No matter occurred to historical past? Did it ever occur? Have we forgotten it? Is all of it faux?
Faculties measure math and studying. Scores are tabulated and introduced. They’re mentioned on the information together with different main occasions of the day. What about historical past? Does anybody point out it aside from these taking the Regents exams? Do mother and father ask their kids about what they discovered concerning the American Revolution or the reason why we purchased Alaska? Does anybody care? Ought to they?
Sure, they need to! For instance, many are involved with modern corruption in native authorities, as if it by no means occurred earlier than. They overlook that Boss Tweed dominated New York Metropolis, with out ever being elected mayor.
We additionally overlook historical past in our wallets. Do you might have a photograph for a kid or grandchild in your pockets…not amongst 1000’s of others in your telephone…however an actual picture in your pockets. There was a time, not way back, that all of us had probably the most valuable reminiscences with us or hanging on the partitions. In the present day, not a lot. Household historical past isn’t what we’ve on a display screen, it’s what we actually wish to keep in mind for many years to return.
The very best factor about historical past is that it’s not too late to recollect it. You may focus on it together with your kids. You may examine it in books or on-line. You may carry it in your pocket.
The extra about historical past, the higher you may assist form the long run.
(Joel Heffner is an Eltingville resident.)
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