A single anecdote lights up the whole field of vision.
- James Hillman

Our past is often sprinkled with destiny gems – clues to our greatness. Magically, these gems may have been placed by others, via our naming and or family lineage. And frequently our true essence was apparent from the day we hatched.

5 Ways to Research Yourself

1. Find out the meaning of your first, middle, and last names. You can look these up on-line or in most libraries. We like: www.ancestry.com, and www.behindthename.com is a good source for first names.
2. Ask your parents why they chose your name for you.

3. Ask your parents or siblings what you were like as a child. Don’t settle for replies like, “cute as a button” or “full of piss ‘n vinegar.” Try asking “What was I interested in?” or “What was I really good at?”.
4. Research your family crest or family plaid.
5. Trace your roots: www.rootsweb.com, www.familysearch.org.

For further inspiration on the search for our greatness, I highly recommend James Hillman’s brilliant, beautiful book: The Soul’s Code: In Search of Character and Calling.

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Photo courtesy of Dano