When in Havana...
....do as the Cubans say & just enjoy yourself. Havana is third international trip added to my Passport and with each new stamp, comes a new understanding of the same familiar concept, America LIES. I have had the pleasure to visit Guatemala, South Africa & Cuba, each equally as amazing as the next. And in all 3 instances, not only did I feel safe and comfortable but I also saw no signs of danger towards myself or anyone that looked like me, quite a different tune that what the American media has for so long pushed on the minds of its citizens. It's always interesting because each place being vastly different, the love and acceptance of the local people remained constant. In fact, the locals always have shown an immense interest in sharing dialogue, attempting to gain connection and understanding of each other from across many, many miles and Cuba was no different.
Maybe it's the push from mass media across the globe or the Click Bait that you can find on social media, but for whatever reason, the first question is always, "So what's up with ya mans Donald Trump". And it's funny because the language and slang change but the shade and confusion never loose translation. We live in a comical time period and it's never been more because Trump questions worldwide now serve as a heat check, just to see where one stands, friend or foe - 'state your biz'. We all are wondering how to interact and whether or not we should interact with each other, another constant no matter where you travel across the globe. But the questions following are always of intrigue and a desire to seek understanding. The benefit of being Black in foreign countries definitely outweighs the turmoils that we face in the States. Everyone knows and sees the treatment that we receive here and because of media traveling at the speed of light, they share an understanding with us. There is an instant connection through empathy and that connection is felt and received with such love. They seek to accept us rather than reject us, as they do our American counterparts, and even with the language barrier we still have that underlying understanding of each other's struggle.
I would be lying if I said that I didn't travel for my own enjoyment but I share these experiences to show my people of the beautiful truths that exist beyond the invisible boundaries that lie between us. We are children of the world, not property of our country, we are free to roam and experience all the wonders that the world holds for us. All that is asked in return is to go with an open mind because so many of the most amazing spots and experiences happen in areas that we as Americans consider unfit or beneath us. Some of my favorite moments outside of this country have been experienced with locals, lending my trust to them and my faith in expanding my understanding.
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