In this holiday season each year, we often focus on what gifts we would like to get for those we love. Something we may not think about is the gifts that family history gives back to us. Here are a few of them to be grateful for, and you may think of additional ones as you read this list:

• A sense of identity, in understanding who you are and what your roots may be
• Connection with your ancestors and appreciation for their sacrifices, life events, and triumphs over challenges
•  Awareness of history, by discovering how your ancestors’ lives are intertwined with it
• Knowledge of cultures and ethnicities as you explore research around the world
• Traits of curiosity, perseverance, analysis, and even a sense of humor as you examine information in documents and records about your forebears
• Collaboration with others doing family history, which sometimes leads to finding new friendships and associations

The Management Team of The Family History Guide Association wishes you a wonderful holiday season. We are deeply grateful for your contributions to keeping the memories of your ancestors alive for generations to come!