My
Name is John: A Reflection on Identity Names are often the first aspect of our identity that we learn about ourselves. From the moment we are born, our parents and loved ones give us a name that will become ours for life. For me, that name is John. Growing up with the name John was simple enough. It is a common name, easy to pronounce, and not too hard to remember. However, as I got older and met more people from different backgrounds and cultures, I began to realize that my name held very different meanings to different people. In some cultures, John is a very common name, just like in my own. However, in others, it is quite foreign and difficult to pronounce. This often leads to people shortening my name or trying to give me a new nickname. Initially, this bothered me, as I felt like it was taking away a piece of my identity. However, I soon realized that my name was not just about me, but also about the culture and people that I was surrounded by. In fact, I was proud of my name and the meaning that it held. John means "God is gracious" in Hebrew, a meaning that I hold dear to my heart. It is a reminder to me that I am fortunate, that I have been blessed with a name, a family, and a life. It is also a reminder that there is something greater than ourselves that we can turn to for guidance and support. In conclusion, my name is more than just a collection of letters. It is a representation of my identity, my culture, and my beliefs. As I continue to meet more people from diverse backgrounds, I am learning to embrace the differences that make us unique, while also celebrating the similarities that bring us together. My name is John, and I am proud of the person behind that name.