My name is Tehreem Fatima Sabir

   تحریم فاطمہ صابر

Although my name is from Arabic, this is the Urdu spelling, and the meaning also differs slightly. 

Tehreem (or Tahrim) means "prohibition" in Arabic. It comes from the 66th chapter of the Qur'an. However, in Urdu, it means "respect," which is a similar meaning. Fatima comes from the name of Mohammed's (May Peace and Blessings be upon him) daughter, Fatima (may peace be upon her). And finally, Sabir comes from the Arabic, sabr, which means "patience" or "forbearance." 

My parents told me that they did not have a philosophical reason for choosing my name. They just chose it on a whim, but my mom really loves the meaning of "respect." Tehreem is a relatively common name in Pakistan, where my parents immigrated from. Usually one's surname is passed down from his/her father and is related to his/her caste. However, because my dad wanted to avoid this connection, he changed his surname. "Sabir" is the pseudonym his father used when he wrote poetry. 

My name is very special to me. Before I came to St. Cloud State, everyone used to call me "Reema" because it is easier. But since I came here, I have told everyone to call me by my given name, because I think it is beautiful. I also love my name because of its connection to Islam; especially 'Fatima' because she is a wonderful role model. I think that I have a long way to go, but I do hope that I live up to the meaning of my name, if God wills. And I hope that others who meet me see the meaning of my name resonate in my character.