Identity Crisis

Stumbling, struggling, stuttering to pronounce my name,

Not once has a teacher said my last name correctly.

How do you say it?  

Ad-e-ru-patton.

Never mind, just call me Chris.

Short and sweet, save me the embarrassment.

Traveling to Nigeria, meeting my father's family

Hearing my grandfather speaking Yoruba.

Everybody pronounces my name correctly.

Ad-e-ru-patton.

Understanding the respect and honor of my African heritage.

“What’s in a name?” Honor. There is honor in one’s name.

Embracing my name,

Creating a bridge to my African legacy.

My name is no longer a burden.

Ad-e-ru-patton

Choosing my name and finding respect and honor.

Carrying on the strength of my name.