If you have ever had the experience of visiting some of the great cathedrals of the world, then you know how moving they can be. They are grand, beautiful and in many cases have stood for centuries. As you look around the building and see the brick and glass and realize that most often they were built at a time where the technological capabilities of today where non existent, you gaze in awe of what has been created.

However, it isn’t only the building that makes you feel that you are in someplace special. Most cathedrals are so steeped in history that people from past generations are buried right within the walls. It is almost as if the past is connecting with the present as you sit and ponder all that is around you. Even as you sit amongst the vastness of the building itself, there is a sense that you are cocooned and enveloped by what is right inside your soul.

I have had the privilege of lighting a candle in many different cathedrals around the world. Every time I do I feel this sense of connection with the person that I am honoring and of that for which I am asking. Of course, this visit was in honor of my grandmother, who was with me in more ways this trip than I could have ever imagined.

This picture was taken at Rochester Cathedral in the town of my ancestors. As I sat in the building and looked around, I felt a sense of peace and calm. I felt a sense of approval and acknowledgement that my life path is taking me on the journey that I am meant to have. Most of all, I felt the love and compassion of those that had come before me and a sense of belonging in the world from which I came.

If you ever have the opportunity to experience your ancestral past, I highly recommend it. It helps give you a sense of purpose and belonging. If you happen to get to experience one of the grand cathedrals in the process, then that will be an added bonus!

Mornings with Ron is available as a podcast at anchor.fm/morningswithron or on iHeartRadio, Apple or Google Podcast, Spotify or most podcast sites.