An ancestor is defined as: 1. one from whom a person is descended and who is usually more remote in the line of descent than a grandparent; and 2. a person related to you who lived a long time ago.
As we look back on where we have come from, we can see that God has designed a path for us that is difficult, challenging, and full of joys and pains. The path that our ancestors have walked also helps us to persevere and push forward through our own lives as we reflect upon where they have come from, and on what they have done for you and for me.
In order to move into the future, it is the sacrifices of our ancestors that allow us to have a present and choose who we want to become. Yeah, I know people say, ‘I am here because of the things I have done and I don’t want to look back into my yesterdays.’ The failure of not knowing where you come from, and who you belong to, undermines your growth and progress. God has set before you a journey on a path that has already been laid down by your ancestors.
The gains, the glory, and the accomplishments of what you are able to do today are solely because of your ancestors. As the holy books that we follow tell us, whether it is the Bible or the Quran or other sacred writings, we should always honor our mothers and fathers. It is the foundation for celebrating and honoring our ancestors.
There was a time when as an African American you were not allowed to read and write or enter a schoolhouse because it was against the law. Reading or writing, or simply being in an educational environment, could result in you being beaten, maimed, or even lynched. In addition, overseers could also separate and sell your family to other plantations as punishment for that “transgression.” Today we can persevere in order to achieve our goals, such as sending our children to college, because of the sacrifices of our ancestors and their blood. To see your children as they strive to do those other jobs whatever it may be outside of their trades or the service that they may go to in honor of serving.
It is the ancestors that allowed the doors to open. It is the ancestors that opened the doors. Embrace their zeal — it allows you to be who you are today. Do not be ashamed of the past, or be fearful of the present, but be uplifted and motivated to reach whatever goal the future has in store for you by way of your ancestors. Be blessed today as you journey into what God has for you and never forget who your ancestors are. Until next time…PEACE!
cj is a poet, educator, motivational speaker, and inspirational writer who resides in Philadelphia. If you were moved by this piece, shoot cj a “like” or comment at: [email protected].
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