American History Series- My Heritage is Beautiful to Me
In The Roots of Liberty, I shared sweet memories of traveling with my family. Tasting the dust of country roads and gazing at magnificent sites are favorite childhood memories. They only reveal part of the story. Much of my youth was spent in bitter resentment, so why do the pleasant memories overshadow the pain?
Forgiveness is powerful. When I determined to think about the good, love, grace, and even joy fell out of tangled webs of distraction and guilt. My parents desired the best for me. They sacrificed new cars, clothes, wishes, and untold amounts of sleep on my behalf.
My heritage is not all good or all bad. It is as life, a mixture of both.
When I introduced my son to history, I described it as the story of God working in the lives of men and nations. We read Psalm 77:15, “You are the God who works wonders…” He was enthralled and composed a heartfelt song,
God, you are so good to me. God you set me free, so I worship you.
That was not my response as a child in school. I often heard of the terrible acts of men, war and hate. Historic heroes disrobed grade by grade. Was there another story?
My quest to find the answer led me to the Principle Approach. I rejoiced in the large, red volume containing facsimiles of the writings that influenced the thoughts of colonial Americans. Another side of my national heritage emerged from the dark. The heritage of hard work, diligent study, enduring faith, and love of liberty squeezed through clouds of disdain for selfish slaveholders only caring about money.
Principle Approach is often criticized for only focusing on American history. I see how that perception emerges. The excitement of reading what William Bradford or George Washington actually said is such a contrast to reconstructed history it is tempting to focus solely on the glory of America’s founding. That glory is not because the men and women involved were perfect, but because the value of the individual gained a fuller expression. A government created to protect the innocent with liberty and justice for all.
Our heritage is passed down to us. Our challenge is to decide what to do with it. Will we focus of the selfishness of men, worship imperfect patriots, or try to recreate the past? Instead, let’s hate what is evil and cling to what is good. In doing so, we may discover our heritage is indeed beautiful. (Psalm 16:6)
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Been meaning to tell you I love the new site!
Bravo. Well said as usual! You’ve inspired me to work on getting history lessons ready today!
Blessings,
Melissa
Definition of a success? When your child breaks into sincere praise after a lesson. Yep, I’d say that’s a success. :)
LOTP,
Thanks! It’s a remodel. Wish my house was that easy to change. ;)
Melissa,
Be sure to share your lessons. I always enjoy reading your insights.
History is one of my favorite subjects. I may have told you, but this year we are going to focus on the Revolutionary War. Not sure if I’ll enjoy studying about the battles, but I know my son will.
Emily,
That happened a few years ago. Glad it’s recorded, because it doesn’t happen every day, every week, or even every month. I did overhear a tune about the Pilgrims sailing across the sea for liberty once. That was wonderful! Mostly what I hear now is the Star Wars theme. ;)
Great thoughts. I’m a big fan of intentionally seeking the good from the past. I liked your comment “When I determined to think about the good, love, grace, and even joy fell out of tangled webs of distraction and guilt.” You’re right, it’s all about forgiveness.
Jennifer,
It helps a lot, doesn’t it? I’m slowly turning into an optimist, but it’s a long process. I’ve always tended to be negative.
When we understand God is working to accomplish his plan even in the midst of mankind’s sinfulness, it makes it easier. And we sometimes have to search for that balance when studying history. Horrendous things have happened in the name of God, but that doesn’t mean he is evil. The ideas worth building on and perpetuating need to be taught more than the monstrous ideas of murderers.
This is a really good post. I love the quote “Forgiveness is powerful.” We have a wonderful country with a rich history. Good work!
I really enjoyed this pos. History is my favorite subject. I find it terribly exciting to learn about the figures in history, not just then when and what of their achievements but WHO they were as people just like us.
[...] started a series on American history more months ago than I want to admit. Perhaps the timing is even better now. The election is [...]