My Ancestors Walk With Me

My Ancestors Walk With Me

In the Judeo-Christian faith, prayers go to a higher power in the heavens.

For myself, who was raised partially Shinto partially Catholic, my prayers are lighted through incense and a Virgin Mary candle, my higher power walks with me.

You see, this light is in me and outside of me.

These are thanks to my ancestors.

Though my ancestors run through my blood, they are in my present.

They are my teachers they walk with me teaching me lessons about the everyday.

They also teach me lessons about the light.

Sadly, but a though necessary, they also teach me the about the darkness.

You have to learn about the darkness in order to appreciate those days where you can dance in the sunshine.

I do not believe in a heaven and hell.

For those like me who believe Shintoism like me, once you die you remain on earth.

You also walk alongside God or Kami.

But, they are also Kami, because there is no difference in Shintoism.

My friends and cynics are often confused by my beliefs.

Because remember,

I also light a candle of the Virgin Mary and hold a rosary.

I was baptized Catholic.

I am half Japanese and half Mexican.

How could I possibly negotiate both worlds?

It is through the world of spirits, God, and my ancestors that I find peace.

Through these two worlds, my ancestors, and deep spirituality is where I have found my most profound moments of creativity as a writer.

So, while my some may have their muses.

Others have their guardian angels guiding them across bridges in the middle of the night.

I have my ancestors walking by me side.

They are always with me no matter where I may in life.

Even in my darkest of hours.

They have pulled me back into the light.

So, despite your beliefs, I challenge you to do shake things up a bit.

We all need a little guidance from time to time.

Light some incense.

Think about your teachers.

Your grandmother who taught you how brush your teeth when you were just a toddler.

You think she is no longer with you.

But, if you light some incense.

Say hello and ask how she’s been.

Think about that memory.

She will walk along side you too.

-Lucy Tambara