As a teenager I was companion to an elderly woman who lived alone. I don’t recall whether I volunteered or was paid. If payment was involved, I’m sure it was less than the going rate and more than I deserved. On my first visit she asked who my people were. I was stumped by the question. When I realized she was asking about my ancestors, my answers were short and disappointing. I know a good deal more about “my people” now. If she asked me today I could say they were Mormon pioneers, pilgrims, veterans of World War II, the Mexican-American War and the Revolutionary War, federal prisoners and fugitives from the law. They were shop-keepers, scholars, farmers, teachers, housewives, and even a few noblemen. There are several I’d like to meet in the life to come. Among my many questions, I’m sure I’d ask, “Who were YOUR people?”
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