My Name

For those of you who might not know my name (even though we’ve been in the same class for almost nine months), it’s Rayna. My name has roots in Yiddish (similar to Hebrew) and means “pure and virtuous.” I love the meaning of my name because it makes me feel like I have a name to live up to. Another option my parents considered naming me was Kaelyn. I am very gracious to them for choosing Rayna over Kaelyn because I have only met one other Rayna in my life. Although it was not my parents’ intention, when my name is spelled with an “i,” it means “queen” or “queenly” in many languages. I like that my name has multiple meanings and that a lot of people already connect me to royalty. 🙂

As far as the significance of my name (and all names in general), it’s a very thought-provoking topic. What would it be like to be called another name? I know that you can change your name legally or be called a nickname, but it’s most likely that your new name somehow relates to a name you’ve been called before. Our names also have to do with people’s first impressions of us. For example, if you were at a meeting and everyone was wearing name tags, you would probably be quick to judge someone based on their name. If a professional-looking woman introduced herself to you as Courtney, you’d probably be pretty impressed. However, if the same woman introduced herself as Jemima, you’d probably be a little less than thrilled. Now, it’s not like your a horrible human being because you assumed their personality based off of their name. We all subconsciously do it. The lesson we need to take away is that our first impression is not necessarily to the truth.

To the Heart-Broken

Dear Down-in-the-Dumps Dreamer,

I’m sorry. I know that I couldn’t have done anything, but I’m still sorry. The number one thing you need to understand is that it’s not your fault. You are not the reason that it all happened the way it did. You couldn’t have prevented it, and you had no control over the other people’s feelings. Secondly, this mess does not define you. Just because one person may say something rude or demeaning to you, doesn’t mean that you are a horrible human being. You are not what one person’s negative opinion says about you. You are beautifully worth it. Third, do not try to hold your anger in. It’s unhealthy and pent-up anger will not help the situation. Find a way to release your pain. Go on a run, watch a sad movie, read a book, or make a quilt. No matter what you choose to do, find something to keep you busy. I want to let you know that I am here for you. You are not alone through all of this, so don’t make yourself feel isolated. I will always be there to talk (or cry). If you’ve had one of those especially difficult days, don’t feel obligated to plaster on a smile. Talk to someone. Finally, remember that you will be able to move on. It might take days, weeks, or even years, but you will make it through it. While you might not be able to forget it all, use this experience to learn. Don’t make the same mistakes that caused you so much pain. Never forget that you are priceless and unique and you will persevere through this. 😊

 

Sonnet

Keep walking, running, or even crawling

Just continue moving on, don’t give up

The ups and downs of life are enthralling

You have to find your passions, fill your cup

Don’t waste the time with frivolous, fake loves

When you feel emptied, keep your head held high

Before you know it, life has flown like doves

You’ll be looking down, staring from the sky

Remembering the effect you had there

Many legacies ever forgotten

We’re authors of an intertwined novel

The lasting story-writers all shotten

But why are they perceived as unlawful

Don’t stop moving, it’s hard to start again

Live your life without a ball or a chain

 

 

Antigone Questions

Why does Antigone stand up for her brother even when he fought against Thebes?

Why would Ismene rather stay quiet and safe?

Why do some of us feel more family inclined?

Why do siblings turn out differently even when they’re raised the same?

Why do people have naturally contrasting opinions?

Why is conflict an ordinary aspect of our lives?

Why is complete peace almost impossible?

Why can’t people just get along?

Why are laws a necessary part of society?

Why can’t we all just be morally decent?