Ancestors

All around me, as well as within—
watching, guiding, and whispering.

From their blood and bones
I have risen from,
more powerful than any phoenix
rising from its ashes.

Their sweat and tears
light the way.
I walk the path they have paved for me,
taking care in where I step
and which direction I go.

Their hopes and dreams
I will always carry on
because of their blood
pumping through my veins.

I may not know all their names,
but I know them—
we are one,
one heartbeat.

They say energy doesn’t die
when we die,
that it transforms.
They say energy cannot be created
or destroyed,
only changed
from one form to another.

So I encased their energy
in my heart.
Their love, wisdom, and sacrifices
I grasp on to
and evolve from.
I allow their light
to shine through.

Even on the darkest of days,
I know they are near,
reminding me
who and where
I come from.

On my altar,
I softly lay out my offerings
and light my candles
to show my acknowledgment.
To show my love.
To show my gratitude.
For the path
they have paved for me.

By: Jasmine Rosado