Write about your first name: its meaning, significance, etymology, etc.
My parents were not in agreement about my name. They did not agree on much. I suppose that’s why their marriage barely made it to my 4th birthday.
My mother filled out the paperwork in the hospital without my dad’s knowledge. She wanted to call me, ShellyAnne. My dad wanted to name me Kelliann. My mom insisted on having her way because she said, “It’s just name.” However my dad said, “It’s her identity, it will follow her all the days of her life.”
In spite of my mom going behind my dad’s back, he had the final say. My name was finalized as Kelliann (beautiful warrior) Jeanette (after my grandmother) Howard (my surname means peacemaker).
Now that I have some time behind me, I believe my dad knew I needed that identity to survive the life that I was handed. Due to losing him at such a young age, I didn’t have his hand of protection, his wisdom and guidance or his physical presence. My mom had mental illness and our relationship was rocky at best. Even at the abusive hand of her husband, she rejected me and chose him over me.
I’ve done more than survive my childhood. I found a way to thrive. It was natural for me to fight but equally desirable to me to have peace. It was later in life, after I got my childhood behind me, that I learned the meaning behind my name. However, after knowing the battle over the name I would carry, it made perfect sense to me. My name is Kelliann, pronounced: Kel LEE in. I’m proud of the name was given.
How we were given our names is something else, let alone the meaning.
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Kelliann, your name’s story is deeply moving and truly resonates with strength and resilience. It’s remarkable how your father’s insight into the significance of a name has played such a pivotal role in your life. The meaning of Kelliann, “beautiful warrior,” coupled with the legacy carried in your middle name, Jeanette, after your grandmother, and your surname Howard, symbolizing “peacemaker,” seems to perfectly encapsulate your journey.
Your ability to thrive despite the challenges you faced is incredibly inspiring. It’s as if your name has been a guiding light, embodying both the fight and peace that have been central to your life’s story. The pride you take in your name is well-deserved, as it represents not just your identity but also your triumph over adversity. Keep shining, Kelliann, as your name and story are both powerful reminders of the strength and beauty that can emerge from life’s toughest battles. 💪✨🌟
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Thank you so much, Justin. =) Your words of encouragement blessed me beyond what you could imagine. These writing prompts are quite thought provoking and bring out a vulnerability that lifts the weight of things I have carried for years. I’m so grateful for the opportunity to express myself and release some baggage that I probably should’ve put down by now. Just when I second guess myself, thinking I over shared, someone like you comes along and affirms me. Thank you for taking the time to read my post and give such encouragement to me. Have a blessed rest of your evening.
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