Genealogy Quest

Where did they migrate
Way back in their day,
What was their life like,
Where "next" did they stay?
When were they born,
Where now do they rest?
These family I follow,
Their life, is my quest.
As the "new lands" were opened
In droves, did they leave,
Family scattered like driftwood,
Leaving old ones to grieve.
What land were they fathered
What there did they see?
Were they somehow related,
To both you, and me?
Who were their life partners,
What names will I find?
Their children are many,
Were their faces like mine?
First names keep repeating
As surnames entwine,
With descendants so many
Which John will prove mine?
Each day, by the mail box
I hope, and I pray,
Someone with more knowledge
Will send answers my way.
Please Lord, send an Angel,
Give me proof, as I sort;
With birth dates, speculations,
And first names, "cut short".
Old maps, clips and photos,
I find, trade, and share,
All help solve this puzzle
With spaces left bare.
The lessons in history,
That now, I know well.
From guesses, to gospel,
For years, I did dwell.
Lost memories, so precious,
I find, now and then
At times real discouraged,
Then find faith again!
What hardships, achievements,
Adventures, and woe,
What joys, and true blessings,
Did "my people" know?
Family stories, so treasured,
Memories told, without doubt,
Old voices and faces,
From "our world", winked out.
Where last did they travel?
My ancestors, "true".
With each question answered
The quest starts anew.
(author unknown)