Are You Really Who You Say You Are?

I consider myself a Floridian born, Bahamian raised, American, South African, Chinese, Jew who has lived in New York, Connecticut, and Colorado. Okay yes, this may sound a bit absurd and possibly false; however, this cannot be closer to the truth. Ever since I could remember, people have asked me, “Where are you from?” This is perhaps because of peoples’ human nature to be curious. The reason why I bring to light my heritage is to ask, where can someone say he or she is from? Can I say I am from the Bahamas? Is it correct to explain that I am a South African? Would it be wrong to call myself an American? I am continuously faced with this issue. I never know where to call home.

            My answer to this problem is quite simple. Instead of facing the “Where are you from?” question with weariness, instead embrace it. Rather than explaining your whole backstory, state where you feel you are from. Being raised in the Bahamas, I feel that my Bahamian roots are more prominent than my South African, American, Chinese background. It is true that I do not hold a Bahamian citizenship or currently reside there, but that is beside the point. I consider myself a Bahamian because the Bahamas has shaped me as a person. During each day of my life, everything that I do has been influenced by my childhood in the Bahamas. Whether it be walking around barefoot or playing outdoor soccer, my habits and interests have been formed around my Bahamian days. No matter where I live, I will always be Bahamian at heart. I now ask the question, what makes you, you? Is it your family’s ethnicity, childhood, or personal interests? Whatever it is, let everyone know who you really are. I am Tai Kerzner and I am from the great islands of the Bahamas.