Through our family genetic stream, we receive much more than just our height, hair color and bone structure. We also receive energy in the form of family gifts.

I’ve spent several large blocks of time at home recently, and it’s been informative to see parts of myself reflected in my parents and to track where certain abilities come from.

From my father, I got a strong sense of geographic direction and the ability to find my way in unfamiliar territory when traveling, along with an observant eye for spotting wildlife and birds. I suspect my father’s enjoyment of nature came from his father, who loved animals. Grandpa Morrill spent hours in the barn talking with his cows.

I received the ability to be organized and plan ahead from my mother, the most organized person I know. She also passed along a love of cooking and the ability to nurture people through food. My maternal grandmother also nurtured through food. Some of my favorite childhood memories were of her visits to the farm. She frequently brought homemade caramel rolls and cooked us pancakes in the shape of animals for breakfast.

When we acknowledge our roots as the source of these gifts, we honor our ancestors. The skills and abilities they nurtured in themselves and their children live on through us, and in turn, we keep the energy alive and pass it on to the generations yet to come.

What family gifts have you received from your ancestors?

A weekend workshop on “Ancestral Healing: Healing the Red Thread” will be held October 20-21, 2012, at Healing Services on the River in Prairie du Sac, WI. For more information, email debramorrill@charter.net or call 608-279-4319.