what's in a name?

chula. chula monster. chula#2. chalupa. chubacca. chula monkee. chulski (that's my Russian name). ch-ch-chula. Those are just a small percentage of the names I've been called in my life. Here is my question though,....why? Don't get me wrong, (I ain't mad) I actually prefer my last name to my first, probably for the same reason everyone else does. It just sounds better. Psychology 101 tells me that when someone gives me a nickname, abbreviates or changes my name, it's a sign of affection. They feel comfortable enough around me to give me a more personal name. But is that why for the majority of my public school life, and young adult life other people have also chose to call me by my last name, or some form of it? I demand an answer. Everywhere I go, I'm followed by some revision of how people address me. You'd really be surprised about where people think the name Chula originates from. It's not Italian, German, Bulgarian, or even Chinese (joking). Us proud Chulas hail from the Eastern European giant that is known as Romania (watch out U.S., our gymnasts are coming for you). The other day some guy thought I was an actual European who I guess was just stateside working. He said the soccer jersey tipped him off. Before I go, the next time you give someone a "nick-name", ask yourself why you are doing so. You'll probably find that you feel comfortable around that person. Or, maybe you can't resist his rugged good looks, beautiful flowing brown curly hair, tall slender frame, or maybe it's the over-sized nose. Someone should think of a name that combines gonzo and chula.

listening to right now: You Don't Send Me by Belle and Sebastian

jesse