Sacred Service is the Pathway to True Happiness

"Twenty blades cannot shave a pillar
Only one live ember of charcoal turns a forest into dry land
These were Ifa's messages to Orunmila
When he was to turn himself into a slave
He was advised to offer sacrifice
He complied
Travellersto Ipo and Ofa towna
Come and join us in the midst of happiness
Come and behold all blessings of life
- Holy Odu OrangunMeji*

Humility is a commitment to something greater than the ego. To demonstrate respect to all people, even those less advantaged than yourself, is a show of good will. There are times, however, when humility is requisite for success. In those times, the only way to elevate is through selfless service.

Such was the case for Orunmila, when he descended from heaven to earth. His highest ambition was to improve the world! He went to consult Ifa, at which point he was advised to make sacrifice. In addition, however, the awos told Orunmila that his personal ritual would be to help people but to do so in a way that made it appear as if the ones who he had helped were actually helping HIM! It must seem as if they were doing Orunmila a favor by ALLOWING him to serve them. Why? Because if the people refused to accept Orunmila's help, then the effect of his sacrifice would be neutralized and he would not receive Olodumare's blessings.

And so it was that Orunmila became a slave among men. He went out of his way to serve, serve and serve. In every act of service, Orunmila felt honored to be allowed to help and made it abundantly clear to all that he cherished the opportunity to participate in their journeys. Of course, this made Orunmila exceedingly popular and people flooded into his shrine constantly. Consequently, Orunmila was blessed and highly favored by humanity and Olodumare alike.

Today, you will be called to serve. Perhaps, it will be as simple as giving directions or as complicated as helping someone move into a new apartment. Whatever it is, do it with a spirit of joy. More importantly, however, Ifa is teaching you the importance of knowing exactly who you serve and keeping those people forever focused in your mind. Remember, you do what you do because of them. Never lose sight of that truth. This is the only way to live the medicine. Aboru aboye abosise. "
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Obafemi Origunwa, MA | ObafemiO.com
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*Popoola, Solagbade. Ifa Dida v1