Return To The Sea: Recap and Reflections

This past weekend I was blessed to lead a group of amazing individuals on a trip to the Mississippi delta for an ancestral retreat. Over the course of three days we fellowshipped, communed with our ancestors, and learned about our ancestral roots. From the moment we arrived everything was perfect. Our lodging was cozy, spacious, and private and had every accommodation you could think of, including a personal chef that prepared all of our meals (they were so delicious by the way) during the course of the retreat.

We opened Return To The sea with dinner followed by a misa. The next day we caravanned to Natchez land to visit the Emerald Burial Mounds. The grounds were absolutely beautiful and I can honestly say that the Emerald Mounds was one of the most peaceful places I have ever been. On Sunday we woke up to a soothing rain storm, which fit the vibe perfectly as we spent most of the day relaxing and eating the delicious food prepared by our chef. We had a lunch and learn where the topic was “Cymbees: The First Ancestors of the Diaspora”. In this lecture I discussed the importance of ancestor veneration, ways in which we can connect this practice to the land on which we live, how our enslaved ancestors established a bloodline connection to a place that was foreign to them, and what the Cymbees are. We concluded the retreat with a sunset ocean ritual-giving offerings, prayers and songs to our ancestors.

This was truly an amazing event with a great group of individuals. Not only was I able to teach and learn but I came back from this trip activated. My connection to my ancestors is definately stronger as a result. I look forward to hosting this retreat next year.