The Spiritual Mafia: My Ancestors, My Protectors

By Lori M. Huertas

Who Makes Up My Spiritual Mafia?

Each member of my spiritual mafia has played a powerful role in shaping me, both in life and beyond. They continue to influence my path, whispering lessons in moments of doubt and showing me signs when I need them most.

- My Parents – The two souls who gave me life, who instilled in me the values of kindness, joy, resilience, and hard work. Losing them was a wound that time will never fully heal, but their love continues to surround me like a warm embrace. They are my greatest teachers, reminding me daily to walk with integrity, serve others, and embrace my heritage with pride.

- Both Sets of Grandparents – The roots of my family tree. They lived through hardships I can only imagine, sacrificing so much so that I could have the opportunities I do today. They remind me to honor my past, to respect tradition while forging my own path, and to pass down our stories to the next generation.

- My Miscarried Baby – A life that never got to be, yet one that remains deeply connected to me. This soul, though not physically here, has a presence in my life that is undeniable. My child reminds me of the fragility of life, the depth of a mother’s love, and the importance of nurturing not just my own dreams, but those of the students and young people I mentor.

- My Best Friend – The one who understood me on a soul level, who walked beside me in life and continues to do so from beyond. Their laughter, their wisdom, and their unwavering belief in me still echo in my heart. When I face tough choices, I can almost hear their voice nudging me in the right direction, reminding me to trust myself and take bold steps forward.

- My Favorite Paternal Aunt – The woman who showed me what it means to embrace life fully, to love fiercely, and to never apologize for being my authentic self. She was my safe space, my inspiration, my reminder that family is not just about blood—it’s about love, support, and shared stories.

How My Spiritual Mafia Guides Me

Each of them left a mark on my soul, and together, they continue to shape my journey:

- Protection – They shield me from harm, guiding me away from toxic situations and reminding me to trust my instincts.
- Wisdom – They send me messages in unexpected ways—a song on the radio, a dream, a sudden feeling of knowing what to do.
- Strength – They push me forward when I feel tired, when I doubt myself, when I wonder if I’m on the right path.
- Love – Their presence fills the empty spaces in my heart, reminding me that love never dies, it only transforms.

Lessons from The Five Languages of Appreciation in the Workplace

Gary Chapman and Paul White’s book “The Five Languages of Appreciation in the Workplace” has reinforced what my spiritual mafia has always taught me: —cConnection, appreciation, and leadership matter. My ancestors led by example, demonstrating these five love languages not just in family life, but in leadership and service.

- Words of Affirmation – My parents and grandparents spoke life into me. They reminded me that my voice matters. I now use words to uplift students, colleagues, and community members, knowing that simple words of appreciation can inspire greatness.
- Acts of Service – My best friend was always the first to show up, to lend a hand, to support without expecting anything in return. I carry that spirit forward by serving others through mentorship and advocacy.
- Receiving Gifts – My paternal aunt showed love through small tokens of thoughtfulness—books, handwritten notes, and homemade meals. I carry that forward by showing appreciation to students, colleagues, and partners through meaningful gestures.
- Quality Time – My spiritual mafia reminds me that time is the most valuable resource. I prioritize deep conversations, student mentorship, and genuine presence in leadership.
- Physical Touch (in a professional sense: encouragement, high-fives, and pats on the back) – A simple gesture can be powerful. In a world where encouragement is often lacking, my ancestors remind me that even a reassuring presence can uplift someone.

Failing Forward: Turning Struggles into Success

John Maxwell’s “Failing Forward” teaches that failure is not the opposite of success—it is a stepping stone toward it. My spiritual mafia lived this truth. They faced hardships, losses, and failures, yet they pressed forward. Their resilience lives within me.

Maxwell says, “The difference between average people and achieving people is their perception of and response to failure.” My ancestors’ response was always to learn, adapt, and grow. I channel that same energy in my career, in my advocacy, and in my mission to uplift others. Every setback is an opportunity to learn, refine, and move forward with greater clarity.

Wisdom from Hispanic Entrepreneurs

Throughout history, Hispanic entrepreneurs and leaders have paved the way for others, embracing resilience, servant leadership, and cultural pride—values my spiritual mafia ingrained in me.

- Sofía Vergara, actress and entrepreneur: “I believe that opportunities are taken, not given.” My ancestors remind me that I must create my own opportunities, stepping boldly into spaces where representation is needed.
- Carlos Santana, legendary musician: “The most valuable possession you can own is an open heart.” This echoes the lessons my best friend taught me—lead with kindness, authenticity, and a genuine heart.
- Dolores Huerta, civil rights leader: “Every moment is an organizing opportunity, every person a potential activist, every minute a chance to change the world.” My paternal aunt’s passion for justice lives on in my work advocating for DEI, mentorship, and student success.
- José Andrés, chef and humanitarian: “We must empower communities to be part of the solution.” My parents and grandparents lived by this principle, emphasizing the importance of giving back and building community.

Honoring My Spiritual Mafia

I honor them through my work, my advocacy, my commitment to servant leadership. I honor them by embracing my cultural diversity, by telling stories that need to be told, by uplifting others the way they uplifted me.

They are not gone. They live in me, through me, beside me.

And so, I keep going—not just for myself, but for them. For the legacy they left behind and the one I will leave for those who come after me.