"Where shall I take you for breakfast?" asks Devis, a young Cuban, as he records a video from his car. "To McDonald's," his mother responds, her smile full of excitement. This scene, highlighting a trip to a fast-food giant, carries significant meaning for many Cubans newly arrived in the United States. Shared on TikTok by user @blued_diamond, the video has touched thousands of hearts.
"Today, here we are, just you and me. I brought you to McDonald's," Devis exclaims with joy as he captures the moment his mother steps into the famous fast-food chain for the first time. "Who would've told you that before 2025 ended, you'd be here, eating McDonald's?" he asks. "No one, my son, no one," she replies. Devis then guides her through ordering from the touchscreen: "Since you don't know English, I'd suggest using this little screen to place your order..." They share a laugh over the amount of food she ordered: "Have you ever eaten so much beef in your life?" She chuckles back, "Nor opened my mouth so wide for a bite."
The video sparked a wave of empathetic comments from other Cubans with similar experiences. "I cry tears of joy for you," one user wrote, while another admitted, "You made me tear up; I hope to have my mother here someday too." Many praised the son's gesture: "You're a good son; it's beautiful to see you enjoy this with her," "Cherish her, our mothers deserve everything," "What a blessing to give your mom this experience."
Others reflected on their own memories: "You made me remember when my daughter first took me out for a burger," "I arrived just like that, wide-eyed at everything." Some simply appreciated witnessing the moment: "Such joy to see you together, enjoy every moment," "Thank you for sharing something so beautiful and real."
Reactions consistently echoed sentiments like "blessings to you both," "such great happiness," and "may you always have love for each other," showing how the video resonated deeply with those who have experienced or dream of similar reunions.
This heartfelt moment, concluding with her spontaneous reaction, "my goodness, tears just came to my eyes," is part of a series of videos where Devis documents his mother's first days in the U.S. On April 6th, he shared the emotional family reunion at Louisville airport, where she met her grandchildren and embraced a daughter she hadn't seen in six years. "Lilita, welcome to the land of freedom, glory to God and my Virgen de la Caridad for bringing you here," he wrote then.
A few days later, Devis posted another clip of her first visit to a U.S. store. "Oh, I love everything... is there money?" she joked while browsing through Citi Trends aisles. "She wants to come here and be a prosperous old lady," Devis teased, highlighting the bond they share in this new chapter.
The McDonald's video joins a growing trend of Cubans sharing their "firsts" abroad on social media. Just last June, a young Cuban in Paraguay tried McDonald's for the first time, describing it as "the most capitalist, American thing I've done in my life," while another newcomer to Tampa rated his experience a perfect ten.
These tender and eye-opening experiences demonstrate how everyday moments transform into unforgettable memories. For Devis, providing his mother with these experiences—a breakfast, a supermarket visit, a quick meal—is more than a gesture; it's a way to show gratitude, share joy, and build a new life together.
Cuban Family Experiences in the U.S.
Why is the McDonald's experience significant for Devis and his mother?
For Devis and his mother, visiting McDonald's symbolizes more than just a meal; it represents a milestone in their journey in the United States, reflecting newfound freedoms and opportunities.
How did the online community react to the video?
The video received an outpouring of empathy and support from the online community, with many users sharing similar experiences and expressing joy for Devis and his mother.
What other experiences has Devis shared about his mother?
Devis has documented other significant moments, such as their emotional reunion at the airport and his mother's first visit to a U.S. store, showcasing their journey in adapting to a new life.