Ah and Uh; Abi Gezunt!

What’s your name? Chana
And what’s your husband’s name? Chone
I asked what is your husband’s name?
I heard you, it’s Chone
You mean Chanan?
No, Chone; unusual, I agree

Um, exactly what kind of name is Chone?
(solemnly) He was named for his Aunt Chana Miriam who perished during the war.
His parents wanted a name for her
Oh (followed by sad silence) or
Oh (and accompanying admiring silence) or
Oh? (segueing into intrigued silence)

So you and your husband have the same name?
Not really
Mine has an “ah” sound.
His has an “uh” sound
As in Chaaahh-na, as in Chuuuh-nuh

Once again, I hear the inevitable “oh” and sometimes the practicing “uh” or “ah”
It often gets c”uh”nfusing: as in Chone and hil-“ah”rious: as in Chana
“Ah” Bi Gezunt!

About the Author

Chana holds an M.S. in Special Education. Her innovative poems, essays and lectures reflect two and a half decades of experience working with students of all ages and abilities. Chana's writing has been published on Chabad.org, meaningfullife.com as well as in The Canadian Jewish News, The Jewish Press, and AMI. As a longtime volunteer with the Friendship Circle, Chana was recognised by the Ontario Legislature for “bringing a smile to the faces of children with special needs.” Although Chana 's "heart is in the east" she currently lives with her with her family in Toronto.