Of The Open Heart
Cuba is an open ended question, a story in mid chapter. The word that comes closest to describing it is juxtaposition. Brightly painted facades next to decaying buildings, lush foliage and crumbling walls. Centuries of history stopped in time, the present birthing itself from the mid century when one era ended and what is yet to realize itself began. The roads shared by horse drawn carts, speeding Peugeots, coconut cabs, and a fleet of 1950’s American classic cars - Plymouths, Chryslers, Oldsmobiles, and the rare and beautiful Thunderbird - some immaculately restored, others showing their age like a once beautiful dancer at the end of the bar, face lined and yellowed, a vestige of her beauty still hounding her. And the people, worn and weary, warm-hearted and wise. Nothing is wasted here, no scrap unnecessary. Kind and considerate, speaking resourcefulness as a second language. Smiles are knowing and easy, offered with a generosity equaled by need.
Humility is the lesson of Cuba, for those of us who come to this island of contrasts and shocking beauty. 90 miles to another world, where every ounce of my privilege is on full display. There is a custom of giving, of deep rooted hospitality. To those whom much is given, much is expected. Yet is would be easy to slip into rescue mode, the savior syndrome of those who live with first world problems. The people of Cuba, however, inspire me to meet generosity with generosity, in equal measure. Theirs is a humble pride, and sense of self so profound, that is not borne of possessions or profits. It is the pride of simplicity, of the open heart, of deep rooted faith. There is honor in this way of being, and much to offer. From this small, often overlooked island, there is a lesson for the world to learn. Family is who we choose to share the grace of our love, no strings attached. Complex, diverse, simple, complicated, deeply human - these people and this place has profoundly impacted my perception, and deeply touched my Soul. Much love.
