What is Heritage?

Increasing diversity in the U.S. is a reality.  Many who live here are descendants of early settlers, explorers, immigrants and even slaves.  Our history is part of who we are.  The more we know about where we came from, the better equipped we are to understand ourselves.

The dictionary defines heritage as something that is passed down from preceding generations.  Unfortunately, many people don't know their heritage as much as they should.  When I was a child, I remember meeting my great grandmother but now that my grandparents have died I can't ask them questions about their parents and great grandparents. Conversely, my friend has his family heritage traced all the way back to Abraham Lincoln! His family has made a concerted effort to keep track of their family tree.