Whatever your culture and traditions, it’s great to be grateful. On behalf of the Family History Guide Association, we would like to thank the many who make family history a meaningful part of their lives, as well as those who volunteer to teach classes and mentor others in discovering their ancestors. It truly is a global effort, and it has at its heart the common denominator for all of us—family.

As we gather with family to celebrate our thanks, let’s also remember the ancestors who paved the way for us. Here’s a quick Thanksgiving activity you can do yourself or in a group:

1. Identify an ancestor in your tree who has one or more recorded stories. (For help with finding and recording stories, see the Memories Project or Docs/Stories/Photos Projects in The Family History Guide.)
2. Read a story and identify any ancestor events or personal characteristics for which you feel gratitude.
3. Discuss these with others or reflect on them yourself.
4. If you are well versed in your family tree, see how many ancestors you can name from memory, whose lives have touched yours in some way.

There are many ways to “pay it forward” with your gratitude. You can begin by looking at the Activities section of The Family History Guide, for fun and engaging ideas that spread the joy and togetherness of family history.

Happy Thanksgiving!