Pregnancy can bring joy and excitement, but it can also spark debates over choices, particularly when it comes to naming a child. A letter to columnist Abigail Van Buren, known as Dear Abby, highlights the challenges faced by a friend, referred to as “Cindy,” who is expecting her first child and seeking input on potential names.
Cindy has already proposed several controversial names for her unborn daughter, including Chlamydia, a name that raised concerns about potential bullying. Despite the objections from her friend, who wishes to protect the child from ridicule, Cindy remains adamant that her choices reflect beauty rather than meaning.
The friend, identifying herself as “Normally Named” from New York, expressed her frustration. She emphasized that while Cindy is free to choose any name, some selections, like Chlamydia, could lead to distressing social consequences. After much persuasion, Cindy abandoned the name Chlamydia, but her focus has since shifted to another contentious choice: Cliché.
The friend described her friend’s family as supportive of these choices, complicating her attempts to intervene. “I only want to help an innocent child avoid a lifetime of ridicule and stress,” she wrote in her letter, pleading for guidance on how to approach the situation without causing further conflict.
In her response, Dear Abby encouraged the concerned friend to suggest alternative names that carry more positive connotations. Among these, she recommended Greek names such as Kalista, Lydia, Olympia, and Andromeda, which are imbued with history and significance. Abby advised the friend to step back from offering further suggestions after presenting alternatives to avoid frustration.
The letter from “Normally Named” illustrates a broader societal issue regarding unconventional names and the implications they can have for children.
In a separate letter, another reader, who signed as “Closeted in the Midwest,” shared a different kind of struggle. For two years, this individual has concealed their asexuality from family, feeling increasingly alienated during discussions about dating and relationships. They expressed concern over how their conservative family might react if they chose to come out to them or peers at college.
As the reader prepares for a potential relationship with a woman met online, they worry that revealing their asexuality may jeopardize that connection. The additional pressure of a planned family road trip to meet this individual only heightens their anxiety.
Dear Abby advised this reader to take their time with the decision to come out. She reassured them that asexuality is valid and does not conflict with religious beliefs. Abby suggested postponing any announcements until they feel comfortable and emphasized that their dating life should not be a source of conflict if both partners share similar orientations.
These letters to Dear Abby underscore the complexities of personal identity and the often challenging dynamics of family relationships. Readers grappling with similar issues are reminded that personal choices, whether related to naming a child or revealing one’s identity, can evoke strong reactions but ultimately should reflect one’s true self.
Abigail Van Buren’s column continues to resonate with readers, addressing a range of personal dilemmas and offering advice grounded in empathy and understanding. For more insights, readers can access Dear Abby at www.DearAbby.com or through P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069.
