There are times in life when you have to leave things behind. There are times when you have to let go of what went before, and clear the slate for new and better things. This is one of those times.
I’ve previously written and published work under my married name, but as some of you may know (or suspect) my marriage is over.
Many years ago, my husband gave me his name, and now I am letting him have it back. It no longer belongs to me, or represents who I am.
In my personal life, I have reverted to my maiden name. As a writer, I will be going forward under the name Wendy Maddison.
As a wordsmith, I believe in the power of words and the importance of naming things, describing them in their essence. The name or label we put on things can entirely change how we perceive them, or what we see when we hear those words. The image created in our minds by the word “flower” is quite different to that created by the word “rose”.
Therefore, for me it is important that my name no longer reflect the person I was before, so that I may become the person I want to be.
I hope you will continue with me on that journey…
Photo by Anastasia Shuraeva on Pexels
Hi Wendy. Well put. Thanks for sharing. Hope all is well with you during these times otherwise. Allan
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All is well, despite the uncertainty of the future for us all. Hard to know where things will be in 6 months time. Thanks for your comment.
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Worlds of wisdom to live by, I’m sorry that your marriage is over. But, you have a future with your new name, as a writer and in your own personal sphere. I took my maiden name back when I got divorced too, and I’m glad I did. If I ever get married again (which might not happen, lol) I’m still keeping it. 🤗🤗💜💜
Lots of love and hugs to you Wendy and pray your staying safe 😷😎
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Thank you so much. Yes, I’m not quite at the point of planning my next wedding either 😂 I hope you are safe there. We are watching things unfold in the USA and it’s very worrying. Love and hugs to you and yours xoxo
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When I married Joe, I thought long and hard about who I was, my maiden name is Smith, I will alway Marsha Smith so I added my husband’s name to mine.
So the real me is Marsha Smith-Hamilton. My 2 sons were adopted by Joe and Bryan took the name Bryan Christopher Hamilton-Ward. James May choose to or not, it’s how he identifies himself. To know oneself is very important.
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That’s an interesting way to do it. Yes, knowing yourself is everything!! ❤ Thank you for your comment.
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I’m happy that you can keep your held high and respect yourself enough to stay true to who you are. It’s very commendable. You are such an inspiration!! I look forward to reading the next chapters of your life!!
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Thank you so much – you are so sweet!! ❤
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A name is like an age, it doesn’t define who we are. good on you for seeing a different future and way of life.
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Thank you. But I have to respectfully disagree. My age defines how much my body aches when I get up in the morning 😂
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Wow Wendy,
Finally got around to catching up with your blog since my premature return from The Gambia.
I was scrolling down to find a post I saw that resonated with me when I was over there.
The post was about holding on in spite of people’s advice about letting go . About allowing you to find the right time for you to let go.
I see there have been dramatic changes in your life since I visited your post.
I wish you every best wish in your new found liberation.
I am working through your posts in reverse order.
Take care ❤️💁🏻♀️
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Thank you, for your lovely comment and for visiting. I find that by letting go, the universe always lends a helping hand.
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