By Kai Magsanoc (Coffee with Kai), January 6, 2018

Ref: https://kaimagsanoc.wordpress.com/2018/01/06/culture-marites-allens-2018-feng-shui/ 

MANILA, Philippines – I met feng shui master Marites Allen in 2014 while I was still with Yahoo Philippines, through the kindness of publicist Grace Lomboy Foronda. I still remember clearly our first lunch at F1 Hotel in Bonifacio Global City, where Miss Marites gave me auspicious bangles for my Chinese astrological sign, the Earth Sheep.

Miss Marites and I hit it off instantly. She was one of the few people who understood my silence and who believed in what I can do. She welcomed me into her family, often asking me to dinner with her husband, Sir Nick, and daughter, Nikki. Or we would meet up, just us two, and simply be women who wanted to achieve more.

It was through Miss Marites that I met and interviewed business tycoon Washington SyCipin his office at auditing firm Sycip Gorres and Velayo in 2015. It was one of those interviews that changed me for the better and for good. There is no energy as beautiful as that of a great man whose kindness and simplicity was incomparable and inspiring.

That story on Wash (as he was affectionately called by family, friends, and staff) was my last story for Yahoo Philippines. I am grateful that Yahoo Singapore picked it up and is still published to this day. Mr SyCip passed away last October 7, 2017 peacefully in his sleep aboard a Philippine Airlines (PAL) flight to Vancouver.

“He passed away doing something he loved,” Miss Marites told guests at her 13th feng shui convention today, from 10am to 4pm, at the grand ballroom of Marco Polo Ortigas.

Miss Marites and I planned to work on several projects together, but when my personal life hit rock bottom shortly after that interview, I became a recluse and withdrew from everyone, including those who loved me. She still reached out by buying me a laptop so I could continue to write, but my heart was not in place and I was not able to do anything.

So today meant more to me than I could ever describe. I am grateful to have still been in her thoughts despite the distance that temporarily took the place of our close friendship. When Violeta from her office asked if I could attend the feng shui convention, I said “yes” in a heartbeat. It was time to see my mentor again.

Miss Marites has a natural gift of gab that — mixed with her wit and sincerity — make for a talk that is both informative and entertaining. She never runs out of patience educating first-timers about feng shui, its significance, symbols, and prominent personalities whose achievements, downfall, and demise fit perfectly into their feng shui profile.

Here is the general outlook for each of the Chinese astrological signs this 2018:

RAT – “Long-term benefits are to be expected by Rat-born people, although the misfortune star has flown into your direction. Consider taking some time off. Rest and give yourself that much-needed break. Avoid afflicted energies by traveling, going on holidays, and spending time with happy people.”

OX – “Watch out for some misunderstandings at the home front. This year will demand much from the Ox because of possible disputes. Be more reasonable, patient, and try to promote a harmonious environment. Letting animosity go will be rewarded. There is pleasant news related to promotion at work or further career development.”

TIGER – “Expect a reasonably good year provided you control your temper and avoid confrontations and fights. You will have to do more than what is expected. Even if you feel that your team does not work exactly in the same direction as you are, just carry on. You will need more friends this year. Take better care of your health.”

RABBIT – “Monetary gains from 2017 may extend to 2018. Wear amulets to protect yourself from losses brought about by the Robbery Star visiting you this year. Opportunities in business and romance are present. Keep your eyes open and be ready to grab them when they present themselves.”

DRAGON – “The dragon will benefit from the luck of wealth this year. But since this is your conflict year, you will feel that progress is elusive. Take it easy and take calculated risks. Get into charity work and avoid inviting complications. Enjoy the love, comfort, and support you receive from your family.”

SNAKE – “Lots of good news are in store. Traveling to exciting places, training in a beautiful location, and receiving promotion at work are among the blessings you will receive. Reciprocate the love and care you receive. This will attract more blessings your way. Don’t let the negativity of the Three Killings Star affect you.”

HORSE – “After a tough 2017, this year will finally be rewarding for the Horse especially in the love department. The auspicious influence of the peach blossom stars visiting you this year will bring so much happiness into your life. Play your cards right and there will be more reasons to celebrate in terms of health and wealth.”

SHEEP – “Refocus on yourself. Whatever you have previously started has a very stable foundation. Redouble your efforts to finally achieve your goals. The presence of the Heavenly Luck Star may bring in unexpected income. Single Sheep will have plenty of opportunities for relationship luck.” 

MONKEY – “2018 will be a hectic year with the possibility of bringing windfall luck in the form of cash inflow. There are many positive events to look forward to. However, while the luck of the Monkey will be positive in most aspects, there will still be threats to physical wellness. Some energies may pose health challenges.”

ROOSTER – “Beat the threat of the Illness Star! Roosters have so much to be joyful for this year as it brings very good prospects despite some challenges. Manage stress at work and business; prioritize your health and well-being, as well as those of your family. Throughout the year there will be threats to your health.”

DOG – “It’s your year! Feng shui winds favor your sector in terms of dissolving past disappointments and misfortunes. New beginnings are in the horizon and better income this 2018 is very possible. Make sure you spend within reason. Politicking or jealousy at work are likely, so be extra careful.”

BOAR – “Time for new beginnings! Let go and forget about past mistakes that brought about anxiety. Every day is a new chance to be better, and the same can be done to your environment. Betrayal is possible, so be prepared for anything and always keep your cool. A strong friendship may come to an end.”

Long read, I know, but I hope it is informative. The merchandise (enhancers of good luck and protectors from bad luck) are available on Frigga Charmed Life, Miss Marites’ very own retail brand. Contact them at +63920-9509390 or through ilovefrigga@gmail.com.

2018 is the Year of the Earth Dog. The Feng Shui convention was themed ‘Getting Things Right.’