About ten years ago, I was pregnant with my second child. After a few months, we learned it was a girl, and like every expectant parent, we set out to choose the perfect name—one that was short, strong, simple, yet unique.
A Perfect Short Name
My husband (then just a close friend) and I searched far and wide, starting with our family trees but soon expanding our hunt. We made lists, crossing off names that felt too common or just didn't resonate. Then, I read an interview with DJ Isis—a vibrant woman with an equally captivating name, inspired by the ancient Egyptian goddess of fertility. It felt timeless and empowering. My partner agreed instantly, and when our daughter arrived in March 2005, 'Isis' suited her beautifully. We were thrilled.
Now in the Headlines
It's spring 2014 now, and 'Isis' keeps appearing in the news—but not in a good way. Our daughter was initially excited to share a name with the buzz, but soon the negative associations hit hard. At school, classmates teased her mercilessly, hurling cruel accusations. She astutely distinguishes which outlets say 'IS' versus 'Isis.' She's outraged when politicians like Lodewijk Asscher use 'Isis' on TV: 'How could a national leader do that to me?'
An Awkward Encounter
Last Saturday, Isis and I enjoyed a mother-daughter morning shopping for the weekend and a new dress for her performance. After trying on options in a children's store, we found the perfect one. Isis wore her hockey uniform, her name boldly printed in large orange letters on the sweatshirt. As I reached for my debit card, the store owner gasped: 'Hey, take off that sweater quick!' Her expression mixed horror and shock. My mind raced—flee without the dress? Instead, I stood firm: 'That's my daughter's name, Isis. We're very proud—it's a beautiful name.' Isis stayed calm (a trait from her dad), I paid swiftly, and we left, vowing never to return. How unprofessional for a children's store owner.
Today, Isis got a vaccination call, and I noticed her initials are I.S. Sigh. Who could have foreseen this?
Who is Marie-Anne? I'm Marie-Anne, 48, married with three daughters. I manage a serious cartilage issue stemming from a skiing accident, compounded by genetics and medical mysteries. Every other week, I share insights from my patchwork family life, Dutch healthcare, my knee challenges, and more.
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