Finding our roots

My seventh grade science teacher was excited about this fairly newly genetic coding called DNA. Now we can order a kit that, with a mouth swab, will inform us of our unique ethnic background. The test will either confirm what we've been told or be the source of many surprises. Family connections, however, are just one aspect of our roots. Here are just a few I jotted down:

 

• Political: On Tuesday we here in Illinois will cast our ballots in the primary. Collectively our democratic roots are over two hundred years old; individually we decide our outlooks and loyalties.
• Generational: When I was a new supervisor, part of my training included a movie called What You Are is Where You Were When. The essence of it was that major historic events help define who we are as individuals and as an age group.
• Purpose: In a conversation with our executives about a possible new initiative, the discussion centers around ensuring there is no mission drift, that is, we do not want to lose focus on why we are in business in the first place.
• Place and possessions: A couple of friends have made recent very significant moves that required a sorting through of all their stuff with an eye to what stays and what goes. Such major moves force us to find new roots even as we bring along some familiar items for comfort.
• Nature: Homeowners know that roots of trees can cause extensive and expensive damage to pipes, lawns and sidewalks and gardeners know to remove all roots of unwanted plants and shrubs. Timing is critical when dealing with trees and plants. On a walk the other afternoon I passed folks tidying their gardens. Trash bags contained not just garbage but dead plants they'd allowed to remain in the ground and be dormant in the winter knowing that would help in the spring.
• Events: Analysts of all kinds look for the root cause. Whether delving into an individual's fears or researching society's problems, we deal with cause and effect.
• Origins: Last night's Chicago Sinfonietta concert featured selections that were favorites of its founder who died last July. A cellist who has been with the orchestra since its inception 28 years ago, paid tribute to the conductor emeritus and shared memories of learning under his tenure.
• Products: Focus groups and consumer data help companies build customer loyalty which has people committed to particular products.
• Spirituality: Soon it will be Passover. Soon it will be Easter. Ramadan is in June. Rituals connect us to centuries of believers. 

If you think about it, we've got roots - connections - from our origin, childhood, schools, jobs, and neighborhoods. From long ago and from yesterday. Some continue to ground us, while others may still be strangling our growth. I may want to claim some and enjoy having them in the light even as I deny a few and work to keep them in the dark. Last week I suggested we use our wings and soar. This week, let’s dig.

Marilyn