The Mystery of Belonging

Last year, while reading the presidential perspective of the President of the American
University of Beirut (AUB), my alma mater, I was struck by a profound reflection on the
mystery of belonging. In his article, he shared stories from his journeys across the world—
solidifying partnerships and raising funds for the university’s growth. Yet, beyond these
professional endeavors, he delved into something much deeper: the evolving nature of belonging.
“Belonging is a strange business, especially when you are young. None of us truly know
where we will end up, much less where we are best fit.”
This resonated deeply with me. Having lived and studied in two countries outside my
country of origin and traveled to two more for conferences and research presentations, I
have wrestled with this same question—where do I truly belong?
Surprisingly, I have found that I do not entirely feel a sense of belonging to my country of
origin, nor do I fully belong to the countries I have visited. Why? Because experiencing the
world through different lenses changes you. It challenges your ideas of right and wrong,
normal and abnormal. It fosters empathy, allowing you to see life from perspectives you
never considered before.
Belonging is more than just nationality or location—it is about shared values, experiences,
and responsibilities. You begin to appreciate the strengths of different cultures while
yearning to bring the best of each to the places you call home.
Yet, one undeniable truth remains: privileges and opportunities often belong to those who
are considered “insiders.” This reality shapes everything from access to resources to the
ability to effect change.
The AUB President concluded his piece with words that perfectly encapsulate this paradox:
“Despite an increasingly divisive world where senses of ownership or belonging have
acquired a dangerously partisan impetus, I feel a strong sense of ownership of both
Lebanon and the United States, but more broadly, a sense of duty to mankind.”
And perhaps, in the end, that is the highest form of belonging—not to a place, but to
humanity itself.

By Philip Adebayo