A flurry of comments and reactions ensued after a Cuban user on TikTok shared his insights on what he has learned in the United States.
In his video titled "What I've Learned from the United States," Arguelles Positivo—as he is known on the platform—stated that for him, the U.S. has been like a school where you learn to add, subtract, multiply, and divide. However, he also highlighted the financial struggles many people face in the country.
The young man, who recently sent a message to newcomers in the U.S., pointed out that most people spend their entire day stressed out because they don't know how they are going to pay their bills. "If you pay rent, you can't afford the car payment; if you pay insurance, you can't afford the electricity and water bills; if you buy food, you can't send money to your family or treat yourself," he said, before acknowledging that someone might call him crazy and say "that's not how it is."
"And I'm going to tell you, my brother, most people live day to day or paycheck to paycheck, and that’s the reality," he added, while also recognizing that there are those who have achieved financial success—congratulating them and sending blessings—but emphasized that they are a minority.
"And if you have doubts about what I'm saying, all you have to do is look around when you leave your house, and you'll see if what I’m telling you is true or false," he recommended, closing his message by wishing everyone success and blessings.
Many users agreed with the young Cuban's perspective, affirming that his description of the financial difficulties is accurate and that living paycheck to paycheck is a reality for most, with the stress of not being able to cover all the bills being common.
Others pointed out that although financial difficulties are real, there are also opportunities in the United States that allow people to achieve success. Some shared personal stories of overcoming obstacles, mentioning that with effort and dedication, they managed to stabilize economically and improve their quality of life.
There were also those who defended life in the U.S., arguing that economic conditions vary by region and lifestyle. Some comments referred to the harsh reality in Cuba, where even with effort, it's nearly impossible to achieve progress and well-being.
Debate on Financial Struggles and Opportunities in the U.S.
Here are some frequently asked questions and answers related to the debate sparked by Arguelles Positivo's TikTok video about financial struggles and opportunities in the United States.
What are the main financial struggles people face in the U.S.?
According to Arguelles Positivo, the main financial struggles include paying rent, car payments, insurance, utility bills, and buying food, which often leaves little money for other expenses.
Are there opportunities for financial success in the U.S.?
Yes, many users pointed out that despite financial struggles, there are opportunities in the U.S. for those who put in effort and dedication to achieve financial stability and improve their quality of life.
How do economic conditions in the U.S. compare to those in Cuba?
Some comments highlighted that while the U.S. has its financial challenges, there are still opportunities for progress and well-being, unlike in Cuba where achieving such progress is nearly impossible even with effort.