Cecil Lee

Dear Mina, 1. I hope I understand your question, correctly, if not please clarify again - Thanks. 2. For those who are born in 11 Feb, 1972, they are considered born under the period 15 Jan 1972 to 2 Feb 1973 which is the Year of the Water-Rat 3. Therefore, for those born on 11 Feb 1972, will be considered as having born in the Year of Water-Rat (1972). 4. Only those who were born say on 1 January 1972 to 14 January 1972 should not consider themselves as born in the " Year 1972 " for purposes of Gua (Kua) calculation but rather they should consider themselves as born in the " Year 1971 ". 5. Similarly, those who were born on 1 January 1973 to 1 February 1973, will be considered as born under the " Year 1972 ". 6. In the past, if a person `picks' up a book especially on Chinese Astrology, one may simply see the Year of Birth being quoted as reference material. 7. In such a situation, for those who are born in January or February of any year, should try and confirm whether they are considered as born under that year or the previous year. 8. If the book(s) has taken into consideration the start and end date of each (Lunar Year) than, one can safely say that their correct Year chart has been taken care of. 9. The rationale for this is that authentic Chinese calculations are always based on a common denominator i.e. the Lunar Calendar. This is the most accurate means of analysis. Warmest Regards, Cecil Lee

Dear All, 1. What is the Castle Gate Theory? In my opinion, I consider this a `potent' form of Feng Shui. It is considered a theory on the `offensive'. 2. Description Basically, it is tilting a building (ideally) 45 degrees to the road or if this may not be possible; then, tilting the main door directions 45 degrees instead. As the word `Castle' suggests; it has also has water. Therefore in order for it work, water (not still water) is used here. Water at the frontage must be moving e.g. a fountain to activate the `castle' effect. 3. For those who are familar with Shapes and Form Feng Shui is that this type of `formation' can be potent because: 3.1. in such a situation, most likely if ever, the main entrance can (never) have sha qi such as a lone lamp post slicing into it. 3.2. The edge of the building itself becomes the Sha Qi of any other poor buildings `facing' it. As it's sharp edge now becomes a poison arrow for other buildings. Warmest Regards, Cecil Lee

Dear Ben, 1. Yes, in the Year of the Horse (Water-Horse) which will be (soon) i.e. begining on 12 February 2002 (First Day of Chinese New Year) to to 31 Jan 2003. 2. On 12 February 2002 onwards till 31 Jan 2003, if one wants to do a renovation it is best to avoid both the compass direction North and South sectors. 3. Why South? It is considered that the planet Jupiter is at the South. (Jupiter is considered the largest planet in our solar system) and therefore, it is felt that it has the most magnetic force. The Grand Duke is actually (the planet Jupiter). 4. Since the Grand Duke or romanised Mandrain called " Tai Sui " is said to be at this location. 5. In such a situation, it is best not to `distrub' him during the Year of Horse. More importantly, do not paint (touch him) or `move earth' i.e. renovate (disturb) him from 12 Feb 2002 onwards until 31 January 2003. 6. Why North? This is based on the Chinese Astrology. 7. According to the Chinese Astrology and by looking at this graphic (attached: grandduke.gif ) you will find that the animal signs : HORSE and RAT are directly opposite each other. These two animal signs are directly inconflict. 8. In Chinese Astrology predictions, this is considered a bad year for those born in the Year of the Rat. Source: http://www.geomancy.net/resources/yearly-forecast/forecast-2002.htm 9. The rationale for the `clash' is because: 1. Horse is an animal sign that is the Fire element or SOUTH. 2. While RAT belongs to the Water element or NORTH. 10. This is a CLASH of Water and Fire element. Thus, it is best (strongly recommended) to delay renovation at NORTH and SOUTH in the Year of the Horse. Warmest Regards, Cecil Lee

Date: 9 January 2001 Place: Hotel New Otani Singapore 1. We caught up with one of our past students: Mr Madan L. Seda who was on a holiday in Singapore with his wife. 2. Mr Madan is a Feng Shui Consultant in London, UK. He can be reached at http://www.Fengshui2000.co.uk 3. I found Mr Madan, to be very keen in his quest to find out more to keep himself updated with Feng Shui and other divinity practises. If you are in London or around London and need help, do contact him. I am sure, he will do his utmost best to help you. 4. Attached picture: From Left to Right: Robert Lee, Cecil Lee and Mr Madan (Picture available in the forum - not mailing list) We wish Mr & Mrs Madan and his family, All the Best! Warmest Regards, Cecil Lee

Dear Gerry, Thank you for raising a pertinent question, particularly for new users in this forum. 1. It is traditionally beneficial to comprehend why the Chinese utilize the compass with TOP representing the South and BOTTOM representing the North. 2. Upon closer examination, it is evident that China is situated in the Northern Hemisphere, where the majority of mountain ranges are located in the North. 3. For those who have visited Beijing, the capital of China, it is common to observe that many houses have their windows and main doors oriented towards the South. Furthermore, the absence of windows on the North side is attributed to the dusty storms of 'yellow' dust that sweep in from that direction. 4. You can explore the concept of the Four Symbolic Animals at the following link: http://www.geomancy.net/resources/theories/fs-four.htm 5. There, you will find an image depicting a 'tortoise' hill (North) and a Bird (South) - a South Facing House. (The Bird is actually a Phoenix.) Alternatively, you may click on the attachment included with this message (accessible only to those logged into the forum). Filename: bird.gif 6. At Geomancy.net, all our resources are grounded in the conventional compass, which aligns North with South. Given that the conventional compass is widely accessible globally, we have ensured that all our resources are applicable to users internationally who utilize the standard compass. 7. I believe that when utilizing any resources, it is essential to thoroughly read the entire material. For instance, if we are following a step-by-step guide from a book, we should adhere to the author's recommendations throughout. It would be unwise to read one book partially and then seek advice from another source, as no two methodologies may align. Warmest Regards, Cecil Lee

Dear Sor Lan, 1. What you had mentioned is a popular practise by the Cantonese dialect group. This popularity is based on the belief as what you had mentioned; that a mirror used in the hope that it can reflect `double' the luck. 2. We can (on a less scientific level) base it on feelings. However, if one uses more scientific methods such as The Flying Star Fen g Shui, where one uses it to determine if a sector is auspicious or not. If it is inauspicious, then, it is strongly felt that one should not place a mirror at that sector or we may inadvertenly bounce back twice the bad luck. Warmest Regards, Cecil Lee

Dear Anon Please see attached sketch for a better understanding of a poison arrow aimed at the main door. Apologies for the rough sketch. Just look at the concept. Here there are two issues: 1. the narrow corridor where the lift faces the main door. This is Sha Qi and can be cured with two plants placed strategically at the location. 2. I did not properly draw the angle at which the corridor aims at the main door but if it does it is a poison arrow. Warmest Regards, Cecil Lee

Dear Anon, 1. If you have a sketch it would help greatly especially if some of the recent new Housing Flats that I had audited may have a narrow corridor leading to an `angled' house. However, please read further and if none of what I mentioned below applies, then, it may not be an issue here. For example, this house has it's door tilted facing the lift and the corridor railing points towards the main entrance door. In such a situation, then, this can be considered bad sha qi and should be corrected. 2. It also depends on the distance between the flat and the lift. The further the better. Normally, if your main door is parallel to the lift door and if you stand at the main door facing outwards; if there is no poison arrows in the form of: a. A single object e.g. lamp post visible slicing the road (for a low level flat e.g. 2nd level). or b. the corridor angled towards your door. If none of the above, then, you do not need to do any corrections. Warmest Regards, Cecil Lee

Dear Anon, 1. The word "Hai" refers to the term " Water " 2. If it is a dragon, the word behind the sculpture should instead be " LONG " or dragon 3. For the word " SU " Chinese characters or words close to it. So, here, it can mean many things. What is the relationship of the Serpent and Dragon in Chinese beliefs? It is said that in Chinese folk lore, after 500 years of exisitence a SEA SERPENT transform and becomes a SCALY Dragon. Another transformation is after 1000 years when this SCALY Dragon becomes a horned Dragon. Again after another 1000 years, it becomes a Dragon with wings. In my opinion, your figure has this saying: "Encourage one to be diligent" *JOKE* Not sure, if this is an implication for you! When you next meet your family member - *JOKE* Do ask him/her - Are u trying to encourage me to be more hardworking? Huh? You can perhaps - tease your relative about it. But do remember ...Erh.. Don't EVER quote my name! *JOKE* This is like imitating the Serpent who is striving to become a Dragon! Warmest Regards, Cecil

Dear Susan, 1. If one asks quite alot of different FS practitioners, the chances are many will say it is a (NO NO) to have a mirror face the bed. A BELIEF: 2. The reason or (BELIEF) is that because, it was felt that when we sleep, our spirits "wonder-out" of our body and it may get a shock seeing one's self in the mirror. This is the rationale why many FS practitioners way say that it is bad for a mirror to face the bed. 3. It is interesting to note the survey results in this poll section: http://www.geomancy.net/poll/poll.pl In the above link; you can look thru the results for the following poll questions: a. If your TV set is facing the bed, do you cover the screen before you sleep? b. If you do not cover the TV sets, do you have sleep problems? It is interesting to note the above survey results: i. I feel that some of us are more sensitive than others. For example, some people (perhaps) after many years of taking chili pepper enjoy doing so and even tabasco source. But for others, they are sensitive to them. ii. Perhaps, due to the modern technology e.g. non-glare screens of the TV sets, many don't really see a reflection of the shadow or their rooms do not filter in e.g. moon light. 4. Mirror, Mirror on the Wall 4.1. Where possible, in my opinion, try not to let the mirror face any part of the bed if it is placed in the bedroom. 4.2. You may place the mirror on a dressing table. But do try to arrange the dressing table away from the bed. (away from facing the bed). 5. In Feng Shui, mirror(s) can be considered as a double edged sword. 6. Especially under the Flying Star Feng Shui. If it is placed a bad sector, it can inadvertanly bounce back TWICE the bad luck. Therefore, if you want to place it at the patio, perhaps, if one is not going to use tools like Flying Star; may use one's feelings. If you really find that it is `nice' to have it there then go ahead with it. 7. The Customer Service Engineer's Concept (C) Cecil Lee In the past, I saw how IBM customer service engineers service equipment. For example, if an equipment or hardware is given frequent problems; the customer engineer will open up the machine and since the parts are modular, he will only replace one part and wait for the `result'. If the problem persists, he would leave that card and take out another card and monitor again. Here, if one trys to do D.I.Y. (do it yourself) Feng Shui, this is the soundest approach to take! Unless, you are a qualified Feng Shui expert, then, this is normally not necessary. Warmest Regards, Cecil Lee

Dear Anon, You can make use of the Free tools provided at http://www.geomancy-online.com Use the Eight House and eight house related tools to help. More importantly, when u use this theory, please follow the steps here:- http://www.geomancy.net/fs/house1.htm In your search of a new home using this theory, try to: 1. Find how suitable the house is to the breadwinner. The most unsuitable houses for the breadwinner is the `death' or `disaster' sector. 2. Next, do a Eight House chart for all family members and visualise i.e. look out what intangible forces are there for each family members and where they can stay. For example, for the husband and wife, check to see how the house is compared to other houses i.e. the intangible forces within this room for both of them. For other family members, check to see which room they can stay and how feasible for them to sleep closer to a good intangible force (bearing in mind - the need to place the beds) etc... Warmest Regards, Cecil

Dear Mina, 1. Yes, most likely your Date of Birth that you had used to calculate or determine your Gua (Kua) did not take into consideration the Lunar Calendar. 2. To confirm the calculation, you can visit this url and check the exact Date of Birth: http://www.geomancy.net/love/astro.htm 3. Although the above url is about astrology, simply use the date of birth `start' and `end' date of each Lunar year to confirm your manual calculations. 4. For example, after locating your Year of birth, you should be able to see something like: e.g. Date of Birth = 1970 is "17 Feb 1969 to 5 Feb 1970". 5. Where, a person born in 1970 under the Lunar Calendar is a person `born' between 17 February 1969 (first day of Lunar New Year or Chinese New Year for 1970) and 5 February 1970 is the last day of that year) 6. Therefore, for those (especially) born around January or February should take more `precaution' when finding what `animal signs' they are associated with. 7. East/West Group Persons This is also called Eight House Theory and belongs to one of the two Compass School Feng Shui. Eight House is more of a static representation unlike it's "sister" concept The Flying Star Feng Shui. 8. It is always advisable to try and understand the following for each of the authentic Feng Shui theories: 8.1. What is the usefulness of this theory? 8.2 What is it's strengths and weakness? Once we understand what it is; and what it can or cannot do, then we will have said to have a better understanding. And this would result in having a `firm' foundation to better awareness of what is Hocus Pocus and the `real stuff'. 9. The usefulness of this theory is: - How suitable is the house to the breadwinner? - It is good to spend time at auspicious sectors. 10. The weakness is that there is really not much we can do if say a sector is the `disaster' or `death' sector. Unlike it's sister - The Flying Star; it cannot relate to the Five Elements concept. Where the Five elements concept, can be used to used to find a `cure' or neutralising agent. Warmest Regards, Cecil LeeOn 1/9/2002 6:58:00 PM, Mina Mou wrote:

From: Support @ Geomancy.Net Subject: Re: questions about the yijing-Loshu square Date: Wed, 9 Jan 2002 21:50:02 GMT To: (name removed) Dear Anon, I believe, the question you are asking is actually based on the I-Ching (yijing) 64 Trigrams whether the 64 Trigrams should be laid out based on the arrangement of the Fu Xi or King Wen. My response to the question: You see Eight House Trigram has two layouts Fu Xi (Later Heavenly Sequence) and King Wen (Former Heavenly Sequence) layout. Actually, both are used for different purpose and should not be mixed up. 1. Fu Xi (Later Heavenly Sequence) is derived using the Flying Star theory concept / Luo Shu squares and how it flies and is extensively used as a concept for the Time Dimension Feng Shui. 2. King Wen (Former Heavenly Sequence) is in its pures form of Heaven and Earth, Thunder and Lighting. Which is often used in Talisman and in to ward off Sha Qi. It is also used as the principle in deriving the I-Ching 64 combinations. Thus, when you are refering to the I-Ching you will be using the King Wen's layout of the Eight Trigrams, and when you are using Flying Star you will refer to the Fu Xi's layout of the Eight Trigram. Two are of completely different issues and concepts thus, should NEVER and not be mixed like what you have been asking. Therefore, the format of the I-Ching that is correct is the one using the King Wen layout. If I am not wrong, having heard my answers to the two Eight Trigram and breakdown of each sequence of the bagua, that will answer your question you are looking for. Since you are interested in I-Ching you should be looking for " Book of Changes " by James Legge (English), Richard Willhelm (Germany). They are actually missionaries in China, and they successfully translated the original book of changes into English and in German. So it is extensively comprehensive. So if you are really interested in learning the real I-Ching (ie so as not to be misled or learn the wrong information.) I would strongly recommend you hunt for books written by them (although I have looked thru some of his interpretations and felt that some of them may not be as accurately translated due to the interpretation from Mandarin to English) However, James book come close to translated books available in English for a much better understanding. The famous Chinese sage - Confucious said that "If he could have lived for another Fifty years, he would try to spend time to understand more about the I-Ching". This shows how complex this theory is and it is not possible to be explained in one or two sentences. Furthermore, the person who discovered the human gnome or DNA is based on the I-Ching 64 hex. And also, the discover of computer binary code said that he had found this idea from this 64 hex codes. So it is best you get the correct books, and not any of those books written by western authors (especially those who do not understand Mandarin ie. Chinese) i.e. (sorry not to speak ill of any western authors who had written I-Ching book; but in my opinion those who have a Chinese background may most likely have a better advantage in this area of interpretation if they are studious enough to interpret them direct from the original mandarin source - but still very very difficult. This is because the book of changes is so complex, personally having read the original text and the translated text, many essence are still lost during the translation despite the very exhaustive efforts of the two missionaries who had done a translated version. As the Chinese Couplets and etc used can be interpretated in many ways. So if you really want to go in depth into this ancient art you would be better fare much better if you can read the original Chinese version or at least read up on books written by the authors above. In the future, please post such questions/queries/doubts you have on Feng Shui to our Free Advise Forum (http://myadviser.geomancy.net) where everyone can benefit from our single replies rather than through our e-mail address support@geomancy.net. We even have an I-Ching conference in the forum, which would be appropriate for such questions. If you do not have an account, simply create one (http://login.geomancy.net) I have answered your question this time, so as not to disappoint you as I know that this subject and questions you are asking are NOT easy to understand. However, I would appreciate that in the future you post them to our My Adviser Forum instead. This not only promotes learning it will also allow others like yourself who are seeking answers to such question to be able to find it in the future. Thank you for your co-operation and understanding. Warmest Regards Robert Lee Support@Geomancy.Net, support@geomancy.net on 09/01/2002 URL: http://www.geomancy.net GEOMANCY.NET - Center for Applied Feng Shui Research Tel: +65 95771103, Fax: +65 4810581 -- Original Message --@geomancy.net>

From: (Name removed) Subject: Re: questions about the yijing-Loshu square Date: Wed, 9 Jan 2002 12:48:47 +0100 To: Support @ Geomancy.Net Dear Mr. Lee, thanks for your fast reply and your instructions... to clarify my problem with this topic: I know that my questions are very technical - want to understand a bit of the physical technical functions, but i am not a scientific engnieer or mathematic guy or something like that.. so when i understand you in the right way. The loshu is connected with the wen arrangement - cammann Schuyler" The origin of the Triagramm Circles in Ancient China, the museum of far Eastern Antiqities Bulletin No 62 Stockholm 19990" says that this is a big mistake of history to think that, i read so many literature, but this is indead the only author who said this everyone else wrote that the wen cycle belongs to the loshu the hetu to the Fuxi arrangement. How does the loshu functions then? There are even and odd numbers - yin and yang - yang is clockwise and yin is counterclockwise. this is a fengh shui message. does this also count for the yijing (later heaven) when you speak of movements. so the numbers of the loshu represent triagrams for expamle Kun= 2 and Quian = 6 two triagrams form an hexagram and within this you have a direction marked as a loshu number .. for example Tui and Tui = 7/7 is Hexagram 58 belongs to the loshu number 7 according the eight houses in relation to the loshu square. you can categorise the 64 Hexagram to the eight houses for example 6 is (hexagram number 1,44,33,12,20,23,35,14) 1 is (29,60,3,63,49,55,36,7) and so on.. but other people say this is wrong only wetern thinking has nothing to do with eastern origins: 6 is ( 1,12,25,6,33,44,13,10 hexagram) or 1 is (5,8,3,29,39,48,63,60) always the second triagram or line.. above the lower .. What is true there ? ================================= Movement in clockwise / counterclockwise direction - cyclic interdependence what does cause the movement the loshu number (even/odd)-number polarity or the triagram ? ( the sex in the wen cycle, the lowest line as primary basis as in the Fuxi) or a micture of both? when i have then two triagrams there can be different options- as expressed in the biagrams- yin-yin, yang-yang yin-yang yang -yin) first -second line.. yin-yin ( example loshu number:first line/number, second line/number 2-8, 6-4) is countercklockwise ? yang- yang (7-9, 1-3) vice versa? what about yin-yang , yang- yin composition? Would be nice to hear from you soon . Best wihes and regards from here be well Yours

Dear Anon, Thank you for your query. Just like to let you know that the question you have posted is actually very interesting and we would like to re-post your message into the forum (As an anonymous user to present it as learning resource). The reason why you had difficulty in finding answer to this is not many people are aware that Eight House is a Compass Theory derived from the Flying Star concept. Anyway, just to answer your question:- The later heaven sequence has a different method of presenting the 8 trigrams. It is actually derived from the Flying Star Theory. where you get:- 4 9 2 3 5 7 8 1 6 or 4 9 2 3 ? 7 8 1 6 Which is exactly the layout of the later heavenly sequence trigram use in one version of the bagua. Please see the graphic base1.gif (THIS IMAGE IS COPYRIGHT, EXTRACTED FROM Geomancy.net The Flying STAR COURSE, YOU ARE NOT PERMITTED TO USE IT UNLESS WITH OUR EXPLICT PERMISSION.) It is used here in this e-mail for your information so that you can better understand how it flies without having to explain in text. (c) Robert Lee, Geomancy.Net - Center for Applied Feng Shui Research The only difference between the base1.gif and the eight trigram you used is that the 5 is missing as it is not necessary in the 8 trigrams. This forms the new eight trigram layout which is termed the later Heavenly Sequence which helps to explain the 24 Mountains concept in the Flying Star Theory. Therefore, it is nothing to do with what you had mentioned that it flies in odd or even number, but rather derived from the same flying star theory that presented the 8 trigram in a Heavenly Sequence. This layout is used frequently with a Flying Star 24 mountain sequence. As for the yin & yang issue, just refer each of the trigram to the moon which you had, and you will know which is yin & yang etc. Hope that helps. Warmest Regards Robert Lee

-- Extracted from a messaged posted to us privately via e-mail seeking help from Geomancy.net on the Compass School Feng Shui -- 1. Attached please find graphics: Graphics of 2B.GIF, PAGE4A.JPG, PAGE4B.JPG scanned in by the user to make it easier to understand the question, credits to whichever book it originated from.) -- Start of Message -- To: Support @ Geomancy.Net Subject: Re: Questions about the yijing-Loshu square Date: On Tue, 8 Jan 2002 13:30:06 +0100 From: A User - snipped - Hello :-) Saw information about you and your work about the loshu square/ yijing ,would be nice if you could help me with my questions, its difficult to find an answer , i searched in the internet very extensively and in books.. but with no success and when there a not one but several answers.. My question is as follows: in relation to the i Ging cycle later and earlier heaven : earlier heaven: the movement is the following: (FU HSI TRIGRAM, FILENAME: PAGE4A.JPG). Refer to graphic The movement is determine by the following (FILENAME: 2B.GIF) where the lowest line determines the movement left site is counterclockwise and the other v.v in the fu hsi arrangement. What about the later heaven ? (KING WEN, FILENAME: PAGE4B.JPG) 1 = Kan; 2 = Kun; 3 = Chen; 4 = Sun; 5; 6 = Quian; 7= Tui; 8= gen; 9= Li; a) is it that the left site ( 9,4,3,8 ) is counterclockwise and right site is clockwise ( 2,7,6,1) or that 3,6,8,1 is counterclockwise and 7,2,9,4 is clockwise ? b) is there also a movement for numbers and not only for triagrams or are the mixed together polarity of numbers (black and white diots of the luo shu ) and triarams? c) and when--- numbers are mixed what then is the result clockwise or counterclockwise movement ? e.g. 8 (gen) yin and 9 (li) yang ? or 4 is yin and 6 is yin ? Hope you can give me a bit clarification :-) Be well, hope to hear from you! Best wishes and have a good time Kindest Regards, -- user name removed --

Dear Users, 1. The users in this forum has grown quite huge. To-date there are more than 10,000 members in this forum and growing. 2. As this is a heavily participated forum, please consider selecting digest mode under " Edit your Profile " setting in this forum to receive only ONE summarized digest instead of multiple e-mails. (If you had selected participation thru " Mailing List " instead of logging to the forum.) 3. This forum is moderated and questions posted are not immediately posted to the forum. As I personally look at each message before posting it into the forum. 4. Normally, I log in every day to the forum; and you should receive all verified messages everyday or if it is a weekend i.e. Saturday or Sunday; then it may get posted later (on Monday or a few days later), if your message is relevant to all members, it will be posted into the forum for all users to see. But some messages as mentioned under Para 6 - may not be answered at all as it asks to analyse their Date of Birth. 5. What is more important is the frequency of answers. We always give top priority to answering all questions usually within one to three days unless it is a weekend or if the question needs more time to look into. However, some questions are either more difficult to reply to; I may `KIV'. Sometimes, due to the continous stream of messages sent into the forum, I may unfortunately missed replying to them. For this, I sincerely apologise for it. If so, your recourse is that you can remind me about it e.g. sent me a private email. 6. Recently there are many questions where users simply give furnish their and/or their family member's date of birth and other information (Pre-analysied) and expect me to do all the homework for them. This is not the spirit for which this forum was started for. 7. As much as we like to help users, we seek your understanding that; there are so many questions coming into the forum and we are unable to help those simply post e.g. their Date of Birth and expect in future logins to find their case done for them. Users can, if they want to, free to engage anyone to do the readings for them. 8. Due to the huge number of requests for help or assistance (sympathy and other hardship cases) we will continue to see where possible we can help them. But, as mentioned, this is an international forum and there is unfortunately only 24 hours in a day. Thus, our help or aid (unfortunately) has to be selective or we would provide users support by giving them Free paid credits for various tools here. 9. Thus, I strongly appeal to users here not to post questions relating to their "personal self" e.g. My Date of Birth is ....... tell me more about myself. Such questions only benefit that specific person and no one else as it is based on that particular person's DOB only. 10. I am always very happy to answer questions or clarifications or queries that benefit everyone here. I also like to act a facilitators role or a `catalyst' in your personal quest to understand better - where possible all sides or key issues to or varying opinions. The end result is not to `spoonfeed' but rather, at the end of it, it is entirely up to each individual to form their own opinion after reading a message. 11. And if you post a relevant question and if it promotes learning, you will be guaranteed of a lengthly and detailed answer to your question. 12. With the `spirit' of promoting learning, I therefore seek everyone's co-operation and understanding on the above. 13. I am currently drafting a " Forum Etiquette " page to allow users to better understand why some questions were not moderated i.e. appear on the forum after a user had written the message or certain message remain un-replied to. Warmest Regards, Cecil Lee Center for Applied Feng Shui Research

Dear Ben, Yes, if it is a Ba Gua mirrior, it is indeed octagon shape and not round. But, the one that is normally used for your rental home, should be red/green in colour - (usually with a flat mirror). Alternatively, try to get one with the ba gua mirror and the picture with a door god below it. For the time being, you can use a circular mirror. The best time to hang the mirror is:- 1st choice - the 1st day of any lunar month. (Preferably on any months other than the 7th lunar month). The good dates to hang the Ba Gua mirror is:- January 27, 2002 - 12th Lunar Month The 1st of each Lunar Month is also considered a good date to hang it. Alternatively, a more personalised date is using the Auspicious Date at www.geomancy-online.com Care of the items hung:- ======================== Due to the weather/ UV light and exposure to outdoor, these items should be:- 1. Checked every one or two years. If faded or in poor quality, be replaced. 2. To remove these items, best to wrap it in an old newspaper and discard it and tie it with a red string. Throw it away in the bin. (The red string is optional, thou). Warmest Regards, Cecil Lee

Dear Susan, You can check out a recent message in this forum under this (same) conference - Free Advice: Message title: House at the end of a private street - 12/18/2001 and the various exchange of messages. Short info: This type of house has to be `cured' if not there are repurcussions for those staying there such as Financial problems. In my personal opinion, if one has the money, try to sell the land and look for another location to build. Feng Shui can help to correct it but since it is not built up yet, my advise is try to sell it and find another plot of land to build a `trouble free' home that does not require any correction. (if possible). Warmest Regards, Cecil

Dear Susan, Thank you for your sketch of the location. In my opinion, since this house is at the end of the road, it is more important (more than ever) for the Feng Shui of the house to be correct. As more attention should be placed in the layout to neutralise the Sha Qi that comes from a house at the end of the road. If you can avail yourself to a Feng Shui practitioner in your country would be good as it would be worth the while spending more time to get the Feng Shui of your new house correct. Warmest Regards, Cecil

Dear Susan, Thanks for the information. Looking at the house, and since it has not been built yet here are my observations: 1. If you can, I would really recommend not having a center courtyard in the home. This is because, a three `sided' court-yard which you mentioned in your `revised' proposal is equally not ideal as it creates an imbalance in Sha Qi and bad feng shui. 2. It is very (very) inauspicious to have the toilets at the frontage of the house with maids/laundry area - is very bad feng shui. 3. To relook at the location of the pool as currently it is at the back of the house. If the pool is still at the location, then, it is best to have a wall e.g. or retaining wall/fence at the back of the house to provide a `solid' backing. Alternatively, the area behind the pool should be `landscaped' with `mountain effect' 4. I am sure not sure, how is the weather in your area but if one look carefully, your living area is located at the West (afternoon sun) while your work area is located at South-West (with the pool) at Devil's backdoor. 5. Currently, the plus point is the main gate meandering sideways to the car porch. 6. It is not ideal to have a store also at the frontage. 7. The house also do not look favourable with a main entrance door (at the frontage). 8. Good homes usually allow for qi to meander and the house also seems (from a top down view) to be uneven i.e. missing or some protusions that is not ideal for `luck'. A more rectangular shaped and compartmentalised (rectangular) shape for each room will be an advantage. Currently, the car porch, and the narrow interior covered walkway, don't look good. I hope you don't mind my comments but honestly, I really do not like the entire layout plan. Warmest Regards, Cecil

Dear Deepti, Frankly, I am not too familar or aware of any good Feng Shui practitioner in India. Perhaps, you can try to check your yellow pages and see if there is a Chinese practitioner in your country and find out more if he/she is willing to teach you. Warmest Regards, Cecil

Dear Users, I have received multiple emails requesting an explanation of the importance of Kong Teck. Chinese Traditions: What does "Kong Teck (Gong De) 功德 Funeral Memorial" signify? 1. It is believed that this ritual brings blessings to the departed soul. 2. In the traditional sense, it is preferred that an individual passes away peacefully, free from suffering, rather than through a tragic or painful event. 3. It is believed that the guardians of the underworld are compassionate beings who come silently to escort the soul of the deceased to the afterlife. 4. Kong Teck, also referred to as 功德 " Gong De " in Mandarin, is a traditional ritual aimed at assisting the deceased in their transition to the next phase of existence. Made from paper and bamboo strips intricately tied together with strings, these ritual items are typically of a considerable size. 5. Consequently, family members or relatives often invest significant amounts of money in carrying out this important ritual. 6. The ceremony takes place on the 49th day following the passing of the deceased. 6.1. The primary focus is on the incineration of intricate paper replicas, including a stunning paper mansion. 6.2. The ritual also involves burning a bamboo and paper model of a luxury car like a Mercedes Benz. A full paper house hidden behind a power supply box unit... 6.2 And they really look like a car. Besides this, `hell money' or `hell notes' are also burnt. 6.3 These are printed paper money (no value) and these are also burnt. 6.4 The intention behind the burning ritual is to send offerings to the departed loved ones, allowing them to make use of the new possessions in their afterlife. Family members are seen folding gold ingots to be later burned as offerings to the deceased. Family members folding gold ingots for later... burning... as offerings to the deceased:- When folded, the each resembles a Chinese ancient ingot: 7. The intention is to ensure a peaceful passage for the departed souls, free from any ailments. Moreover, there are traditional "silver" and "gold" paper notes, referred to as "Jin Zhi" (silver notes) and "Yin Zhi" (gold notes) respectively. 8. Therefore, Kong Teck is meant to bestow blessings upon the deceased. In contemporary society, certain relatives opt not to fold the gold ingots. Instead, they choose to purchase them in large quantities, stacking them in a burning vessel. 9. During the event, which takes place on the 49th day, if possible, esteemed monks or Taoist priests are hired to recite mantras and more. 9.1 These monks or priests are (considered) as " lawyers " to "plead" the deceased case to the Hell Judge or King of Hell known as 阎罗王 (yan luo wang) - Yama, King of Hell 10. Thus for those who attend this ceremony or visit this ceremony on the 49th day, one has to be `pleasant, happy and peaceful' and must not tell the decease (in their hearts) that he/she was ill. 11. Previously, I shared images on the Picture Resources website featuring intricate "paper houses" and lanterns meant for burning on the 49th day or Kong Teck. Warmest Regards, Cecil Lee Postscript: In the past, there existed a shophouse in Joo Chiat that specialized in crafting intricate scale models of funeral memorials, ranging from grand mansion houses to cars and even boats for the deceased. The former shop (Circled in red) used to be here:- Now, shop no more - permanently closed. Currently, the funeral memorials have decreased in size and can be seen in many Chinese stores that specialize in selling incense supplies. These shops offer a wide range of products including clothing, shoes, Rolex watches, iPhones, tablets, and more. Related to burning memorial... It is possible that a construction supervisor managed to gather foreign workers to assist in burning the offerings for him. It could be that he is utilizing the principles of Tai-chi or delegation in this situation. More...

Dear Susan, Thank you for the detailed layout plan. Is it possible to let me of the following:- 1. Are u the bread winner. 2. I can see that you use the home as a home office. Is it possible to share on the state of business i.e. good or bad or any financial difficulties (at the moment). 3. Can you describe your land e.g. flat and surrounding elevation. For example, is the abandoned plantation same level? The main gate is flat or slopes into your home? If it is slopping, is it a gentle gradiant or steep. Do you have say a scanned image showing the "wider" picture of your home in relation to the surrounding homes around it. 4. Apologies, if I asked too many questions. As this means much to me as the input will help me to understand better your home - condition. Thanks in advance. Warmest Regards, Cecil Lee

Dear Christina As mentioned in the earlier e-mail; sometimes we may need to move out especially if the house is not as suitable to the breadwinners. However, we try not to comment further. A competent FS practitioner can usually help to identify the situation. If it is due to some things that can be corrected, then, it may help. As no two situations are alike; it is hard for me to mentioned it. I can recall, situations where; if it is really due to the location and `normal' FS is unable to "cure or correct this "; especially in situations where people face real situations of financial problems. In this situation, they are prepared to `swallow' the bitter pill such as selling their home e.g. a Five Room HDB (govt, housing and development flat) and buying smaller unit i.e. 3 or 4 room flats. Overall, each case depends and what I mentioned was just to (in my hope) to allow you to understand better that Feng Shui is a holistic method involving both a macro (the landscape and site) and micro Feng Shui (the building and interior of the home). Warmest Regards, Cecil Lee