Footsteps of the Past

Our Celtic ancestors were aware of both the invisible and the visible world and did not share our modern belief of death as being a total separation. In their worldview, time was endless, a connecting thread which enabled us, the living, to feel the wise and loving presence of the ancestors, and those who had departed continued to care deeply about their descendants--weeping with them when troubled and celebrating their good fortunes.

In today's world, we have lost that sense of connection with our ancestors. That great sense of clanship is missing. As a nation, we seek security, not tradition. We have lost that sense of continuity with the truths of the tribe and the sacred conncection with the land. We don't know who we are because we don't know where and who we came from. Is it any wonder that many of us feel rootless and seek restlessly outside of ourselves to find our way home?

So why not take a little time today...or in the near future to write down everything you know about your family. Begin with yourself and work backward through your parents, grandpareents, and so on...as far back as you can go. Make sure to include dates and places of birth as well as marriage and death. Talk or write to other family members, especially the older ones. It is surprising how many memories the may have...as well as old letters, photes, diaries, etc.


This is the only photo I have of myself as a little girl. It was out at our country home. The two gentlemen are my dad and his twin brother.

My beloved 2nd great grandmother, Constance Mary Hazel(12/10/1880-3/3/1956) Born in Stalham, Norfolk, England; died in Dover, Morris, New Jersey.

Charles Hazel (1857-1918) Barton Turf, Norfolk, England. This was my second great grandfather, Richard's brother, Charles, who worked with marionettes. Although I have no photos of Richard as he died so young, I can get some idea here with Charles.

William Hazel (1825-1900) Born in Barton Turf, Norfolk, England; died in Smallburgh, Norfolk, England. Isn't this photo amazing?

Philemon Dickerson (01/11/1788-12/10/1862). He was the brother of United States Senator Mahlon Dickerson. Philemon was a Congressional Representative from New Jersey 1833-1836;

Governor of New Jersey 1836-1837; Served as a judge in the District Court in New Jersey until his death.