The semiquincentennial has brought many opportunities to think about the history of this great nation. We have focused on the past, as well as seeking to understand its lasting historical significance. It is often said, “those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.” (George Santayana)Perhaps we should ask ourselves these questions:
- What have we learned from the past?
- What is our heritage and what are our valued customs and beliefs?
- What do we want to pass on to the next generation?
- What is my story, as well as the stories learned from ancestors? How can I share these stories?
(Remember: You are the link between the ones who came before you and the ones who come after you.)
The Burley FamilySearch Center has many options to help you share your stories, including a recording studio and Discovery Screens.
Libraries, museums, and memorial sites are great places for learning history.
You may have family letters that are rich with history. Look for biographies, diaries, and historical documents. Don’t forget newspaper articles for time periods in which your ancestors lived. And most important, write and share your personal memories. Your Story Matters! We all have something to share.
Libraries, museums, and memorial sites are great places for learning history.
You may have family letters that are rich with history. Look for biographies, diaries, and historical documents. Don’t forget newspaper articles for time periods in which your ancestors lived. And most important, write and share your personal memories. Your Story Matters! We all have something to share.
The very meaning of the word "history" is to become learned or wise. Think of someone in your life who has had a positive influence on you. Share that story (oral or written) with your family. Your history is the key to understanding the past and shaping the future.
My Dad was a true patriot. He passed the love of country on to several generations. He served in the South Pacific during World War II. He spoke of sitting in a hot, muddy foxhole on the front lines with the company medic. They wept together as they watched their buddies shot down by sniper fire. He was homesick and begged for letters from home. His heart was with a wife and two small children, as well as beloved parents and siblings. He understood sacrificing for freedom. He loved America. His experiences shaped the future of many family members. Mom played a role in those lessons as well.
The Family History Guide has hundreds of activities for families, individuals, youth, and children to help us learn and understand our heritage.
Here are some activities to help you get started sharing your personal histories:
- Share a story with a loved one and ask him/her to share one with you.
- Interview and record a family member using the Memories App audio feature. Save the stories to FamilySearch. Check out the interview questions from the 52 Stories Project.
- Create a family crest.
- Visit a digital museum.
- Play games your ancestors played.
- Do research or play a family history game from the BYU Family History Tech Lab.
- Cook a favorite family recipe. Share the recipe in FamilySearch Memories and attach it to your family Tree.
Whatever you chose to do, don't leave those lessons unlearned. Some family member is sure to ask after you are gone, "I wish (grandpa, grandma, dad, mom, etc.) had told me more about __________ (something).
Keep your stories alive for generations to come. Your stories can change lives!
"In memory of our God, our religion, and freedom, and our peace, our wives, and our children..." (Alma 46:12).
Here are a couple responses I received from the "Why I Love the US" questionnaire:
"One of the many reasons I love America is the incredible beauty found in our national parks, with never-ending places to explore, discover, and enjoy."
"I am grateful for the freedom and opportunities we have, including the opportunity to learn, receive an education, meet new people, and hear new ideas and perspectives.
Thank you so much to everyone who has taken the time to send in your thoughts about why you love America. They are truly amazing to read, and I look forward to sharing more next month! Please keep sending your thoughts—they are wonderful, inspiring, and so meaningful to read.
"Why I Love the US" Questionnaire.
You can email it to jhun@pmt.org or snap a photo
and text it to 208-431-6642.
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