What's Your Name?

What’s Your Name Again? (Silly Butt, Crazy Legs, Goof ball, Fool, Bay Bay, Pookie?)

When I was young, my family had a habit of giving the kids and each other nicknames. If they were angry at you or trying to give you directions, you can bet that they would call you something much different than your name. I have been called dumb butt, bird eyes, silly girl and brownie, Mickey mouse, and a host of funny and sometimes humiliating names. As you grow you know that these names are not of harm, but sometimes of humor. Never the less, the other day I was talking to my daughter and found myself calling her out her name using one of my Aunts old adages! “Slice of Bacon Booty” (meaning slim, thin as a slice of bacon.) Now, all though this may sound funny and I said this in fun teasing her, I had to think back to how I felt being called all these different names as a child.

I quickly realized that we must not pass on generations of raisings and protocol, which have been forced upon us, because that is just the way it is. We should not accept poor or disrespectful behavior because it’s all in fun. Words are so powerful and many of us have had to endure poor behavior toward us and our self esteem from parents, siblings, spouses and even friends. As a parent of myself and my children I have learned that it is easy for a child to pick up being who they are told to be.
Self esteem has become a dumping ground for people to play with or tread on. Maybe that is why we have so many men and women acting out because of insecurities. Words are life and they have a force that can either build or tear down a person’s spirit. Be mindful of how you talk to your children, others and yourself.

I know there are times that our kids or someone else can make you angry, but understand that most of the time, you are angry at the act of what the person has done. Not necessarily mad at the person. Watch your words, know that once they leave your lips they are in the atmosphere of the Universe to create or destroy. I know it’s not easy but, give it a try it may make a difference in your life, marriage, relationship, your children’s life or even your work life. In the words of my little Sister, (Go where the love is.
Love, Peace and Much Respect!
Gia