Our Ancestors are Lonely

I am lucky enough to have spent time with African communities where great emphasis is placed on staying connected and in relationship with family members who have died and are now ancestors.

“The ancestors plant dreams and blessings in the marrow of our bones.”

Yoruba Proverb

I find this to be in strong contrast to our approach in the West. Here, it often seems that funerals are brief and hurried, and once our ancestor has died, we pay little attention to them. It is as if they are simply gone.

For me, my ancestors are not gone. They have moved to a different place, and I remain in deep relationship with them.

I offer them my love in prayer every morning before I do anything else. I cultivate a loving connection with them and offer them an open window into

my life. I ask for their support as I navigate my journey, making sure I stay open to their influence and love.

“We stand on the shoulders of those who came before us, lifted by their struggles and blessed by their sacrifice.”

Desmond Tutu

If you would like to cultivate a more connected and loving relationship with your ancestors, come and join us for our next workshop:

Building Connection with my Ancestors

A live, online, community workshop for men

24th March, 6.30 - 8.30pm

Click to book