We often underestimate how important it is for families to be united, not just emotionally but also spiritually. Unity of the family members (or lack of it) is usually an indication of what is happening in the spiritual world as well. In a lot of ways our state of mind in the physical is a mirror of the state of mind in the non physical world as well.
Amadlozi can be a strange "thing" that one has to deal with. Sometimes it is even difficult to understand the thinking and the working of Amadlozi. But there is one constant, when the family does not speak with one voice, then this causes problems for the ancestors as well. The problem arises because as a family, you have common ancestors. With this in mind if a decision has to be taken which involves the family, whose opinion is the one that will give guidance? People make the assumption that it will be the eldest or the male and yet there is no telling from the outside which view is the one that will be listened to. There is no knowing who has the "ear" of amadlozi over others in the family.
What needs to happen is that families must come to an agreement about family matters which then focuses everyone (both physical and spiritual) on this common goal or requirement. This ensures that it comes to pass much quicker and smoother than would be the case if there was no unity in the family.
I encourage people to view Amadlozi as the unseen guards who are there to help you to help yourself. When this force is divided, it is ineffective, when it is united, there is nothing that it cannot achieve.
If there is a family function to be held, everyone should help. It should not be about who can put in the most money, because that is actually a side issue. Everyone has something to contribute over and above money. Your time, your prayers are all equally important and valuable. There is no substitute for family support on a daily basis and not only when there is a crisis.
Philani.
