23 October 2010

My Hawaiian Name

My parents were thinking that I needed a more gentle, easy name for home life. Kolchak for "work" and something else for home.  First they'll teach me Kolchak, later the other.

It seemed logical that I have a Hawai'ian name as I'll be an island dog.  The parents got out a Hawaiian names book that focuses on meanings rather than sound.  They used the book to pick my human sister's middle name over 12 years ago.  Knowing that a Hawaiian name is not just what you are called, but has spiritual significance meant they wouldn't choose lightly. A name possesses you as much as you own it.  Mom looked, the kids read too, and nothing rang a bell.  Today my dad finally picked up the book just to get a feel for what was out there.  Within 2-3 minutes he found this name and knew it was for me. I agree. We all agree.

Hoakoa (say it hoe-a ko-a).  Hoa means friend, companion. Koa is a soldier, warrior, protector.  I will be "soldier friend".  How perfect is that?  That's what is bringing me to Hawai'i, it's my purpose for coming, and what I'll try to do best.  I will be a friend to soldiers, my soldiers, the Wolfhounds.

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