August 19 up to September 16 this year marks the celebration of the Hungry Ghost Month in many parts of the world. Through the years, this traditionally Chinese event has blended into other cultures that have embraced its ancient beliefs and teachings. It traces its origin to Buddhists and Taoists who believe that during this month, deceased souls roam among the living. If not properly appeased, they may cause mischief; thus, it is important to be on their good side by making necessary offerings and following safety practices.

This year, it makes the most sense to review and heed the usual do’s and don’ts associated with this month-long event. Just when we were preparing to welcome the positive promises of the year 2020, the elements were overpowered by the dreaded COVID-19 virus, and the world was brought to its knees. Just like that, we saw despair all around us due to loss of livelihoods, overwhelmed healthcare systems, and worst, the loss of thousands of precious lives.

These restless spirits are now in a different dimension, but may still be in limbo due to the swiftness of the events that cut their lives short. It therefore becomes incumbent for the living to appease these spirits, not only to ask them to spare us from misfortune, but more importantly, to assure them that they are remembered and honored in the most loving ways.

Some basic Do’s:

The best way to ease their suffering is to pray for their souls and make offerings on their behalf. This can be done at home by lighting incense, the scent of which is believed to keep them at peace. Some choose to burn paper money or serve the favorite food of the deceased.

Since many of us are confined at our homes, it helps to check out dark corners and enclosed spaces. These sections should be kept clean and well-lighted, as dirt attracts negative energy and spirits do not like to situate themselves in bright spaces.

If you must play music, it should be of the light and peaceful type that invites harmonious and happy feelings.

Other important feng shui suggestions

There are many ways to protect ourselves from the negative influences of the Hungry Ghosts. For more suggestions, please watch:

These are indeed very challenging times for all of us. What we have anticipated as a positive start of a new zodiac cycle turned out to be the very opposite of what we have envisioned. Still, it is our hope that we find meaning in all these from the Chinese philosopher Lao Tzu who said “New beginnings are often disguised as painful endings.”

Nobody ever thought that the Year of the Metal Rat would usher in the “New Normal.” But if we keep hope in our hearts, we can rise from all these if we just remember two simple things: Do No Harm and Keep Safe.