Great post, Cadell. I just came across this quote from one of my writing workshops, We have to see ourselves as characters in the flow of family story - our ancestors' heroic actions were to save themselves, but also to make us possible, just as all of our writing is for ourselves, and also for the future.... sometimes consciously, sometimes not.
and then I read your piece. You do see yourself as a character in the flow of family story and you write for yourself and for the future. Meanwhile, I'm sorry to hear about the PhD rejection. If you want, I'd be happy to look at the research proposal/statement of intent or whatever they ask for before you send out your next application to the British Layland of graduate schools. May your awesomeness continue!