In 2006, I contacted nganga Don Miguel Ortiz-Hill (blessings upon his memory and legacy). Don Miguel, Mexican-American registered nurse and author, had been initiated in Zimbabwe by nganga Baba Mandaza Kandemwa. The two immediately recognized each other from prophetic dreams both had had. Don Miguel was responsible for bringing Baba Mandaza to the United States, knowing in his spirit that Black people needed a reunion with our Bantu water traditions. The Bantu, like other African groups, were brought to the Americas through enslavement. Centuries earlier, the Bantu traveled freely to the Nile Valley regions, elevating ancient Khametic culture through their wisdom, knowledge, and practices. As a Khametic theologian, I was intrigued. Suffering from lifelong epilepsy, I wanted to know if there was some spiritual reason for this neurological challenge running in my family. Don Miguel said, "Epilepsy is a Sacred Illness. Since it runs in your family, being a healer is in your DNA. It is your calling." Indeed, I was born with gifted healing hands. The passion for high spirituality, nature, and harmony shaped me.

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I was initiated through baptismal rites by Don Miguel in May 2006. Out of all of the initiations I've experienced, that was the most mystical and miraculous. The healing energy in my hands increased three-fold. Every time I do healing work I think of Khenemu's gifted hands at the potter's wheel. In October 2006, I was initiated by Baba Mandaza - a different experience, but necessary for my spiritual expansion. It was an honor to have my initiator ask me to do healing work on him. He'd heard about my gifted hands. Funnily enough, my greatest challenge is remembering to administer healing to myself. I've also discovered that to be the best individual I can be as a person living with challenges, I must humble myself and ask for help when I need it. People expect their healers and spiritual leaders to be flawless. Not so, not fair.

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Ngangas are of two worlds. Living in dual realities prepares us for the role of peacemaker/peacekeeper. In his youth, Don Miguel Ortiz-Hill was routinely beat up on his way to school for having a Mexican mother, then beat up after school for having a White American Buddhist father. Don Miguel became a registered nurse, then ironically was later struck with multiple sclerosis. His compassion teachings came from his insights on the deficits in modern medicine. The sick and vulnerable need dignity, proper care, and love. 

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Don Miguel Ortiz-Hill transitioned from this life on October 22, 2022. He was my godfather, my teacher, my beloved friend. I'm grateful for how he taught me to make peace with sacred illness in order to begin self-healing. 

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I am a Child of Khenemu. Khenemu's hands have made, cradled, and protected me. People can be extremely cruel. The other side of it is finding folks who have true grace, generosity, patience, and love. Attracting protective community and positive resources are blessings. I work harder on honing my own character because it is my duty as a human occupying space on this planet. I'm an activist and motivational speaker, advocating for Disability Rights, educating the public while uplifting my colleagues. I view my challenges as character building "superpowers." 

How do you react when you interact with the challenged and vulnerable? If you are Khenemu's Child, how do you feel about yourself? Do you proactively own and use your superpowers? Do you know that your life experiences give you wisdom beyond the average person? Are you a caregiver? Do you know that you are a holy healer? Do you know that your sacred service and sacrifice will be blessed?

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Khenemu is a major patron saint of SHENU Khametic Water Institute. Bring insight and empowerment to your life. Classes and podcasts can be found here. Discover your best self through ancient wisdom.  

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Heri (Be at peace)

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- "La Sirena" Queen Mother Imakhu