With a yellow envelope in hand and dressed in a summer outfit, a young Cuban woman captured the hearts of thousands on social media with her poignant farewell. The images show the moment she tightly embraces her loved ones at the doors of a Cuban airport, preparing to return to the United States, where she currently resides. "Thank you, my GOD, for every step. We never know how strong we are until we have to make the choice to leave our country, leaving our family behind. Time flies," she wrote alongside the video, sparking a flood of empathetic and nostalgic reactions.
Her words struck a chord with countless Cubans who have experienced the same heart-wrenching moment. Many recalled their own farewells, the sorrow of leaving behind parents, children, grandparents... "That day, you don't even know what you're feeling. It's a pain for what you leave behind and a thought of when you will see them again," commented one user.
Identified as Leyi (@leyanis2002), the young woman shared that she has reunited with some family members in the U.S., though her father is still missing from the picture. "Thank GOD, I have my mom and little sister here. I miss my dad," she expressed.
The comments on her video became a collective confessional. Hundreds shared their own stories, the silent tears at airports, promises to return, and the heavy burden of leaving everything behind. Some admitted to skipping goodbyes, unable to face the pain, while others recounted leaving with broken hearts in search of a better future for their children. "When those doors close... it's like something is ripped out from inside you," one user wrote. "That hug you don't know if it will be the last," added another.
The post has resonated far beyond personal experience, becoming a reflection of a shared reality for millions of Cubans who have emigrated. It's a scene that hurts but also inspires, marked by uprooting yet filled with hope and faith in a better future.
Understanding the Cuban Farewell Experience
Why do many Cubans find farewells so emotional?
Farewells are emotional for many Cubans because they often involve leaving family and friends behind, with the uncertainty of when they will reunite. The decision to emigrate is also intertwined with the hope for a better future, making the departure bittersweet.
What are some common feelings expressed during these farewells?
People often express a mix of sorrow, nostalgia, and hope. There's a profound sadness for leaving loved ones and a yearning for a brighter future, balanced by the hope of returning or reuniting with family someday.
How do shared stories help those experiencing similar situations?
Sharing stories provides comfort and solidarity, helping individuals realize they are not alone in their experiences. It creates a sense of community and understanding, allowing people to connect over shared emotions and challenges.