In a video posted on TikTok, a Cuban residing in Spain shared memories of his childhood in Cuba and proudly stated that if given the chance, he would be born on the island again. In his post, the coach began by recounting how Spaniards often show a special affection for Cuban culture and for him personally when they learn he is Cuban.
"Here in Spain, when you say you're Cuban, the Spaniard (...) feels an attachment, a fondness for Cuban culture, for the Cuban, and they care, they ask you how the situation is, a series of things, they're interested. We are well received here in Spain," he commented.
He then narrated an anecdote involving some people who asked him if he would choose to be born outside of Cuba if he could change his past. "Not even a thought, that's not something you think about. Many would say yes; no, I don't think about that. I gave a quick and concise answer, I said I would be born in Cuba again with tremendous pride," was his response.
"Despite all the shortages, a thousand needs, I wouldn't trade my childhood in Cuba for any other child's in the world. I wouldn't trade playing with tops, wandering the streets, playing marbles, 'quimbicuarta,' 'comefango,' 'chivichana,' whether it's ball boxes, sneaking into the neighbor's yard to steal mangoes. That happiness in childhood is irreplaceable," he elaborated on his reasons.
The coach also highlighted the joy of his youth in Cuba, mentioning the parties, friendships, and school experiences. "I wouldn't trade my youth for anything in the world, getting into a party with my buddies, the fun hours at school. I wouldn't trade that for anything in the world. I'm sure that youth around the world doesn't enjoy it as much as Cubans do. I wouldn't change any of that. I think of those times and say I was happy, happy. University, one of the most beautiful stages of my life..."
Finally, he expressed his pride in being Cuban and the deep connection he feels with his homeland. "Despite the difficulties, we Cubans are people who, due to the shortages we've faced, have become super adaptable. You could leave us in the Sahara desert, and we'd thrive, we'd make friends with all the wildlife, and we'd make flowers bloom in the desert. The many challenges we face taught us to see life differently, to face it differently, to fight. So, what I gained by being in Cuba, I probably wouldn't have gained anywhere else in the world. Since I was happy, there's no argument. I feel proud to be Cuban and would be born in Cuba again. Now many people say, 'Oh no? Then why aren't you in Cuba?' We're talking about other issues; we'll get into that topic later. The experiences I have from my beautiful Cuba, my Cuba, my childhood, my friendships, the relationships with other Cubans (...). Cuba is a feeling; Cuba is in your blood and isn't negotiable," he concluded in the video that has sparked a flood of reactions on TikTok, reflecting a variety of opinions on life in Cuba and personal experiences.
One user commented, "Stockholm Syndrome." Another expressed, "I feel for you, I respect your opinion, but I wouldn't be born in Cuba again. Since I fled that dictatorship, I haven't returned and wouldn't go back."
"Of course, I'd be born in Cuba again, but then I'd leave again"; "I'd be born in Cuba and then move back to Spain, of course," others noted.
There were also messages of support, nostalgia, and testimonies from fellow Cubans: "Cubans are unique, wherever we go, we leave a mark"; "Without a doubt, I'd be born in Cuba again. I was very happy, not everything is as it seems"; "Without a doubt, with pride, I'd be born in Cuba again, but with different presidents who love and respect their people"; "I've seen almost all of Europe and would be born again with the pride of the world. Despite everything, I'd be born a thousand times and proud to be Cuban," several said. What do you think?
Reflections on Cuban Childhood and Identity
This section addresses some frequently asked questions about the experiences and sentiments expressed in the video, providing further insights into the unique aspects of Cuban identity and upbringing.
Why do some Cubans feel proud of their childhood despite the challenges?
Many Cubans cherish their childhood memories because of the sense of community, the unique games, and the strong friendships formed. Despite material shortages, the emotional and social bonds often create a sense of fulfillment and happiness.
What are some traditional Cuban childhood games mentioned in the video?
The video mentions several traditional games such as playing with tops, marbles, 'quimbicuarta,' 'comefango,' and 'chivichana.' These games often involve creativity and resourcefulness, reflecting the Cuban way of making the most out of limited resources.
How do Cubans adapt to different environments despite challenges?
Cubans have developed a high level of adaptability due to the numerous challenges they face in their country. This adaptability allows them to thrive in various environments, such as making friends with wildlife in the Sahara desert as metaphorically mentioned in the video.