For all of my sixty plus yearsI have felt a connection to American Indians, specifically the Cherokee. Twelve years ago I had a Near Death Experience following cardiac surgery. My life changed after this experience. I became aware of more than I could see, touch, taste, hear or smell. I was now open to listening to my genetic memory or my previous life. Mary Ann Smith was my great great great grandmother. These stories are about her parents and her husbands and children. I believe that these stories were given to me to help me know who I am and why I am the way I am.