How does learning about family ancestors impact you in the present and future?

People often imagine time-travelling into the future to determine what the years ahead hold for them. It may sound like an impossible dream, but what if you could travel into the past? Learning about our ancestors and family heritage is an exciting way to relive events before we existed. It can benefit us in more ways than one. In the process, you not only learn about your family but also more about yourself.

A Link between Past and Future

Even if we barely know anything about our ancestors, they have an important place in our lives. Family traditions, the way we live, and how we are being raised are all because of them. By researching and recording these traditions, we can pass them down to future generations.

What Makes Us Unique

While growing up, we already understand that our family is different from others. We are culturally not the same. Learning about the past can help us understand why we follow certain beliefs. If our ancestors were culturally different, we would know how and what makes us different. This way, we can learn to respect tradition and find our sense of identity.

Compassion and Resilience

Countries around the world have suffered colonisation. Our ancestors could have been part of freedom movements. Or, they may have migrated from an entirely different country. By knowing our roots and the struggles of our forefathers, we can be more compassionate and resilient. These are stories that we can record and narrate to our children.

Emotional Health

When children learn that their family has existed for decades or centuries, their sense of self-worth increase, and they look up to their parents and find strength in their family history. Thus, learning about family ancestors boosts their emotional health and helps them look forward to the future.

A Healthier Life

From the medical point of view, knowing what diseases or conditions your grandparents or great-grandparents suffered can also help you live a healthier life by making wiser choices. You can also share this information with your doctor to find out the health risks you might face in the future.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I start learning about my ancestors?

Begin with names of closest of kin - parents, relatives. Look for documents and records your family may have. Talk to your relatives, seek more information.

Why is it important to learn about our ancestors?

Learning your family history can make you more compassionate and resilient. It will increase your sense of self-worth. You can also preserve and pass on important family traditions.

What is an example of family heritage?

Family heritage means your cultural and religious background. You could be of German, Persian, or Indian heritage. Or you could have mixed ancestors.

What comes in a family tree?

Start with yourself. Move back to your parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents. Find records of births, deaths, and marriages to add to your family tree.