Some girls go through that stage where they write their first name with every cute boy’s last name, imagining themselves becoming Mrs. So-and-So. I never really did that. However, I always thought my mom had it right when she gave me a Japanese first name, ensuring that no matter who my husband was, I would always have that connection to my Japanese heritage. I just assumed that I would change my last name as long as my husband wasn’t Mr. Toilet or Mr. Boring. Then when I had to make the decision for real, I wavered. A lot. It’s hard to give up something you’ve owned for twenty eight years. I have a hard enough time giving up a beloved sweater that is two sizes too small and fraying at the seams. I just couldn’t bring myself to say, “Yes, I will be Mrs. Wong” or “I’m not going to change my name”…

Those who know me, know I am incredibly indecisive. So what prompted me to make this major decision? Scissors. Yes, scissors. I was preparing my classroom for the new school year. I was putting together the boxes of supplies that go on each pod of desks. I had new scissors, and I needed to write my name on them. With a sharpie in my right hand and the scissors in my left, I froze. “What am I supposed to write?” I thought. After maybe thirty long seconds, I put down the sharpie and scissors and went to the office to ask what I had to do to change my name. I had made the decision, I wanted to be called Mrs. Wong.

I’m not sure when I will be able to fully own this name, but I’m sure it will happen…even if it does take twenty eight years.