Genealogy is history and there are lessons to be learned.

Genealogy is entertainment -- a mystery to be unraveled or a puzzle to be solved.

Genealogy is a way of connecting with family in the here and now.

Genealogy is a way of understanding the contributions of those who came before us and our obligations to those who come after us.

Genealogy is a way of honoring the individual life of an ordinary person.

And on like that.