In a video shared on TikTok, a young Cuban living in Switzerland offered a critical reflection on the attitude of some immigrants towards their host countries. According to his account, recorded while driving his car, he perceives a growing trend among some immigrants to complain about the difficulties they face in their new countries of residence, something he considers counterproductive and misdirected.
The young man, who arrived in Switzerland at the age of 27, expressed his frustration with what he calls "the angry immigrant." "I think many are also bothered by this new trend that I call the angry immigrant, who is the misguided immigrant. I see many Cubans, especially those living in Miami, who go online saying that this is not the 'Yuma,' this is the 'llama,' this is the 'candela'," he commented.
In his reflection, Leandro Tamayo—according to the information available on his profile—argues that immigrants should show more appreciation towards the countries that host them, rather than focusing on daily hardships. "No country, not Europe, not any European country, not the United States, no country in the world where we Cubans are spread out as exiles (...) invited us to come," he emphasized. He added that Cubans decided to emigrate in search of freedom, economic prospects, and dignity, and therefore should not complain about the adversities they face, but rather take advantage of the opportunities they have.
The young man recalled a particularly tough day when, after braving the rain and cold during his workday, he found solace upon arriving home and seeing his son. "I thought at that moment, wow, I have a son who lives here, who lacks nothing, has clothes, shoes, toys, everything he needs," he recounted, highlighting that despite not living a luxurious life, he values having a dignified life with the essentials for happiness.
For the young man, immigrants' complaints often overlook the advantages of living in a country that offers freedom and dignity. "After working a hard day, I came home in my car; I didn't have to take a bus and stand there waiting, wondering if it would come or not, squeezed in with others. I got in my little car, came home tired but comfortable, took a hot shower with my nice shampoo, went to the fridge, and had a beer," he noted.
His conclusion is clear: "If you don't like where you are, if you think it's tough, go back to your country, because we can't have it all." He emphasizes that, although he cannot have his entire family with him, he feels grateful for the life he leads and the freedom he enjoys.
This message, loaded with introspection and personal experience, invites a broader reflection on the attitude of some immigrants towards the challenges and opportunities they encounter in their new countries of residence. What about you, do you agree with him?
Reflections on Immigration and Gratitude
Here are some key questions and answers that delve deeper into the themes discussed by Leandro Tamayo in his video, providing further insights for those navigating the complexities of immigration.
What is Leandro Tamayo's main argument about immigrants?
Leandro Tamayo argues that immigrants should be more appreciative of their host countries and focus less on daily hardships. He believes that constant complaints are counterproductive and that immigrants should take advantage of the opportunities available to them.
Why does Tamayo refer to certain immigrants as "the angry immigrant"?
Tamayo refers to certain immigrants as "the angry immigrant" because he observes a trend of these individuals constantly complaining about their new countries of residence, which he views as misguided and ungrateful.
How does Tamayo suggest immigrants should deal with challenges in their new countries?
Tamayo suggests that immigrants should focus on the benefits and opportunities their new countries offer and show more gratitude rather than dwell on the difficulties. He believes that a positive attitude will help them make the most of their new lives.