In the streets of Ciego de Ávila, Cuba, a heartwarming story unfolded when a local man extended a generous hand to two young siblings selling guavas to support their mother. The story was shared by freelance journalist Guillermo Rodríguez Sánchez on Facebook, where he recounted his encounter with the children. These siblings travel a significant distance of eight kilometers daily from Carolina, a village located on the highway to the municipality of Venezuela, just to sell their fruits.
Moved by their dedication and situation, Rodríguez Sánchez proposed a unique deal: he would purchase all the guavas from one of their backpacks and then gift the fruits back to them. The young boy, amused, quipped, "You don't know how to make deals, do you?"
A local worker at a nearby eatery invited the children to sit and enjoy two complimentary sandwiches. True to his word, Rodríguez Sánchez bought all the guavas, handed over the money, and then returned the fruits to the siblings.
The children were in a hurry to catch transportation home before nightfall. They shared that they assist their mother after school each day and live with her alone. "I asked to hold one of their backpacks and realized just how heavy they were, despite hours of selling fruit," the journalist noted.
He suggested meeting again in a week at an agreed time and place to give them some clothes and other items he could gather, "maybe some sweets they've never tasted or haven't had in years, and to negotiate guavas once more, letting them have the upper hand." He also encouraged his friends to contribute.
"Together, we can bring a little joy to a girl and a boy who, despite working outside what is considered the norm for their age, still exude happiness," he emphasized.
"And you... what were you doing at their age? I was always playing in the afternoons. How times have changed," he reflected wistfully.
Understanding the Impact of Acts of Kindness in Cuba
Why are the children selling guavas in Ciego de Ávila?
The children sell guavas to help support their mother after attending school in the mornings. They travel from their village to Ciego de Ávila daily to sell the fruits.
How did Guillermo Rodríguez Sánchez help the children?
Rodríguez Sánchez purchased all the guavas from the children's backpack and then gifted the fruits back to them. He also planned to meet them again with clothes and other items.
What does this story reflect about the current situation in Cuba?
This story highlights the economic hardships faced by families in Cuba, where even young children feel the need to contribute to their family's income. It also shows the community's willingness to support one another through acts of kindness.