I feel particularly blessed this year as we decorate the tree, string our tinsel and prepare for Christmas festivities because our family has grown rather unexpectedly.
About five years ago, David and I gave each other a DNA test kit for Christmas through ancestry.com. We carried out our tests, and I chose to take the position that I didn’t want to be contacted by anyone should I have a DNA match because I was too busy for possible notifications from distant relatives.
I reflected on my decision last year, went back into my account preferences, and ticked the box allowing communication. About six months ago, I answered a direct message from a local man who claimed to share my DNA. Quickly, we unravelled the mystery through numerous communications, Army records, and profiling. We deduced that my uncle had a child out of wedlock in the 1950s (my first cousin based on DNA) who was given up for adoption, and her adult children were the ones contacting me. Unfortunately, my cousin passed away recently, and since then, her children have been able to find both her maternal and paternal lines through DNA testing.
Our families have since met for a wonderful introductory lunch, and I felt particularly privileged to be able to tell them about their ancestors and especially their great-grandmother. I shared with them details of this incredible woman who was a passionate volunteer, kind, civic-minded, generous, a humble leader. I asked that they take this knowledge with them as they travelled through their days and be inspired by her achievements and contributions.
It’s never too late to reassess a decision, and I’m thrilled that mine has meant that there will be more table settings at our family table from now on. Merry Christmas, everyone – wishing love and joy to all.
