Family History

I have had a number of people ask me why knowing my family history is so important to me, and not in an offensive way; just out of curiosity I think.  I have taken a day or two to think about this to try to put it into words.   I have never known anything different...I just know that I feel incredibly lucky for having so many blanks filled in for me.  Knowing where I come from, who I come from, and the struggles that they went through and experienced throughout history has helped me get through my own struggles. 

When I go through our family bible(s), photographs, look at the things they made and used, and read through old newspaper articles, it's almost like I can hear the echo of their heartbeats.  Their history is a gift to me filled with many lessons.  They went through their ups and downs and struggled at times just as we all do today.  What is funny, is that the struggles of life haven't really changed much throughout the centuries.  Through their own struggles they have taught me to keep going no matter what, that one day I will look back and smile about things that once frustrated me, and to never take life quite as seriously as I sometimes do...sometimes you just have to laugh.  It's as if they are reminding me that life should never be wasted.  It encourages me to take in a deep breath of air and appreciate everything I am able to do.  My own heartbeat is a gift, so I make the most of it...and above all, enjoy life.  Life can be cut short unexpectedly or you can go on to live a really long life.  No matter what, I want to be sure I life a full life.  My ancestors have taught me to never take anything for granted, to give thanks for your life, your loved ones, and no matter what is going on, there is always something to smile about.