Arriving in the United States and adapting to its customs is no easy task, as Cuban Daiana Díaz (@daianadiaz2107) can attest. She has sparked laughter and a wave of empathy on TikTok by sharing how she was caught off guard by the workplace tradition of gift-giving during Christmas.
“Look, it’s not that I don’t want to adapt,” says this Cuban woman in Missouri, who was taken by surprise when she arrived at work to find an unexpected Christmas gift: “Today, everyone showed up with a gift bag. We Cubans don’t have this; we’re not accustomed to it,” she shares, unable to hide her astonishment.
Daiana continues to recount with laughter how she had to accept reality and adapt to the situation: “Now I have to give gifts here, and tomorrow I'll come with a bag to give gifts to everyone. I think it’s nice, but what I don’t find nice is the bill.” And she has a point because, as she rightly notes, the math doesn’t add up: “Get a pencil and you’ll see.”
Daiana's video has resonated with Cubans and Latinos who have experienced similar situations, prompting an immediate response in the comments. Many offered advice on what to give as gifts without breaking the bank. "Buy lots of candles; they are really appreciated, and when I was in the US, they loved them, haha"; "Americans appreciate small gestures, like chocolates, a card, little decorations," suggested one user.
Others recalled how Cuban culture is not accustomed to these kinds of traditions. "The problem is that we Cubans have family in Cuba that we need to support, and we have to save the money from gifts to send over there"; "It's a nice gesture, but it's true that we Cubans don't have that tradition."
Of course, there were plenty of laughs and knowing comments: “Every time she says redhead, I think of Elpidio Valdés's little horse”; “What happens is that we Cubans like to be given things, but here you will learn that not everything is about the hoe.”
Amid jokes and advice, it is clear that Daiana's experience has served as a mirror for many others who have also had to "get their act together" in December. In the end, as she herself acknowledges, it is important to learn and prepare in advance: "We already know that we can't leave this until the last minute for next year."
Christmas in another country can bring more surprises than expected, but with humor and a positive attitude, everything can be learned.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cultural Integration and Christmas Traditions in the U.S. for Cubans
How does a Cuban woman react to the tradition of gift-giving at work in the United States?
The Cuban Daiana Díaz expressed surprise and humor regarding the tradition of giving gifts at work during Christmas, noting that it is not a common practice in Cuban culture. Her experience resonated with many Cubans and Latinos who have also had to adapt to these customs after emigrating to the United States.
What economical alternatives are suggested for Christmas gifts at work?
For those looking for budget-friendly options, it is recommended to give gifts like candles, chocolates, greeting cards, and small decorative items, which are well-received and don’t require a significant expenditure. These suggestions were shared by other users who have had similar experiences.
Why aren’t Cubans accustomed to the tradition of giving gifts at work?
The tradition of gift-giving at work is not common in Cuban culture because many Cubans abroad prioritize providing financial support to their families in Cuba. Economic constraints and the focus on family assistance make these practices less frequent.
How does family separation affect Cubans during Christmas?
Family separation during Christmas is a painful experience for many Cubans abroad. The distance from their loved ones makes the festivities less meaningful, with some choosing to save the money they would spend on celebrations to send gifts to their relatives in Cuba.
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