Cultural Shame: A Wound We May Heal in Winti
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Time to read 1 min
In a country like Suriname (but also the Netherlands), where different cultures converge, spirituality is omnipresent. You see it in Hinduism with its colorful rituals, in Catholic processions, or in Islam with its fixed prayer times and holidays. Many of these traditions are celebrated openly, with pride, community, visibility, and solidarity.
But when it comes to Afro-Surinamese spirituality, particularly Winti faith (culture), a different story seems to be at play. Our rituals are often still kept close to home. In silence. Behind closed doors. With the fear of being judged or misunderstood.
And that's exactly what cultural shame is.
What are rituals anyway?
A ritual doesn't have to be grand or mysterious. It can be something as simple as taking a gourd, whispering a prayer, offering water, or washing yourself with a delightfully scented herbal water (Florida water, Pompeia, or the well-known "7 Spirits").
Here, it's important to encourage yourself positively with words. Your yeye, (o)kra (your soul), and your guardian angels (bung winti's with a lowercase w). These are actions that strengthen our connection with the Creator (God), nature, the earth, and our ancestors. We do this for happiness, prosperity, and well-being.
We who practice Winti in religion always begin in the name of the Creator: Keduaman/Keduampon and/or Anana.
We honor nature, the elements, and use what Mother Earth gives us to maintain spiritual balance. Thanks to the Creator.
* It is certainly not light work or something you can just do.
* Holding up a mirror to yourself can sometimes be the hardest and most confronting thing there is. This also requires self-reflection and self-confidence.
Know what you are doing or what you should/can do for your Spiritual balance.
photo from Pinterest
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