My name is Bao, which means treasure in Chinese. Growing up, my parents always told me that they chose this name for me because they saw a rare and precious quality in me. It made me feel special and loved, and set the tone for how I would carry myself throughout my life.
Being a girl with the last name Bao, I’ve always had a certain sense of poise and grace. I think it’s partly due to my family’s strict upbringing, but also because of the name itself. Whenever I introduce myself or fill out a form with my full name, people tend to take a second glance and remember me more easily. It’s a small thing, but it makes a difference in how others perceive me.
As I’ve grown older, I’ve come to understand the value of my name in a deeper way. Beyond its literal meaning, treasure, I think of it as a reflection of my character. I strive to be someone who is kind, thoughtful, and generous-- someone who contributes to the world in a positive way. These qualities may not be immediately apparent from a name, but I believe that they are reflected in the way I carry myself and interact with others.
Of course, there are times when I fall short of this ideal. I can be impatient, self-centered, and careless, just like anyone else. But when I find myself slipping into negative habits or attitudes, I remind myself of the power of my name. Bao, treasure. It’s a reminder that I have value, that I’m worth investing in. And it inspires me to treat myself and others with respect and honor.
There are many things I treasure in life-- my family, my friends, my education, my faith. These are the things that give me a sense of purpose and fulfillment. But at the end of the day, I know that I am the greatest treasure of all. My name reminds me of this truth, and encourages me to live up to the potential that God has placed within me.
I feel grateful to be a girl with the last name Bao. It’s not just a name-- it’s a symbol of who I am and who I want to become. It’s a reminder to be humble, gracious, and always striving for excellence. I hope that in the years to come, I can continue to live up to the name that my parents chose for me-- and that I can become a treasure in the eyes of those who know me.