Today is #YemayaFeastDay, and my heart is filled with gratitude and love for this powerful and nurturing Yoruba deity. From the moment I was introduced to Yemaya, I felt an unshakeable connection to her energy. While I haven’t undergone any official rituals that would formally align me with her, in my spirit, we are like spiritual besties. There’s a deep understanding between us, a bond that transcends titles or labels. She’s been my entry point into the world of African Traditional Religions (ATR) and African Diasporic Religions (ADR), and for that, she will always hold a special place in my spiritual journey.
Yemaya, or Yemoja, as she’s known in different traditions, is the mother of the oceans, the protector of women, and a fierce yet gentle force of nature. As I’ve continued to grow in my spiritual practice, I’ve noticed so much of myself in her. Her strength, her ability to nurture and protect, her deep emotional wisdom—these are all qualities I recognize within myself and continue to cultivate. Yemaya’s energy is vast, like the ocean she rules, and I see pieces of her in others around me as well. Whether it’s in the women who lead with love, the mothers who fiercely protect their children, or the people who stand as pillars in their communities, Yemaya’s spirit shows up in so many ways.
My journey through ATR and ADR has been nothing short of transformative. I’m learning more about myself, my ancestors, and the powerful energies that guide me. Every lesson, every ritual, every moment of reflection feels like another layer of understanding is being added to my soul. But no matter how far I travel on this path, Yemaya will always be my first love. She was the one who opened the door for me, who invited me to explore the depths of spiritual wisdom and healing.
Today, I honor Yeye with all my heart. I offer her the respect and love she so richly deserves. Yemaya’s energy is both calming and empowering, reminding me that I can be soft like the ocean waves and strong like the tides that shape the shorelines. Her teachings have guided me through so many emotional waters, and I am forever grateful for her presence in my life.
So, on this sacred day, I lift up my voice in celebration of Yemaya. Whether she is called Yemoja, Iemanja, or Mami Wata, her energy remains consistent—a force of divine femininity, protection, and abundance. To everyone who walks with Yemaya, may you continue to feel her love and guidance as you navigate your own spiritual waters.
Happy Feast Day, Yeye! May your waters always flow, bringing healing, wisdom, and protection to all who seek your embrace.
#YemayaFeastDay #Yemoja #Iemanja #MamiWata #September7