Through out the county and even the nation there have been memorial services, family and high school reunions and heritage days planned and attended. We are a history making people and we should recognize the importance of remembering what has happened in the past.

April is Confederate History and Heritage month in Alabama and there are services activities we can attend to honor those who have fought. There is much history, which happened in the area that we can learn from as the Civil War or the War Between the States was fought here. What is so important in remembering what has happened before?

For one, if we remember what has happened before, whatever mistakes we have made will not be repeated. We can remember what good we have done to better the lives of ourselves and our families. Experience has always been the best teacher and if we pay attention to the lessons learned we are that much better off.

Another reason to remember history is to honor our families and ancestors who have come before us and have learned the lessons of life that we need to learn. We learn to live better lives from what is passed down to us from our elders. Our culture seems to be getting away from learning these ideals. Our own personal family history can be of great worth to us if we put forth the effort to find it. Family reunions and researching our family history are all a part of life that helps us pay attention as they tell the story of what is important in our society.

Learning about where our families are from and what they experienced helps to connect the past with the present. Our personal identity is defined by who has come before us. In New Zealand, the Maori people who are the natives of that country must learn their family history to discover who they really are. We can do the same as we read and listen to the stories of our forefathers.

I have had the opportunity to research my family history and it is so fascinating to me. The fortitude my grandparents had to start a new life here in this country has given me the drive to improve my own life. We have much to be thankful for in our lifestyle but many do not realize this. Take a look at what came before you and this will help you to be grateful for what you have now. Then we can pass that down to our children and they will be a better people.

Loxley resident Valerie J. Steimle is the author of two books, “Home Is Where The Heart Is, A look at strengthening the American Family,” and her latest book, “Home Is Where The Learning Is” (www.amazon.com/gp/product/1403379637). Contact her at valeriesteimle@yahoo.com or visit her website at www.stengthenyourhome.com.