A pregnant woman’s choice of baby names has sparked controversy among her friends, raising concerns over their potential impact on her child’s future. The expectant mother, referred to as Cindy, is six months along and has proposed a series of unconventional names, including one particularly notorious choice: Chlamydia.
Cindy’s friend, who remains anonymous and identifies as “Normally Named” from New York, expressed her frustration in a letter to the advice column “Dear Abby.” She detailed her struggle to persuade Cindy against names that could lead to potential ridicule for her daughter. After much debate, Cindy agreed to abandon Chlamydia, but has since fixed her sights on another unusual name—Cliché. The friend noted that Cindy’s family appears supportive of her naming choices, further complicating the situation.
The friend argues that her intentions are rooted in concern, wishing to protect an innocent child from future bullying. “I only want to help an innocent child avoid a lifetime of ridicule and stress,” she stated in her letter. This sentiment highlights a growing trend among new parents who are increasingly bold in their naming choices, often prioritizing uniqueness over traditional meanings.
In her response, Abigail Van Buren, the pen name of advice columnist Jeanne Phillips, encouraged Cindy’s friend to consider offering alternative suggestions. She proposed names like Kalista, Lydia, Olympia, or Andromeda, which carry beautiful meanings and historical significance, rather than simply focusing on aesthetics.
Shifting focus, another letter addressed to “Dear Abby” discussed personal identity and the challenges of coming out as asexual. The writer, “Closeted in the Midwest,” revealed her struggle to conceal her identity from her family, particularly amidst conversations about dating among her siblings. She expressed concern over a planned trip to meet someone she met online and how her asexuality might affect that relationship.
Van Buren advised her to postpone any announcements about her asexuality until she feels comfortable doing so. Acknowledging the complexities of family dynamics, especially when intertwined with conservative religious beliefs, she emphasized that asexuality is not a sin and should not dictate the writer’s choices or relationships.
The dual narratives presented in these letters reflect broader societal conversations about parenting, identity, and the pressures faced by individuals navigating these complex issues. Both stories resonate with many who grapple with the intersection of personal choice and societal expectations, underscoring the importance of thoughtful decision-making in matters of identity and family.
“Dear Abby” continues to provide a platform for individuals to seek guidance on sensitive topics, encouraging open dialogue and understanding. The column, founded by Pauline Phillips and currently written by her daughter, has been a staple of advice for decades, addressing the nuanced realities of human relationships.
Readers can submit their queries to “Dear Abby” through its official website, offering a chance for their concerns to be addressed in this enduring column.
