I love names. I love learning what
they mean. And in Japan it’s especially fun because a name’s meaning can change
depending on how it’s written.
My given name is a cognate of
Martha which has Aramaic roots that mean “mistress” or “lady.” I’ve always liked
that. However, in Japan, “Marta” is difficult to pronounce for some, and is
often pronounced as “Maruta.” Long story short, it’s sort of derogatory and
means “log.” For the most part, I permit the students to call me “Ms. Ma-ta” or
“Ma-ta Sensei” depending on formality of the school and students’ abilities.
The teachers usually can pronounce “Marta” but for familiarity’s sake and the
sake of the blog, I’ll be referring to myself as “Redhii:” the Japanese
pronunciation of “Lady.”
For my stateside friends and
family, “Redhii” and “Lady” rhyme.
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