I so wish I could sit down with my grandfather and find out what he knew about our ancestors. Can't happen. The one that you see pictured died when I was 8. He was my mother's dad. My father's dad died 2 years before I was born.
I've missed so many opportunities! I've only been interested in genealogy for the past couple of years, and when I think of everyone that I could have asked about my ancestors, the ones that are gone now, I could kick myself! My Auntie Evelyn, the oldest of my dad's siblings, who could have told me so many stories, and in fact tried to, but I wouldn't listen. My great grandmother, who didn't pass until she was 102 years old, when I was 28. Other aunts, uncles, cousins. People that KNEW the very ancestors that I quest for information about.
I guess what I'm trying to share here, by relating my own bad example, is to TALK to your elders! Auntie Yoohoo can tell you about her grandparents. She'll share the story that her grandmother told her. She'll help you to bring your family's past to life.
You might think that you're not interested now. And you may never really be interested. But you might. And on the chance that you might be interested in the future, ask the questions now. Write the stories down. Even if you aren't interested, do it for your kids, or for your grandchildren.
It's important.
It really is.
I promise.
2 comments:
I too love the whole family history thing and have been researching my family. I know what you mean I lost my grandfather on my dad's side before I was born and there are so many things I would love to ask him
Thanks for the reminder Charlee. I only have one grandparent left and we talked him into writing his memoirs a few years ago.
Cheers
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