It Apparently Was In The Genes

The past few days I have been traveling with my family to the great state of Arkansas. Last year my Aunt Flora (whom I hadn't seen since I was like five) sent my Dad a whole bunch of genealogy information that she had collected. During a trip last summer to see my folks, my wife became infatuated with the "Harper Family History" while I likely watched ESPN (I hate admitting that). It was apparently at this point that she made the conscious decision that that this "family-lite" sort of guy would learn about where his family came from and she would make sure of it. Hence....our present travels to Arkansas.

I have to say that I wasn't exactly excited about coming here. In fact, I was down right ticked that I was "told" that we were going and that I would "like it!" Well determined to defy "orders" I complained, whined and basically made as big a stink about coming as I could before and during our voyage out here. My wife is however, never deterred and remained focused on the outcome of our mission. She is amazing that way!

Thanks to my second cousins (Flora and Bob) we drove out to the very spots my Great Grandfather had run his five businesses during his short life (he was only 49 when he passed) and ultimately to his grave site. It was surreal to see a family member whom I obviously never knew but someone who played such a pivotal role in me actually being here (literally and figuratively). What was more awesome was seeing how entrepreneurial he was despite having such hardship in his life. My Great Grandmother died giving birth to their last child (which unfortunatly also perished) and saddled with raising 5 kids! I think trying to do my latest startup with 2 kids is murder...I have absolutely nothing to complain about!

I believe somehow the seeds of entrepreneurship were undoubtedly planted by him in me. I look at all I that I have done and accomplished in just a short 35 years and I am proud to know that this drive and desire comes from my lineage. I never knew that I would be as fascinated about my "family history" as I have become these past few days but now I am equally as fascinated as my wife. It has without a doubt opened my eyes to the importance of knowing and understanding where we come from.

James Turner Harper likely wouldn't know what to make of his great great grandson writing a BLOG about him; seems kind of funny if you actually think about it. Something tells me he would not only be impressed by what I discovered these past few days both about my past and myself, but would be happy to know 91 years later he is still making a difference. What a ripple!

My travels continue....

Ripple On My Friends!!!

Steve