In English, my name means girl. In Arabic, my name means graceful. It reminds me of the number 9. It is a dark, navy blue color. Like the sea. Like a sweet, soft baby blanket. Like staring into the deep sky at night.

It kind of just happened while my parents were watching tv. Their favorite tv show, “24” introduced a new character “Nina.” They instantly fell in love with the name. Not too girly. Unique. They thought it was a confident, strong name. Well suited for their child. Representing themselves.

My middle name I stole from my Godmother. Michelle fits me pretty well—good job mom and dad! I am very much like my Godmother. She is a strong independent person, as am I. 

The names put together, “Nina Michelle,” were rarely used unless I was in trouble. Yelling “Nina Michelle” in an angry voice makes it easier for my mom to get my full attention. Michelle represents the sass in my personality. 

When people first hear my name, they are sometimes unsure how to pronounce it. Which seems silly because it’s a simple name. It doesn't bother me. I enjoy having a name that most others don’t have. 

Confidence of my personality. I have not always been confident. It started when I began to trust in the Lord. Faith has been important to me since I was 14. As a child, I was raised a christian but never really understood the bible and the Lord. When I started trusting in the Lord, my confidence sprouted. 

I have thought about having a different name, but I have really connected with my name. After all this time, I have come to love the name. Changing my name would change me, and doing that after 16 years doesn't sound quite like me.