Where do you come from?

This past week, I found myself reflecting on my family history—where I come from and the stories of those who came before me. I’ve mostly known the names and basic stories of my great-grandparents, but beyond that, only bits and pieces. Yet, every time I uncover a story or teaching from my ancestors, it brings a sense of pride that fills my heart.

I spent some time exploring the Family Tree app, clicking through generations to uncover names, dates, and birthplaces. One branch of my family reached back to 1600s Ireland. Another traced all the way to 735 in Denmark. Yet another led to Italy. I realized I’ve barely scratched the surface—there are still so many branches to explore. Each discovery makes me want to visit these towns and learn more about the places my ancestors called home.

This research reminded me of an experience in 2009 when I studied abroad in London. I fell in love with the beautiful landscapes and rich history. Three months wasn’t nearly enough time to soak it all in. One weekend, some friends and I decided to take an impromptu trip to Wales.

We boarded a train from London to Cardiff, and from there, we made a spontaneous decision to ride another train until we felt we should get off. Armed only with paper maps (smartphones weren’t much help back then), we ended up in a tiny town called Manorbier.

When we exited the train, we realized we weren’t at a station—just a platform surrounded by fields and a few wooden pallets. But with the train now gone, and only two hours of daylight left, we started walking quickly toward what we hoped was the town center. Eventually, we found our way, grabbed food at a local pub, and checked into a small hostel. I can’t remember how many miles we walked, but it was some of the most beautiful green I have ever seen.

The next day was magical. We swam in the frigid Atlantic waters surrounded by cliffs, played football on the beach beside ancient castle ruins, and wandered through historical sites, spending our pennies on little local treats and souvenirs. Manorbier was quaint, crisp, and captivating. I felt an inexplicable connection to this place and was reluctant to leave.

Weeks later, I discovered why I’d felt so drawn to Manorbier. While visiting cousins in the UK, I mentioned my trip, and they shared that our ancestors once lived there! My great-great-great-great-grandmother, Elizabeth Cadwallader, and my great-great-great-grandmother, Frances Davies, were both born and raised in Manorbier.

Family history records even say: “Frances was a happy child who loved playing on the beach near the cliffs of Manorbier Castle. She loved taking off her shoes and walking barefoot in the cool sand. She couldn’t be happier.”

I had unknowingly walked in their footsteps, played in the same sand, and felt the same peace they must have felt. That realization made the experience even more meaningful.

As Thanksgiving approaches, I feel inspired to honor my ancestors. Their lives—full of joy and struggle—shaped where I am and who I am today. While their “hard” was different from mine, I know they found happiness and overcame challenges, just as we do. I wish I could talk to them as I know they could offer great insight and perspective on life. I am determined to learn as much as I can about my genealogy. This can take hours, days, years even. But it will be so worth it!

There’s a special energy that comes into our lives when we connect with our personal history. This Thanksgiving, I encourage you to share a family story with those you gather with. How far back can you trace your lineage? What stories inspire you?

If you’d like, reply to this email and share one of your favorite family stories—I’d be thrilled to hear it.

Moral of the Story

Here are three ways we can all honor our ancestors:

1. Learn about them. Understanding who they were can inspire us to become who we want to be.

2. Live in a way that makes them proud. Let their legacy guide you as you create your own.

3. Feel their presence. Imagine them as guardian angels, protecting and supporting you through life’s challenges.

(On a personal note, I truly believe some of my grandmothers were my guardian angels during my cancer treatments, as they had faced similar battles themselves.)

Let’s honor the lives of those who came before us by cherishing their stories and carrying their legacies forward.

Erica ❤️🌺