I can trace my ancestors back over 60 generations – I know WHO they are. Some of us don’t need DNA tests as our families recorded the histories and kept good records. Some of us do.

So how do you know who you are?

Genetics are not everything but it is better to know who you are in deepest sense of the word than not know where you’re coming from

Finding out, doing the research, learning who your ancestors are is most enlightening – some people scoff and laugh and say it is unimportant, but it is one of the most important things I know, know your family, know your tribe, know your history – it is truly an eye opener. It helps you make sense of yourself.

You also stand on the shoulders of giants.

Perhaps your grandfather used to tell stories about his grandfather – perhaps there is a family name you can trace, an old photo, a certificate, a note with a lock of hair, – It’s worth tracing old stories finding  old news articles, looking up old photos.

Maybe you know your great grandmother’s maiden name, and can trace the female line which is usually forgotten – the history here is truly staggering.

The missing links in your family

If there is nothing at all, then you are forced to use DNA testing which may give you a line to trace, it is possible from there to backtrack to your named ancestors. If you are adopted or an orphan it is possible trace back to your lineage with DNA, and thus even possible to find out who your parents were.

Lineage, ancestry is important, it gives you stability and connection – and also insight into yourself.