Cuba

As I continued to explore Havana, I was enamored by Cuba’s "contrasts and contradictions," as one of my new friends so eloquently put it. I went on to see hardships and disparities blended with hope and generosity. I can imagine times past when things were less difficult and filled mostly with generosity and well-being, as described by many I've met during my stay. I hope that somehow they find a path back to that, rather than continuing in the downward direction it seems to be heading. The generosity I've encountered has resonated with me in a way I haven't felt since early childhood. One moment that really stood out happened while I was walking in Vedado during strong winds from Hurricane Helene. I saw an older woman with a crutch in one hand and a grocery bag in the other. Without thinking, I went to help her. As I approached, without hesitation and before I said anything, she motioned to hand me the bag and took my hand. There was a clear feeling of gratitud...