Personal Narrative: You Can Call Me

Within activities that I excelled in I had always been placed in a position of leadership, in my family and community. From these positions I learned the importance of having a voice when others do not. My ability to connect and easily relate to others allows me to share information that most would not actively seek out. Using my talents as tools to reinforce my perspective and alter other’s views , I have become a stronger activist in the issues that those who are most impacted cannot speak up about. You Can Call Me ¬¬______?
The squeaking of desk chairs and excited hushed whispers as the first day of school begins echoes through the classroom. The teacher begins attendance. Other students chatter, but I wait silently, patiently, prepared to stop her mid-sentence.
“Mi–”
“I’m here.” “Okay is there any other name you prefer to go by?” Each …show more content…
At my elementary school’s annual cultural day I brought in dishes of various cuisines from my home country, the aroma intensified by the excitement of students lined up to try a sample of each dish. I felt a stronger connection towards those who knew me as Mikhalya.
Once I changed my name, I preferred not to disclose my origin, afraid that it would be another difference in the high school world of shared similarities. When my friends did ask me questions I would hastily change the subject. Those who knew me as Addie saw me as guarded about my past. They had never met the me that was expressive about her origin and I felt disconnected from them.
This juxtaposition revealed to me how important my name was to my overall identity. A name unlike any other, a unique pearl within a sea of Sarahs and Emilys. Its meaning religious, symbolizing my beliefs, its specific spelling originating from my grandfather’s name, and its pronunciation reminding me of my African heritage. My name held power, love, and history all within 8 simple