AtticusWhat's in a First Name?

"My name is Atticus. Atticus Hochgreve," said the man with the mischievous smile and twinkling blue eyes. "When I was born, my father said to my mother 'Let's name our son after Atticus Finch.'"
Atticus Harper Finch is a fictional character from the novel "To Kill a Mockingbird". He is a lawyer who defends a black man who is falsely accused of raping a white woman. Atticus is a moral and courageous man who believes in justice for all.
I don`t know why my father thought I would grow up to be like him, but I think it`s a pretty cool name," he said with a chuckle. "I mean, how many people do you know with the name Atticus?"

Not many," I replied. "It`s a very unique name."

"Yeah," he said. "I think it`s kind of cool."

"It is cool," I said. "And it suits you."

"Thanks," he said. "I think so too."

We sat in silence for a few minutes, enjoying the peace and quiet of the park. The sun was shining and the birds were singing. It was a beautiful day.

"So," I said, "what do you do for a living?"

"I`m a lawyer," he said. "I work for a non-profit organization that provides legal services to the poor."

"That`s a great job," I said. "I bet you make a lot of money."

He smiled sheepishly. "Not as much as you might think," he said. "But I love my job. I get to help people every day, and that`s what really matters to me."

I was impressed. He was a good-looking guy, but he was also smart and kind. He was the kind of guy you could take home to your parents.
We talked for a few more hours, and I learned more about Atticus. He was a fascinating guy. He had traveled all over the world and had met some amazing people. He was also a talented musician and had a great sense of humor.
At the end of the day, I didn`t want to leave. I felt like I had known Atticus for years.
As we walked to our cars, I turned to him and said, "I had a really great time today, Atticus."
"Me too," he said. "I hope we can do it again sometime."

"I'd love that," I said.
We hugged goodbye, and I walked to my car. As I drove away, I thought about Atticus Hochgreve. I knew I would never forget him.
A few weeks later, I got a call from Atticus. He asked me out on a date, and I said yes. We went to dinner and a movie, and I had a great time.
We`ve been dating ever since, and I`m happier than I`ve ever been. Atticus is the most amazing man I know. He is kind, compassionate, and intelligent. I am so lucky to have him in my life.
I love you, Atticus Hochgreve.