The Future

There are as many predictions of the future of Cuba as there are individuals predicting.  The only prediction that seems firm is that change is inevitable.  The Cuba of tomorrow will be different than the Cuba of yesterday.  What the Cubans are hoping is that change will lead to a healthier economy and will not alter their values of equality, family, community and country.  The Cubans, we met, were all hopeful that the US rapprochement would continue and expand.  Cubans believe the end is in sight for the embargo.  That, however, does not seem so clear, at the moment and would be highly dependent on the next President and Congress.  

Given the 55 years that have passed since the revolution, it seems to be in everyone's best interest to continue to open, not close, relations with the Cubans.  It really does not look like we, or anyone, have anything to fear from them.  Their military might, if it exists, was not on display while we were in Cuba.  Their people are warm and friendly and well educated.  Partnering with them looks like a more attainable and more positive goal than our current distance.  I hope we will continue to reach out.