Thursday 4 August 2011

Choosing A Name For Your Child

Have you ever asked about the meaning of the name you have giving or consider giving your child? A name is a person’s identity. It is used to address that person and this identity lives with you.

A name can actually make you or break you. You must have heard of the Kennedys, Oprah Winfrey, and Saddam Hussein etc. These public figures are quickly identified just by mentioning their names.


What is the big deal in naming your child you may ask? 

Picking your child’s name is a serious task, as some people do not really put so much thought in names and naming their children. Some go after celebrities who they admire, some just like the way the name sounds or it is pronounced.

Depending on your race, religion, culture and beliefs, it’s important you give your child a name that is positive and rich in meaning. You would not want your child to start asking why she is called that name. Even if there were any negative circumstances during her birth ( which should not be rubbed off on the child)  you should have a positive spirit when deciding a name. This means picking a name that is identified with positive attributes and good meaning.

Names that are linked to gods, goddesses, deities, masquerades etc should be avoided as this can actually have negative impacts in the child’s life. Some of these gods are associated with revenge, war and anger. They are known to cause famine, floods and even death. For those who pay homage and sacrifices to these gods; they are more likely to name their children after them in appreciation for their protection and blessings. In return, these children exhibit characteristics associated with these gods.

It is very important to pick names from your background. As Africans and Nigerians in particular, traditional names should be encouraged. There are people who do not like their traditional names and would not want to be associated with them. They are happier and more comfortable when they are addressed by their foreign names. When they eventually have children, the same trend is followed.

Traditional names with rich and positive meanings should be encouraged. This makes us to be unique and help to keep in touch with our roots. No matter where you are in the world, your name is an identity and goes a long way to defining who you are and where you come from.  I love traditional names with rich meanings as all my kids are proudly identified with unique and beautiful ones.

Therefore it important to know and understand the meaning of names before giving it to your child. Ask yourself if that is how you want your child to be identified. The bottom line is to understand the name you give to your child.

Thank you for your time. 

“Evil men understand no judgment: but they that seek the Lord understand all things - Prov. 28:5”

“If a man empties his purse into his head, no man can take it away from him. An investment in knowledge always pays the best interest – Frank Whitmore”



Linda Aliogo


    

Crying

 Hello, Lovelies It has been quite a while! Hope you're keeping safe and doing good. Today, I felt like sharing this topic with you: cry...