GLOBAL VISIONS
Las 21 Divisiones... ...continued from page 27
to complete certain rituals prior to the baptism; I worked closely with the consulting priest within the religion about the ceremonies and in- structions for how to set my altar and perform rituals. There were also articles of clothing I needed to wear and amulets I had to carry with me at all times. Once my baptism was done, I could then continue to reinforce the protection with refrescos de cabezas (refreshments of the head). This was necessary to strengthen “my head” and protect me from maleficent spirits. I would go on to serve as a practitioner. Initially, the spirits came on spontaneously around my friends and family. In the beginning, I struggled to deliver the messages. I recall my mother talking to my consulting priest who stated the reason I could not talk during this mounting session was because I kept fighting it and was too scared to talk. Eventually, with coaching from my priest, I became more open. Looking back now, I realize I probably had a lot of throat chakra work to do. Messages also started to come in dreams or on random occa - sions via daydreaming, where I would get certain visions. I practiced Dominican Voodoo for many years until one day when I stopped for various reasons. I started to feel restricted by it. For ex- ample, I recall wanting to cut my hair and being told I needed to ask for permission before I could do that. As I also started visiting other practitioners, it became very apparent that it was becoming a crutch. I was solely relying on other people for solutions to problems instead of accepting my sovereignty. I also saw how having this ability creat- ed animosity among family members who were against it. I felt like an outcast within my own immediate family, and it took a toll on me emotionally. A few years ago I decided to go back to my roots and my practice after receiving a message. I re-established my altar in honor of my ancestors; however, I now practice on my own terms. I still perform certain rituals, as I have learned them. I call in spirits or read Tarot for very specific people in my family and others that request it. I allow myself to receive messages and deliver them to those in need. I am no
to diseases brought by the colonizers. Slaves were forced to practice Catholicism, but they became creative in finding ways to continue their own traditions. African deities were masked behind Catholic saints and figures so that slaves could practice their religion without fear of retribution. For example, Saint Michael is referred to as “Belie Belcan”, and Saint Anne as “Anaisa”. Dominican voodoo consists of the practices of African slaves, Taino practices, and Catholicism. I grew up in a Catholic household in the NYC neighborhood of Washington Heights. My parents both immigrated from the Domini - can Republic. As a child, I recall my father’s extensive altar with imag - es and statues of saints, flowers, tobacco, coffee, etc. Occasionally, we would go to church; but for the most part, there were the voodoo prac- titioners both my parents would consult to help with any afflictions. We would visit the botanicas (a religious goods store) to purchase items needed to help improve our situation. A coconut was usually stationed by the front door of our apartment so that it picks up any negativity before entering the apartment. Upon having this experience at my grandmother’s novena, I was both scared and confused. I wasn’t sure what to expect, and suddenly I had family members looking at me in a different light. I also wasn’t sure if this would be something I could control. I recall as a child play- ing the Ouija board and communicating with spirits and feeling their presence near me, but not telling anyone. Shortly after this initial mounting, a mani (spiritual ceremony) was held, both in gratitude and to find out what my next steps would be within 21 Divisiones. My parents also consulted their voodoo practi - tioner at a local botanica and as well as with a practitioner who would then become my priest. The next step in this journey was for me to get baptized within 21 Divisiones to protect mi cabeza (my head). I had
A G ift L ove t roubLed t imes of for
HU is a carrier of love between you and God. HU can be sung silently at work, home, or anytime you feel a need to tune in to a higher perspective on your life. You might try experimenting with it when you face a challenging situation or want to open yourself to a more loving attitude. Singing HU each day can lead to a deeper understanding of yourself and why things happen the way they do in your life. It opens your awareness to new viewpoints and attitudes. Anyone can work with the HU regardless of age, background, or religion. HU, the most beautiful prayer, is a gift to the world.
—Sri Harold Klemp The Mahanta, the Living ECK Master
HU (rhymes with you ) is an ancient name for God that has been sung for thousands of years in many lands for spiritual unfoldment.Visit HearHU.org to learn more about its transformative and healing power. Join us for an ECKANKAR Soul Adventure in your local area: MD: eckankarmaryland.org VA: eck-va.org
The Path of Spiritual Freedom www.Eckankar.org
28—PATHWAYS—Summer 23
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