write it down now Twas the day before Christmas , while I was snoozing and snoring through my afternoon nap--- along came the ancestors from the days past -- First there were those that had just passed, then on to the others going way way back ----- I smiled and greeted each one as they came marching in and when they were all assembled , I asked---- may I ask you just one question about your past------ they quickly agreed and so I did ask, why didn't you tell me about or at least write down your past ? They all smiled and replied in unison so sweet-- my child we did tell you, but you were just too busy living in the present, that you didn't have time or interest to listen to our past. -- You can change all that now as you dig for each detail , write it down now and listen with your heart -- write it down now as your memories are made and each one formed , for the generations not yet born. Just write it all down now and keep it safe so they won't be so forlorn. tell them what each holiday tradition meant to you and about each scrap of paper and cloth that you have saved and have treasured means to you too, write it down now -- for the generations to come. Tell them of the love you have for your heritage so bright and colorful, but don't make it something that is way too bright-- Be truthful and honest not righteous and just------- just honest and forth right -- just write it down now . Label each picture paper and book -- tell them how you giggled and smiled, just thinking about how they would wonder why you were so diligent and dutiful, hunting for facts, not just fiction of their ancestors past. -- JUST WRITE IT ALL DOWN NOW!!! Betty Flanagan McBee