Life's Lessons Learned from the Stories of My Ancestors

I have a journal where I have recorded "Lessons Learned from the Lives of My Ancestors".  I have decided to turn some of those entries into a blog.

John Newton headstone.

As I have researched my family history I have observed in my ancestors strong individuals who were "PRESERVED, RESTORED, PARDONED, and APPOINTED by the rich mercy of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ."  (These words were carved on the tombstone of John Newton, author of Amazing Grace.)

"Preserved, restored, pardoned, and appointed."

I want to share some of these amazing stories with my family.

These entries will reflect my deep respect for their character, my gratitude for the legacy they have gifted to me, insights into their challenges, and how the stories of their struggles have strengthened me.



Bruce Feiler wrote of "The Stories That Bind Us" (NY Times March 15, 2013) and concluded, "Bottom line:  If you want a happier family, create, refine and retell the story of your family's positive moments and your ability to bounce back from the difficult ones. That act alone may increase the odds that your family will thrive for many generations to come."  

Thus begins my story project, "Ancestor Story Time."