Exploring the Decision to Change Your Name: A Personal Journey
Many of us at some point in our lives have considered changing our names for a variety of reasons. The idea of altering the name given to us at birth can be overwhelming, but the process can be quite straightforward. In this article, we will explore the experiences and motivations of three individuals who have gone through the process of changing their names.
The Experience of Joann
Joann was fed up with the comments and the sense of dissatisfaction she felt about her name. Inspired by a school teacher, she decided to legally change her name to Mariana. However, her decision did not go as smoothly as she had hoped. After being called on for her grades under the name “Mariana,” Joann realized that her request to change her name for her teachers went against school policies and could cause confusion in her records. This turned out to be a valuable lesson for her and made her reflect on the practicalities of changing one’s name.
Joann's initial decision to alter her name was based on emotional satisfaction, but soon she realized the complexities involved. She also considered the romantic connotations of different names and decided that "Joanna" would be a better fit. However, she ultimately decided that maintaining her original name was best: "If it ain't broke, don't fix it." Additionally, her middle name, Elizabeth, added a touch of balance to the name "Joann."
A Lawsuit to Name Change
Unlike Joann, another individual pursued a more formal route. At the age of 18, she decided to change her name. She made a plan to change her name when she turned 23, which she did. She filed a petition with the court, required to advertise this in her local area, as a small-town paper in her region. This was an especially important step, as she needed to prove that she was not trying to avoid debt or criminal obligations. The judge’s questions were straightforward, and the process was simpler than she expected once she appeared before the judge. The total process took around six weeks from start to finish.
After securing the decree, she obtained certified copies and updated her ID and educational records. This ensured a smooth transition for her future endeavors, such as employment. Interestingly, she never regretted this decision, even after the long process.
Midlife Decision: Marrying and Reverting Back
Maria, at the age of 73, reminisced about the idea of changing her name long ago. Reflecting on her younger years, she felt that she should have changed her name decades earlier. Now, at an older age, it would be more challenging for everyone to learn a new name. During her marriage, she changed her last name to her husband's for immigration purposes. It was not until two years later, when she was happily married, that she reverted back to her maiden name. The easy process of changing her first name in Virginia, under the guidance of a reference librarian at the library, proved to be simpler than she had imagined.
Discussing the experience, Maria observed that changing her name, especially at her age, did not bring the excitement or satisfaction she had imagined. However, the actual process was straightforward and empowering.
In conclusion, changing your name can be a complex and emotional decision. It is important to consider the practical aspects, such as legal requirements and potential issues, before making a final decision. However, for those who choose to go through with it, the process can be relatively simple and can lead to a sense of personal fulfillment.
Conclusion
Whether you are driven by a desire for personal expression or practical considerations, changing your name can be a life-changing experience. For those interested in exploring the process, it is worthwhile to research and understand the legal requirements in your area. By doing so, you can make an informed decision and take the necessary steps to transform your identity.