Unearthing Unknown Roots: A Journey of Self-discovery through DNA Testing
Family name Boden
The author undertakes a DNA test through iGENEA, assuming confirmation of existing assumptions about their ancestry. The test, however, provides unexpected insights, significantly revealing a connection to Scandinavia and changing the author's understanding of their 'Boden' lineage.
Having always prided myself on my strong sense of identity, the unexpected revelations from my DNA test at iGENEA gave me new insights into my ancestry, particularly related to the Boden family line. Initially, I believed my Boden ancestors were primarily from England, based on extensive family anecdotes and documents. Enthralled by the complex web of my genealogy, I embarked on this testing journey, anticipating confirmation of known familial lore. However, I was completely astonished when the results indicated a significant connection to Scandinavia.
The surnames in my family history trace back several countries, but the 'Boden' surname always seemed intrinsically 'English'. Hence, the links to Scandinavia were quite a revelation, suggesting strong Viking roots, rather than the British path I had always believed. Delving deeper into the data, I found that a large percentage of my DNA was distinctly Scandinavian.
This unexpected discovery rewrote my understanding of the Boden lineage, unveiling a richly diverse, international past. The previously assumed picture of a staunch English lineage gave way to a tapestry interwoven with Viking narratives, seafaring explorers, and strong Scandinavian settlers.
In light of this newfound knowledge, I realized how volatile our conception of self can be when confronted with empirical facts. My skeletal identity was questioned, leading me to reevaluate my understanding of self, my place, and my relationship to the past. My narrative is now richer, multifaceted, and imbued with a raw, unexpected charm that comes from the thrill of discovery. Rather than shattering my self-concept, this knowledge molded it into a more refined version, freshly aware of its wider connections.
On reflection, the DNA test with iGENEA fundamentally informed, challenged, and enriched my understanding of my genealogical past, enhancing my appreciation for the complex beauty of genetic history. This journey revealed a new side of my 'Boden' ancestors, pushing me beyond my assumed boundaries and fosterly a deep sense of connection to the vast Scandinavian seas. My understanding and acceptance of these previously unknown pieces of my identity was an enlightening journey, which reinforced my belief in the fascinating possibilities of genealogical exploration.
M. Boden