I Own My Names

Woodland

“Nothing I accept about myself can be used against me to diminish Me!” - Audre Lorde

I have been known by many names as varied as the life I have lived on this earth. I may collect more given that there is still some life left in me, each as unique as I am and each with a story behind it.

Growing up I really disliked my native middle name and often wondered what on earth inspired my parents to give it to me. My other siblings had what I considered ‘normal’ native names that did not illicit playground taunts, laughs or jokes. Later in life, I got to learn where I got my names from and the person I was named after and in knowing whose I was, made me love, honour and appreciate my name. It held purpose, a continuation of my ancestors.

For years I have rebelled against some of my names, have felt awkward and dismissive about some, downright angry about others, but in my coming of age,I have sort to reclaim them, as they are mine, a sacred part of me, the identity or identities I answer to and the heritage and ancestors they honour.

But there is one name that is universal in its pronouncement by both parent and child. I am Mama to by my father and Mama to my children and for that honour and privilege, I am grateful. I am the matriarch that was and the matriarch that is and in between there has been, and, still is a life lived. I own my names, past, present and future. I call my power back to me.