What's in a name?

[Guest guest]

All:

I just ran into another woman who carries my first and last name. I do not have

a common surname. It was neat, but sparked some interesting feelings...I was

excited and yet felt protective of myself as an individual and protective of my

family. It reminded me of separate but one...but I think I puffed out my chest,

fanned out my tail feathers and kicked at the dirt for a split second. My

brother and I are the only ones now to carry on our family name, and given what

that means and represents to me, I wish to carry his name with honor. In S.

Africa when growing up, the kids were named only after their peronalities were

evidenced and or there was a happening or incident that was in relation to them.

I was named that which means " peace " . But my name, Danielle (spelled Daniel with

and accent over the e'),was picked from a list after my mom was instructed that

it needed to be French. Everyone called me Daniel once coming to the States, so

my parents changed it to to Danielle. I'm still called, Daniel however, and it

drives me bonkers...that's why if I ever go to that one particular coffee chain

where they call out your name, I give them some whacky name to try to

pronounce...and say, thank you, that must be mine. But next time, I think I'll

indicate, " Danielle " when they ask, and acknowledge when they call out

" Daniel " ...

 

-Danielle