10/13/26 I rarely leave negative reviews, especially regarding something as sacred as spirituality…read more However, respect, transparency, and professionalism should never be optional.
I paid $350 for preliminary cleansings, a divination to determine my guardian Orisha, and a consecrated eleke. Despite calling twice to confirm my appointment, I arrived to find the practitioner seemingly unaware of my scheduled visit, my name, or its purpose. He asked why I came on Monday and when I refreshed his memory he stated that wasn't prepared and normally do these on other days. After briefly looking at a photograph, offering vague reassurance, and performing a short prayer, I was told additional cleansings were necessary. Prior to our appointment if I had a question and would call it seemed like he was irritated and rush me off the phone to which I assumed it was because he didn't want to discuss over the phone and rather in person. The lack of patience continued into our in person.
I extended grace despite my concerns. However, after reflecting, I respectfully requested a partial refund, acknowledging that time and materials had already been invested. I explicitly stated that I hoped we could resolve the matter privately and fairly. He refused, despite never communicating a nonrefundable policy.
He then claimed my eleke was already being consecrated. When I asked how that was possible without having completed the divination, he responded, "Because I know," referencing a quick limpia.
Rather than offering clarification, he became defensive, criticized my attitude, dismissed my discomfort as a "me problem," and ultimately told me he would no longer perform cleansings and ordered me to leave.
Throughout this interaction, I maintained a calm, respectful tone. Unfortunately, that same respect was not reciprocated.
My concerns were never about challenging the religion or his spiritual authority. They were about transparency, communication, and the handling of a paid service.
Respect does not mean blind compliance, and asking questions should never be mistaken for disrespect.
I'm grateful I trusted my instincts and chose not to continue. What should have been the beginning of a meaningful spiritual journey instead became a disappointing lesson in the importance of discernment.
I strongly encourage others to clarify all services, expectations, and refund policies before making any financial or spiritual commitment.