Over the past few months, I think I’ve visited every baby
name site known to man, and reread all 75,000 names in my hastily purchased
‘Best Baby Names for the 21st Century’ book, at least twice. I
thoroughly believe in the importance of the meaning of a name, which was a
definite “make or break” factor in the process. Then of course was the
(hopefully) normal fear that comes upon anyone responsible for deciding a
permanent name of another human being that they will carry around for their entire
life. It’s daunting.
In the midst of all of my over-thinking, this name seemed to
settle itself on me. Eliana means “God has answered.” I love this. This simple,
yet resolute declaration. I wholeheartedly believe in the blessing and hope she
brings, even when I can only feel her moving and kicking inside (usually in the
middle of the night, when I’ve finally constructed the perfect pillow placement
to support all my aching muscles).
He has answered. He has answered my every need, desperate
cry for help, for a clue, for strength, peace, comfort and grace to keep all
else dim in the light of who He is. Sure, I still wake up most days completely
overwhelmed and scared, wondering how to support her alone, how to be the only
one changing diapers and waking up with her every night, wishing she had a
father, and regretting most of the decisions I’ve made up to this point. Except
my decision to choose life and choose Jesus. But He answers. Every time. I want
this truth to resound in my life and hers, to teach her to rest and live in
this.
So, Eliana it is! Full name: Eliana Julene Orosco, for those
wondering. Middle name graciously passed down from grandma :) And feel free to call her
Ellie, because that’s just adorable.
