Crossing Over: A Reflection and Prayer for Homecoming and Ancestral Blessing

Today, in the quiet, I crossed over.
Not in the eyes of the world, but in the eyes of heaven.
Not with loud steps, but with a sacred knowing.

I dreamed I met my past at the door—
he carrying his burdens out,
and me carrying my healing in.

The black bricks no longer block the way.
The doorway, once guarded by fear, opened as I stepped forward.
And I crossed into my rightful place—
not as a trespasser,
but as a daughter returning home.

Today, my family lifts prayers at the gravesite where my father, Joseph Blessing, rests.
Today, even from afar, I light a candle in honor of them.
Of him.
Of all the ancestors who still whisper my name in blessing.

Today, I raise my own altar.
I call upon those who came before me,
those who fought so I could walk,
those who still rise with me when I am weary.

And I say:

Prayer

Dear Lord,
Dear ancestors who carried the weight of hope through generations,
Dear Father who rests beneath the soil and yet still walks beside me—

I honor you.

Today, I walk through the doorway of healing.
Today, I reclaim the home that fear tried to steal.
Today, I remember that blood, spirit, and prayer build altars stronger than any walls.
Stronger than distance.
Stronger than death.

Bless my family, Lord, as they gather in love and remembrance.
Bind us in spirit, even when geography keeps us apart.
Let the earth rise up in honor beneath their feet.
Let the heavens open in song above their heads.

And as for me—
Let my steps into this new season be steady.
Let my voice carry the memory and the hope of all who came before me.
Let my hands build again what love calls home.

I am not outside the altar.
I am part of it.

And by your grace,
I am crossing over.

Amen.