Farmer Branches

Most everyone knows what a family tree is, and a lot of others know someone in their family who is actively involved in creating their own. But there are still a surprisingly large number of people who remain in the dark about the benefits of creating their family’s lineage.If you believe you are lingering in the shade of your own family tree without knowing why you should pursue it, consider these reasons:

• The building of your family tree gives you a sense of identity as well as the satisfaction of knowing who your ancestors were, what they did, and where they lived. This knowledge often provides a sense of where they came from (quite literally), and what their place and value were in life. It also provides a sense of continuity to recognize that we are all but a small link in a much larger chain of real people.
• If desired, you can build a medical family tree that reveals genetic conditions and predispositions in your lineage. This can be invaluable if your doctor(s) suspect you may have a hereditary condition.
• To create a family heirloom to pass on to your children, grandchildren, and so on so they too can relive the journey of their ancestry.
• To prove or disprove any family belief that you are descended from a famous historical figure. Confirmation of this can build new family stories and perspectives.
• Like anything that grows, it’s fun to watch your family tree develop branches as new discoveries are learned. Because the process is ever-changing, it provides endless hours of enjoyment from a perspective of intrigue as well as knowledge and satisfaction.

So there you have a few reasons to get out your hoe and start sowing your family’s history. Just as anyone who tills through history, you’re bound to find something that hasn’t been unearthed in years. Have fun, and enjoy the growth of your efforts.