“Sir, this is life,” says a young Cuban in a viral video recorded in Lima, Peru, where he expresses his surprise and admiration for the care, vitality, and beauty of the parks in the Peruvian capital. The clip, posted by the user @jerez_92 on TikTok, has garnered thousands of views and reactions.
"Here in Lima, parks are not just green spaces, but small urban gems that are alive and very well maintained," he comments while demonstrating the daily watering, collection of dry leaves, and constant cleaning that help keep the grass even and the surroundings clean. "It's a breath of fresh air for the city," he adds.
The Cuban also highlights the vitality present in these spaces: squirrels approaching visitors, elderly people dancing in groups, children playing, and dogs walking with their owners. “Here, parks are not just trees and benches, my friend… this is harmony between humans and animals,” he reflects with emotion.
At the end of the video, he delivers a message of awareness: “Don’t litter, don’t mistreat the trees, don’t destroy what beautifies this beautiful city… because this is a treasure.” With a clear tone of nostalgia, he admits that such spaces “are small details that we don’t have in Cuba at the moment.”
Reactions on social media
The video has generated hundreds of comments, mostly positive. “Thank you for appreciating the good in my country; many Peruvians do not value what we have,” commented one user. Others congratulated him for his grateful attitude and his ability to appreciate the ordinary. “This is what happens when someone comes from need and discovers freedom,” wrote another.
Several Peruvians took the opportunity to recommend iconic places such as El Olivar Forest, the Water Park, and the Pentagonito. They also reminded him that not all of Lima looks the same, and that the quality of green areas varies greatly between districts.
"This can only be maintained if we take care of it," concludes the creator of the video, which has been warmly received by both Cubans and Peruvians.
Another testimony from a Cuban in Peru
The message from @jerez_92 echoes that of other Cuban migrants who have found refuge in Peru, such as the young Leandro Hernández, who recently celebrated three months in the country after being stranded at Lima airport due to Nicaragua denying him entry.
"I am learning about the real world because I was taken out of Narnia," Hernández said while reflecting on his adjustment to a different culture and his forced departure from Cuba for political reasons. His story, also shared on social media, moved thousands of people.
Both testimonies reflect the contrast between the precariousness and control on the island and the experience of freedom, order, and access to public spaces in other countries. A reality that is moving and sparks reflections on the everyday, both for those who arrive and for those who already inhabit these spaces.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Life of Cubans Abroad and Its Comparison with Cuba
What surprised the young Cuban about the parks in Lima?
The young Cuban expressed admiration for the care, vitality, and beauty of the parks in Lima. He highlighted the daily watering, the collection of dry leaves, and the constant cleaning that help maintain the even grass and a clean environment, as well as the life thriving within them, such as squirrels, elderly people dancing, and children playing.
How do people react to comparisons between Cuba and other countries?
Reactions tend to vary, but mostly the comments are positive and supportive towards those who value differences and appreciate opportunities abroad. Both Cubans and people from host countries, such as Peru and Mexico, often express gratitude for the freedom and living conditions they find outside of Cuba.
Why do Cubans emphasize the differences between living in Cuba and in other countries?
Cubans often highlight the differences to emphasize the opportunities and freedoms they find outside of Cuba, frequently contrasting the precariousness and control on the island with the experience of living in a more orderly environment with access to well-maintained services and public spaces.
What message do Cuban migrants convey about their new lives abroad?
Many Cuban migrants share messages of hope, effort, and adaptation, showing how, despite initial challenges, they manage to build a new life in countries like Peru or Mexico. These testimonials reflect their gratitude for the opportunities and freedom they find in their new reality.
How do Cubans use humor to address their experiences abroad?
Humor is a common tool among Cubans to express their experiences and cultural contrasts. Many use humor on social media to highlight the differences between life in Cuba and abroad, creatively and lightly addressing the challenges and peculiarities of life in other countries.
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