The season of harvest is ending and once again we start the journey inward. The cycles of life are ever present. From spring planting and the promise of new beginnings to the end of the growing season, we are reminded that the efforts we put forward into transformation will always produce results. What seeds are you planting? Are you stuck? Or are you moving forward with the seasons. Have your thoughts matured? Are you keeping anger and blame in your pocket? What needs throwing away? Look deep into the "pocket."

Each individual comes to earth with a ticket of purpose, destiny and talent. Maybe your ticket has slipped to the bottom of that pocket and you have completely forgotten why you agreed to this journey called life. Other clutter piles on top of these talents and purposes and we forget we were even issued these priceless tokens.

Clutter in all forms creates procrastination. The mind, body and spirit become tired, cranky and sick.

Feng shui, the ancient system of balance and harmony was recognized centuries ago by Chinese intellects. They searched for the best areas of land to produce crops, build temples and nurture families. Although every surviving civilization used a form of feng shui, the Chinese recorded their progress and prosperity. Keeping records of yearly rain measurement, violent storms, tides, waterways, forest growth, crop success, healthy citizens and workers provided the ancient masters with priceless information through the good and bad years. Realizing the balance of positive and negative powers needed to be kept in harmony to produce a healthy environment, they became advisors to the rulers. Many civilizations have come to the same conclusions and have shared success and prosperity.

The reason I believe Chinese feng shui has gained such popularity is because we have volumes of this recorded information. Whether you choose form school, compass school, intuitive school or geomancy I feel they will all work, I just find the Black Hat School of feng shui brings relief quickly and effectively.

As Professor Lin Yun, master in the world on this concept states, "We want to provide people with peace in the homes, which in turn provides peace in the communities, peace in the cities, peace in the states, peace in the country and then encompasses peace for the world." What a concept. Never is religion mentioned in this purpose, which in turn gives each individual the freedom to use their own beliefs to provide balance and harmony within their environment.

Many clients ask, "Where do I start? My clutter is so overwhelming?" Start by reviewing your life. What is working? What isn’t working? Check your job or career. Do you love it? Does it bring joy to your heart? Family life can be improved. Health can be helped. Money flow may need to be increased. Are you and your partner at a crossroads? Why don’t you have time for hobbies anymore? Are you feeling overwhelmed with — it seems I have to do everything myself syndrome?

Releasing old bedroom furniture can change your life. How many generations have slept in your bed. Are you thinking like they did? Did you like the previous owners of your home or furniture?

1. Begin by checking one drawer at a time. How many straws, toothpicks or outdated coupons do you need?
2. Walk to the most unused room of the house. What is stored in this area? Which triad of the bagua does this room reside in? Laying the 8-sided grid over your floor plan gives you the quickest answer. This tool shows you where your life is stuck and stagnant. These "hot spots" bring trouble to that area of your life.
3. Is your purse overflowing with receipts and change?
4. Are the hallways of your home filled with shoes and books? Health problems could arise if the center of your office or home needs de-cluttering. Create a bright inviting space and get rid of too many objects.
5. Many years ago I formed a check and balance system that still works for me. If I bring any new item into the house, one equally sized item has to leave. Using this system has helped me eliminate excess possessions.

Try some of these methods of clearing clutter and I promise you will eventually retrieve that lost treasure in your pocket.

Cash in your unique ticket. Start living today the purpose and destiny given to you at the time of entrance to this planet.

Have you missed a weekly column? Here’s something new: Check the website www.fengshuiartistry.com and click on moongate school to view archives of West Meets East. Come by Caroline’s Arts and Feng Shui Shoppe at 129 First St. to pick up your brochure for our upcoming Feng Shui Intensive Weekend. Registration is beginning now for this fabulous weekend getaway. Saturday, October 27 and Sunday, October 28, 10 a.m. — 5 p.m. at the beautiful Embassy Suites in Burlingame. The nine story plant filled atrium will be the site of our luncheons. A special overnight room rate is available on a first come, first serve basis. Early bird registration fee $399. Call for more details (707) 748-1127.

Other Fall classes include:

Zen Power Garden — Create your own desktop sand garden. Sunday, September 16 10 a.m. — 12 p.m.

Watercolor Greeting Cards — beginners and advanced students welcome. All supplies included. Saturday September 22 , 9:30 a.m. — 12:30 p.m.

Location-Location-Location — How does your location affect your life? This class will be held at the McBride Center in Vacaville. Call 469-6671 to register. Special fee of only $30. Saturday, September 29, 6:30 — 8 p.m.

Feng Shui Secrets to Prosperity — the best office locations in your home or building and feng shui power placement of your desk and office equipment — business success. Register with the McBride Center in Vacaville 469-6671 for Thursday, October 11 10 — 11:30 a.m.

Caroline Patrick is an artist, herbalist and feng shui consultant. She combines these three talents into a unique practice. Herbal suggestions are suggestions only. Please consult a medical doctor for treatment of disease. Check out the website: www.fengshuiartistry.com and www.moongateschool.com for more classes and services available.