This episode is not just about my transformative trip to Brazil; it’s also a coming-out story. Before this journey, I kept my practice of African Traditional Religions (ATRs) so secretive that even I wondered why I wasn’t fully standing in my truth. Brazil changed all of that. Stepping into spaces where ATRs are lived openly, celebrated, and deeply integrated into the culture gave me the confidence to finally own my path unapologetically.
I’m reflecting on what it meant to say "yes" to Brazil, stepping out of my comfort zone to learn about ATR practices outside of my spiritual house. The sacred was everywhere, from my first Bembé to walking through sacred spaces with familiars like cats and turtles. Meeting the Sisters of the Good Death and witnessing ATRs woven into church spaces opened my eyes to how these practices thrive in the community. Bahia, in particular, embraced ATRs culturally in a way that felt like a homecoming for my spirit.
This trip helped me reconnect with my spirit lineage and embrace my gifts like never before. My dreams have shifted, and so has my perspective. I’m leaving behind secrecy, self-doubt, and parts of myself that no longer serve me as we close out 2024. In 2025, I’m stepping into my fullness—with clarity, purpose, and a deep commitment to the work ahead.
Let’s talk about the power of saying yes, standing in your truth, and creating space for the sacred in your life.
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