Today it came to my attention that International Day is approaching. International Day is an annual event held by my school; which celebrates the cultures, clothing, art and food of various countries. A teacher entered my English Language class and asked each student to write down the country they most identify with. This instantly stirred up many discontent emotions and I began to critically question myself. What country do I belong to? My parents are both from different countries and I have never gotten attached to any one culture, nor have I ever been accepted as a part of them. I lived most of my life in America, but I didn’t exactly “fit in” there either.
I have an American passport as well, but that doesn’t necessarily mean that I identify with America. As a matter of fact I don’t agree with most things happening in America at the moment. I would not refer to myself as Anti-American, as I do appreciate many of the USA’s accomplishments. However, the lifestyle, culture and most political and economic policies do not appeal to me.
On the slip of paper being passed around the class, I decided to write Mexico – my mother’s country. I do not know much about Mexico, but I noticed it wasn’t on the list of countries that have a stall for the event. So I took it upon myself to add it since it is a fascinating culture and wasn’t already being represented.
Throughout the day I ached myself with a question that most people wouldn’t need to second-guess. Where in the world am I from? As I drank my daily dose of Earl Grey and Green Tea, it dawned on me. I do not need a country or any specific culture in order to create an identity for myself. We are all people, living on the same Earth, each one trying to find our purpose.
The people of this wondrous World have different and sometimes opposing cultures, beliefs, religions, and races. But in the end don’t most religions aspire for virtuousness? Aren’t all people born innocent? Regardless of all our differences, each of us has the ability to feel, and every individual aims for happiness, a better life and a better future. It’s a great feeling to be apart of a culture as well as learn about others. It creates a sense of belonging, comfort and knowledge. Yet, it shouldn’t be what creates an identity.
"The World is my country, all mankind are my brethren, and to do good is my religion."
- Thomas Paine
