Thankfulness, for preservation of family stories

 In recognition of November as National Family Stories Month in the United States and as a form of ‘thankfulness’ for the influence of such stories on present-day lifestyles, let's reflect on all of the wonderful silly, funny, serious, or scary stories, that define family, individuality and/or community legacy.  

Some people are fortunate in that they grew up hearing stories of the things their grandparents and parents did when they were younger.  And in fact, in my childhood home, it wasn't read but tell me a story. 

On the other hand, some families are less enthusiastic about sharing; but whether you grew up hearing stories or not, rest assured, such stories are worthy of sharing. So, during holiday events, sit down with older members of your family and ask them to tell you their stories. Why? When loved ones pass on, it is their stories which keep memories alive and can be a comfort to all. 

Sharing family stories are a great way to stay connected to relatives as well as create a tradition of sharing and storytelling that can last for generations – create a legacy of thankfulness. In fact, it was through listening to others that I’ve learned it takes a perspective of CARE - conservation, accountability, recovery and eco efficient - to sustainably land manage family generational properties. For, it is the heritage of a Quaker perspective of “caretaker, not owner, of property” which is the foundation of my generational commitment to a rural community, celebrating its legacy through visionary planning and historical designation. 

When stable, the generational properties on which I reside serves as a host site for a variety of wildlife, ranging from fox to American eagles. Historical records indicate the area’s central lake to be a natural pool; but overtime, it was first extended to support more than 500 acres of agriculture activity; and then, to support outdoor recreation facilities.

 

Nevertheless, due to the impact of surrounding urban/suburban development, the area is no longer usable for fresh-water recreation. So, you see, I share with wildlife a ‘bird’s eye view’ of the impact of urban/suburban runoff and pollution. Why? I’ve watched a so-to-speak pristine spring-feed wetland become an urban dumping ground.

So, the question remains “If you were to identify and record the wonderful silly, funny, serious, or scary stories that define your family, individuality and community legacy, would you be identified as a person who contributes to eco sustainability? To identify such a commitment, link to Landscape Gardening with CARE video https://youtu.be/ENPhCg9QQNc or visit web site http://www.lulu.com/spotlight/syhwright .  Won't you join me, during this holiday season, let's reflect on all of the wonderful silly, funny, serious, or scary stories that influence our community legacies.