I came into this ceremony with the innocence of a child—no prior experience with plant medicine, no spiritual circles, no deep preparation beyond the recommended dieta, which I followed for 10 days prior. Raised in a Hindu household, I carried with me a fair amount of skepticism. Ayahuasca felt foreign at first, yet something deep within nudged me to explore.

Through my research, I discovered striking parallels between Ayahuasca and *Soma*—the mysterious plant medicine mentioned in the Vedas. Though the recipe for Soma has been lost to time, the spiritual essence it represented echoed through everything I was about to experience.

When I decided to let go of my doubts and surrender to the process, I found myself embraced by an incredibly responsible and loving community. The church, and especially Najib, made this journey feel safe, sacred, and supportive. Najib’s words before the ceremony resonated so deeply—almost prophetically—during the experience. His approach is both gentle and profound, providing just enough guidance while giving space for the medicine to do its work.

He once said, “I am only a vessel, showing you the door; the rest is up to the medicine.” And that couldn’t be more true. Ayahuasca walked me through it all—with love, grace, and the kind of nurturing I didn’t know I needed. I wasn’t alone for a second, yet I also felt deeply personal ownership over my journey.

I journaled everything. And even weeks later, I continue to receive insights—powerful, delightful moments of clarity that reaffirm my intention to sit with the medicine. This isn’t just a ceremony; it’s a transformation.

To the church, to Najib, and to this beautiful community: thank you. Thank you for accepting me without judgment, for making me feel seen, and for helping me recognize the light within myself. This experience has opened something in me that I will carry for life.