Amanda is a fake name. I found it on the internet – in Nigeria it means “she who must be loved” or “worthy of love” – both true. I initially chose Arinze – gift from god, or one who gives thanks to god for the divine gift of life. I dropped that when I found Cardinal Arinze, who notoriously attacked gay marriage in a commencement address at Georgetown. I considered Halla, its origins identified only as “African,” and meaning unexpected gift. Also true. But it was too close to challah and halvah. So Amanda is my choice, though it may evoke an Ivory/Merchant costume drama.
