Havana, Cuba. - The fateful hours lived by those who lost so much after the appalling tornado that devastated Havana on January 27 have become less sad thanks not only to the urgent measures adopted by our revolutionary government so that no one was abandoned to its fate.
The streets trodden by Jose Marti awoke on his 166th birthday unexpectedly ravaged by the meteorological phenomenon; but now they welcome hundreds of people who remove debris, repair electricity and telephone networks, make every road passable, although the landscape cannot be what is was before the tornado struck.
In Guanabacoa, for instance, temporary housing solutions have been provided for those who lost their homes. Moreover, they have the certainty that new homes are already being built in the old village. They have not missed the warm hand extended by the sense of propriety of people in solidarity, who contribute to the prompt recovery of life in the community.
Industrious contingents come from different parts of the city and from the whole island to wipe out the damages inflicted by the horrible nightmare and continue weaving bridges of patriotic unity, humanism, and sincere brotherhood to paint with joy the faces withered by tears and pain.
Many who were not directly affected by the impact of the monstrous whirlwind felt disheartened by days without electricity and running water in their homes. However, they have multiplied their initiatives to help each other; hold on with hope, and search for solutions within what is humanly possible.
“With everyone and for the good of everyone”, was Marti’s legacy, honored by helpful self-employed workers of the Vicky Cooperative in Centro Habana, with their contribution of free food for those who lost everything.
There has been no shortage of conscientious care in state institutions, like Guanabacoa Culture House, Lazaro Peña students’ residence and the Grandparents Home of De Beche neighborhood. The spirit glows, because hands are extended to hand out bags full of tenderness that surprise receivers with fresh good clothes, bottled water and various goods needed at this time.
The soul rejoices with the bands Papucho and Manana Club, Juan Guillermo’s, Maikel Blanco’s, Azucar Negra and the growing list of Cuban musicians and artists making donations. Meanwhile, Buena Fe duo reschedules their vital songs and the members of Hermanos Saiz Association join the sanitation works.
The pain and panic of the night of January 27, 2019 might not be easily forgotten. The tornado drilled a huge furrow on its way and dragged away countless hours of sacrifice and love of thousands of residents of this city that was already celebrating its 500th anniversary.
A gray Havana remembered the Apostle of our Independence last January 28. His ideas are the best haven in the same lyceum where he delivered his brilliant and patriotic speech. The victims are protected and not only the professionals and amateurs of Guanabacoa sing their best music to them; there is that infinite melody that expands the soul so that solidarity heals all wounds.
Art coaches, experts, promoters, community projects become guardians in these hours, when a girl who lost her house draws strange circles to perpetuate the strange fragment that hit her head but failed to take away her capacity to dream and love.
Translated by Pedro A. Fanego
