Recall the movie, “My Big Fat Greek Wedding?” The family depicted in that movie is just like mine, except for one small detail...we’re Portuguese. Just replace the lamb with a pig and you’ve got an accurate picture of my upbringing! However, unlike the father in the movie who extolled the virtues of being Greek at every turn, my father's pride was founded in first being an American. And not just in name...as a Vietnam Vet, he experienced first-hand the sacrifice in defending the ideals and home he adopted as his own. His example has had a significant impact on my love for our country.
The great 19th century philosopher, Alex de Tocqueville, once said
“When America ceases to be good, she will cease to be great.”
How does that relate to me? To you? Throughout history, all great civilizations have risen or fallen in relation to the health of the family. It's no surprise that the institution of the family is under attack. The influence of drugs, alcohol, crime, and Hollywood work against what parents are striving to accomplish in raising the next generation of responsible and respectful adults.
And, though there are many wonderful resources to help us overcome the challenges we face, I believe we have overlooked a fundamental key that already lies within each of us! It is so simple and yet powerful beyond measure….
Heritage. Does that one word conjure up many thoughts and ideas, or none? What is heritage? Simply stated, it is the emotional, social and spiritual legacy we inherit, create and pass on to succeeding generations. Though, it is always evolving, it is foundational in the life of every person. Each of us is a product of our heritage…it is the story that explains us. I never fully appreciated this fact until I was faced with the potential divorce of my parents. What I recall most clearly was the thought that everything, even who I was, was a lie. Before that moment, I didn’t fully grasp the significance of my family heritage, nor the fact that its foundation was what provided my life with meaning, security, and to a great extent, my identity.
If that negative experience was soul shattering, could the positive be just as powerful? What would be accomplished if we decided to intentionally harness the power of heritage to lay a foundation that would shape our children’s character, identity and security!
What would it do for a child to know he is thought of as honest, responsible, loyal, etc?
What would it mean for children to know that they belong to a particular family?
What are the traditions, significant memories and events that gives the child security?
We know that both the spoken and written word have tremendous impact. By preserving and sharing that
which is most precious to our families, we will be breathing words of life into
the minds and hearts of our children. Begin today and create a legacy for your family to enjoy. The legacy you leave behind could change the future!