For the past three weeks, I’ve been on a journey of self-discovery, diving deep into my ancestry and cultural roots. This path led me to Afro-Cuban dance—an art form that not only connects me to my heritage but also carries the heartbeat of a rich spiritual tradition. To my fortune, I have two incredible teachers who don’t just teach me the steps; they also share the history and meaning behind each movement. So far, we’ve learned dances honoring Oshun, Shango, and Yemaya—each with its own energy and story.

I’ll admit, remembering the choreography doesn’t come easily to me. While others pick up the steps quickly, I need more time to perfect them. But despite the challenge, I love every moment of it. Each movement feels like a prayer, a conversation with my ancestors, a way of remembering something long buried within me.

This class has ignited a deeper curiosity about the religion my father cherished. As I’ve mentioned in a previous blog post, my father was a devoted Catholic—but he was also a Santero. Growing up, I was surrounded by Orishas, ceremonies, and Afro-Cuban traditions. Though I was never initiated into the religion, I always respected it, and a part of me remained intrigued. Now, that curiosity has blossomed into a need to understand more.

That’s how I found myself signing up for what my teacher jokingly calls “Ifa University.” In these classes, we explore the Ifá spiritual system—learning songs for each Orisha, the herbs they are associated with, their offerings, and the deep-rooted Yoruba culture that underpins the tradition. The stories (patakis) of the Orishas unfold before me like memories long forgotten, yet strangely familiar. It’s as if I’m not learning something new but rather recalling something my soul already knew.

This awakening has led me to enroll in even more classes centered around Ifá. I recently registered for a Bóveda class to properly care for my altar, ensuring I honor my ancestors the right way. And because I want to deepen my understanding, I decided to explore Ifá divination.

For those unfamiliar, Ifá divination is a sacred practice within the Yoruba tradition of West Africa. It is a complex system guided by Orunmila, the deity of wisdom and prophecy. Babalawos (male priests) and Iyalawos or Apetebis (female practitioners) interpret intricate signs and verses to provide guidance. This practice is deeply intertwined with the Orishas, divine forces that shape our paths. While Orunmila oversees divination, other Orishas may step forward during a reading, depending on the person’s journey.

I don’t fully understand the pull I feel toward all of this, but I know I’m meant to follow it. Something within me is awakening, remembering, aligning. And I am ready for the journey ahead.