Recently my mother contacted me about some books that her father, my grandfather, wrote and published prior to his death in 1979. Our family has a long history of missionary service in the Orient as well as a very unique genealogy which my grandfather researched and wrote about. It is a part of my legacy and something that I want my grandchildren to know when they’re old enough.

Although I have copies of my grandfather’s books, I hadn’t thought about or looked at them recently. When my mom called, it reminded me of how important these books are to my children and their children. None of them ever met my grandfather or heard the wonderful stories that he told me throughout my childhood. Reading these books is the only way they have to connect with him and his rich history.

I think most of us don’t realize that we have a story to leave for our children and their children. Maybe we don’t have an exciting history that would appeal to the masses but it would definitely mean something to our future generations.

Don’t underestimate the power of your words, whether written or spoken, to share stories and knowledge about your life and that of your ancestors. Even if you don’t care that much about genealogy, it’s great to have special stories or anecdotes that you pass from generation to generation.

So, start today. Talk to your children about your family and your personal history. Help them to understand the importance of heritage and family roots. This, after all, is the fabric of history.