I’ve Got a Treasure Hidden in Me.

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One thing I've been processing lately is how deeply I have held onto some understanding that I would be rewarded for what I perceived to be my "righteousness," for being the good Christian girl that was focused on God in a way that even the adults around me marveled at.

When it comes to my work and health issues, my vocation, my relationships, I'm often frustrated and lamenting that I don't have more to show for the work I've done, sacrifices made, or for just committing to the search.

I've recognized something flawed in this "quid pro quo" understanding, but have struggled to think different.

But while listening to this video podcast on Ifa and the concept of "Ori," this understanding came to mind:

There are gifts and treasures inside of me that I want to bring forth. And the way that I move is about bringing those things forth.

The reward is not from outside, but inside. And it is a natural result of the journey if I tend to it.

A prayer that I want to offer to you:

May nothing get in the way of bringing forth what I’m/we’re meant to bring forth. May I/we listen and learn how to move in a way that allows that to be so.

I’ve left the podcast below. Also, as I was writing this, a song came up that Sis. LaTonya Earl, the Music Minister at one of the churches I used to go to in Houston, would sing. She would sing, “I’m a vessel filled with power. And I’ve got a treasure hidden in me.” I was able to find a video of her singing this on YT. The audio is not great, so here are the lyrics:

Thank you, Father, for your power.

It has resurrected me.

Oh, the painful circumstances,

That my poor soul could not flee.

I’ve been bruised and battered but not forsaken,

Perplexed but not in despair.

I’m a vessel full of power.

And I have a treasure hidden in me.

I have a treasure hidden in me.

If you want to hear a clearer version. Just search “Corinthian Song” on Youtube. As is the case in the black churches I grew up in, the lyrics change depending on who’s singing it. And I, of course, would sing it my own way today, too!