If you could see your ancestors,
All standing in a row,
There might be some of them, perhaps,
You wouldn't care to know.
But, here's a question which requires a different view:
If you could meet your ancestors...
Would they be proud of you?
Someone posted this little ditty in my genealogy group and it set me to thinking. Would my ancestors be proud of me? Ashamed? Indifferent? So, from what I know of my ancestors, I attempt a reply.
My ancestors were common folk, mostly farmers and the like. From what I've heard of them, and the ones I actually have memory of, I don't think my financial status would be of much concern. They would be more concerned with my work ethic and how I treated people in general.
My work ethic may not please them. When I was working, I started out in a job with an excellent ethic. I'd come in on my days off, work late, clock in early, and do the dirty work. Yet my spirit would flag quickly, after slights both real and perceived. Most of the ancestors would, I think, take into account that I have "Nerves". I'm not sure how I feel about that... I've always tried not to use my disability as an excuse. I do stand by my belief that employers need to appreciate those they pay. To be condescending, to bully, and to exploit are counterproductive. Often, though, the problem was not nearly as bad as my perception of it. My ancestors took pride in a days' work well done, and phooey on those who looked down on them. I somehow am not capable of that.
I know the fact that I'm 47 and never married (but not a virgin) would alarm many of them. Either they would see me as a tramp or as the victim of male trickery. No husband AND no career - some of them would surely see me as someone to pity.
I've always made it a point to treat others with respect. I give people the benefit of the doubt. I become very upset if someone thinks I'm being hateful to them. If you need ten bucks and I have it, it's yours. Pay me back when and if you can. Some of my ancestors might see me as naive or even stupid (plenty of living people do) but I think most of them would be proud of me for that.
But when it comes down to it, even if they weren't proud, I think they'd find me acceptable. I've never married or had children, but I'm so good at the Aunt thing I was moved in by a nephew to help with the next generation! My sister likes to say her son handed his favorite toy (me) down to his son. I've always tried to live by the Golden Rule. I've never been able to keep a job, and there are people I've hurt, but I tried. And not one of my ancestors is a Jedi named Yoda.
