Unraveling the Sea-bound Legacy: How iGENEA's DNA Test Transformed Self-perception
Family name Forestier
The report details how a DNA test from iGENEA helped unravel unexpected insights about the author's maritime ancestors, the Forestiers. These revelations substantially influenced the author's self-understanding and identity, connecting them to their family's legacy in an unexpected way.
My journey into my ancestry took an unexpected turn with my DNA test results from iGENEA. Always intrigued by the resilience and strength of the generations before me, thereby learning that my ancestors, the Forestiers, were prolific seafarers, was nothing short of a revelation. This unexpected revelation has not only helped me gain better perspective on their lived experiences and hardships but also redefine my understanding of myself and my place in our family's story.
Hailing from a family known for its literary accolades and academia, I anticipated tales of scholars and writers among my ancestors. The Forestiers were indeed told tales of the open seas, not from books but from first-hand experiences. This resulted in a dual fascination; the heartening association with seafarers inspired respect for their adventurous spirits, while simultaneously it ushered doubts about my fondness for stability.
When I reflected deeper, I realized I share the same spirit of exploration - in thoughts and ideas, not seas. My love for literature, philosophy, and psychology isn't very different from their love for new lands and cultures. I now understand why I resonate with stories featuring journeys, travelogues, or struggle amidst the vast sea. It's a reflection of both familial conditioning and genes.
Just as those sailors of yore, I also thrive on challenges, adapt easily, and am quick to learn - invaluable assets in my vocation as a writer. Just as them, I am, in essence, a voyager, albeit of a different kind.
Surprisingly, I also discovered several ancestors involved in social and political struggles. The Forestiers have a legacy of raising their voice against injustices. Knowing this has drastically influenced my worldview. Their resistance and strength is a source of pride and compels me to carry this legacy of standing for equality and justice, a quality I already recognized in myself.
Knowledge of my lineage has been transformative. It has helped elucidate personal attributes that earlier seemed odd, fostered an adoration of the sea, redefined my self-perception, and deepened my sense of pride at being a Forestier. Moreover, it has significantly impacted my connection to and understanding of my history.
U. Forestier