The origin of the name “Maru” comes from the theme of my life, “circle” (丸, maru in Japanese). A circle is smooth and continuous, representing concepts like circulation, eternity, and infinity. I aspire for my relationships to be smooth and unhindered, like a circle. In Japanese, a correct answer is marked with a circle, which symbolizes positivity and correctness, as opposed to a cross, which indicates a mistake. The circle embodies qualities I admire and strive for in my life and interactions.

The name “Maru” has significant symbolism and roots in Japanese culture. The word “maru” (丸) means “circle” or “round,” representing concepts such as completeness, perfection, and continuity. This shape is associated with positive qualities like harmony and smoothness, without any sharp edges or interruptions​ (Suki Desu – Cultura Japonesa)​​ (Learn Japanese with Yuko)​.

In Japanese tradition, the circle symbolizes perfection and completeness. This can be seen in various cultural references, including the way ships often have “maru” in their names to wish for successful and safe voyages that return to the starting point, completing a full circle​ (Learn Japanese with Yuko)​. The character “maru” (丸) is also used metaphorically in idioms to describe gentle and harmonious relationships, indicating a desire for smooth and amicable interactions​ (Learn Japanese with Yuko)​.

Therefore, choosing “Maru” as a name reflects an aspiration for a life filled with harmony, balance, and completeness, mirroring the qualities of a perfect circle​ (Suki Desu – Cultura Japonesa)​​ (Learn Japanese with Yuko)​.

My name is Maru. Although it is a pen name, I am very fond of it. I cannot choose my real name, and even my married surname.

During my university years, I attended a comprehensive university with a medical focus. After spending two years eneral education curriculum, where the medical and dental students studied together, we moved on to a specialized course for four years with only one class per grade. In the afternoons, we always had practical training, and the seating was arranged in the order of our attendance numbers. As a result, those with nearby numbers spent most of the day together.

In our sixth year, we often stayed at the university until late at night. Naturally, our relationships formed with those around our attendance numbers. Consequently, I ended up marrying the person who always sat next to me.

We got married in the summer of the year we graduated, and I continued working at the university hospital. I found it inconvenient and unpleasant to suddenly take on the surname of the person next to me. I told my partner that I did not want to change my surname upon marriage, but this was quickly dismissed.

After getting married and changing my name, I felt as though my previous self had ceased to exist, and I struggled to get used to my new name. Even now, it feels strange. After getting married, my own priorities took a backseat, and the following year our eldest daughter was born. Since then, I have always prioritized others over myself. Before I knew it, this year marks our 25th wedding anniversary (with half of those years living apart).

Perhaps it’s time to start living a life of myself. After having this thought, I chose the new name Maru. I asked my daughter, who had suddenly expressed an interest in becoming a web designer, to create this “Wa no Manabi” blog’s homepage as her first project.

Why did I choose the name Maru? It stems from the theme of my life, “circle.” A circle is smooth and keeps revolving endlessly. Circulation, eternity, infinity. I aspire for my human relationships to be smooth like a circle. The term “circular personality” exists, and to me, “circle” is something I admire. A correct answer is often marked with a circle, the opposite of a cross.

My daughters laugh and say, “You’re not chubby, you’re skinny.” Indeed, my appearance is the exact opposite of round. When I retort, “You have a round face,” my daughter gets angry. Her reaction is understandable, but it’s funny.