Be pragmatic on political reform, Hongkongers told at fortune-telling ceremony

Don't be greedy in the Year of the Goat, Hongkongers were told yesterday at a Taoist fortune-telling ceremony - a message interpreted as a suggestion to accept the government's political reform package.

A fortune stick bearing the number 20 was drawn by Heung Yee Kuk chairman Lau Wong-fat in the annual ritual at the Che Kung Temple in Sha Tin. The stick is seen as "average" in fortune terms.

The literal translation of this year's fortune stick says: "In the morning there's colourful make-up and coiffure in cloud-shaped coils; and jade and pearl ornaments made the brocade look silvery. Yet 'form is emptiness and emptiness is form', that was [goddess of mercy] Kwun Yum's reminder for the mortals."

The message also reminds people: "Don't be greedy."

"I believe it's saying that we should not struggle vigorously for fame and riches, it will be in vain," rural patriarch Lau said. "I think it's a bit of an implication that people should pocket first [whatever is on the table for political reform]."

A fortune teller surnamed Yu, who helped Lau interpret the message, also said it was a reminder for people to have "practical and pragmatic wishes".