We have heard the saying, “If we don’t learn from history, we are doomed to repeat it.” Of course, that was originally applied to the destiny of civilizations. But it can just as easily apply to our own personal lives. While we learn the skills necessary for doing family history, we should also look at the lives of our ancestors and even our own lives in order to prevent ourselves from repeating what was most disastrous in our ancestors’ lives. Darla Isackson, in a recent edition of Utah’s Senior Review, outlined several points that should reaffirm for us the reasons why we do family history.
Looking back can give us a reality check on our memories. Have you ever reread your own journals or the writings of your ancestors? Then you probably have been surprised to find that your memories of an event are often different from the recordings you made or even your ancestors made. It is good for us to check ourselves for our memories and even research further to make sure that what we thought happened really did.
Collecting and sharing family stories can be of great value. According to Eric Barker in an article for www.theweek.com, one predictor of a child’s emotional well-being is whether or not she knows her family’s history. Reading about our ancestors’ challenges and the ways in which they overcame the obstacles in their lives can give us the emotional strength to forge forward and meet our own challenges. These kinds of stories can and should be passed down to future generations.
I love reading about the obstacles that faced my ancestors, particularly my 3rd great grandfather, Winslow Farr, Sr. He joined the church in Vermont in 1832. At the time of his baptism, he was serving as a judge and member of the local school board. Like so many like him, he left behind wealth and position to follow what he believed was right. How can I do any less?
Looking back lets us see God’s hands in our lives and the lives of our ancestors. If you are like me, I have sometimes wondered where God was when I faced challenges. It has only been when I look back that I can see how He has guided my life and the lives of my ancestors. I find comfort and hope when I look at the life of my 3rd great-grandfather, Robert Dockery Covington.
He joined the church while running a plantation in Mississippi in 1843. After being disowned by his father, he moved to Nauvoo and was in the 2nd wagon train to enter the Salt Lake Valley. His trek west included the birth of a baby, death of that baby and another child. Soon after arriving in the valley, his wife who had not fared well traveling west, died in December 1847. I can look at his life and know that I can handle anything.
Looking back can make us laugh. How fun it is to look back and see how our ancestors lived life. I remember the blue, Sylvania flashbulbs my grandfather used on his camera. How funny those same bulbs looked after flashing. We had a running joke in the family about Grandpa and his picture taking. I’m sure glad that he was such an avid photographer, however!
How can you use this looking back to your advantage this year? With the holidays approaching and the opportunities for family togetherness, why not write a short version of your life history to give to your children, particularly those who are married with children of their own. Give them the opportunity to look back and connect with you. –Liz Kennington