This is because the center represents overall chi (energy), and 5 and 2 are the most inauspicious (least desirable) stars.

The magic square (the foundation of flying stars) appears in the picture to the right. Because flying stars return to their home position in 2004, their power is doubled (good and bad).

That 5 star returned to the center, it is not a favorable year in general. As an earth year, anything related to that industry (construction as an example) would do well to seek a feng shui professional. Otherwise, there can be severe project delays, financial hazards, lawsuits, casualties, and other long-term negative impacts including disaster.

Everyone would do well to consult with a feng shui professional to evaluate critical combinations (resulting from a thorough analysis) and avoid their possible negative effects. If the center of your home has a lot of activity (which most do), a metal remedy may be called for. Implementing an appropriate remedy is very important. 'Guessing' can have long-term effects.

Globally, "earth" disturbances (5 is an earth number) are predicted for Mother Earth (quakes, landslides) and generated by man (fire, bombings).

In addition, it's the beginning of the next 20-year cycle (2004-2023). Cycle 8 represents youth, and so be aware of activities involving youth. An example is more second-generation and younger leaders (already appearing—U.S. and Korean presidents). Youth are known for spontaneity and over confidence. That's not criticism, it's my experience (from my youth).

Remember--today's children are the leaders of tomorrow. How can you influence their greatness? Will you take a more active role in mentoring and sharing your wisdom? Today's commercials (about what your children are up to) are right on target for the new cycle. Be involved.

The influence of the monkey (Chinese astrology) brings over-optimism, but can be years of transformation. The monkey is lively, but has difficulty staying focused. Monkey years (every 12 years) heighten cleverness, deception, and travel. Those who enjoy risk and novelty will thrive. Those who prefer predictability may be uncomfortable. The monkey is a "traveling horse" in the Four Pillars of Destiny system. The upside is tourism; the down side is accidents. Drive defensively.

The monkey has abundant yang energy, and can cause environmental challenges. Here are a couple examples of how this displays itself. During 1992 (water monkey), the U.S. saw Hurricane Andrew and Iniki (each costing lives and billions of dollars). Globally, there were devastating tsunamis. In 1980 (metal monkey), Mount St. Helen's erupted.

The year's element energy is that of yang wood (with hidden metal). Wood represents Spring (or first 12 years of life), rapid growth, idealism, and youthful innocence. Yang wood is uncompromising, and can produce political upheaval. Negotiation won't be easy, but is necessary. Violence will only beget violence. Since metal is hidden and metal cuts wood (in the element cycle), this symbolizes disharmony.

The combination of monkey and wood appears every 60 years. During 1944, it resulted in a climactic year in WWII (threat of disaster created the alliance, D-Day, Anzio, and more).

This being a wood year, hidden metal means caution--forests, agriculture, and the environment are vulnerable. Encourage your peers and leaders to be responsible, and make decisions based on long-term global health versus short-term financial gains. Industries related to wood may suffer (garden centers, textiles, fashion, publishing, etc.).

Each element is related to different body parts and functions. To name a few: Wood is feet, throat, liver, and dealing with pressure; and metal is mouth, chest, and head. Wood is weakened this year (due to metal), and may enable liver disease and mental breakdown (nerves or memory). Also, take precautions against lung problems. This is a good time to quit smoking.

Favorable influences of 2004's wood monkey: