“The Journey to My Self - A Spiritual [Re]connection to Ancestry” by Onyi Love

Life as Ceremony, Volume 6: “Reclaiming & Remembering

Onyi’s article, though more of a mini-biography, offers a deep and personal account of her spiritual awakening and reconnection with her ancestral roots through Ifá, a central practice in Yoruba spirituality. The piece delves into Onyi’s exploration of African spiritual practices, specifically how ancestral veneration and the rich traditions of Ifá have played a pivotal role in her healing journey and personal transformation. Through her narrative, Onyi reflects on the profound impact of embracing indigenous spiritual systems that honor ancestral wisdom and empower individuals to heal generational wounds, offering insight into how these practices contribute to holistic well-being and personal empowerment.

Key takeaways:

• The power of ancestral veneration: Onyi discusses how reconnecting with her ancestors through daily prayers, rituals, and offerings has been foundational in her journey of self-discovery and healing.

• Cultural reclamation through Ifá: Onyi reflects on the significance of practicing Ifá, a Yoruba tradition, as a radical act of spiritual healing and reclaiming ancestral power that had been lost due to forced conversions during colonialism.

• Healing through Yoruba traditions: Through her experience, Onyi highlights the healing power of embracing traditional African spirituality and how these practices, including spiritual rituals, offer tools for emotional healing, personal growth, and generational transformation.

• Reconnecting with ancestral wisdom: The article illustrates how Onyi’s personal connection to her ancestors and the practices of Yoruba spirituality have led to a deeper understanding of her gifts, identity, and spiritual purpose.

• Breaking the silence around African spiritual practices: Onyi’s story serves as a call for greater representation of traditional African spiritual systems and their role in healing the wounds caused by colonization, manifest destiny, and White-Supremacy. By highlighting the importance of these practices, Onyi advocates for the diversity of spiritual thought and their value in today’s world.

• The role of spiritual transformation in personal identity: Onyi emphasizes that through spiritual transformation, individuals can reestablish a connection with their authentic selves, enabling them to move forward in life with clarity, peace, and empowerment.

• Indigenous African spirituality and its modern relevance: The article underscores the importance of embracing traditional African spiritual beliefs as a means to remain grounded and spiritually centered amidst life’s challenges.

Onyi’s piece is both a reflection and a call to action for individuals to rediscover their roots and embrace their spiritual heritage, particularly for those navigating the complexities of being Black in a world shaped by colonial history. Through a compelling narrative, Onyi encourages a deeper connection with ancestral wisdom as a means of healing, personal transformation, and cultural reclamation.