What's in a name?

I remember the first time I was introduced to the idea that names have meaning. I was given a bookmark card from my Catechism teachers, the one pictured above. I saw my name, Amy, and took note of the meaning, "Beloved". What a beautiful word. I have treasured that card ever since. Soon after, I did some digging and found out that Lucille means "Light". I loved the sound of the two meanings together; "Beloved Light," how poetic, evoking feelings of value and hope. Throughout the years, whenever I've come across displays or a book of names and their meanings, I always double check. Does it still say Amy means "Beloved"? Yes! And Lucille? Is it still "Light"? Yes, again! 
I never stopped to think about why the meanings of my first and middle name have always meant so much to me until recently.  Lately, I haven't felt so beloved or light. Over the past few years, some of the most important parts of my life have gone from solid to tenuous, leaving me feeling vulnerable. Relationships have cracked or broken, my role in many areas has started to shift, and my future purpose feels hidden. All of this sometimes has me wondering who or what I am supposed to be. Then, I remembered. I am Beloved and I carry Light. .
Choosing a name for a blog is tricky business. The name has to be inviting. It has to be easy to remember, it should give a hint of what the blog is about. So I chose Living with Beloved Light, because I want this blog to be a reflection of me; who I am, how I feel about the life I'm living, and what I'm learning along the way.

Romans 8:37-39  No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Matthew 5:16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.