"Embrace the journey, cherish the connections, and let the spirit of "nostos" guide you home!!"
Highly recommended
Watch the third episode ofIt was streamed yesterday and lasts for 33 minutes"Nostos," in
ancient Greek, embodies the deep yearning to return to one's homeland. This
concept resonates deeply with Greeks scattered around the world, seeking to
reconnect with their ancestral roots. For many, a trip to Greece isn't
just a vacation; it's a pilgrimage of self-discovery and cultural immersion.
Offering invaluable insights and experiences to guide travellers on this meaningful quest are Gregory Kontos, Carol Kostakos Petranek, and Georgia Stryker
Keilman.
In yesterday's episode of the podcast "Greek
Talk," dedicated to those exploring their Greek heritage, the trio shared
their expertise. Their advice, from trip planning to navigating archives and
village visits, is valuable for anyone embarking on a similar odyssey.
Planning and Managing
Expectations
Georgia Stryker Keilman, co-host of "Greek
Talk," emphasises the importance of meticulous planning and realistic
expectations. "There are two main types of research trips," she
explains. "One focuses on visiting your ancestral village, potentially
meeting relatives, and absorbing the local culture. The other, like Carol's
experience, involves dedicated archival research."
Gregory Kontos, host of "Greek
Talk" and founder of Greek Ancestry, reiterates
this point, stressing the need for thorough preparation. "Plan well in
advance," he advises. "Discuss your research goals and expectations.
You never know what you might uncover – records, relatives, or even cherished
family keepsakes."
A Journey to Our Sparta
Carol Kostakos Petranek, of Spartan Roots, recounts her
experiences in Laconia,
her ancestral homeland. "My Sparta,
my home," she describes it with affection. Through meticulous planning and
respectful interaction with local communities, Carol unravelled family legends
and forged meaningful connections.
Their advice goes beyond logistics, emphasising the
importance of gratitude and humility. Carol highlights the significance of
small gestures, like offering gifts to those who help you. "Being grateful
and courteous is crucial throughout your trip," she underlines.
Embracing the Changes
Accessing Greek archives has become more regulated in
recent years. Carol shares her experience encountering these changes during her
last visit. "Their policies have changed," she notes. "Now, you
need to submit a request with specific details, and they'll send the records
electronically."
A Transformative Odyssey
Despite these challenges, the rewards of such journeys
are immeasurable. Greg emphasises the profound impact of visiting ancestral
villages and interacting with locals. "It gives you a deeper understanding
of life in Greek villages," he remarks. "It's more than genealogy;
it's about connecting with your roots."
As we seek to reconnect with our heritage, Gregory, Carol, and Georgia's guidance is an invaluable resource for rediscovering our roots.
With careful planning, cultural sensitivity, and heartfelt appreciation,
every trip can become a transformative odyssey – a journey of
"nostos" that transcends time and distance.
A Clear Message
For those embarking on this voyage of self-discovery,
their message is clear: embrace the journey, cherish the connections you make,
and let the spirit of "nostos" guide you home.
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