PARKER AUGUST ESPLIN

 

Much debate goes into choosing a name.  I made it known that "Chip" was my first choice but soon realized that the one who carried this child rightfully earned the right to have a say in the matter.  Reminders that dad "really" had final say in the matter when it came to blessing the baby were replaced with threats from the mother to be.  As time went on we narrowed the name down to a few different options and finally settled on Daxton.  A couple of days prior to Parker's arrival, Melissa read a story about Parley P. Pratt that touched her.  Upon reading the story she came to know that Parley's middle name was Parker.  This seemed to have a nice sound to it and when Parker was born on July 24th it was only fitting that Parker be named after a great pioneer.  Not only was Parley a great pioneer but an incredible missionary for the church.  His devotion to the Lord and his desire to spread its message is a moving story in Church history.  Parley would later be a martyr for the cause which he loved so much.

As for his middle name, there really was no debate.  Since the passing of Grandma Glenna we felt strongly that his middle name should be after Grandpa August "Gus" Pollastro.  Since coming to Castle Dale I have looked to him as a Grandpa figure.  He has taught us much about family and its importance.  Grandpa Gus has been an example of hard work as he spent his working days working in the mine.  Grandpa Gus is a convert to the church and has faithfully served as a Bishop, Stake Patriarch, and Ward Mission Leader.  I have many fond memories of Grandpa Gus, from his retelling dating days to his singing Italian songs to Parker.  He has created a legacy that I long to follow and feel the privilege of having a son named after him.  

His last name also is something to take pride in.  Esplin is a name that many speak highly of.  It was the name that grandparents carried before me.  To me it stands for a person who has integrity and is honest.  It stands for hard work and commitment.  Those who possess this name are faithful and love to serve.  I know my dad to carry this name with great pride.  He gave it to me and now has fallen on Parker.  May those who look to this name and possess this name remember the sacrifice and efforts put into what this name represents.

Through this process I asked myself some questions.  So what does a name mean?  Is it something that should be treated lightly?  What lessons are to be learned here?  It is our hope that when Parker sees the name "Parker" that he sees a faithful missionary and pioneer which one day he too will be.  We would hope that the name "August" would be held dear as it represents family, love, and faithful service.  When called by his last name, "Esplin" may he remember the sacrifice that has been made to maintain what it represents.  May his name not only represent those who have gone before but may he emulate those who paid the price to uphold these names.