly relevant. Take two examples from New York: East Broadway (from Catherine St. to Market St.). Canal Street (from Bowery St. to West Broadway). These areas thrived for over 25 years but entered a downturn about a decade ago. According to feng shui predictions, both will recover after another 10-12 years. Time will reveal whether they bounce back as expected. Feng Shui's Global Reach Thirty years ago, feng shui was barely recognized in the U.S., with less than 3% awareness. Today, the term "feng shui" excites people across ethnicities, marking its growing influence. Real estate professionals—including developers, architects, engineers, interior designers, and agents—are increasingly studying feng shui to better serve clients. When buying a property, consider working with someone familiar with feng shui basics for smoother collaboration. Doing Good While Planning for Success The essence of feng shui lies in the principle of karma: good deeds bring good outcomes, and vice versa. When helping clients, their past often becomes evident in key moments. Here's a suggestion for combining home improvement with charity: If you plan to renovate, consider partnering with Second Chance (www.secondchanceinc.org). They collect and sell salvaged materials—doors, windows, flooring, bricks, appliances, and furniture—to support training programs for low-income individuals in construction skills. One client used this approach and saved $300,000 in tax benefits while aiding a meaningful cause. Another client planned to demolish an old house in a wealthy area for rebuilding. Unexpectedly, the police offered free demolition services as part of a tactical training program, saving significant costs. Timeless Advice for Homebuyers As autumn arrives, let me share a timeless tip: “It’s better to buy a modest house in a good neighborhood than a luxury house in a bad one.” This holds true worldwide, as the former is likely to appreciate in value, while the latter often becomes a financial trap. The difference between gains and losses can be vast—choose wisely!

Adapting Feng Shui to the New Century In today's fast-paced world, even ancient principles like feng shui must evolve to stay relevant. To maximize its effectiveness, feng shui should be integrated with modern disciplines like magnetic field studies, environmental psychology, and interior design. My family has nearly a century of combined experience in this field. Over the years, we've helped countless individuals transform their fortunes by moving beyond traditional frameworks. We no longer confine ourselves to rigid interpretations of compass directions or commercialized practices. Each case is unique, requiring a tailored approach based on time, location, and personal circumstances. Harnessing Natural Feng Shui: The Role of Light The foundation of natural feng shui lies in harnessing light. Incorporating elements like water, stones, plants, and minerals into a space, combined with the individual’s elemental attributes (metal, wood, water, fire, earth), creates a balanced feng shui layout. Using objects that align with one's life path should set the tone for the design. That said, avoid turning your home into a cluttered warehouse of so-called “feng shui talismans.” Instead, adopt a methodical approach by combining property search efforts with feng shui planning. Proper preparation reduces stress and ensures smoother transactions. The Power of Decluttering One of the first steps in feng shui preparation is letting go. As discussed previously, “Out with the old, in with the new.” This begins with discarding items accumulated during difficult times. Donate or dispose of these objects to dispel stagnant energy. The minimalist principle of “less is more” has gained popularity in design and environmental studies. A clean, uncluttered home fosters a sense of calm and reduces stress. Once decluttering is complete, take inventory of what remains—shoes, handbags, coats, books, artwork, and decor. As you evaluate potential homes, check for sufficient storage space. If a property lacks adequate closets or storage options, consider whether legal and architectural constraints might limit future renovations. The Importance of Space Planning The discipline of space planning emerged to address such challenges. Professionals analyze family needs and possessions to optimize closet layouts and living spaces using precise calculations. Many interior designers now collaborate with space planners to meet client expectations and avoid dissatisfaction. For families without the resources to hire professionals, visiting bookstores like Barnes & Noble to study interior design and storage solutions can be a practical alternative. Learning from richly illustrated guides not only enhances personal knowledge but also elevates taste and creativity. If possessions still feel excessive after initial efforts, it may be time to reimagine your storage strategy. Avoid wasting space with unnecessary furniture purchases, as mismatched old and new pieces often create visual disharmony. Before adding new items, carefully assess their necessity to prevent regret. Modern Trends in Storage Design A current trend favors white cabinetry paired with complementary materials or colors for a clean, elegant aesthetic. Many interior designers use white with gray or high-quality wood accents, creating a sophisticated yet refreshing look. This approach is particularly effective in homes under 2,500 square feet, providing a sense of clarity and energy. From a feng shui perspective, white (metal) and gray/yellow (earth) represent elements that harmonize, as earth generates metal. However, this scheme may feel too "cool," so consider adding vibrant throw pillows or colorful patterns to sofas for balance. This enhances harmony among household members, fostering a supportive environment. Balancing Tradition and Modernity The era of showcasing wealth with excessive wooden furniture has passed. For those with valuable wooden pieces, balance them with neutral-colored decor or wall treatments for a refreshed atmosphere. Specialists can offer solutions to modernize and integrate such furnishings. Feng Shui’s Role in Real Estate Success Savvy real estate investors often consult reputable feng shui experts with strong interior design credentials. Their genuine expertise can provide invaluable guidance. Time and again, feng shui has proven its transformative power in development projects, becoming an essential factor in achieving success.