go back and get it

The act of looking back or looking to the rock is not just nostalgic, but necessary.

Isaiah 51: 1

Look to the rock from which you were hewn.

Sankofa is a Twi word from the Akan Tribe of Ghana. It means “it is not wrong to go back for that which you have forgotten” or simply “go back and get it.” Sankofa is often symbolized by a bird that is looking backward while flying forward. The idea of this principle is that in order to move forward or progress, we must look to our roots, our history, our source. And, as it is suggested in this verse, our spiritual elders and ancestors.

The act of looking back or looking to the rock is not just nostalgic, but necessary. In doing so we are reminded of the fortitude of those who came before us and the faithfulness of the Divine so that we may be fortified for the journey that lies ahead.

Who are those you might consider “spiritual” elders and ancestors? What are some significant lessons you have gleaned from them? How might you ensure that the lessons from your past are passed on to others?

—Javon Bracy