Untangling Identity: A Journey into my Terrien Ancestry
Family name Terrien
Recently, I took a DNA test at iGENEA to shed light on my family history, specifically my Terrien's ancestors. The insights derived have not only upturned several family myths and assumptions but have sparked a transformative journey in understanding who I am and from where I come.
Recently, I took a DNA test through iGENEA to trace my historical roots, believing I understood the basics of my ancestry. However, the results have profoundly changed my comprehension of my ancestry and family history, specifically related to my Terrien ancestors. Retrospectively, I realize that my knowledge was cloaked in myth and assumption. The iGENEA DNA test results have stripped away these unverified truths, sparking a new journey of self-discovery.
From the start, I knew that the Terriens were at the heart of my matrilineal lineage. But the report defied my expectations that my ancestral relationships were straightforward, highlighting more complexities and intricacies than I ever considered. It was a revelation to learn about the broader geographical reach and diverse ethnic origins of this side of my family. Previously, my self-identification was built on the belief that we were solely of French descent. This report has significantly expanded my lineage to include surprising connections to the Iberian Peninsula, even remote ties to the Middle East, forever altering my sense of identity.
The most profound insight was learning about the Jewish heritage of the Terriens. Different from my Catholic upbringing, this unexpected twist has prompted questions about why and how this crucial part of my ancestry was lost in my family’s narrative. With the newfound knowledge of my Jewish heritage, I've started exploring Judaic traditions to connect with this hidden part of my lineage, a wonderful narrative twist that has instigated a positive journey in reevaluating and reclaiming my ancestral identity.
Moreover, it was fascinating to learn the contribution of the Terriens to history. Evidence of their establishment in Medieval Europe and their formidable presence during significant historic phases is a proud legacy to behold. They were not mere bystanders but active participants in shaping our collective history.
In essence, the iGENEA DNA test has overhauled my understanding of my ancestral identity. This journey into genetic ancestry research has been an eye-opening experience, full of surprises and intrigue. It has started a more profound exploration into the tapestry of my lineage, the Terriens, shifting my previous self-understanding and beginning a path of tangible connection with a deeper, richer, and fuller ancestry than I ever thought possible.
A. Terrien