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Because I get to meet many newborn babies every week, I can tell you, without a doubt, that there are going to be many more nicknames in the future! Have you seen what some parents are naming their babies these days? If the parent tells you the name, chances are you will not be able to spell it correctly even if give three guesses. If you see a newborn's name written down, chances are you will not be able to pronounce it. It is amazing what parents are naming their darling little babies! Trust me! Ninety percent of the babies being named today will choose a nickname for themselves before they are 18. At some point, these babies are going to grow up and ask their parents what in the world they were thinking about when choosing a name.

Teenagers who have names that draw a snickering laugh from others will always choose an alias to try to fit in. Who wants to have a name such as Fauntelroy, Muritania, or Deuteronomy? I can guarantee you that anyone blessed - or is that cursed?- with such a title will always have a nickname before entering junior high school! Likewise, little baby boys who are given names that are gender neutral will rebel against their parent's choice the first time they are teased about their girly name. Schools try to prevent bullying in the classroom, but playgrounds have different rules. Nicknames are chosen to provide a safety zone.

Although it seems that most nicknames are chosen while the person is still in grade or high school, occasionally an adult will decide on a different name. When an adult chooses a nickname, the reason is often to have a more sophisticated appellation. That cute baby name may not fit well in the corporate world. The reverse is also true since the ultra-sophisticated name given by well-meaning parents will not be suitable for a guitarist in the rock band.

Occasionally, an adult will choose a nickname because a friend suggests it. This frequently happens when love is in the air and sweet words are being whispered tenderly. Although this nickname may begin as private between the two, it is, nonetheless, special and guaranteed to bring smiles. Sometimes this nickname that starts out in secret between the two people, spreads to others and becomes the nickname of choice for a wide circle of friends.

Although nicknames can serve many purposes and convey many meanings, the ones that are chosen, not bestowed, are the ones that are the best and last a lifetime.

Learn more about this author, Marcy Buzzelli.
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