What do you do when you discover an ancestor who made choices that hurt others? Today I discuss four ways people typically respond to these negative discoveries: ignoring, justifying, judging, and observing. Each approach has pros and cons, but through personal stories and experiences, I explain why observing and seeking to understand our ancestors is the most powerful way to see them more clearly. The most fascinating part of the process is how the same technique can change your life and relationships in the present.

"When that thing keeps coming up in your mind, why not just face it?"

Take-aways from today's episode:

• Learn 4 ways to approach negative stories within your family tree.
• Embrace the authenticity of your heritage and find value in the imperfections of your family tree.
• Transform negative family history discoveries into powerful personal growth opportunities.
• See the value of adding context by hearing the story of Edward Francis Murphy, a mid-19th-century Irish immigrant.

Are we connected on Instagram or Facebook yet? Find me @msheathermurphy

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