Stealing a name!?
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Stealing a name!?
| Fri, 02-24-2006 - 9:55pm |
I am sure someone has been here before. There is a name I really like. A friend of the family just gave birth and named their child *the name*. I instantly fell in love with it and I want to use it. These are what I would call loose friends in that we met them because they live in the same apartment building. If they moved we wouldn't keep in touch but because we are here we sometimes bbq, the kids play, and we are friendly. Just friendly enough to hand out once in a while because we are neighbors, not friendly enough that we would keep in touch if someone moved kwim? If this were family I wouldn't consider doing it. So, would *you* use the name in this situation or would you feel it's off limits. I am sure at some point one of us will move out of the apartment but until then it's possible we will be neighbors for a long while and the kids being a year a part in age could go to the same school. I know this makes me sound horrible, but because these people aren't family I guess I don't really care if they get mad that I used their name. I mean I don't *want* people mad at me but I will have my kid until I die and I might have these neighbors for maybe 5 more years? I guess I think the name is more important than the friendship (because it's not a close one) even though I don't want anyone mad at me. I feel if they like me enough they will get over it. If someone named their kids after one of mine I would be flattered and yes I would be smug they liked the name and copied it but I wouldn't stop talking to them or get mad about it. So what does everyone think, is this rude of me or is this okay?

It doesn't sound like you're close enough to them for it to matter. If it's really "the" name, I'd use it! ;)
~Kelli
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I have to agree with Kelli and Annie---use the name. I would even be sure to mention somehow that "that name" is one that you had picked out in your head even before they used it. Tell them how shocked you were to hear it used by them and as Annie said, lay the groundwork ahead of time that it may be a name you will be using.
Theresa
How uncommon is the name? Had you ever heard it or considered it before these friends of yours used it? Those things would make a difference to me.
It is a name, after all, and everyone has the right to use any name they would like, but it might get awkward if this couple sought out what they considered to be "the perfect" name after much searching only to have friends in the same apartment complex swoop down and decide to use the name as well. On the other hand, if it's a name that is currently quite well-known and popular it seems like it wouldn't be nearly as big a deal.
Ultimately the decision is yours! Go with your gut.
Best of luck,
Brandee
Good Luck to you.