So recently I lost my wallet on a Delta flight from Tampa, Florida to New York City. In that wallet had literally everything. From my driver's license to my credit and debit cards, to 200 dollars cash, and even my social security number. When I realized it was gone, my entire life was in the question of "What if someone has already stolen my identity as EmmaLee Haga?" And this is when I got to thinking.
Why should I have one name when I can have TWO names? I can have my "real life" name, EmmaLee Haga, and my "stage" name, Elfledia Rose Lamont. To actually pronounce that name it is, el-FLEE-dia. It was Great Grandmother's name, and I've always wanted to either have my name as that, or name my child Elfedia. Rose was an Aunt of mine, and Lamont is my Grandmother's maiden name. This name means family to me, and that's what my real name is pretty much about as well.
Elfedia Rose Lamont feels like me, but in a much different way. After calling myself Elfledia Rose this past week, I have never felt more like myself. Every time I have gone to perform, I feel my confidence rising. It's a beautiful thing that has been happening. I feel empowered in a way.
I am proud to have a REAL LIFE name and a STAGE NAME. I am excited to see where I will end up having found this new confidence. This new found confidence makes me feel like I can do anything I set my mind to.
If you're thinking of going by your middle name, or something completely different, GO FOR IT. Don't let anyone stop you for being who you are.
