Eepa Orisa!
Ẹ kú Ọ̀sẹ̀ Obàtálá. Blessings on this day of veneration of Obàtálá, honored for clarity, wisdom, and the gentle care of humanity.
Obàtálá is said to control Aba and Ase. Aba is imagination or intention, while Ase is manifestation and the fruition of imagination. These teachings invite us to consider how we live, while remembering that human life includes vulnerability and imperfection.
Gentleness in spiritual practice
When life is difficult, prayer and reflection can offer companionship. They need not become a reason to blame ourselves for hardship or to judge whether someone has practiced correctly. Circumstances, loss, and other people’s actions also affect our lives.
I encourage people to pray, ask questions, and notice the support around them. Gratitude can coexist with grief. Doubt and uncertainty can be brought into an honest spiritual conversation.
Mindfulness invites us to pause and consider how we treat ourselves and one another. We can take responsibility for the choices available to us while approaching our limits with compassion.
Our temple’s prayer to Obatala today is:
Eepa Orisa, Orisa Eepa! Ogbe omo re o soo daje. O ni ki won rerin in, won rerin in.
He stands by his children, and makes them materially prosperous. He gives them cause for laughter, and they laugh.
May our lives and inner alignment give us cause for prosperity and laughter. Ase.
Your questions are welcome
When you feel ready, bring what is on your heart. I will listen with care, seek guidance through traditional Ifá divination, and consider appropriate spiritual or practical steps with you.