Remember in elementary school when you were given the assignment to share your heritage; to tell what you were? I recall that lesson fondly and we all did a little comparison as our classmates shared of their ethnic make-up. Of course, we all thought the kid who could claim being part Native American was beyond cool. We all wanted to be Irish because of having a holiday that was made just for us.
I am Welsh (we have, in my opinion, the very coolest flag), Irish, and German. I often refer to myself as being of Northern Isle stock and therefore not a huge fan of the hot, humid weather. I am from people who like good stories, enjoy word play, are fond of forests, and are known to raise a glass...or two.
As I watched coverage of the Queen's Diamond Jubilee celebration in London, England, I thought the 60 boat flotilla was quite cool and wished at least a few folks would have floated down the Thames in innertubes. However, what really impressed me was the great joy and national pride the Brits had for their heritage and for their Queen. What do we Americans have in comparison?
I believe the lesson from my elementary school days was to help kids learn about their heritage; to ask their parents and grandparents about their history; to tap into a little bit of family pride and learn about one's lineage.
I claim the great poet, Dylan Thomas and the recording artist, Tom Jones ("What's Up Pussycat?"). A Welsh flag is on my office desk. Where are your people from? What is your heritage?