Which do you love more..

the USofA or India?

I often get asked that question when I go back to India for a visit. A random aunt, an old grandmother, an odd uncle and sometimes even people I've only just been introduced to!

Sometimes, the question is asked with an open mind and out of mere curiosity, but more often that not, the person asking the question is expecting the answer to be "Of Course I love India! Its the country of my birth, how can anything take its place!! America is nothing compared to my India", as soon as I give the answer they expect, there's a smug smile on their face and things move along to other topics.

Once in a while, simply to see the reaction, I have mentioned "Oh! I like America, its so much better there", and the reaction I get is a disappointed look and a statement like "that country changes everyone!"

*Sigh*.. In all honesty, I don't have a favorite.

India - Is the country of my childhood, some of my fondest memories are in India, memories of idyllic times, zero responsibilities, carefree days, family fun. Its the country where the foundation of the person that I am today was set, I learnt from my school and my parents to be who I am today.

America - Is the country that gave me my first paycheck. It is where I learnt to be independent and take on responsibilities. It is the country that has provided an easier lifestyle for me, simply because of the amazing infrastructure they have here and it is the country where I owned my first home.Almost all of my adult memories are associated with America.

Asking me which country I love more, is like asking a mother which of her children does she love more! I love them both equally, so does this mean I don't ever want to go back to India?

I've thought about that, and the answer is no, I do and I will go back to India, part of the foundation that was set inside of me in childhood, taught me to love family above all else, and while I do have an easier life in the US, I sorely miss my family. Each time someone is sick back home, my heart is restless, my mind becomes numb, I ache to go back! And so I will.

But if ever, anyone wants the real answer from me of which I like better, I will have none, I love both places equally and America, just like India, has a special place in my heart and life.