Mary’s decision not to give her children culturally significant names sparks a heated debate with her friend, who believes names play a crucial role in shaping identity. Seeking advice from the online community, Mary navigates the complexities of personal choices and cultural preservation.
She Comes From a Religious Family
Mary grew up in a very religious family, a family that she is no longer close to. While she is not ashamed of her religion, she has been through hell with her parents, as they always used religion and culture as an excuse.
She Has Friends Who Are Religious
Despite not identifying with her cultural background, Mary cherished the companionship of friends who embraced their respective cultures and religions.
Things Changed
Among them, one particular friend, Sara, stood out as both conservative and accepting.
However, as time passed, Sara’s acceptance seemed to wane, as she began expressing increasing disapproval towards Mary’s choices, especially regarding her children’s names.
Her Sons’ Names Were Stereotypical
Mary, a mother of two boys named Jeremy and Ethan, opted for what she perceived as “stereotypical white American boy names.”
An American Identity
Her last name, akin to Jackson, further contributed to the Americanized identity she wished for her children.
Her Friend Criticized Her
Not seeking to involve her cultural heritage in the naming process, Mary remained content with her decision, even when questioned by Sara about the lack of cultural middle names for her sons.
The Third Child
Currently expecting her third child, another boy, Mary’s resolve was tested once more by Sara’s insistence on altering the baby’s name.
Her Friend Expressed Her Concerns
Undeterred, Mary remained steadfast in her choice. However, Sara expressed concern that her children might resent her for not providing them with culturally significant names, emphasizing that names hold a crucial role in shaping an individual’s identity.
They Were Just Names
Mary, on the other hand, regarded names as mere labels, believing that her children’s identities would not solely revolve around their names.
She Didn’t Change Her Decision
Despite Sara’s passionate arguments, Mary stood firm in her decision.
Nevertheless, the debate strained their friendship, leaving Sara feeling frustrated and disillusioned with Mary’s perceived disregard for her cultural heritage.
Her Friend Called Her Out
Sara called Mary selfish and said she was being ridiculous for holding a grudge against her own culture and religion. But Mary told her that it wasn’t that serious, which made Sarah angrier.
Things Heated Up
Then Sara told Mary that she was tired of her disrespect and hasn’t talked to her since. Despite defending her decision, Mary is wondering if Sara’s concerns are valid.
She Thought About What Happened
She found herself questioning whether Sara’s arguments were indeed plausible.
Her Comments Were Not Out of Line
As a result, Mary took to Reddit to ask whether she was in the wrong in the situation. Several Redditors sided with her, saying that she was not wrong for what she said.
It’s None of Her Business!
One Reddit user wrote, “She needs to stop thinking it’s okay to judge others for something that is none of her business.”
Another Redditor commented, “You have a right to name your kids whatever you want. You have valid reasons. You were traumatized. It’s out of line to tell someone how to name their kid.”
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The post “You Have a Right to Name Your Kids Whatever You Want” – Mom Refuses to Give Her Kids “Traditional Cultural Names,” Sparking Intense Debate first appeared on Fistful of Dollars.
Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Jihan Nafiaa Zahri. The people shown in the images are for illustrative purposes only, not the actual people featured in the story.
Source: Reddit