I was always told by my mom to love my name, be proud of it, and protect it. I mean, it is extremely unique. I should be proud of it then, right? But I’m not. Even though it isn’t present within the top 100, 200, or even 1,000 names in decades of U.S. records (“Popularity”). Even in Italy, the country of origin of my name has relatively low prevalence (“Campbell”). However, I haven’t fully come to terms with my name. Between the weird looks I’ve gotten when asked what my name is or the hesitation from those trying to pronounce it, it has always given me a feeling of disappointment. It felt like my name was a hassle to many and just overall confusing. 

Despite how my name might be perceived for its unfamiliarity, its history tells a different story that is rich in its tradition. Many centuries ago, Italy valued amber for its protective qualities, as it allured many with its warm color (“Origin”). That is how Ambra came to be. It means “amber colored” and has reference to the amber gemstone we know of today, and has relations to the beauty it represents (“Origin”). It has carried tradition and graceful meaning for many years and will continue to do so.

Although I am named after this beautiful gemstone with so much history, I don’t see it as a reflection of who I am, whether that is my personality or physical appearance. My name was chosen for me way before I was born. My mom had always been obsessed with unique names, and I’d say that she found a one-of-a-kind name. While living in Italy, she overheard a friend of hers talking about her daughter's name being Ambra. From then on my mom knew what the name of her first daughter would be. 

I should be proud to carry such an intricate, unique, and elegant name with so much history. It isn’t just my name, but part of my identity. An identity I am still trying to navigate. I am one of the few to carry a name that has the traditions it has attached to it. I should be protecting it and embracing those weird looks or the slight hesitation when saying my name as fuel to the fact that my name is truly mine, and no one can change that.