A Cuban woman residing in Albacete, located in Castilla-La Mancha, recently took to TikTok to express the longing she feels during Christmas, being far from her family in Cuba.
“I’m a Cuban living in Spain, in Albacete, Castilla La Mancha. I had never really experienced Christmas celebrations before, with all the beautiful lights, decorated streets, people celebrating, buying gifts, and shops adorned in festive decor,” she shared in a video posted on her TikTok account @rosmerys027 a few days ago.
Although she expressed gratitude for experiencing the festivities, she admitted feeling unenthusiastic about celebrating: “I don’t feel motivated, I lack the desire to celebrate... with my family so far away, I simply can’t find a reason. Here, it’s just my husband and me, and I don’t feel any motivation to even decorate the house.”
She explained that the holidays are particularly tough: “During these days, I feel melancholic, I feel down, I cry, honestly. It’s not that I dislike Christmas—I do like it—but I wish I could spend it with my entire family, just like people here do.”
The video, recorded as she strolled through Albacete’s illuminated streets, garnered numerous comments. Many users sent messages of support and understanding: “It’s normal to feel this way when your family is far away, and you’re distant from your homeland”; “We all go through this, it’s a challenging and painful feeling when we’re away from our family and friends.”
Others shared similar experiences, while some reminded her of the importance of appreciating the opportunities she has outside the island.
Following the response to her sentiments, the Cuban woman released another video explaining that her message wasn’t a complaint, but rather a common feeling among expatriates. In her message titled “A Christmas Away from Home,” she clarified: “Yesterday afternoon, I posted a video about how I felt this Christmas as a Cuban with my family far away. Some people say I should be thankful for where I am, and they don’t realize just how grateful I am for that.”
Ross further detailed her routine and her husband’s work schedule, which worsens her sense of isolation: “Sometimes he gets home at 4 a.m., and he’s been working there for two years. I’m grateful for that too, but I’ve also been surprised by how many people feel the same way I do.”
She noted that the distance and family losses have affected her mood during this time: “I lost my dad, my grandfather while being here, and my uncle two months ago. Those experiences take a toll, even if some don’t understand.”
Her reflection ended with a heartfelt message to those who can be with their families: “If you have the chance to be with your family, with your mom or dad, cherish it, because one day they won’t be there.”
The feelings expressed by Ross resonate with many other Cuban expatriates who have shared their stories on social media. Another Cuban, Anita, known as @anita.cubanita06, recounted her first Christmas away from the island after moving to Costa Rica with her partner and child.
“My first Christmas outside Cuba was more than I could have imagined... here, I had the chance to be in a free country, where I can go out and buy any meat I want, the quantity I want, get a cake. Today, I feel free, I feel happy,” she said in a video that quickly went viral.
In the same message, Anita reflected on those still on the island: “I think about my loved ones, about how many didn’t even have a meal, spent Christmas without electricity, without water, without desire, and without hope... it’s sad.” Her testimony also sparked empathy among Cubans living abroad and reignited discussions about the conditions in Cuba during the holidays.
The messages from Ross and Anita offer two different yet complementary perspectives of Cuban emigration: gratitude for a new life and sadness over the distance. In both instances, Christmas serves as a reminder of dislocation and, simultaneously, an opportunity to appreciate freedom and family.
Understanding the Emigrant Experience During the Holidays
Why do Cuban emigrants feel melancholic during Christmas?
Cuban emigrants often feel melancholic during Christmas because they are away from family and familiar traditions. The distance from loved ones and the inability to celebrate as they did in their homeland contribute to feelings of nostalgia and sadness.
How do emigrants cope with being away from home during the holidays?
Emigrants cope with being away from home during the holidays by connecting with other expatriates, finding new traditions, and cherishing the opportunities their new life offers. Sharing experiences on social media can also provide a sense of community and understanding.
What are some common sentiments shared by Cuban emigrants during Christmas?
Common sentiments shared by Cuban emigrants include gratitude for their new life and freedom, alongside a deep sense of longing and nostalgia for their family and homeland. These mixed emotions highlight the complex experience of living away from home.