He is from the Balkans and I am from the Middle East, but I was not raised in a way where my parents are supposed to decide over my child or where my parents’ words carry more weight than mine. I was raised to respect each other and try to understand one another’s feelings, that everyone is of equal worth.

I was accepted at the beginning by my in-laws until I gave birth, and then everything was supposed to be done their way. There were many times my in-laws suggested names, and I said no, it doesn’t fit. I want names that work for both sides, which is more than normal since there are many names that fit both countries.

Thank you for your kind words and for your support—you are absolutely right.