Leaving Cuba was her greatest dream. For years, she envisioned it as the goal that would change her life. And she achieved it. Today, she lives in Ferrol, a Galician city that has opened its doors to her, where she enjoys opportunities, stability, and the company of her husband. However, Karlita —@yo_soykarlita, as she is known on TikTok— has touched the hearts of thousands with a reflection that few dare to share.
"I always wanted to leave Cuba, it was my goal, what I desired the most. But it never crossed my mind that, upon achieving it, I would feel so empty," she confesses in a video that many emigrated Cubans can relate to.
From a shopping mall, in a moment of solitude, this young Cuban opened up to the camera:
"I'm sitting here and wanted to share a little reflection because now I have time for myself. Today, I had a date with myself and had time to think about a few things," Karlita begins in the video.
Although he now lives in a country that has provided him with new opportunities, he admits to having experienced a mix of unexpected emotions after fulfilling his greatest desire: to emigrate from Cuba.
"Realizing that true wealth lies in having my family close by is something that has profoundly affected me," she expresses with a choked voice.
Karlita acknowledges being grateful to Spain and assures that she loves Ferrol, but she admits that the happiness she feels is not complete.
"It's complicated. I have moments of happiness, but they're not complete. I feel lonely. I miss my family. We were very humble, but very happy."
The video has sparked a wave of reactions among Cuban emigrants, who see themselves reflected in its words. Many share the sentiment of "morriña" — as nostalgia for one's homeland is known in Galicia — that constant feeling of absence that accompanies those who have left everything behind.
"I fulfilled my dream, yes... but no one told me it would hurt this much," wrote one user. Another added, "We are here, but we don't stop being there."
Karlita's post not only highlights the less visible side of emigration but also conveys a profound message to those who are still fortunate enough to have their loved ones close: "If you have your family with you, cherish them. Life passes by in the blink of an eye."
Frequently Asked Questions about the Migration Experience of Cubans in Spain
Why do some Cubans feel empty after emigrating from Cuba?
The feeling of emptiness that some Cubans experience after emigrating is due to nostalgia and the absence of family, which are hard to compensate for with the new opportunities and stability they find in countries like Spain. Although they manage to fulfill their dream of improving their quality of life, many discover that true wealth lies in having their loved ones nearby.
How does nostalgia influence the lives of Cuban emigrants?
Nostalgia, known as "morriña" in Galicia, is a constant feeling for Cuban émigrés. This feeling of absence impacts their overall happiness, as they miss the closeness of family and the familiar surroundings of their homeland, despite the material improvements in their new lives.
What are the emotional challenges faced by Cubans when adapting to Spain?
Emotional challenges include confronting feelings of loneliness, adapting to a new culture, and coping with unfulfilled expectations of complete happiness. The adaptation process involves not only material changes but also emotional and social ones, which can have a significant impact on the well-being of emigrants.
Why does Karlita believe that Cubans who want to emigrate should not be discouraged?
Karlita argues that although the migration process is difficult, we should not take away the hope from those seeking a better life. She promotes a realistic yet positive outlook, encouraging each person to live their own experience and not be discouraged by the negative stories of others.
Filed under:
