With his heart on his sleeve, a Cuban resident in Spain shared a message on his social media that reflects the nostalgia and pain he feels every time he visits a supermarket in his new reality. From Mercadona, one of the most popular stores in Spain, this young man opened up about the stark differences between the abundance he now witnesses daily and the scarcity he left behind in Cuba.
"I am Cuban, and every time I go to this market, my homeland comes to mind. It is truly sad to see everything that is available in these supermarkets while in Cuba, there are families who do not have at least the basic products needed to live," Robertalba confessed in a video shared on his TikTok profile @robertalbavlogs0.
For this Cuban, who shares his experiences from Spain, one of the greatest shocks upon leaving Cuba is facing a reality where everything is accessible in one place—something that seems like an unattainable dream for those still on the island. “In Cuba, getting what you need means traveling across the city, searching in various places, and often you don't find it. Here, everything is at your fingertips, and it's impossible not to think about your loved ones,” he recounted with evident emotion.
His words not only describe a personal experience but also represent the feelings of many Cubans who have emigrated and face that blend of relief for the opportunities and sadness for those left behind. “I hope that one day all Cubans can have a plate of food on the table, without worrying about what they will eat tomorrow. I wish that in my country we could live without that constant struggle for the basics,” he concluded, leaving a message of hope.
The video, filled with emotions, has become a reflection of the deep inequalities that separate those who have emigrated from those who still struggle with daily hardships on the island.
Frequently asked questions about the experiences of Cuban emigrants and the difficulties in Cuba
How does the scarcity in Cuba affect Cubans who emigrate?
Scarcity in Cuba creates a stark contrast for Cubans who emigrate, as they encounter an abundance of products in supermarkets upon arriving in other countries. This situation evokes in them a mix of relief for the opportunities and sadness for those left behind, as they recall the difficulties in accessing basic goods on the island.
What feelings do Cubans experience when they find products from their country abroad?
When finding Cuban products abroad, many Cubans experience a mix of joy and nostalgia. These products remind them of their homeland and are often difficult to obtain in Cuba, evoking deep memories and emotions, thereby creating a sense of connection to their roots.
How do Cubans abroad maintain their customs and cultural connections?
Cubans living abroad maintain their customs through everyday practices, such as making products last, using mops for quilts, and cooking with traditional Cuban seasonings. These practices help them preserve a connection to their roots and culture, even when in a different environment.
What impact does emigration have on the perception of Cuban reality?
Emigration allows Cubans to see the differences between their reality in Cuba and life abroad. This contrast highlights the difficulties and restrictions on the island, leading many to criticize the system that limits opportunities, while abroad they find stability and access to essential services and basic goods.
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