Alberto Reyes, a priest known for his outspoken criticism of the Cuban regime, recently shared his thoughts on social media about the enduring impact of dictator Fidel Castro's legacy, which continues to cast a shadow over the lives of Cubans even after his death. Reyes delved into Fidel's character, describing how his immense need for attention and dominance led him to surround himself with loyalists instead of true collaborators. This self-imposed isolation made him blind to the sycophancy around him and ruthless towards anyone who tried to bring him back to reality.
The priest from the Camagüey diocese castigated Fidel's successors for pretending nothing is amiss, for deceiving the nation, and for demanding more and more from a populace they watch suffer as the country crumbles around them. The full text of his reflection was shared by CiberCuba.
"I've been thinking… (XCV) by Alberto Reyes Pías"
Reyes mused on the notion of the liberator's liberation, drawing a parallel with Moses, a key figure in the Bible. While Moses is often celebrated for freeing the Hebrews from Egyptian bondage, his true greatness lay in his unwavering faithfulness to God's plan, which allowed him to experience his own liberation. This personal freedom involved overcoming his fears and insecurities and serving his people without becoming their dictator.
Reyes argued that anyone aspiring to be a liberator must first undergo an inner liberation. Otherwise, their own internal chains will lead them to enslave others. He shared an analogy taught by a psychologist friend about a dog with its paw caught in a trap. The dog growled aggressively due to the pain of its trapped paw, underscoring that everyone carries wounds, fears, and pain, which, if ignored, can prevent one from truly liberating others.
Reflecting on Fidel Castro's life, Reyes expressed pity for the late dictator. Fidel was deeply wounded, driven by a colossal need for attention that led him to focus solely on himself and surround himself with unwavering loyalists. This inability to listen or engage in dialogue blinded him to the destruction around him and made him harsh towards those who tried to confront him with reality.
What's more troubling, according to Reyes, is that Fidel's spell still lingers on, affecting those who now claim the title of 'liberators' but remain oblivious to the truth. Exercising strict control over a nation to stifle rebellion is one thing, but witnessing its suffering and demise while pretending nothing is wrong, lying shamelessly, making empty promises, and demanding endlessly from a struggling populace is quite another.
These so-called liberators have failed to free themselves. The traps of their fears, failures, and frustrations prevent them from liberating their people. That's why, Reyes suggests, prayers for their awakening and courage to do what's right are essential. Moreover, it's crucial to find ways to break free from the chains, lest the 'liberators' believe the people are content with their bondage.
Understanding the Impact of Fidel Castro's Legacy in Cuba
What is the main criticism Alberto Reyes has about Fidel Castro's leadership?
Reyes criticizes Castro for his overwhelming need for attention and control, which led him to surround himself with sycophants and ignore reality, making him ruthless towards those who tried to wake him up to the truth.
How does Reyes view the current leaders of Cuba?
Reyes views the current leaders as deluded, maintaining control while ignoring the nation's suffering, making false promises, and demanding more from the people without addressing their own internal issues.
What analogy does Reyes use to describe personal liberation?
Reyes uses the metaphor of a dog with its paw caught in a trap to illustrate that everyone has their own pain and issues, which must be acknowledged and healed to truly become a liberator for others.