
14/11/2023
I am Abimbola but I don't like people call me Bimbo, and here's why.
It's surprising how little things can mean so much to us as kids, and sometimes it stays that way into adulthood.
My family, my immediate and extended family, school teachers and mates, all call me Bimbo, except for my father; he always says "Abimbola" in full.
I didn't start having a problem with the name until I was in primary three.
My class teacher, Mr. Charles, used to insist that we read dictionaries, says it's the best book. We had a period for reading the dictionary, and each pupil would read 5 words and their meanings to the class.
One day, we were in letter B, passing it around as usual until it was Lekan's turn. He reached a word with the same spelling as my name but a different pronunciation, "bimbo."
At first, he pronounced it as if it were my name, but Uncle Charles corrected him.Too late π€¦
The period ended, and during break, my classmates, especially Lekan and his friends, insulted us (me and my friends) with the dictionary meaning of "bimbo."
We fought back, but news spread around the school, and suddenly, everyone is aware there's an attractive but unintelligent woman in the school π
I went home and vented to my mother, asking why she gave me the name Bimbo. She corrected me, explaining my full name and its beautiful meaning. I was convinced at home, but the problem continued at school.
This continued for more than a week, affecting my self-esteem. I cried several times at school. Later, the school proprietress, Mrs. Sumbo, heard the story and threatened to punish anyone using the tag. It worked during school hours, but outside, the tag stuck to me like clothing.
Growing up, I realized it wasn't my name as I have always known; mine is a Yoruba name, and the other is English. But how do you erase the laughter, the countless times I was embarrassed in class, assembly, and the neighborhood?
Even as an adult, I can't get over it, and it doesn't seem like it'll happen soon.
When you call me "Bimbo" I heard "hey you this attractive unintelligent woman" instead
Call me BIMA instead of Bimbo; I can't stand that name for life.
Do you have any childhood memories that still stick with you into adulthood, even if they don't make sense now due to growth?
I have many; I just shared one. Share yours with me too βΊοΈ
Good morning