There was a time when I thought I was just “imagining things”—a flicker in the corner of my eye, a voice that seemed to speak without a mouth, a whisper of warmth when no one else was in the room. As someone who’s always felt deeply connected to the unseen, I’ve known since I was young that I could see and hear spirits. For years, I didn’t have the words or support to understand what that meant. But over time, I realized these weren’t just random encounters—they were invitations. My ancestors were calling me home. Messages that needed to be heard, sometimes for my own family and sometimes for those not related at all. It took me a while to find this portion of my practice, to realize this is what I needed to feel complete as a person and as a practitioner.

In a world that often forgets its roots, where family stories fade when the elders pass on, the whispers of our ancestors become even more sacred. For me, reconnecting with them didn’t come through family traditions passed down neatly through generations. It came through spirit. It came through signs, dreams, visions, and a relentless pull back to the old ways.

When we lose the keepers of our traditions—the grandmothers who made healing salves from memory, the uncles who knew when to plant by the signs—we often lose more than recipes or customs. We lose language, rhythm, and a sense of belonging. And in that loss, many of us are left to ask: Where do we stand without our roots?

That question is what led me to ancestral paganism.

What Is Ancestral Paganism?

Ancestral paganism isn’t about reenacting every ritual our ancestors did. Instead, it serves as a profound journey toward reconnecting with the earth-based, spirit-honoring paths they once walked—blending reverence with relevance in a modern context. It’s a conscious choice to stand in the spaces where our ancestors once stood, feeling the ancestral energies that still pulse beneath the surface, even if the landscape has changed dramatically over time. By embracing this ancient wisdom, we open ourselves to the natural rhythms of the earth and learn to listen to the whispers of the past, allowing these insights to enrich our lives today. This practice encourages us to foster a deeper relationship with nature and to honor the spirits of our forebears, creating a bridge between generations that honors both our heritage and our current realities.

For me, that path is woven with Appalachian folk practices, Granny Magic, Southern conjure, rootwork, and herbal wisdom passed through feeling rather than family photo albums. It embraces the stories whispered by the wind and the songs sung by the rivers, creating a rich tapestry of ancestral knowledge that forms a vital connection to my roots. It’s not about purity or perfection, as perfection can often lead to stagnation; rather, it’s about remembering the vibrant histories, listening to the echoes of those who came before, honoring their struggles and their triumphs—and in that deep reverence, co-creating a living tradition with the spirits of those who walked before me. By integrating their wisdom into my daily life, I not only pay homage to their legacies but also bring forth a new, evolving narrative that is both personal and collective.

Even though I’m not a Christian, and many of my ancestors likely were, I believe with every fiber of my being that they respect my path. I carry the same moral compass, the same devotion to doing right by others, to being a decent human being. I live by the natural laws of karma and the energetic balance of the universe, recognizing that our actions resonate far beyond our immediate surroundings. I may not walk the road they chose, but I walk with just as much faith, heart, and honor, drawing from my own experiences and understanding of the world around me. This journey of mine, while different in its expression, is filled with values that echo the teachings of compassion and empathy that they held dear. I know that those who came before me would appreciate my commitment to integrity, even if it manifests in a way that may not align with their beliefs. And I know that’s something they can stand behind—even if it looks different, for love and truth transcend all barriers, uniting us in a shared human experience.

The Blend: My Practice

My practice is as layered and nuanced as my lineage, weaving together strands of heritage that echo across generations. It’s Appalachian mountain magic—the kind passed down in hushed tones in hollers and cabins, where the whispers of ancestors intertwine with the rustling leaves and flowing streams. It’s Granny Magic, with its rich blend of charm work, plant lore, and everyday practicality, offering wisdom as deep as the roots of ancient trees. This is Southern magic, rooted in the art of storytelling and survival, where tales are not just told but lived, with each narrative carrying the weight of experience and resilience. A touch of rootwork from the old roads of the South imbues my practice with a sacred respect for tradition, as I carry it forward, studying each element with care and devotion, ensuring that the knowledge of the past is honored and preserved for future generations to cherish and adapt.

And at the center of it all? My ancestors.

They are in the herbs I harvest, in the songs I hum while stirring tinctures, in the prayers I say over protection charms and healing bundles. They show up in dreams, in card pulls, in the hush that settles when I sit at my altar and ask, What do I need to remember today? In those quiet moments, I feel their presence enveloping me, guiding my hands as I mix and blend, the aroma of the fresh herbs filling the air with a sense of ancient wisdom. The melodies I sing weave through the space, each note resonating with the intention I set, as if the universe itself is listening closely. The charms I create are not merely objects; they are vessels of energy, imbued with love and purpose, acting as a bridge between my heart and the spirit world. As I connect with these sacred practices, I am reminded of the interconnectedness of all things, feeling the roots of my ancestors beneath my feet, anchoring me in the knowledge that I am part of a larger tapestry of existence. Each day, as I ask for guidance, I trust that the answers will guide me back to a place of clarity and peace, enriching my journey and deepening my understanding of the divine forces at play.

Why It Matters

In today’s world, where people often let go of traditions when the matriarchs and patriarchs pass on, it’s easy to feel lost in the whirlwind of modernity and fleeting trends. Yet, the truth is—tradition doesn’t only live in recipes and rituals; it encompasses the stories of our ancestors, the lessons learned through generations, and the values instilled within us since childhood. It lives in our bones, shaping our identities, and in our blood, weaving connections among family members and communities. It resides in the land beneath our feet, reminding us of where we come from and the sacrifices made for us to thrive. Embracing these traditions allows us to honor our heritage and maintain a sense of belonging in a rapidly changing world, bridging the past with the present and creating a richer tapestry of cultural identity for future generations.

We may not have had the privilege of learning at the knee of a wise elder, but we still have access to profound wisdom. Through spirit, we can connect with an unseen world that guides us, offering insights that transcend the limitations of our everyday experiences. Through practice, we cultivate skills and knowledge that deepen our understanding, allowing us to grow and evolve in ways we never thought possible. Through listening, we open ourselves to the stories and teachings of those around us, creating a rich tapestry of shared experiences that informs our path and enriches our lives. In this way, even without traditional mentorship, we can draw from an infinite well of knowledge and inspiration.

So if you’ve ever felt that tug—that whisper that there’s something more, that your path is waiting for you just beyond the veil—know this: your ancestors are already reaching out, guiding you through the subtle signs and synchronicities that life presents. They are the eternal echoes of wisdom, urging you to trust your instincts and embrace the journey ahead. You don’t have to have all the answers or a detailed roadmap of your future. You just have to begin, take that first step into the unknown, and be open to the possibilities that await you. Each small action you take can lead to profound transformations, connecting you deeper with your lineage and the legacy you carry.

Light a candle. Speak their names, or simply say, To all those whose blood runs through mine—I welcome you. As the flame flickers softly, feel the warmth envelop you, a gentle reminder of their presence alongside you. Call upon the memories, the laughter, and the teachings that bind you to them, weaving an invisible thread of love and connection. And listen, for within the stillness, you may hear whispers of wisdom, stories untold, and echoes of their strength guiding you forward in this journey of life. Let the flickering light illuminate not only the space around you but the corners of your heart that hold them dear. Embrace the moment, and be open to the solace that comes from acknowledging their eternal bond with you.

You’ll be surprised at what answers back.

Note: Be mindful of your space and set boundaries with spirits as you would with the living. Just like in interactions with people, maintaining a respectful distance is crucial when engaging with the spirit world. Set your protections out around you—this could include creating a sacred circle or invoking protective energies—and guard yourself anytime you call on the dead. Remember, not all spirits may come with good intentions, and being vulnerable in such encounters can lead to unforeseen consequences. Practice discernment, and always ensure that you are surrounded by positive influences while you navigate these otherworldly communications.

---

Much love and many blessings,
Mrs. B