Tracing Your Family Tree

By Amy Sherman

Ever wonder what it would be like to explore your heritage and then leave that information as your legacy? Imagine providing a link to your past and the mysteries of your ancestors to your loved ones and the future generations to come.

Many baby boomers are tracing their lineage and becoming part of the fastest growing past time activity. Because there is a strong likelihood that your ancestors came from other areas, tracing your past can be fun, intriguing and beneficial to you and other family members living today.

Some benefits include uncovering health and family genetics, which helps doctors when they plan the best treatment options for illnesses that are passed on. Mental health issues, birth defects, sickle cell anemia and other inherited illnesses are important for younger generations starting a family. Other benefits include connecting with long lost relatives or even relatives you've never met before.

The psychological benefits are two-fold. There is a huge sense of accomplishment involved in this kind of leisure activity. While you are compiling and researching information, you are improving your sense of worth, since becoming a part of history is very rewarding. You are also connecting to your past with a sense of belonging, acceptance and understanding that you may not have had before.

With your added insights, you may find out the origins of family traditions, including recipes, holiday rituals, language quirks, etc.

When you study your genealogy, you learn your connection with people from the past who may share similar characteristics and personalities as you. It also brings historical events to life, since history can appear so distant and abstract. Family members often become closer as they discuss the many facets of their family tree. It creates a strong bonding between generations and allows family members to gain a greater understanding and appreciation for matters related to racism, religion, morality and ethics.

As you research your genealogy, you may find it life-altering, especially if it solves a family mystery or uncovers a famous ancestor. Furthermore, there's a sense of continuity as you find your place in the continuum of life. Some websites to check out are www.familysearch.com, www.myheritage.com and www.ancestry.com for free genealogy links.

Overall, what starts out as a leisurely hobby, quickly becomes a place to network with other researchers, a resource for understanding your past and a fun way to be more outgoing and involved.

About the author: Amy Sherman, LMHC is the author of Distress-Free Aging: A Boomer's Guide to Creating a Fulfilled and Purposeful Life.

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