Odd moments spent sorting through family archives. There is nothing like a good delve - and I never cease to be amazed by the richness of my inheritance. Seeing the primary sources behind the stories I was told growing up have been touching. Researching others and realising they were largely apocryhal has been intriguing!
I guess to some degree seeing history repeat itself is fascinating. Personality traits replaying across generations; careers choices; the hopes and fears expressed in letters home. Much to ponder and celebrate.
I've heard it said that we do not grow up entirely until both our parents are dead - and now - almost a year after my mum's death - I can't help but agree. There is something powerful about exploring the past through my own filters and interpretative skills rather than through my parents. Maybe it is also something about getting to the tipping point in my own life when I have, in all likelihood, less life ahead than I have lived before. The past is now rich and dense with experience. The future is tempered by the past - but also charmingly enticing. The present invites me to put both together and reflect from the perspective of being me.
Time to turn a page and start a new chapter.
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