THOUGHTS ON…
Sharing past family grief
Family history is riveting, compulsive, and frequently seriously entertaining. We often chortle at matters our forebears might rather have remained private. I like to think most of us research with affection and, beneath the humour, treat the absorbing lives of our ancestors with respect. I know I do, but despite the odd ethical qualm, I enjoy uncovering a secret as much as anyone.
Sometimes however, your research can also metaphorically turn round and bite you on the bum. Apart from a lump in the throat and occasional moist eyes I’ve only really sobbed three times during my researching life.