What's in a name?

I was a communications major in college - the public relations, writing, and marketing side of communications.  I was not very into the media side - however, I did take some classes in that arena. One of my favorite classes of all time was "Women in the Media." It is a class that I carry with me today. The messages were all about self respect, strength, and determination.  My professor's name was Madeline.  She was fantastic.  I remember her lessons and her teachings based on the curriculum, but it is the life lessons that get me still.

I remember one time I came into class and I bumped into the desk.  I said out loud to the student sitting beside me "I am so clutzy."  Class had not started and Maddie (as she was called) heard me.  She made her way over and said "I heard what you said - you should never talk negative about yourself, you should always be strong and never put yourself down" What a moment.  I do not think I ever heard those words so directly. I still hold them close when I think something negative. When I think I cannot do something.  What would she tell student Jenni.

I think a good part of my love for the name Madeline came from my professor. Her strength and her ability to share her strength really struck a chord with me.

Fast forward many years.  I found out I was having a daughter and I could only focus on the name Madeline. I did not even entertain any other possibilities.  I did not even think for a moment that my husband would not go along. I would have a Madeline.

About a year ago my Madeline and I were talking about names. I told her the story of my professor Madeline and how strong she was - and how she taught me about strength.

This evening Maddie and I were cleaning up her room and hanging up her clothes.  I am getting her used to hanging up her clothes and taking care of her room.  It was a nice time - not fun cleaning, of course - but in sharing some fairly quiet time with her. 

Out of the blue she said "I know why you named me Madeline"

I said "Why is that?"

And then she said - with full conviction "Because it is a name that girls with courage have - and you knew I would be able to handle any troubles that came my way. Remember your teacher in school."

Boy, do I ever. Sometimes I have to be reminded that my Madeline is only 7. She is full of spirit and determination. She does not often take no. She puts me to the test - every day. But it is in the quiet moments - that don't happen often - that she opens me up to her soul - and for that I am grateful.

recent photo that was in the local newspaper
love the no shoes and shorts??!!
too much fun in the playground!