I remember my mom telling us stories of our Mayflower ancestors. I remember her telling about when she was little and tried to sic the dog on the neighbor kids, of how my grandfather would come to the house after he and my grandmother divorced and would cry when she refused to let him see his daughters. I wish she had written all these stories down (or that I had a better memory).
As I've gotten older, I've come to appreciate the importance of knowing where you came from. Learning who your ancestors were and what they did and how they felt creates a much needed connection and grounding in our busy lives. When family stories are passed down it helps you learn how you are similar as well as different from other family members. Maybe you'll find out how you got that unusual name or the dimple in your chin. Or why Aunt Gert was such an old grouch.
Someday someone will want to know all about you. So get out the old photos, your camera, video recorder or just paper and pen. Let the journey begin.
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Oh I believe this whole heartedly. I, unfortunately, don't know much about my ancestors except some stories about my grandparents. I don't even know what nationality I am.
ReplyDeleteI know now why my grandmother was so mean... and if I would have known when I was a kid, I would have taken it easier on her when she was here.
Great blog!