izina

Growing up my mommy would always emphasize izina ryawe, your name. She made it clear the importance of honoring the names you come from. In almost all her lectures, she’d say things like “You’re the granddaughter of Pastor Madandi and Pastor Ruhaya! You have to remember the names you're carrying!"

These kinds of lectures usually came after I did something that went against her vision for my life, so I never really took them seriously. I remember feeling trapped by the expectations that were placed upon me because of the names I carry and family I come from. I'd hear my mother lecturing me in the back of my mind, but the words never hit.

I realized the importance of my name when I met an auntie and as soon as she found out who my family was, she started crying and hugging me. As I've gotten older I've learned more about both sides of my family’s lives. The work they did, the people they helped, sacrifices they made.

I always talk about my ancestors, but my living family members deserve their flowers too! Although not all of them accept my spiritual path, I can honestly say it's the values and morals they instilled in me that ultimately brought me here. I come from a family of Iwa Pele, good character. A tribe of pure hearts & genuine souls. I am so deeply honored, humbled, & proud.

Ashe.