The weight of your choice: Addressing the abandonment of your Orishas

I find myself writing this with a heavy heart, one filled with profound disappointment. In the Lucumí tradition, the relationship between a practitioner and their Orishas is a sacred covenant. Yet, lately, I see individuals treating these living embodiments of ashe as if they were nothing more than seasonal decor to be discarded when life becomes 'inconvenient.' Let us be clear: the Orishas do not fail us; we fail our own discernment. If you find yourself wanting to 'get rid of' your sacred items, this is not a failure of the religion, but a reflection of your own lack of character and foresight in choosing this path.

The Sacred Nature of Your Orisha

Sacred tools—your elekes, stones, and vessels—carry the ashe of the Orisha and are inextricably linked to the lineage of your godparents. To treat these living objects as disposable is an insult to the tradition that welcomed you. These are not items you 'outgrow' or 'clean out' like a closet. If your circumstances have shifted, it is a testament to your inability to maintain the commitment you once sought so eagerly. You must approach this with the gravity that should have been present at the start of your journey.

Why You Should Contact Your Godparent

The first step—and honestly, the only path of integrity—is to speak with your godparent (Babalawo, Iyalorisha, or Babalorisha). They are the guardians of your initiation. If you are ashamed to face them, that is a consequence of your own choices. Before doing anything reckless, you must consult them for divination to address the spiritual fallout of your decision. If you feel your relationship with your mentor is compromised, you should have addressed that long ago; read more on maintaining healthy boundaries within the religion, though that is rarely an excuse for abandoning the Orisha themselves.

The Protocol for Transitioning Sacred Items

Let this be clear: there is no 'DIY' for abandoning your Orishas. The process of closing a cycle or transferring your items must be overseen by an initiated elder. To even consider selling, destroying, or discarding these items on your own is a grave error in judgment. Your lack of discernment does not permit you to desecrate what was given to you in faith. This is a matter of spiritual protocol and respect for the lineage you once pledged to uphold.

The Dangers of Misinformation

I see online forums filled with people seeking shortcuts to 'dispose' of their spiritual tools. It is shameful. This tradition is passed down through direct mentorship, not through the convenience of the internet. If you are questioning your path, stop looking for an easy way out and reflect on why you chose your path originally. Your integrity is on the line.

Conclusion

The Orishas are not objects that you can simply discard because you have lost your way or your resolve. They are a fundamental, living part of your spiritual heritage. If you need to step back, handle it with the solemnity, shame, and respect that the situation demands. Reach out to your elders, face the consequences of your choices, and act in accordance with the traditions of the Lucumí community. We are here to support those who truly honor the path with authentic spiritual tools and education, not those who treat their commitment as a fleeting interest.