Cuban content creator Robertalba Vlogs recently released a poignant video expressing his deep affection for Cuba and the sorrow he feels over the country's current situation. "Today, I woke up with a lump in my throat because I dreamed of Cuba," he begins, recalling a quote by José Martí: "We love freedom because in it we see the truth; we will die for true freedom, not for the freedom that serves as a pretext to keep some men in excessive joy and others in unnecessary pain."
Currently residing in Spain, the young man shares a series of truths that resonate with many Cubans both on the island and abroad. "The truth is, Cuba is suffering today. The truth is, they have taken away freedom from all Cubans. The truth is, they have stolen our dream of being happy in our own country," he narrates over scenes of himself traveling on a bus. His words capture the anguish of millions who, like him, have been forced to leave behind family, friends, and memories. "The truth is, I dream of a true Cuba," he confesses, admitting that he often "laughs to keep from crying" about his homeland's current state.
The video from @robertalbavlogs0 has garnered numerous supportive and empathetic comments, many from Cubans living outside the island who empathize with the nostalgia and sadness of being far from home. "The truth is, Cuba has become an immense pain. Freedom for Cuba," one user remarked, while another wrote, "Stay strong, you and all Cubans. Surely one day Cuba will be free." Others added, "It's tough being away, but Cuba will change, it has to change," and "I love your videos. I'm Cuban living in Nebraska, USA, and it deeply hurts to see what's happening in our country and to our families back home."
The sentiment of sadness and longing is echoed in every message. "That's right, dear, how hard and sad this reality is, blessings," Ana commented, while Yansy Batista affirmed, "Exactly, pure truth." Others like Orisbel Morales stated, "All true, it pains us greatly what is happening in our Cuba." However, not everyone shared the same sentiment; one user left a challenging comment: "Well, come back and fight from within."
Through his reflection, Robertalba articulates the feelings of many: the pain of leaving their homeland, the hope for change, and the yearning for a Cuba where, as he puts it, freedom is "genuine" and not merely a "pretext."