Following a divorce, I chose to legally change my last name to one that I wanted to live with rather than keep the married name or resume the name of my father.

This was the best choice for me. There is no emotional baggage attached to my name.

Our son once asked if he could also change his name so we could share the same last name.

His legal name would then be Alexander Jaymes Alexander. I had no problem with that.

My response? I would support his decision and when he was ready, I would guide him through the legal process.

To date, he is now 28, he has chosen to keep his fathers name. Thats OK too.

For some, names are important symbols which provide identification with family or heritage.

For others, names are important as a means to adhere to tradition.

Choosing my own last name has been one of the most liberating decisions I have ever made.