Nothing is more moving as a tribute than one dedicated to one's family lineage and the valuable wisdom from ancestors. Author William J. Long saw the merit as well in exploring his family tree, especially after his cousin Shelvia requested to know more of their family history. His efforts established this personal family memoir, Survival Lessons, which encompasses life lessons from their family's lineage in the small town of Ash North Carolina. Divided into two parts, each focuses on the author and Shelvia's individual families, and how their lives were impacted by history, family trials and the daily occurrences within their faith-based community. William also does extensive research on the town's past as well, from church establishments to backgrounds on town figures to changes in the community. This book of lineage is to inspire a sense of survival and purpose, realizing God provides and shapes each person through the past.