. Robert: In Yoruba culture and tradition, Ifa/Orunmila is considered "A" GOD of sorts and Ifa is also a term used to describe the divination Oracle and The Supreme GOD is referred to as Eledumare or Olodumare {Ruler And Creator Of The Heavens & Earth} The sixteen eyes gives reference to a system of divination and the verses of the literary corpus known as the Odu Ifa. There are 256 Odu; 16 of them being major Odu, reveal future circumstances and trends surrounding the one seeking guidance and advice... Once the Odu has been revealed the Babalawo determines of the Odu comes with Ibi {Negativity} or Ire {Positivity}...In either case, an Ebo is performed...Consisting of an offering to a particular Orisa/diety whose energy is manifest in that Odu. Ela is a manifestation of Orunmila/Ifa...Which is pure white light consciousness...It is all that is good and right in the world...That was only a brief synopsis...I hope that shed some light. *smile.

I am not familiar with your faith, but that does not detract from the message, at least as far as I can comprehend it at this time. It sounds like the Babalawo serves the role of a priest. Forgive my ignorance, but I take it to be a male role in reading the context of the poem. Ifa, now I'm really going over a cliff here should be a "God" or some spirit I believe. The reference to sixteen eyes, now that one must be some depicted physical aspect of "Ifa". The main body of your poem depicts your role in creation as Ifas expression of the lifebearer. Your alignment with creation in your body and mind and how it has affected your character, your place in creation. Suitably mysterious with striking imagery Ms. Harris. It sounds as if the four directions of the compass may also have spirit guardians or minor deities, but I'm not sure of that at this juncture. An enjoyable read. I like to try to figure things out. Bob

Superbly written with a certain kind of mysticism taken from ancient beliefs. I have spent much time debunking cults of personality and oppression, so this is not my cup of tea.

Ron