How many of you were born in a country that you have NO CONNECTION to?

Question

My parents are from India and I have lived in the states since I was 1. I was born in the Philippines, but don't know much about it and haven't gone back since.  I was wondering if others are in the same situation?  People say that the place where you're born is where you're from, but I can't fathom that I'm "from" the Philippines. All I can say is that my culture and identity is Indian and American.  

Does anyone else feel the same way? Were you born in a country that has nothing to do with your family's origins or where you grew up?

Demi · Accepted Answer

My friend Pavel was born in Iraq. His parents are from India. He has lived in California since he was two years old and he's now in his early 40's. After 9/11 he went to India for his very first trip to his "homeland". Remember the airline price wars 'cuz people were scared to fly? Apparently he got a great deal. BUT, when he got there, his passport was stolen. He had to go to the US embassy to ask the consulate for help and try to get a new one. Which is when they discovered that Iraqi birth certificate...

He was stuck in India for nearly three months. I had to send him money a few times so he could survive. He was telling them at the embassy "But I'm  from Santa Barbara!!!" and they'd tell him, "No, you're from Iraq"...

So if you do go back, hang onto your passport tightly. Tape it to your torso under your clothes or something. LOL!

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How many of you were born in a country that you have NO CONNECTION to?

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