Growing up in the South, the use of middle names is not uncommon; sometimes calling someone by the first name alone just doesn't feel sufficient. However, there are some of us who are "double-named" if you will. We are the people who not only have the first and middle names, we go by both of them. Then there are the extra special people who actually have the two part first name. Regardless of which group you may fall under, we all share the struggles when it comes to our compound names.
1. People saying your name is not your name
No, my name "real" name is not just Sarah. Sarah Paige is not a fake name, it is my first and middle name is what I go by.
2. Encountering lazy people
I understand that it takes a lot of effort to say a second name, but come on now, you wouldn't forget to say the second half of "country" would you?...
3. Getting called by just your middle name
Don't get confused, it is not just "Paige". I did not tell you both names so you could choose which one is more convenient for you.
4. Having people look at you like an alien because there are two parts to your name
I know it's not super common, but it's not super weird. You have a name too, and although there might be a thousand Sarah's around, I have yet to meet another Sarah Paige, and I am sure you don't have that luxury.
5. Having that awkward period when you first meet someone and they aren't sure what to call you
From teachers to friends, there is always the awkward time when they aren't sure if they really should use both names, and you constantly have to explain that it is okay and even preferred, but if it's easier, call me by initials.
So just remember the next time you encounter a double name, please make it easier on all of us and use the whole thing.
