A Cuban man named @maykel.nuez5 on TikTok has captured attention with a viral video highlighting his resilient and optimistic outlook amid the challenging living conditions on the island, particularly the frequent power outages.
In the video, recorded at night, he is seen with his young daughter, expressing, "Here in beautiful Cuba, without electricity, but happy. Look, with my daughter, look at this beautiful thing, look. See the little princess, oh God. Hey, let the electricity stay off, it's happiness here. There are no bills, there's nothing, we live. What you need is, look, money is what you need here to live comfortably. Look with the family, look at this beautiful thing. Look at that."
The scene shows the child in a dark setting, illuminated by flashlights or cell phone lights, a common sight in many Cuban homes due to the extended power outages affecting the island.
The video has sparked various reactions on social media. Some users praise the father's positive attitude, while others criticize the acceptance of the hardships that millions of Cubans face, struggling daily with the lack of basic services, including electricity and clean water.
Resilience Amid Economic Hardship
Amidst the country's economic crisis, characterized by rampant inflation, food shortages, and a failing electrical system, this kind of content showcases both the resilience of the Cuban people and the harsh reality they endure.
This father's testimony, although filled with joy, also highlights the resignation with which many Cubans face their day-to-day lives, where the definition of happiness is reshaped by scarcity.
Cuban Life During Power Outages
How do Cubans cope with frequent power outages?
Cubans often rely on alternative lighting sources like flashlights or cell phone lights during power outages. Social gatherings and family support also play a crucial role in maintaining morale.
What are the main challenges facing Cubans today?
Cubans face numerous challenges, including economic instability, inflation, food scarcity, and a crumbling infrastructure, which contribute to their daily struggles.