Cecil Lee

Dear Anon, In my opinion, this is not true. This is because, for one reason, especially in China, as houses are to live in and not often houses are sold. It is difficult to find alternative housing. One interesting thing is that trees are grown if they can thrive in a particular region. It would be interesting to know that in my country, if you do drive around in an estate, it is common to see an alternate house growing mango tree. Mango trees thrive in my region. For larger houses, especially in the past e.g. where houses (were) around 8,000 sq feet or more, you can see both Mango and rambutan trees planted. But because of land scarcity and smaller landed properties, Mango trees are the first choice. Here, some feel that mango tree serves two purpose: provide adequate shade and some mango trees produce as much as 100 or more fruits in a regular season. Warmest Regards, Cecil

This interesting article shares some light into the `history' or invention of the toilet bowl...

Dear Kari, In my opinion, as much as Feng Shui is `interesting' it can't do more than it's purpose. For a School, usually, it has to be looked at not only from the perspective of Feng Shui but common sense. Most Schools if possible try to be sited or located in a quieter environment. For example, if the school is in a city, usually the classrooms are furthest away from the traffic. Such as having open ground or in my country, mini hills (especially if the classroom) is close to the road. In your situation, it is more the way the subject is taught (i.e. in a `interesting' or allow for greater participation - depending on the topic). Thus, what I feel is that rather than finding a `Feng Shui' model, the methology of teaching in an interesting way, would best suit the situation. Feng Shui, in my opinion, cannot be considered as a 1001 all purpose enhancer but rather, is limited by what it can and cannot do. Warmest Regards, Cecil

Dear John, Usually, more important concerns are based on the layout of the shop and one of the most important considerations is the frontage of the shop: 1. It is always wise to stand at the front of the shop looking outwards. Here, try to see if there are any `poison arrows'. More common poison arrows is e.g. a lone tree slicing the main entrance or facing an escalator or other pointed (poison arrows.) 2. If traditional Feng Shui is applied, usually, detailed analysis is done to look at the exact compass direction of the door and doing a analysis using the Flying Star. From the above, then the color of the frontage is determined. 3. Alternatively, one should still consider Para 1. but if one wants to forgo Para 2, then use your "feelings." In retail, there is really no hard and `fast rule'. Between Feng Shui considerations or Marketing considerations, I would prefer to go for the Marketing options. The Marketing option looks at your target audience. If your target audience is the younger or trendy, you could even paint some interesting murals of water scenes/water objects etc... Warmest Regards, Cecil

Further to what I had mentioned earlier, traditional Feng Shui should be: 1. Based on the Five Elements. 2. If it is not based on the Five Elements, at least, it can be related to Yin and Yang concept. (The only exception is the Eight House Theory where it is still based on the Compass School of Feng Shui) 3. Under Symbolism, it is looked at in relation to "holistic" Feng Shui. It cannot be cited all the time. If it is `cited' all the time or used as an `excuse' all the time without at least in some instances related to Para 1 (5 elements) or Para 2 (Yin and Yang) most likely in my opinion, the person is simply practising `Kindergarten Feng Shui'. Usually, if one looks carefully, or deep enough, many who practise `Kindergarten Feng Shui' may use it as a ploy for marketing of products such as wind chimes or other items. Warmest Regards, Cecil

Dear Anon, Let me first touch on `corner' "Feng Shui" such as `elder's / superior's corner. In my opinion, I can understand why such concepts appeal to many people (both "practitioners" and those who feel inclined to follow the `corner' concept. It is like the equivalent of Traditional Feng Shui i.e. Eight House Compass School where these concepts are easy to understand. What draws a person to Traditional Feng Shui are usually, initial theories such as the Eight House Theory. On the same parallel, what draws one to "psudeo" Feng Shui such as fixed templates or corners is also the simplicity of understanding it. But, in my opinion, `fixed' templates are too general to be of use in Feng Shui. I have mentioned in quite alot of messages that how can it be that e.g. South West is the corner for Romance for every single living soul on earth. If there are a billion people on this earth, is it possible that SW remains the Romance corner for all of us? So, if 100 of us decide to enhance the romance corner and if all of us are chasing after only 1 girl; then who will eventually marry this girl? Thus, in my opinion, it is not possible to follow such concepts. Eight aspirations or life associations where each sector has a meaning does not mean that e.g. North = Career sector for all of us. Worse, if we use the Black Hat Sect `fixed template' format. We should not pay homage to a corner. I have elaborated that even under the Shapes and Form School of Feng Shui, there is still differentiation. For example, every main door may have a different `influence'. I may be lucky as there is no lamp post in the middle of my home. My neighbour may have a pointed corner of a neighbour's home (poison arrow) aimed at his main door. Here, the `Shapes and Form' can be different for each home. Imagine, it would be silly if the house we live in has no poison arrow but because, we want to standarise, place a `Ba gua' mirror on every main door even if there is no poison arrow. Please see below:- I do agree that some elements of Feng Shui is based on symbolism. But it should be seen in the context of applying Feng Shui in a holistic way. Using the various theories and `scoring' as many marks in all categories. Usually, in my opinion, one should either: if they have good intuition or more inclined to Shapes and Form Feng Shui, may try to use intutition or sixth sense. But for those who are `weaker' or may not be able to sense the environment, should consider applying the Flying Star Feng Shui. Here, you look at each sector. If there is an imbalance caused, one has to neutralise the sector. For example, if there is a bad wood or #3, one should not enhance a sector with wood element. Here, depending on the sector which is out of balance, a cure should be used. Under the Flying Star, for example:- 8 3 4 Here, there is bad wood and the cure should be to use Fire element to neutralise wood. For another combination: 1 5 2 Here, instead wood would be needed to neutralise Earth. In another situation: 9 4 3 Here we should use Metal element to control wood. The above are examples of how, Traditional Feng Shui based on the 5 elements concept in relation to Flying Star is used. Not any other simple ideas where we call a sector our " Elder's / Superior " corner and then think of ideas on how not to `enhance' it such as avoiding the use of money plant. Unfortunately, fixed template can be looked at as `non-Feng Shui'. Or, if we want to give it some credence, may just call this Kindergarten Feng Shui. Therefore, in this forum, we do not discuss on Career sectors and happily talk about simplistic ideas which is too general that if we can sell the idea to a billion people. Statistically, if we do apply a career sector to a billion population, how can it be that, everyone by enhancing their `career' sector be doing well? There are always unfortunate souls who get retrenched or worse, get into a fatal accident even in work. Warmest Regards, Cecil

Dear James, There can be other factors other than the main entrance: 1. The common `problems' include Shapes and Form School of Feng Shui. It is best that you look at the environment, the site and the home (based on shapes and form) and where possible identify or let me know any poison arrows aimed at your house 2. For the interior of the home, do consider the shapes and form school e.g. location of the toilets, the placement of bed... 3. Initially, try to check on the above, first. Warmest Regards, Cecil

Dear Anon, In my personal opinion, these small magnets are the least of our worries (in terms of applying Feng Shui). It is quite common to find even coca cola small magnets or other colorful ones placed on the fridge. Warmest Regards, Cecil

Dear Anon, In my opinion, this is not necessarily a true statement. However, if one is poor and caught HIV or aids, you do need money to pay for `better' treatment. Warmest Regards, Cecil

Dear Butter, 1. There are two alternatives: 1.1 This may not be practical but it is always good to use a good compass with relatively good mass. But if you cannot obtain one or find it not worth the while than follow para 1.2 (see below) 1.2 Method 1, go to an empty plot of land nearby or a grass field (becareful not to wear any jewellery or take a few readings from the grass field incase it does also have metallic objects on the ground. After which, get a layout plan and try to `superimpose' the north-south direction on the layout plan. 1.3 The next alternative is to follow the surveyor's method under this picture:- http://www.geomancy.net/fs/cecilcompass.htm Do not take the compass reading from the centrepoint but use the `surveyor's method as shown' i.e. align the compass needle by `aiming' the sight to a wall of the home. Do the same for the other side of the wall. For more info, please review the animated gif carefully. Warmest Regards, Cecil

Dear Kaushal, Yes, money plant can cling on walls and can be considered as a `vine' plant. It can equally grow well on a bed of ground. Plants, if they are not left to grow wildly are always considered `acceptable'. But if it were to grow within the house, try not to allow it to grow up the wall. For the external wall, it can still be grown but do not allow it to `over grow' uncontrolled. If one has an area where you want to grow it, in my opinion, this is fine. Warmest Regards, Cecil

Dear Linda, Please see below:- In my opinion, it is best not to place a mirror as it is not meant to "neutralise" this. A mirror is used for other situations and if used, it should usually be looked at with a perspective of the house either after having analysed the house by a FS practitioner or using Flying Star analysis in conjunction with Shapes and Form. For shapes and form, we look at how yin or dark this area is ... Warmest Regards, Cecil

Dear Lian Seng, Please see below:- ----- Original Message ----- From: "free-advice Listmanager" To: Sent: Monday, July 24, 2000 12:28 PM Subject: Placing a wind chime You have asked how to determine when to place a wind chime. It is good to analyse the house by doing a Flying Star analysis and then checking to see if a wind chime is `suitable'. Here, the type of material used and equally color of the wind chime should also be considered. For example, if the wind chime is colored red, or in a triangle shape, (depending on the overall shape) it could mean that it has the fire element. Frankly, it is hard for me to comment on your situation as mentioned above, it would require i.e. either a physical audit (intuitive Feng Shui) or do a Flying Star analysis. On the other hand, if you do not want to carry out any of the above, would have to use your own (personal) feelings or by trial and error Feng Shui. In my opinion, many of the most recent TV sets have anti-glare coating and may not necessary need to be covered up. But if you want to, you can do so. If one can sleep peacefully all this while, why follow the jones and cover the screen. In my opinon, one should not be too concerned with too many `taboos' but do what you feel is `good'. Warmest Regards, Cecil

Dear Anon, In my opinion, this is not true. On the contrary, many Chinese party officials remarry after the demise of their wife. For example: The late Chairman Mao remarried Mdm Jiang Jing (who later tried to take power) after he died. His earlier wife died and he then married Mdm Jiang The most recent President Jiang, also has a wife. Many other party officials have a family also. It is the belief that to be `respected' one must not be a `bachelor'. Therefore, in my opinion, it is not that girls are afraid to marry them but rather, usually their wife's play a low key position (or seemed to play a low key). Warmest Regards, Cecil

Spring water and China - Laoshan Oldenlandia Water Dear Anon, I took the opportunity to take a picture of what the `green' mineral water looks like. By the way, the correct `English' spelling on the bottle is: Oldenlandia Water. This is the description on the label: OLENLANDIA WATER Make of the abstracted fragrant essense of oldeniadia with Laoshan mineral water rich in mineral elements and it is indeed a refreshing drink for all seasons around the year with a tradition of quality sinces 1962. It is bottled by Qindao Laoshan Oldenlandia Water Co Ltd, China. It is the addition of oldeniadia to Laoshan mineral water that gives it a unique flavour. I forgot to mention that often some take it with a pinch of salt added. I am not sure, if you have this in your country. But if not, perhaps, someone, perhaps you would like to try to be the importer/distributor:) Warmest Regards, Cecil

Dear Darlene, Please refer to my earlier thoughts on `corner' or fixed template "Feng Shui". In my opinon, I feel that it is not a good way to improve the life. Warmest Regards, Cecil

Dear Darlene, It would be `difficult' for me to reply to the question of a question on a `CORNER' and provide a `fixed' answer to it. This would mean the forum would end out no better than a non-tradtional Feng Shui forum and become more like a FIXED TEMPLATE Feng Shui forum. In my opinion, fixed template Feng Shui is nothing more than a `con' job in trying to provide "advice". It is never wise to pay homage to a `corner' or simply look at corners. *JOKE* It also reminds one of wearing a DUNCE hat and asked to stand at the corner. There are more that real Feng Shui offers to many rather than the above. I have provided many examples and caricatures on the `effects' of corners. Warmest Regards, Cecil

Dear Anon, Grateful if you can elaborate further or identify what the `three gods' are? In general, most figurines are just simply decorative items just like any other decorative objects. Unless, one prays to them. For `Gods', it is always good advise:- 1. Do not place the statute in the bedroom 2. Do not place it on the opposite wall as the toilet Otherwise, it would be acceptable to place them in the living room area, just like any other decorative items. Figurines of `gods' e.g. of the three-legged toad are mostly commercial items where we purchased them out of our hard earned money. They are neither mystical or have powers to earn you money. These are commercial objects that in some cases, make us willing to part our money in the hope? Hope of? $ ?? Warmest Regards, Cecil

Dear Rasika, 1. In my opinion, there is no easy or direct `key success' factor in selling your house by simply tying red ribbons etc... 2. Feng Shui is used often in a holistic way and there are many other factors involved e.g. such as the selling price, location, location and location. 3. (I emphaise location 3 times because, in my opinion, this is a key area). 4. If the property has good Feng Shui, one can draw attention to the buyer (provided the buyer can be convinced that it has good Feng Shui). 5. Thus, rather than find hope in Feng Shui perhaps, someone suggesting tying a huge red ribbon around the house, do we want to do it? Instead it may just `put-off' the buyer. 6. It is good that you review the selling price with your sales agent or check to see what other things he/she can do. 7. I do not like to discourage you, in not trying to use Feng Shui but, my point is to focus on other means. Luck also plays an important part. Warmest Regards, Cecil

Dear John, This can be explained by:- 31 July 2000 to 28 August 2000 is considered the `dreaded' Chinese 7th month. The Chinese seventh month is considered the month where hungry ghosts are let out on earth to roam. Thus, during this month, many people avoid buying a new house, moving house, buying a new car, opening a new business, leisure travel. To applease the ghosts, offerings are given to the `ghosts'. Road shows are also conducted e.g. makeshift tents are erected on empty lots or car parks in neighbourhoods. One purpose for this road show e.g. artists will sing songs and entertain both human guests and the purpose is also to entertain the ghosts to keep them occupied from creating mischief. I am not sure if there is a coincidence but during the 7th month, I always noticed a higher significance of elderly death around my country and obiturary notices in the newspapers. (Not that I look at it everyday, do a sampling.) I have not gathered any statistics on this so it is just a passing comment. Hope you can now have a better understanding of the nature of the Chinese Seventh month. Thus for me, I would also take the advise of your friends and to open the business before 31 July 2000. Warmest Regards, Cecil ----- Original Message ----- From: "chinese-culture Listmanager" To: Sent: Friday, July 21, 2000 8:45 AM Subject: Open business before August 1

Dear Felicia, In my opinion, Feng Shui's specialty does not lie in resolving such problems as it more inclined towards other disiciplines like Zi Wei Dou Shu or Chinese Astrology. Astrology helps to understand the characteristics but in the end result it depends on the individuals or parties involved. In my sincere opinion, it would be nice to say that by placing or changing the layout, one could immediately stop the `problem'. Feng Shui may to a certain extend, reduce or improve luck but, as I mentioned, it would be best to look somewhere else for an answer. If not, one would end up very frustated if given false hope that, e.g. move the furniture to X location etc.. Sometimes it can help but again, one has to go to the root cause of the problem or by looking at the human side. When we reach a certain age, our thoughts and habbits are formed and may be harder to change. It is like trying to change a leopard with white spots. I believe other disciplines in behavioural or human interaction would help much better here than relying on FS or astrology. Warmest Regards, Cecil

Dear Anon, In my opinion, I tend to agree with you on this. One reason is due to the problem caused by the `one child' policy adopted in China. One should understand that China had no choice but to curb a baby boom. Thus the `one child' policy was adopted. Traditionally, Chinese have always belief that a married couple must give birth to a `heir' or a male child. This is because, only a male child can continue with the family line. For example, when a couple gets married: The husband's surname is TAN The wife's surname is LIM When the wife marries the husband, if here name is LIM Mei Ling, she becomes TAN Mei Ling. Thus, only when one has a MALE child then can one continue to carry on with the surname TAN. Thus if would be great if one has a son. His name will start with the surname TAN. If one has a daughter, when she marries someone else, she cannot `carry' on with the surname TAN. Assuming that the family : husband and wife does not have a son, then, the surname `TAN' is lost after the husband dies. Many Chinese thus have to resort to aborting their daughter. Some perhaps, unwilling to go for abortion or too late to do so, or later discover that they had a daughter might instead abandon their child. Thus, in my opinion, majority of the children would be girls. Some may have given birth to a second child and had to give the second child up else face a penalty to having a second child. Warmest Regards, Cecil

Dear Anon, Yes, in my opinion, quite alot of Chinese doctors, do approach their work in a holistic way. It is also because, the patients are receptive to them and give them lots of respect. In fact, majority of the time, one reason is because, some of these doctors operate their own pharmacy i.e. or medical hall. Here, their clinic is like a pharmacy and if they have the time, would explain or at least answer the questions. In my opinon, we should not say that Western medicine VS Chinese medicine but rather, they can co-exist with each other. In the past, many people have very high respects for Chinese doctors and this respect gives comfort to many who tend to open up to them. Warmest Regards, Cecil

Dear Anon, Chinese women do smoke but they are fewer than males. So far, in my opinion, I personally came across very few if any Chinese women (who had smoked to an elderly age). On the contrast, I know of many Chinese men, who even smoke at the age of 80+ or more. I personally cannot understand why, but in my lifetime, I can recall at least 8 to 10 elderly persons (male) who continue to smoke but yet did not die because of it. I know that some of them smoke quite heavily. Maybe, I may be mistaken but, so far, I know they died of old age i.e. 80 to 90 plus. Perhaps, I am not sure why they did not die from e.g. cancer etc... Warmest Regards, Cecil

Dear Anon, In my country, which is predominatly Chinese i.e. 70% of the population are Chinese. It is interesting to note that, the Ministry of Environment officals can give a fine or summons to hawkers (selling drinks or food) found to serve food on broken crockery. Personally, I inherited an antique Goddess of Mercy figurine. Unfortunately, one of the lotus leaf (has a small chip). I personally could not throw it away. But I had a fingure of the Chinese Monkey God, it's hand was broken, when I shifted to this home 5 years ago. Since this is a major `damage' I had no choice but to throw it away. Warmest Regards, Cecil