Appearances Deceive

The ocean is pure white
And so beautiful
However the ocean's bottom floor is pure mud
Cast Divination for Olokun
Who is deceiving herself
Who is sick within
But pretending all is well

- Holy Odu OdiOgunda

Only sickness revealed can be cured. Sometimes, people come to consult with me but practice a "Don't ask, won't tell" policy. That is, if I don't ask what is wrong, they won't tell. Of course, there are lots of reasons why a person might be reluctant to disclose their condition. It is not always as simple as it would seem. But I feel compelled to emphazise how important healing is. I would go so far as to say that physical, financial, emotional, cultural and spiritual healing is the top priority of Orisa Lifestyle. All of the deities and their respective cloisters are dedicated to healing. So, when you come to see the priest or go before any shrine, I believe you should be intent upon one of two things: #1 Giving thanks and #2 Seeking healing.

In my relatively short career, I have been blessed to help people restore balance and vitality to their lives. I can compare it to witnessing a flower blossom before your very eyes. Healing is, many times, a kind of simple miracle, through which a person starts the journey feeling isolated and stagnant, but manages to reposition herself so that she is reconnected and flowing in harmony with favorable energy, which we call blessings.

Most importantly, above and beyond what is revealed through divination, I am referring to the direct experience. If you have ever been in the doldrums, disconnected or in pain, you remember the freedom that comes with relief. The sudden surge of life inspires a sense of hope that is more valuable than gold. The first step is to seek support and share your condition. Live the medicine.

Obafemi Origunwa, MA | www.ObafemiO.com