Asian Journal- The Filipino-American Community Newspaper

EVERYONE makes decisions every day. At some point, you may question if you are doing the right thing or feel uncertain about what direction to take. Parents and elders can help you make major decisions in your life, however, they may not always be physically accessible.

In the circle of life, the physical body perishes, but the soul never dies. Because all energy is recycled and interconnected, your ancestors always remain a part of you. As long as you stay connected with your ancestors in some fashion, they can impart their wisdom and comfort to you. Realizing and embracing this concept is empowering.

Maintaining connection with your ancestors can be done several ways. In many cultures, an altar is placed in the home. Although styles vary, the ancestral altar is basically a table or cabinet with space for a plaque of your ancestors’ names, an incense burner, three cups of water, and daily offerings of fruit or flowers. The ancestral altar acts as a bridge between you and your ancestors.

In various cultures, there are special times during the year set for celebrating ancestry or remembering the deceased. For the Chinese, this time is known as the "Ghost Month" and occurs every year. Beginning on the fifteenth night of the seventh lunar month, the first night of Ghost Month always coincides with when the full moon is in opposition, or 180 degrees alignment with the sun. It is believed that during this alignment, the portals of the spirit dimensions are open and spirits are able to freely roam the earth and visit their families.

Ghost Month festivities focus mind and soul energy for connecting with ancestral wisdom. During the first, fifteenth, and last day of the Ghost Month, offerings of food, the burning of incense, and the burning of paper representations of material goods are performed along with prayers. With these prayers and offerings you can send your messages, questions, and wishes to your ancestors, asking them to resolve your concerns or manifest your desires.

This year, on the western solar calendar, Ghost Month corresponds with the 30 days from August 10 through September 7. However, there is a double Ghost Month this year, which adds another fifteen days before and after the usual Ghost Month, extending it from July 26 through September 22.

Another very powerful way to connect with ancestral wisdom is to meditate upon Chi Art. Because Chi Art is comprised of empowering mantras and symbolism, it allows you to access other dimensions by imagining yourself as part of the painting’s energy and absorbing the messages of the charms, colors, mantras, and star configurations.