In one of my favorite books, Atomic Habits, James Clear wrote: “Success is the product of daily habits, not once-in-a-lifetime transformation.” Your ancestors lived out their lives one day at a time. The life you might have today — having multiple outfits to choose from, living in a beautiful home, getting to go to college, driving your car — came from centuries of struggles, decisions, and risks your ancestors took. Thousands of people came before you, and every day of their lives compounded into what you get to experience.
A very interesting point to ponder - how did our ancestors pave the way for us. I think we rarely consider it. My grandparents were working class, my grandmother a nurse and my grandfather a policeman (in the UK). My father was clever and university was free in those days, but his parents supported him otherwise through his education, and he became a doctor. It was a big social and financial leap, and his parents made it possible.
A very clear eyed and insightful post. I too have felt deep appreciation for many brave and hard working people in my family history, especially those who did not know how to read and write but wanted education and opportunities for their children.
A very interesting point to ponder - how did our ancestors pave the way for us. I think we rarely consider it. My grandparents were working class, my grandmother a nurse and my grandfather a policeman (in the UK). My father was clever and university was free in those days, but his parents supported him otherwise through his education, and he became a doctor. It was a big social and financial leap, and his parents made it possible.
That's really cool, Jack. I wonder what made him move?
Congratulations on your graduation from Duke, Jack. As you so rightly noted, your ancestors paved the way to your current success.
A very clear eyed and insightful post. I too have felt deep appreciation for many brave and hard working people in my family history, especially those who did not know how to read and write but wanted education and opportunities for their children.