The study and contemplation of history should not just entertain and increase our base of knowledge. We should also gain insight and wisdom. We should learn from our previous triumphs and failures as a people. Wisdom helps us to determine what truly matters in life, how to best actualize our highest calling and live valuable, productive, mutually beneficial lives. As wisdom is intentionally applied, not only individual lives but communities at large can and should be changed for the better. We can’t alter our past, but shouldn’t studying and understanding the lessons of previous generations provide us with the wisdom to sculpt a better future?

After many centuries of cultural evolution, mankind should be doing a lot better. The pursuit and application of wisdom should be an instructive guide as to how we should live. The past should influence our future. It would take all of us cooperating to use our knowledge, gifts, energy and resources to turn things around. It is a daunting responsibility, but don’t we owe it to future generations to be and do better?

We hope that reading some of these lost stories serves as both an intriguing historical journey and an inspiration to positively impact our community.