Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

Tom Trujillo, New Milford, CT — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 20:59:18 GMT

I was born in Havana in 1961 and came to the USA in '64. We are in an interesting period of time with these changes, changes that on the surface show "liberalization", while, anybody but the most gullible of us, including Obama and the Hollywood crowd, would believe that a simple Cuban that earns less than $20 per month (any way her or she can) could actually take advantage of this "liberalization."

This is as ridiculous as the announcement a few days ago that Cubans can now own such essentials like computers and cell phones. Think about how absurd it is!

Tom

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

John Smith — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 21:15:41 GMT

Before Cuba has the opportunity to became a part of the "high tech" revolution, I would like to trade my fast pace "high tech" life in the USA for the ordinary life of Cuba.

Cubans have no idea what is like living in the USA, no idea what is like having your wife divorce you and clean you up of all your possessions, including taking 50% of your weekly pay, having slepless nights, crime in your neighborhood, insurance policies to pay, mortgage meltdowns, utilitiy bills, property taxes, pay roll taxes deductions, financial crisis, lay offs, bill collectors, the repo man, the credit cards usuary rates, our lying politicians, the war in Iraq, the price of gas, school shootings, shopping mall shootings, drive by shootings, speeding tickets, parking tickets, getting your car towed, paying over $100 dollars to attend a baseball game, and $ 7.00 for a cold drink, $5.00 for a pop corn at the movies, etc, etc.

Cubans should think twice before they embrace the American way of life. As far as I am concern, they have it made in the shade, they do not have to deal with all these issues, they live in paradise, I don't, I live in the USA.

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

Capri, NY, NY — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 21:24:19 GMT

One step closer to joining the rest of the world [is that really a good thing?] It is good they can now spend their money on consumer goods, but many need consistant access to basics!
Cuba needs to associate with other countries that are willing to assist it in modernizing the countries infrastructure (roads, housing, plumbing, etc...) It would be a shame if Cuba rejoins the world only to become the caribbean Atlantic City [great vacation spot whose city is crumbling].

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

bababooey — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 21:34:08 GMT

Just came back from Cuba 3 days ago, staying at a family's house. The economic situation is the WORST I have ever seen it ( have been to cuba 8 times in my lifetime), and the medical system/education system is close to the breaking point.

If Cuba dosen't fix its dual currency system, much more misery awaits the Cuban people.

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

Antonio Vazquez, Miami, Florida — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 21:34:18 GMT

All the cuban people need is the right to elect his goverment.
El unico cambio que necesita el pueblo de Cuba es el poder elegir a sus gobernantes.

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

Carlos, Hartford, CT — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 21:35:42 GMT

Can somebody tell me what ever happened to The Embargo? When was it suspended? Was it in the news? I must have missed it.

How did all those products get to the island? How did they get (and so quickly) all the electrical appliances, cell phones, and so many goodies that The Embargo was keeping from the poor and embargoed people of Cuba?

The Castro-sympathetic American media will not tell its American people the truth, as has become standard in the past twenty years, or so. They misinform us.

The truth has now become evident. It caught our media by surprise. They were not prepared to reconcile to the American people the true facts of the matter.

It's not The Embargo, stupid!

It's the Castro medieval dictatorship, stupid.

They are, they have been: The Embargo.

Do we get it now?

We Cubans have known it all along. But, what do we know?

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

Mike Illinois — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 21:36:20 GMT

I'm curious about what Cubian nationals living abroad think. Would they feel investing time and money into Cuba worthwhile? What is Canada's responce? Do Raul and Fidel differ this greatly or is it more of a timing issue?

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

Orlando Baquero, Horseshoe Bend,AR — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 21:39:45 GMT

I think this is a start for the Cuban people I am hopeing and praying that the Cuban Government will someday lift it's restrictions on it's people and do away with the Communist rule in Cuba and allow freedom for it's people. Maybe in time the world will accept Cuba as a Democractic Nation we can only pray for this type of change. Like I said so far this is a start. Good Luck Cubans

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

ak99505, Anchorage, Alaska — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 21:40:49 GMT

We should of invaded Cuba long ago to release them from dictatorship and give them free elections!

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

Christian Simonetti, San Francisco, CA — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 21:41:33 GMT

The writer might have noted that Cubans enjoy some things (i.e., free health care and education, subsidized housing, among if not the lowest infant mortality rates, the highest ratio of doctors to the population) of which those of us who live in ostensibly free capitalist countries can only dream.
And while economic circumstances coupled with government mismanagement may well compel them to live "hand to mouth," hunger and homelessness were long ago banished from Cuban society. I would relinquish access to the plethora of mostly useless products that line store shelves in the United States in order to ensure that all of my fellow citizens were fed, housed, educated and had decent jobs. Perhaps instead of constantly denigrating Cuba, Americans should critically examine our own society and question why such grinding poverty and misery exist in the midst of the wealthiest nation in human history.

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

Shaun,DC — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 21:41:53 GMT

And all the liberals think this place is paradise!!! HA good let them all move to Cuba and sample the great wealth and health care.

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

Rom Madrigal, North Bergen, NJ — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 21:52:59 GMT

One important and critical element is missing in this report. Most imported items purchased or services requested in the Island must be paid for with hard currency sent from foreign countries. Before being used for paying any merchandise or services the Government has already retained a 20% free fee. In a $800 TV set the Government makes $200 without moving a finger. This may be the real reason for the "opening". Smart move, right?

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

MICHAEL BAKERSFIELD CA — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 21:58:15 GMT

WITH THE FIRST CASTO ON THE SIDE LINES THE USA SHOULD LET US TRAVEL TO THE ISLAND AND HAVE SOME FUN AND ENJOY ALL THAY HAVE OUR DOLLARS COULD AND WOULD MAKE A DIFF TO THE PEOPLE OF CUBA LETS GO!!!

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

Dave, Dallas, TX — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 21:58:54 GMT

This is exactly how the USA will be in a few years if the Democrats get in the whitehouse and control of congress. Everything Hillary and Obama are saying is all about socialism. They think capitalist are evil and that the government is always right.

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

Rob (but not from the rich to give to the poor) — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 22:04:15 GMT

Well there's one thing we learn about Cuban society with these changes is how restricted it is. I've not particularly followed Cuba but it's clear that supporters of a restricted society like the Cuban people have had to live with really are idiots. It also shows what a control freak Fidel was. How is it any better to have things withheld from you by the government than to not have them simply because you cannot afford them? It takes away the envy? So what. There are many things that people can envy another for, not just materialistic ones. Ok, you highly misguided idealists, lets say we create a society where every has all the same things, materially. So then how do we remove the other things that can create issues of envy like my wife is better looking, sexier, smarter, fatter, skinnier, smaller feet, than yours, my kids are smarter, it goes on and on. There is no perfect society. Remove certain issues and others crop up. Life is unfair, at least so many think, you get what you earn and what you work for. Too lazy, or too lazy to acquire the knowledge? Then deal with the fact that you will have less than others. Personally I can do without the baggage that comes with the things many people have. I have just enough, I work for that to maintain it.

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

Rob — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 22:06:52 GMT

John Smith, if you don't like it then I invite you to leave and go to a communist society.

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

Paul — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 22:09:54 GMT

Theater, make a change that changes nothing.

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

WIlliam Boyds, Eagle Idaho — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 22:10:15 GMT

It is on ehell of a beautiful country. Introducing free market capitalism is the best that could happen. Erect hotels, resorts, casinos to attract new friends. It's a major carib island!

Phooey on you peeps who say we can learn something from this failed system. Go live there like a normal Cubano, and then tell us what you think. Be informed, not a toady.

America is the land of opportunity. I sure don't see any Americans in boats trying to get to Cuba! You have the ability to succeed beyond your wildest dreams here. Those that say otherwise are those who have quit trying.

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

Julie — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 22:13:06 GMT

Why can't the entire world live at peace? There is no need for a war anywhere! Do you think God would want this kind of crap going on if he were still alive? I don't think so.

The entire world needs to just get along with one another. WHY should it be different in one area of the world and still the same in other parts of the world? WHY can't we all just be ONE world?

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

ICX — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 22:27:49 GMT

John Smith should go live in Cuba and stop complaining.If he has debt he created it! Instead of complaining leave the USA and live elsewhere!

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

Happy to be Here — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 22:28:40 GMT

John Smith, most of all the issues you named off about Our Great Country, is created from and by the people that abuse the very freedoms that created this country. You have no clue what the people in Cuba have to deal with unless you actually lived there, it seems that you may need professional help. Last if your not happy in this Country at least you have the FREEDOM to leave, so don't do anyone any favors by sticking around.

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

manolo soprano, New York City — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 22:33:55 GMT

John Smith, what are you waiting for, one less negative person would be great! Adios

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

john williams — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 22:37:47 GMT

We have enough problems with this country going down the tubes and the Mexicians..lets wait a few more decades on this Cuba stuff!

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

Rick, Vancouver, BC, Canada — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 22:38:33 GMT

The Cuban people are suffering, not because of Castro, but because of the ignorant U.S. government which has had an embargo in place for 50 years in furtherance of its absurd idea that hardship visited upon the Cuban population will result in Castro's overthrow. It has been 50 years and Castro is still running the show....HELLO U.S.!!! Think it might be time to consider that the embargo is not achieving the desired results? The nut-case right-wing Cuban-Americans living in Florida and elsewhere have a strong lobby and neither twiddle-dee (the Democrats) nor twiddle-dum (the Republicans) want to lose their vote so they keep sucking up to them by continuing to unnecessarily punish the Cuban people. Viva Cuba libre!!! Viva Fidel!!!

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

Gerardo J. Franco, Miami, FL — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 22:42:28 GMT

I was born in Havana in 1967. Been in the USA since I was 5 months old. I have been following closely all these events occuring in Cuba for the past 2 years and I am sure to say it all seems like a smoke screen effort from the Cuban mis-Government. The Cuban regime is basically taking its last breaths. They are trying to do anything they can to maintain themselves in power. They know that the cuban people are fed up with their rhetoric of "all for the revolution". The rhetoric doesn't satisfy the thinking minds of the ordinary cuban people anymore. Additionally, lifting the ban on electric equipment sales, the ability to enter and stay at hotels, the ability to have a cell phone, the ability to buy medications at any pharmacy and the ability for farmers to buy materials to work the land and have partial liberalization of the sale of their products is only a temporary escape valve. It is basically trying to patch up a tire that you know eventually has to be changed because it will leak again. What is insulting to the intelligent ordinary person is that such "decrees" are made in a country. This is obscene, inhumane, and profane. This is NOT change. This is a mere three ring circus act to keep people world wide entertained and have something to talk about. This is adding salt to the wound of every Cuban citizen that cannot even attempt to buy any of these products with the salaries they earn. The true change will come the day that Cuba is truly a free democratic society. A society where it's citizens have a representative government, made up of multiple parties and are ruled by a consitution that follow the inalienable rights of all human beings. The ability for every cuban citizen to be able to live free and seek their dreams with dignity and respect of themselves and feel accomplished in their lives. The ability of every cuban citizen not feel like a second or third class citizen and be able to achieve and obtain all their goals and be part of a global society like all of us live. It is only then that there will be a change in Cuba, anything else is futile.

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

Henrry Gomez — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 22:48:18 GMT

I think it's great that MSNBC and Mary Murray are telling us about the Cuban reality. My only question is where have you been? I mean NBC did an entire Today Show from Cuba last June and none of these difficulties encountered by the Cuban people were mentioned. Did Matt Lauer talk about how Cubans were prohibited from staying in hotels? No he didn't? Instead they spent 4 minutes with Los Van Van playing and several dancers dancing.

Why now Mary? Why now?

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

Eric High, Laredo, TX — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 22:50:33 GMT

They're going to struggle some. That's what has happened in the former Soviet Union. That's what happens when people become reliant on government to take care of everything. Wow, I know this is a new concept for many of you on the left here in the US. But, government in excess sucks. You can't feed everyone, you can't make sure everyone has as much as everyone else, you can't make sure everyone is cared for like everyone else. YOU CAN'T. It fails to work everytime someone tries it. And who pays? Of course, the people who DON'T need government to help them are the ones who pay for government intervention and inadequecy. The US is on the decline and we all know it. It has nothing to do with Republican or even Democratic party philosophies. The problem is a combination of both and our society's attitude and ideals. We've even made up human rights that don't naturally exist. People have historically grown, hunted, or worked for money to obtain food. NOW, EVERYONE has a RIGHT to food. Really? EVERYONE has a right to a job? EVERYONE has a RIGHT to medical care? Where did these rights come from? Idiots. Everyone has the right to live free and try their best to make it in this world with what they have and what they EARN for themselves. That's the only REAL right anyone has. Quit making rights up as we go and I guarantee we'll all be better for it.

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

Sheila Johnson, Kingston, Ont. — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 22:52:38 GMT

I've been to Cuba numerous occasions and have seen more than what some tourist see when there. I have great admiration for the Cubans. Here in America we are so extremly materialistic and trying to keep up with the neighbours. The Cubans do not have much to offer but they certainly would give you "the shirt off their back" to make you feel at home or assist you the best way they can. I would like to see the country produce more agriculture, better wages and living conditions for their people. Cuba has so much to offer the outside world if we only open our eyes. Their system is not so different in certain aspects from what we experience, the way our country is run.

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

Luisa Pardo, Clermont, FL. — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 23:01:05 GMT

Raul allowed the cubans to purchase electronic items,cell phones, etc. and to visit turist atraction with the only hope of receiving dollars from the Cubans that reside autside of Cuba. He knows that now the Cubans in the island are going to be asking their relatives for money to be able to purchase these items that have become available.

It is the same story, told a bit different.

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

Tony Saprano — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 23:03:49 GMT

Go to "YouTube" and watch: A Walk In Cuba- Race and Rap.
This is what is coming to our shores when Cuba opens its
doors!!!
Very different Cubans than the ones we know now that live in the U.S.

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

Dania, Miami, Florida (Cuban, but love the U.S!) — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 23:17:22 GMT

The "free health care" in Cuba is a joke. A relative recently had to wait several weeks for much-needed surgery because there was no surgical thread available, maternity patients launder their own linens, and diagnostic equipment is hopelessly outdated (when it is working). People depend on relatives from abroad to provide them with meds, reading glasses, and other medical necessities.

As for the education, try learning only one point of view your entire lifetime - children in Cuba are woefully ignorant of many events happening throughout the world.

Subsidized housing? Yes, of course it exists. The worst slum apartment in this country is paradise compared to what is commonly available in Cuba.

Even with the mortgages, taxes, bills, crime (who says crime is non-existent in Cuba? Try leaving your door unlocked for just a few minutes!) and the many other negative aspects of life in the US, NO ONE returns to Cuba. EVER! It is simply hell on earth.

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

Jeremy, Seattle, Wash — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 23:23:07 GMT

Julie,

Are you being serious? There has been wars and fighting since before Jesus. Why would it change? Everything you said is just not realistic and will never happen, so deal with it.

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

Jeremy, Seattle, Wash — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 23:34:13 GMT

Eh Rick from Canada, it has nothing to do with the US embargo. What is Canada doing to help them? Embargo or not, it's not the U.S. fault that there is so many problems in there. But apparently we are the only ones that can help the Cuban people.

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

Yeah Right, WA — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 23:44:12 GMT

Congratulation Mary Murray, you will probably get another promotion soon for executing Herman/Chomsky's fifth filter marvelously! You seem to have really internalized it. Don't even mention the humanitarian side of "Them". Don't even mention the evil side of "Us". Don't you think you need to at least mention poverty in Cuba may have some relationship with the illegal embargo US has forced on that little country? UN(in 2003) condemned the US embargo with record setting vote of 179 to 3! And very recently Tarcisio Cardinal Bertone called in unethical. But you might have not read it in newspaper. Right?

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

Rene Romo Palo Alto CA — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 23:50:12 GMT

Being a cuban descendant ,I would have to say that change is inevitable. These changes are very small and insignificant, but I do see Cuba changing in the far off future. Cubans want a better place in the world and in their own country. They dont want to be Americans, they just come to America for a chance at a better life than their country can , or is willing to provide. Isn't that what all people want for their own country, a government that does what it says and works for its peoples advancement. Cubans are very proud of their country and heritage and culture. Its too bad all people see when they think of Cubans is communism and dictatorship. There's so much more to Cuba and its people than the negative aspects that people relate them to.

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

ethan wise mn — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 23:55:36 GMT

hey ak99505, Anchorage, Alaska are you dumb you probably don't know your history we can't invade Cuba because i believe Kennedy during the Cuban missile crisis said in exchange for the soviet union removing the missiles we would never invade Cuba.

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

RJ, Illinois — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 00:01:48 GMT

Cubans do not have it "made in the shade" (as someone stated above) or any other people suffering in a country ruled by a totalitarian government. America has its secrets, its lies, and its horrors, but it is nothing compared to the horrendous treatment of people who have no choices or way to escape their own country's oppression.

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

Catalin, Romania, Europe — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 00:19:20 GMT

Look at the guy from Alaska what he writes: "we should of invaded Cuba long time ago..." Typical American who doesn't know how to write, but wants his country to invade the world and teach everyone about the American intelligence. On a different note, let us not forget that one of the reasons why Cuba is struggling today is that the United States DID invade the island and made it into a colony, then when the Cubans liberated themselves the US decided to punish them by instituting the economic embargo. I think that the Americans should first learn history before pointing the finger at others and thinking that everyone else is an idiot.

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

Timoteo, Goshen, In — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 00:52:44 GMT

Interesting comment above about how all the "high tech electronics arrived in the country so quickly". Ever think about the concept that the only contry that has had this embargo on Cuba is the USA? The rest of the world has been trading with Cuba all along. Now really, where do you suppose that Panasonic tv came from?

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

sandy,hillsboro,or — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 01:17:48 GMT

USA just lift the embargo and get over it, what happened 50 years ago is long past, the politicians then are no more and neither is Fidel, wipe the slate clean and lets get on with life. Some of you say why haven't we just over thrown their goverment, lets see were dammed if we do and dammed if we don't....if we would of tried to overthrow Fidel how many of you would be in the streets crying "STOP THE WAR" now you say we should have(anyone remember afgan/iraq)you can't have it both ways......we can't just jump and start a fight cause we don't like how there running things(communist or not)(China need I say more)when the people of cuba are tired of the tyranny and horible living conditions they live under they will revolt in civil war and make the change, many will die for the price of freedom, just like they did when Fidel took over, hopefully this time the people will make a better choice.......we need to open the door for communication with the cuban government and resolve our differences and then leave them alone to figure it out.

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

Rich in Denver — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 01:21:14 GMT

Hey John Smith, we are free to do a great deal of things. Take for instance your wife who probably divorced you because you are a whiney misfit who wants everything handed to him and to be told how to think. Maybe you shouldn't have had so many credit cards, I doubt if you ever pay them back but will keep the stuff you bought with them. You had the opportunity to fail and you did. I truly wish you better luck in the future. Try being an optimist, go slow, I'm guessing it will be your first time.

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

Delbert Baston — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 01:24:28 GMT

I am 86 years old. This is not to dispute any comments made here, PRO or CON. Memory informs me that perhaps conditions under the Batista regime was the reason that many of the people welcomed Castro's revolutionary forces. One other point: Castro did make a trip to the U. S. I believe he sought assistance from us before turning to the U.S.S.R. for help. Does anyone want to review the history of those times? Is there a lesson to be learned here?Del

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

DAN WALLINGTON, NJ — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 02:07:07 GMT

NOW THAT CUBA DOES NOT HAVE FIDEL CASTRO AS THEIR LEADER WHAT WILL OUR EXCUSE BE NOT TO TRADE WITH THEM NOW ?? WE SURELY CANNOT USE THAT COMMUNIST CRAP BECAUSE WE ARE DEEPLY IN DEBT TO THE LARGEST COMMUNIST COUNTRY IN THE WORLD - CHINA JUST TO FIGHT THE AMERICAN IDIOT'S SELF MADE WAR IN IRAQ

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

An educated Democrat, Boston, MA — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 02:08:56 GMT

To Dave from Texas, your comment regarding Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama as socialist is completely ignorant. Clearly you don't travel, let alone worldwide, and hear the dissent of most of the world that the current presidential administration has done nothing good to the state of our country or the world. And its ignorant people like you (Republicans)that can't understand that theres more important things to life then making money for big business and spending money overseas in a war that has no end, then to spend money where it counts erradicating diseases, fixing the mortgage meltdown, and creating more programs to help educate our youth and keep kids out of trouble. You've got your priorities mixed up, as I suspect most of you other Texan Republicans do.

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

Raul Martiatu, Miami Beach, FL — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 02:14:01 GMT

To Mr. John Smith: I prefer to deal with all the "issues" of the AWoL, than living in "paradise" with no FREEDOM. I don't think you ever lived in CUBA.

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

Julian de Souza, Miami, FL — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 02:16:14 GMT

I don't understand these people who make negative comments about Cuba after living almost 8 years of the destruction of the Constitution by one of the worst governments ever known to humanity. And this very same government pretends to teach others about "democracy." Amazing. Get over it, folks, and do something about what's going on in your own back yard.

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

Wednesday Williams Eugene, OR — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 02:18:40 GMT

Go live in Cuba then "John Smith"! We don't want you here! You are clearly as ignorant as you are uneducated! She should have taken it all!!!

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

Born there — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 02:21:02 GMT

Well, for shame! It's been a little over a month since Raúl became president and Cuba is STILL not a consumer society! He promised reforms, and he is making them, including in some areas that people in the US always beefed about, but that's not fair! He tricked us! The blockade is still going gangbusters, and Treasury has more people working on it than in tracking Bin Laden's assets, but we should all pretend that it doesn't exist. The people in Cuba's government should all die and go away, so we can claim victory for a policy that has been a dud for almost 50 years now, except to make life harder for the people it's said to benefit.
What is one to make of all this? I suspect that the real worry is that reforms will breathe new life into the system, which they surely will. Stand by, folks, and try to get some better information, so you'll understand when it happens. Beats sloganeering.

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

hawkeyy — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 02:25:52 GMT

been to cuba several times...beautiful people who love there country and want for more but not at the expense of there pride in their country and values

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

William Morales from Cubans Gone Wild or Cuba.90miles--Lyndhurst,NJ — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 02:27:49 GMT

I always believe that the U.S. talks a good game when it comes to Cuban issue. Why don't they close Guantanamao Military Base inside of Cuba and hand it over to the Cuban Exiles here in the U.S. and throughout the world for all cuban to enjoy a free and democratic Cuba. Let See If McCain, Obama or Hilary will ever talk about this issue that I am presenting today. I will be lauching a video on YouTube soon about this issue. Viva Cuba Libre, forget the Castro's brother their day will come, you'll see.

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

Free Cuba 90 Bergen County,NJ — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 02:34:39 GMT

Close Guantanamo Military base and it hand over to the Cuban exiles. The time has come for the U.S. to give us something back in return to the Cubans here in the U.S. For 50 yrs we have been denied and lied to by the U.S. government about the secret deals they made behind close doors with the Castro brothers.

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

Greg, Plainfield, NJ, USA — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 02:42:35 GMT

I truly wish the best for Cuba, but I hope they don't adopt the libertarian "every person for him/herself - it's okay for me to have everything and you have nothing" mentality that Eric High (Laredo, TX) and other people to. If I remember correctly, that's why Cuba had the revolution in the first place.

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

Walter Hersh, Guyton, GA — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 02:48:58 GMT

Raul is just another monarch ruler hell-bent on staying in power for whatever time he has left in this world (where is he going to go while dragging his demented mommified brother: North Korea?), he is buying time with trinkets for the natives and expeculation on this cosmetic change or another, which is just enough for some romantic 1960s pot heads to take the line and sinker that changes are being made and maybe have a sympatizer like Obama socialist lift the Embargo and give him the same hand-outs the Russians gave Cuba for 30 years to showcase what a little country like that can never afford: so called free health care (of dubious quality) and free indoctrination (not education), mind you that nothing is free if one is slave owned by the Castro Nostra. If anyone has any doubts about real changes in Cuba just ask: If this is real change why don't they just let out all the political prisoners out of jail?

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

denver, colorado — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 02:51:36 GMT

A sinkin ship, sending S.O.S. across the globe is entitled to receive help whatever it can from the Western hemisphere. Guns & tobacco ain't much help in the last 50-years. Another neo-con in decline.

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

Steve Cruz, Salem, Mass. — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 03:01:05 GMT

Call it "Cuban Glasnost"...Rauls effort is commendable...just like "putting lipstick on a pig". It's gonna backfire on him. La "Revolucion" belongs where it started...the 50's...Welcome to the 21st century compay....the reality of todays world is going to pop up on the Cubans like a bitch slap on the face...and they're going to be pissed. Stand by for a major awakening...

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

Kevin Wright, Seattle, WA — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 03:06:14 GMT

For all you liberals out there...

1. If you admire the simple life of Cuba and complain about the materialism in the U.S., what is stopping you from living the simple life in the U.S.? Many people do. It's a choice and George Bush doesn't even have the power to say you can't.

2. Do you agree that we should give all our money to the government? Right now you probably give about 10-25% of your money to George Bush... how would you like to give 100% of your money to him? Would that be nice?

3. Don't get me wrong, I do love liberals. The people are nice, Obama is nice, he has a great personality. I've been to other countries, I love the people... I'm sure I'd love the Cubans, I would probably like their culture too.

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

Indigo Blue, New York NY — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 03:23:20 GMT

Hmmm... Cuba's new economic liberalization seems very similar to China. Why are we so damn hard on Cuba, when China has been far worse in terms of being a repressive government and human rights? China is now a major powerhouse that basically controls the US Consumer Economy. So if the sleeping Giant of Asia can make a "turnaround", why can't Cuba? Are we THAT ignorant?

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

Julie, New York, NY — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 03:40:32 GMT

Yes, there are many intelligent young people in Cuba who are expressing their dissatisfaction with their current economic system. I hope that they will be able to come to the U.S. to share with us their opinions of Cuba's system and also to learn about the ways in which our system is also very flawed. If only we could realize that both Cuba and the U.S. need major transformations in order to make their citizens happier and healthier.

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

Mike Jackson — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 03:41:46 GMT

While I admit to being a conservative, I have never understood why we need an embargo. It seems to me the fastest road to democracy in Cuba is through trade and exposure to the US. We don't boycott China which aggressively "controls" its people (Like cutting off the internet switch so their citizens couldn't see the turmoil in Tibet) but an island in the Caribbean poses a threat - get real. The days of being a Soviet puppet and sending combat troops to Angola are over. Remember Krushchev's famous saying, "We will bury you"? Well the government conveniently hatcheted his true utterence which was "We will bury you in consumer goods". While that proved laughable the twisting of Krushchev's words remind me of this embargo. The Cuban people just want to be free and actually have fond memories of the "gringos". And this is from, again, a conservative who believes in establishing a hi-tech fence with Mexico. Comments most welcome.

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

Libre — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 03:48:01 GMT

"All those who have experienced the hijacking of their nations to communism - from Cubans, to Vietnamese, to Hungarians - know the archetype of the Communist Party member and activist: the failed professional who becomes the professional failure. They resent being bested by others who are more talented, industrious, or virtuous. So they nurture a malignant grudge against the world, or society, or 'the system.'" - (Humberto Fontova, Exposing the Real Che Guevara, p. 129)

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

timothy ivory — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 03:59:22 GMT

the man asking about where the embargo went...the embargo is only from america..the chinese are sending the mopeds dvds and the electronics..and someone is making a whole lot of money... in china people are not complaining cuz the same moped is 1 or 200 dollars so workers are happy in china because of the pricing...

and they work very hard and not only when they have a boss..they are very self motivated entrepreneurs
as are the cubans in miami..but the bitter comes with the sweet maybe somewhere in the middle would be good

keep socialized medicine and education but drop the army like costa rica...just what america could be without all the military spending.

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

Emma Gonzalez, Alexandria, VA — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 04:02:02 GMT

To the writer who commented that Cuba has a low mortality rate - do you know that's easy to achieve that if you terminate all pregnancies that seem problematic because then you only have to count healthy babies? Don't be so gullible. Do you know that you have to bring your own meds and sheets to the hospital in Cuba, do you realize that everyone doesn't have access to education once they get to a certain point, do you know that only the prettiest of Cuba's citizens get to work in the hospitality industry and you better not criticize the govt. I wouldn't trade the freedom we have here for one second. For those of you complaining about the US - have you ever wondered why we dont have people climbing into inner tubes and travelling through shark infested waters to get to Cuba? The human soul was created to be free and people are willing to risk everything to live in freedom. God bless America and a future free Cuba.

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

alex — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 04:14:18 GMT

I thnk the american way of life is ruining the whole world!
I think cuba is lucky to be communist and should hope to stay taht way for as long as it can.

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

Bruce Pollock Kansas City Mo. ( Middle Of The USA ) Ready to Visit Cuba — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 04:14:52 GMT

Wow, This is great for the people of Cuba. I pray for them always, for there Freedom in the World. Do Not F E A R . Because it is only False Evidence Appearing Real. Always think BIG. DREAM Big. YOUR DREAMS ARE COMING TRUE. GOD BLESS THE PEOPLE OF CUBA. YEAH

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

Henry Espinosa — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 04:19:08 GMT

Ordinary Cubans will remain 2nd class citizens for as long as they earn a 2nd class, double-standard, payroll of undervalued pesos. Cuba, a supposedly egalitarian Socialist State, is the only place on earth where there are 2 currencies, one for the elites and Communist VIPs, and the devalued currency for the vast majority of the population. A true reform would be to have a 1-currency system like the rest of the world, and for its citizen to earn what their labor is really worth.

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

Joyce B. Cordes Lakes, Az — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 04:20:25 GMT

Well said, Gerardo J. Franco, Miami, FL.
I have a lot of sympathy for the people of Cuba. They have had much of nothing, and it's time they start living a better life. Fair wages so they can buy what they want. I know when people from around the world start going to Cuba it will increase the ecomony, but the gov. needs to STOP taking so much money from them.
I believe when they have a democratic gov. and not a money hungary dictator, the country will start to do well. GOOD LUCK CUBA MAY YOU SUCCEED !!!!

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

Joyce B. Cordes Lakes, Az — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 04:21:35 GMT

Gerardo J. Franco, well said !!!
GOOD LUCK CUBA !

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

Pablo Ortiz — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 04:22:58 GMT

The world is wasting their time with Cuba. It is a dictatorship with very few natural resources that are pointless from a geopolitical point of view. Even if it were a democracy it would still be dependent on the outside world for tourism and hotel income. It has a few famous scientists, writers, athletes that
are proud of their nationality like any other nation, but what is the big deal? If it were so special the Europeans and Canadians would have moved their factories and headquarters there. The Cubans in the US are in sorrow and tears for their lost Ithaka but again...what is the big deal? They live in Florida, not very far from home, they have good jobs, high incomes..etc...who the hell cares if the island is under communism? From an economic point of view the island is insignificant.

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

Lia Versaevel, Reno, Nevada — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 04:26:08 GMT

Perhaps service organizations, such as Lions Clubs, will again surface in the new Cuba! Service Clubs can do what no governments can ever hope - give people hope and vision.

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

Eli hernandez, Long Beach, California — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 04:27:06 GMT

this is for mr John Smith. Is your experience with the free world market and USA is so bad all you need to do is move to Cuba or North Korea, is they allow you to do so. Then, and only then you will know what is all about. But, please stay there at least for 1 year

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

Joseph Rasputyin Yemhatpe/Deerfield Beach, Florida 33441-6260. — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 04:33:03 GMT

Why do not people do their homewook well? Read well about the mulatto demon, BEFORE FIDEL CASTRO, by the name of one, Fulgencio Battista who had Cuba in his grip, with the help and blessings of the "Great Shaytan" America. Read about the Mafioso Demons and the little BUG, by the name of Siegel. A Bugsy in the Siegel, that is... WHO PUT FORTH THE MAKINGS OF LAS VEGAS CASINOS, JUMPING OFF POINT WAS HABANA, CUBA.
Guess where the plan was catched by Bugsy and the his own "Knights Of The Glorious Roundtable".
Now, you are thinking. You got it, CUBA.
Guess who controlled all of the land in Cuba, before Fidel, Fidel, Fidel. Youn guessed right again..... They now reside in Miami
WHAT GOES AROUND, WILL EVENTUALLY COME AROUND. HAVE FUN READING ABOUT FULGENCIO BATTISTA. THE GUY WAS SO DUMB, THAT HIS HAND WAS BITTEN OFF BY AMERICA WHO TOLD HIM TO LET FIDEL OUT OF JAIL, AND HE DID. I JIVE YOU NOT, NOW, BLOKES, CAN YOU IMAGINE LETTING OUT YOUR SWORN ENEMY OUT OF JAIL? WHAT A DUMB BUM. IDIOT, IDIOTEN GALORE. AMERICA ALWAYS BACKS LOSER. FOR EXAMPLE, THE SHAH PAVLAVI OF IRAN, AND SO ON, AND SO ON, AND SO ON......
Read all, and you will see, why there are the Castros In beautiful Cuba.
I bid you piece and I bid you love.
From An African Born In Guyana, South America.

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

SD, Miami, FL — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 04:36:52 GMT

Hey Rick, you obviously have no clue what you're talking about. What Embargo? There hasn't been an embargo for a few years now. It has swiss cheesed over the years; especially in the 90's. Please, you're just upset b/c your flight down there is more expensive because of certain restrictions. Glad to see you care so much about the people there that you take advantage of them.

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

Eddy J.Gual — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 04:41:39 GMT

Vice Dictator Raul
Just open the jails of political prisioners and let the Cubans speak openly without reprisals,don't entertain us with DVD players or cheap computers....FREEDOM is what Cuba needs..

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

Felix, Elizabeth, N J — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 05:12:06 GMT

I am a Cuban-American, a citizen of the USA and proud of this great Country.In my 48 years here I have heard so many non-sense news from Castro and his maffia.There are two things I would like to see in the news:1)"all anti-american cuban were send back to Cuba" 2)two Balseros (Fidel and Raul)in jail in Miami"

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

Matilda — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 05:17:40 GMT

My mother traveled with the Arthur Murray International dance team. She was one of the best. She visited Cuba twice. Once before the coup. She has pictures and postcards of an absolutely beautiful country! Then, again, she visited. I do not know if right before or after the coup. I know that the second time, military troops were taking gold off walls and other valuables while the dance ensemble was there. At one point, their Cuban guide had taken the team out one night to eat. Something went on- some guards came checking on people. They did get out of there but it was scary. The country was so different that second time. When she now speaks of Cuba, it is as if she is seeking a country that is no more in her eyes. I so very much hope that changes will come to pass to bring back this true jewel to the people of Cuba and to the world to its former beauty and to build up the people of Cuba who were described as such wonderful folk and who still are.

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

JaneSmith — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 06:04:23 GMT

john smith - your comment belongs on a divorcee whiners forum. while i understand your "misery" you can not direct that at your government for problems you and your ex created.

capri - well said! that is what i think could possibly happen.

I would listen to those who lived prior in Cuba who know firsthand the conditions of the average person there. And indeed, how can one buy a high tech ANYthing living on $20 a month? What would be more important is to see job reformation. Not buying into false liberation.

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

allan minot nd — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 06:04:57 GMT

as someone who has never been to cuba i would be more interested in reading an article by an actual cuban, if there is some side or news story written by a native please let me knwo

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

James, Miami, FL. — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 06:30:02 GMT

Bwaaahhh what a crock of #$%$ !

= Freedom doesn't equate to materialism or buying useless $tuff you don't need.

You want to see what Capitalism leads to ... try the Calcutta slums ... or the moutanins of trash outside of Capitalist Mexico City where thousands of children, without shelter, dig through garbage for scraps to eat.

The Miami exiles are really going to ratchet up the propaganda as Raul and Fidel get near death.

US: "Hey Cubans .... give up your free health care, free education, free housing, higher test scores, lower infant mortality, non existant crime rates, no homelessness, no abject poverty, and genuine love for your fellow man ........ for a flat screen TV, gated communities, credit card debt, 70 hr work weeks in a cubicle, rampant drug use and crime, medical insurance premiums, billboards everywhere, Paris Hilton, McDonalds, and Reality TV."

"FREEDOM" is on the way .... to RUIN one of the last pristine places and people on Earth.

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

Wed, 02 Apr 2008 06:31:19 GMT

For all those that want to trade their place in the USA or Canada for the place of a Cuban, please do so, but first, think twice about it and voluntarily live like a Cuban at least for one month and:
- Buy your foods from the coupon book and survive 15 days
- Enjoy the freedom of having: no internet access, try to place an international telephone call, try to send a letter to the USA or Canda using the Cuban Postal Service, try to buy a pair of shoes, underwear, a water tap for your kitchen, a new sofa, a chair, a pound of any food: mangoes, avocado, whatever, try to take a shower with running water, try to read any book that is not censored by the regime, try to read TIME magazine for example, try to use toilet paper, try to create a political or apolitical party, for example The Party of The Friends of Animals and Everything Green, try to make a club: The Club of the Mosquito Loving Duds, for example, make a demmonstration against the policy of the regime on any issue that you don´t like,
- Go to the bathroom of any of the "free" hospitals and try to wash your hands or flush the toilets,
- Try to travel from point A to point B with a salary of 400 Cuban pesos,
I think the above is humulliating enough and it is not my intention. If your are from the left, the Cuban "left" that is in power in Cuba right now is nothing but a totalitarian regime disguised as a leftist and socialist society, is a betrayal to all of those that consider thenselves as liberals, is the enemy of mankind disguised as its friend. Please believe me and distantiate yourselves from them, and help denounce them.

And please, don´t be so naive and blame the problems on the Embargo, the Embargo is stupid, it really helps the Castro´s in finding a culprit and a cause to their inneptitude to govern and build a prosperous country. And to those "Cubans" that support the Embargo: you are helping the Castros and killing your brethen. If tomorrow morning the USA lift the Embargo, the Castro´s will find something so the USA places it back. But the game has to end: Engagement, not confrontation, socavate, don´t destroy, follow what we did with the former Soviet Union...

Cuba will se a greater future, but sadly, it seems that biology has to take its course first and perhaps after the generation that is in power now passes away, we will not see it.

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

Frustrated Taxpayer — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 07:45:21 GMT

Freedom is a priceless thing, but it also means this: people making choices that empower them. Forcing freedom down the throats of foreign governments is not a positive thing, because any type of government is better than chaos--like in former Soviet Republics, where rumors cited instances of people trying to sell nuclear warheads to the highest bidder.

What I do not understand is why our government can not take a positive stance, encouraging rather than bullying. Sure, those countries opting for democratic changes still do not have freedom like we like to think of it, but isn't it the right of a people to choose their form of government? I thought somehow that that was one of the first steps on the road to freedom.

Before we start putting our fingers down our throats to gag out the words, "America, Love It Or Leave It!" how about we allow those around us to have their own opinions.

Just when I think we learn from past mistakes, as a nation and as a citizenry, I read in the news how we make the same mistakes again and again and again.

In November, I hope that Americans will remember that the minds that introduced us to a quagmire in Iraq, an economic crisis at home, and a total disregard for ethics, responsibility and common sense, will never be the minds that will create solutions.

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

Danton, Yuma, AZ — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 08:13:21 GMT

Note to Eric High:
The curious thing is that even though Cuba's socialist philosophy embraces government intervention in daily life, and US individualist philosophy opposes it, there tend to be more rules affecting daily life in North America's society than in Cuba's. For example US littering laws are much more strict. US building codes are much more strict, thicker and more complicated. Cuban construction workers who take up their trades in North America face a culture shock of rules, regulations and inspectors. The US tax code is infinitely more complicated. The US banned smoking in public places many years before Cuba did. This is not because one society is better than the other. There are three main reasons. First America's system is much bigger and more complicated than Cuba's. North America's economy, technology and legal system are more complicated. Second, we have a federalist system with national laws and states laws. In Cuba provincial and local laws are more uniform and you do not have the multiple layers of laws to figure out. Third, in Cuba there are fewer economic entities. The vast complicated capitalist/free enterprise system has many more centers of power, companies, corporations, transit systems, sanitation systems, community college systems, etc. - contending in the legal framwork, making demands on it, highering lawyers, bankers, and accountants to press their legal cases. The US has many more lawyers per population. These lawyers pushing their cases create more legal interpretations and precedents - futher thickening the network of rules and regulations. Fourth, in the US we have more organized political voices, more lobbyists, parties, interest groups, and again corporations all pushing and pulling on the political process. This leads to the creation of many more bills, and laws, and compromises and amendments. The end result of so many voices jumping into the political process one law for the gun people, one for the mothers, another for animal rights, another for the doctors, etc. is that we have more rules, laws, regulations, law suites and precedents than Cuba. Fifth, North America's system has been around longer than any other written constitutional government. Our rules snow ball on top of one another. A big systemic change (revolution, losing a war, a Napoleonic code) can throw out the old complicated rules and replace them with a new, simpler, more consistent system. The last big systemic change for the US was 1787 with the US constitution. We have had other big changes, but we never junked the entire old system after that. We just layered on top of it. The bottom line is that communism, capitalism, libertarianism, whatever, will not be the main creator of rules in everyday life. The main issue is the complexity of the society. The more complex you are, the more rules you tend to get.

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

Danton, Yuma, AZ — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 08:34:59 GMT

A note on rights. These have, of course, been constested, but there are some key international statements of rights. The most important is the International Declaration of Human Rights of 1948. It was passed in the UN General Assembly by 48 votes for (including the US), none against and 8 absentions: (Saudi Arabia, apartheit-ruled South Africa, and several Soviet Bloc countries). The IDHR does give the right to employment, a decent standard of living, social security, education, food, clothing, housing, and medical care, along with the kinds of individual freedoms from the government mentioned in the US Bill of Rights. Franklin D. Roosevelt asserted the Four Freedoms which included Freedom from want. Many national constitutions have included human rights to various socia-economic standards. The US constitution's 14th Amendment guarantees equal protection of the laws, which has been interpreted by the Supreme Court to include equal access to education and other social services. To say that people only have the right to live free is a minority position in the world. It has never claimed more than a minority of political philosophers. For most of human history governments have assumed that citizens and subjects had other rights and that governments had more comprehensive obligations to their citizens. The "obvious" idea that individual rights do not include socio-economic rights is and always has been an unusual one, that, at very least, must carry the burden of proof.

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

gfinmn — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 09:21:48 GMT

There are no cansidate choices that can do what needs to be done except carry on the Bush plan in place , hes making all of his tools of power to be passed on unless there is an impeachment and congress gets to work with checks and balances ...

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

gfinmn — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 09:24:19 GMT

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

debra in ohio — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 10:37:10 GMT

shame on you john smith......you created what you have or don't have.......you can solve all your problems...move to cuba......just pack up and go since you have such a problem with the usa......see ya

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

John Doe. Atlanta, GA — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 11:40:40 GMT

In response to John Smith's comment above, if you think that living under the opression of a communist government is paradise then why don't you move to the island of paradise? You, Michael Moore, and the rest of the people that praise Cuban government are free to make Cuba home.

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

Kevin — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 11:49:18 GMT

Julie - and there are no unicorns either

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

John M., Okeechobee, Fl — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 12:10:42 GMT

In response to "John Smith (Sent Tuesday, April 01, 2008 5:15 PM)" Those rubber rafts float both way Amigo!

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

Enrique Moro, Tampa Florida — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 12:14:44 GMT

It's very sad that this is not happening as a result of natural changes but because one person has decided to do so. This means that all these changes can go back to the way they were any time. Cuba is in fact not a democratic country and the main reason I left ten years ago was precisely because of this and because I hated the way our own government treated us. We were in the eyes of all a second class citizen but curiously my people are wise enough to understand the reasons behind it and always opened our hearts to any human being. By comparison, here in the USA, where you tend to confuse money by liberty or free society as some call it, there is a huge solitude. There is no acceptance of other types of people. I think that USA as a developed country has a great deal of things to teaches us (Cubans) such as political maturity, consistency at work, civic behavior, etc, but we have a great deal to teach USA about humanity and kindness to others.
I want to thank the country for taking me and giving me the opportunity to work, things I did not have in my own country but to be honest any time I hear that an insurance company denied a treatment because “a pre-existing condition” it does not make any sense to me why somebody or something put a stop to this, where are the taxes we are paying going? Why in reality nothing happened with the corruption on ENRON? Why the money always win in a trial (“…justice and liberty for all…”) and I would like to add: “… for all that have money…”
My point here is that there is so much more behind the signs of democracy. Cuba as someone said above should not by any means follow after USA. We need to indeed kick out those dictators, hopefully without blood being shed, and find the way to keep all those good things we have and start building a society that takes care of its child, elderly, women and in general of all those that need help. We must not loose our soul, it is what made us withstand so many struggles, and it is our most powerful weapon.

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

Susan Phipps, Wilmington, MA — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 12:23:37 GMT

Having been to Cuba myself, I can speak from experience. The country is indeed a paradise, a paradise in crisis. A paradise that lives on through the spirit of the people who truly know how to appreciate "the little things in life" and be grateful for what they do have. Cuba is not a "throw-away society." What they have, they care for meticulously. Cubans are survivors, living by wit and trade. More than anything, what they have is heart and soul. One might think of them as a macrocosm of Gilligan's Island. They are all stuck on this beautiful little island together in the midst of a dying dream (Castro regime) finding unique ways to enjoy the little they have together. Their circumstances were brought on by mutiny of a preceding regime that had robbed the island of it's treasures and left many starving and abused. The scales of justice have a way of balancing themselves in a way that the human mind has difficulty comprehending. When the dust finally settles on the dream, at least the "little folks" on this island might actually have a chance to enjoy life, which, after all, is what the revolution was all about. We as Americans, a country founded on it's on revolution, have a lot to learn from Cubans as do they from us.

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

cuba libre — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 12:30:34 GMT

Agree, the only thing CUBA needs is free elections and the ability to join the democracies of the world. Para Cuba: Eleciones libres y eligir su gobierno.

Cubans struggle to enjoy new economic freedoms

Anne, Nova Scotia — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 12:54:27 GMT

I agree with Sheila i too have been to Cuba and the people there certainly would give you the shirt off their backs. Fidel was an evil dictator who watched his people go with just the bare necessity's. I think Raul just might make Cuba a good , safe place for the people. Dont be so negative, and John Smith from what i see on here , i see why your wife left you stop whining like a girl,get a life .