In the past, I had a dear friend. Once, I asked him what his last name was, and I could sense he hated his name and also felt strange about it. I could not stop thinking about why. Maybe it is because he comes from a cultural background where his name feels different, and from other people’s perspectives, maybe even strange.
But I do not think he was born believing there was anything wrong with his name. That kind of discomfort usually comes later, shaped by what society tells us or by a passing comment that somehow stays with us. Especially when it touches that part of us that has been taught to focus more on what is wrong than what is right.
It reminded me of body image. Most of us are not born disliking our bodies. We learn shame through comparison, criticism, and repeated messages about how we should look or be. Over time, those messages become labels we carry quietly.
And I understand that feeling. In the beginning, when I moved to Australia, I even considered changing my name, Chi Chi, to something more familiar like Christina or Elizabeth. I thought it might be easier for others, or maybe even easier for me. But deep down, I knew that name was part of who I am. And now, I am so glad I did not change it. I truly love my name, and people often tell me it is a cute name. The name C.C.Within is actually based on my initials, Chi Chi Wang, C.C.W. It's a personal reminder that everything meaningful begins from within.
To me, his name is unique and beautiful, not because I am trying to be kind, but because I honestly do not see anything strange about it. We often label things just to feel safe with what is unfamiliar. But it is worth asking where those labels come from and whether they are still needed.
All I wish for him is to be free being himself, without shame.
www.ccwithin.com
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P.S. My book, #FromUglyToBeautifulWithoutSurgery, is now available on our official website. It is the result of over 10 years of personal and professional exploration into what true beauty really means. If you have ever felt not enough, this book is a heartfelt guide to rediscover your worth. No surgery, no filters, just truth.
C.C.Within Service:
We are now open for body image workshop bookings. Our workshops are designed for workplaces, schools, and organizations that want to support healthy self-esteem and promote a more positive body image culture.
