Names

"What's in a name? That which we call a rose by any other name would smell as sweet."          -William Shakespeare (Juliet)

I would agree with this however there is more to a name than simply a word. It helps us to grasp an identity. We hear the name or word rose and we identify with the sweet smell. If it were known by another name we would have the same identification, the same reaction, however, it is not.

I hear my friends complain about their names. How they do not like them, or they are too long, or if only they weren't so plain, or spelt a different way, or had a different meaning.. I figure we were each given a name quite intentionally and our name has now become a part of our identity so why not live up to it?! Have you ever seen someone or you yourself had to pick a name for a newborn. Such deliberation and careful consideration, we should each be happy to have such a name which was chosen just for us. So do not be ashamed of your name. The name does not identify you though, but you provide identity to the name so make it something great!

The meanings of names I find should be an encouragement to us. Some mean prince or princess, or love, or strong, or gods child, or wisdom, or tile maker, or hill, or stream. Some meanings are obvious as to how encouragement can be sought, however others not so much like tile maker (tile makers are persistant and hard working with an eye for detail) or hill (a hill cannot be hidden, it stands out for all to see). If one looks up their name though there is often more than one meaning so I hope that each of you can take encouragement from your names but do an even better job at defining them in a new way through your own life.

I looked up each of my names (including my surname) recently and thought that I would share all of the meanings which I found (some had more than one).

Like a Lion, Brave as a Lioness, Shining Light, Fierce One, Strong, Brave, Valiant, Clear, Bright, Famous, Glory, Battle, Famous Warrior, Renowned Warrior, Safeguard of the People.

I do not know about you but that sure gives me encouragement. I see this and think I sure hope I can live up to my name and then I think no, I sure hope that I can define my name that when others hear it these may be some of the qualities they think of. I guess also it depends on how you see your life to how you may read such meanings. My life is for Christ and if I let him show through me than I dare say that such things will shine forth. This I pray anyhow.

That is all.