“A name represents identity, a deep feeling, and holds tremendous significance to its owner.”
— Rachel Ingber.
“The glory of my name increases my shame. Less known by mortals, I could better escape their eyes.”
— Jean Racine
CHILD naming can be quite a daunting task, especially for first-time parents.
Many have even described it as one of the most significant decisions to make. There are cases where some parents take months to decide on a name. There are also cases where couples discuss possible names for their children way before they decided to tie the nuptial knot.
This is not something unusual as naming a child represents the first gift parents give to their child and one that will stay with the child for the rest of his or her life.
According to a popular Chinese belief, a name is sacred as it connects us with ourselves.
Child naming may differ over cultures, traditions and religious beliefs. What may seem unusual or unconventional to one culture may be perfectly acceptable in another. For instance, in some cultures, it’s customary to name a child after a relative or historical figure or names that are steeped in history and meaning, while in others it’s more about finding a unique and meaningful name. In some communities, the naming process will even require a ritual ceremony of some sort.
I have no issue if it involves cultures or traditions as what may be viewed as strange in one culture may be perfectly normal in another. It is therefore essential for us to respect these differences. After all, we live in a multi-cultural, multi-religious and multi-racial Malaysia.
I also totally agree that it’s not always appropriate to voice our opinions, especially if it comes across as meddling in someone else’s affairs, the naming of a child included.
External interference in the naming process, to a certain extent, can cause undue stress and frustration for the parents, and it’s not fair for us to put them in that position. Also, it is the parents’ personal choice in naming their children and we are supposed to respect the decisions they make, even if we don’t agree with them.
However, as much as it’s a personal and private matter, parents must be more responsible and give due consideration to the importance of naming a child.
They must, first and foremost, refrain from choosing names that are considered bizarre or offensive without realising it.
By being aware of the impact of a name, they will be able to give their children a meaningful gift that they can carry with them for the rest of their lives. It is also crucial to consider the long-term consequences of their child’s name.
Unfortunately, I came across some cases where parents appeared to be giving no hood to the ‘sanctity’ of the process, resulting in them naming their children according to their whims and fancies.
It’s okay if the child has a story behind his name where it can motivate him to be like his namesake or to emulate that person’s good qualities.
But can you imagine being called a bulldozer, trailer, durian or zombie as your official name? Or being named after the most wanted criminal, serial killer or any undesirable individual?
This is no laughing matter. While it may seem cool to have a name that is different from the norm, it can be challenging for the child to live with it as they grow older. In many instances, the child may face bullying or discrimination, which can negatively impact their self-esteem and mental health.
Recent studies found that our names have the potential to influence our behaviour, physical appearance, career path and life choices, popularity, and how others perceived us.
Based on research, it takes 1/10th of a second to assess someone’s face and physicality to draw the first impressions.
The research also reveals that names are an incredibly important part of our identity. They carry deep personal, cultural, familial, and historical connections. They also give us a sense of who we are; the communities to which we belong; and our place in the world.
In conclusion, child naming is a crucial event in a parent’s life, and they must understand the significance of a name and the impact it can have on their child’s life and choose a name that is both meaningful and practical.
Parents should consider the child’s prospects, personality, and identity before choosing a name. It is also important to choose a name that is easy to pronounce and spell as this can help the child fit in with their peers and avoid bullying or discrimination.
By doing so, parents can also help the child avoid potential negative social and psychological effects and ensure that their name is a positive reflection of who they are.
The views expressed here are those of the writer and do not necessarily represent the views of the New Sarawak Tribune.
