Using a Japanese word/name as a non Japanese person
Hello. I'm an American (25+) and grew up appreciating Japanese culture quite a bit. I learned the language and teach English to my Japanese friends. I personally feel that the naming culture in Japan, 漢字 are quite beautiful. Specifically, one that meant a lot to me was 凪(なぎ) because that meaning, I find a lot of comfort in it. I'm not sure how to explain it, but that's how I want to come across? I know it's in regards to the sea which I also have a special connection to. TLDR: I really love that word/name.
I'm an artist and expressed to my Japanese friend the conflict of trying to name myself and I casually mentioned 凪 and she said it fit and that I should use it. I always write it as ナギ because I don't want people to think I'm Japanese or pretending to be if I use the kanji.
I just don't want to be disrespectful to Japanese people and culture by using a name/word that comes from Japanese culture when I'm not Japanese. I also don't want to disrespect my Japanese friend that gave me the name either. Am I overthinking this? I'm just really worried about it.
Edit: Thank you all for your honesty and responses. I truly do appreciate you taking the time to respond.