Generations
By Rebekah Bobb
Last November when me and my family were visiting my Oma and Opa in California me and my niece got the opportunity to talk to my Oma and Opa about when my oma became an American citizen. My niece was doing a project regarding american citizenship and I just love hearing stories from both of them.
One thing I think that is becoming a lost art is the transfering of stories from one generation to another. This younger generation doesn't take the time to ask questions to their grandparents or even their parents on where they came from.
It was amazing to me once we started asking my Oma questions about how she came here from Germany when she married my Opa how many other funny little stories she had to tell. Everyone just sat there and listened to the interesting and funny little stories adding questions or comments throughout.
As we were talking I thought "Lets start a voice recording of this" and pulled out my phone to record the covversation. That 6 minute voice recording has little stories and lots of laughter from my whole family. How great will that be to have something to remember those you love?
The history passed down your family line is just as important as the history of the nation you come from. Knowing what your family went though so you can live your life today is not only important but gives you perspective on how we have been given more opportunities now than ever.
My challenge to anyone reading this is to ask your granparents or even your parents to tell you stories about where they came from or even when your first anchestors came to the United States. The internet can tell you one thing but that is nothing compared to the recolection from someone who has heard the story or been there first hand to recall it. But don't just listen write it down or record it to save for years to come!