When we are young we see ourselves as the center of everything. At first as children in our family. Later as a spouse, a parent, and a provider. These are all important developmental stages and roles that need our energy and constant attention. During these periods we either learn how to swim or are busy keeping our head above water, so to speak. Only as we age our perception enlarges as we have the time and a larger life experience. This is why, as elders, our presence in our children’s and grandchildren’s lives is so fundamental to provide both grounding and a sense of direction.

This valuable wisdom is why ancestral teachings have always been treasured and treated as sacred in all cultures. It is not that elders have not made mistakes, but it is precisely because we made numerous mistakes that we learned so much about life. For many generations this wisdom is accumulated and passed down to future generations to guide and to strengthen.

This wisdom is the biggest treasure that we can have because it is our ancestors genuine interactions with life in many situations and over many generations. Our cells store all the memories and impulses learned by our ancestors. To live life to the fullest we must allow this stirring no matter how uncomfortable it is to manifest. Either it is trying to get up and fall as an infant or feeling discomfort sitting across a parent at the dinner table. It is only by embracing this impulse that we get to walk, find meaning, strength, and direction.

It is easy to be seduced by new visions and new promises. As a recovered semi estranged young woman, I know how powerful the longing to be significant and to forge a new path and ignore the old ways is. I have made the journey back to building trust and loyalty with my parents. Having been on both sides of this journey I have learned both the pitfalls and the recovery and have a unique view on reclaiming this bond. .