14 Comments
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Glenda Mitchell's avatar

There are so many beautiful places in the world, but what really makes travel special is the people. It can be eye opening to see how others live and what makes them happy.

Terrell Johnson's avatar

So, so true, Glenda ❤️

Neural Foundry's avatar

This really resonated with me, especially the contrast between political oppresion and people's everyday resilience. That detail about Castro's face being literally everywhere made me reconsider how differently we experince freedom. The tobacco farmer mocking cellphones with his corn "call" is such a perfect moment of human connection. Back when I traveled through Eastern Europe, I saw similar patterns: people finding joy despite systems designed to control them.

Terrell Johnson's avatar

Thanks so much, Neural! (Should I call you Neural?) That's exactly what I was going for -- where in Eastern Europe did you travel?

Nilima Srikantha's avatar

Beautiful here. . .kind of grey, but who can complain about over 50 degree weather. It's starting to green up, some buds are on the trees. Sap's up in the maples. Kids are playing on the trampoline next door. Hope you are enjoying the snow in Atlanta. We've only had rain this last winter. . . Take Care. :)

Nilima Srikantha's avatar

Happy Ground Hog Day!! :)

Terrell Johnson's avatar

Right back at you, Nilima! How are things out west?

Nilima Srikantha's avatar

Nice and sunny. 54 degrees outside. It's been mild this year. Gotta get out and do yard work!

Blue's avatar

What a great story. Traveling teaches so much. I’m with you on the marathon. Looks like a beautiful country.

Terrell Johnson's avatar

Thanks, Blue! It really is, and we saw only a slice of it. I'd really love to go back and see more of it someday, especially the eastern parts of the island. (We basically covered from Havana west.) Thanks, my friend!

Diana M. Wilson's avatar

I loved EVERYTHING about this post--and the pictures! I particularly love the one you ended with. Something about the white of those uniforms against the more subdued colors of the street. Thanks for taking me to Cuba this morning! Also...kinda a sidebar, but you'll get it. Have you ever read Adam Johnson's, "The Orphan Master's Son"? I was reminded of it (it's brilliant) as I was reading your post.

Terrell Johnson's avatar

Thanks so much, Diana! I haven't read that, but Googling now... :)

Blue's avatar

Definitely thinking of those poor people too with all that’s going on. Definitely on my list of places to visit.

Nilima Srikantha's avatar

Just to let you know. . .even the 5 K in Eugene is sold out. Still a few charity runs available!