Bringing generations together

Monteral Harrell and Carter are 3rd cousins
Photo Credit: Dr. Antoinette Harrell

"Growing up, all generations of my family were well-connected. My great-uncles and aunts were familiar to me. My mother's second and third cousins and their children were familiar to me. I would have thought my third cousins were my first cousins if I didn't know any better. As a family, we were well connected." It seems that something has happened because the generational connection has been somewhat lost.

 My grandson Carter is producing a documentary about his family history. My maternal first cousin Monteral Harrell inherited a photograph collection of our Harrell family. I suggest Carter interview her about her collection. During the interview, she explained to him how we are related. Following that, I informed him that they are third cousins and that her two children are his fourth cousins. It will be help him to understand the family tree and where everyone fit in.

Several factors may have contributed to the loss of generational connection within families. One possible reason is the increased mobility and globalization of society, which has led to family members living in different cities, states, or even countries. Additionally, the rise of digital communication and social media may have shifted the focus of relationships towards virtual connections rather than in-person interactions. Lastly, changes in family structures and dynamics, such as divorces and remarriages, can also disrupt the traditional sense of generational connection. Or perhaps some people like being disconnected and staying to themselves. 

Monteral Harrell and Carter
Photo Credit: Dr. Antoinette Harrell

When I was growing up family members visited each other often. Especially on Sunday afternoons after
church. Most of the women in the period I am referring to would cook and prepare their Sunday meal on Saturday evening. So that after church, the meals were prepared and ready to be served to the family and guests. That was a great way to stay in touch and to ensure that the younger generation knew one another. Although Carter knew Monteral, his documentary project helped him to spend some quality time with her discussing family history through photographs. 

Keeping the family together and bridging generation gaps are very significant. Sunday family meals not only provided an opportunity for delicious food and shared traditions, but they also fostered a sense of belonging and strengthened family bonds. Gathering around the table allowed for meaningful conversations, storytelling, and the passing down of family values and cultural heritage. These meals created a space for the younger generation to learn from their elders, fostering a sense of identity and connection that is crucial for maintaining a strong family unit.