Cuba Stole My Heart

This post is from the introduction to my book in progress, “Cuba Stole My Heart.”
Please consider joining me and a group of friends for the next
Journey for the Creative Spirit!” to Havana
Nov. 30-Dec. 8, 2016.

School for the arts, Havana
Instituto Superior del Arte, Havana

Cuba embraced me and I returned with a kiss. It was spontaneous, unimagined, unbidden… at least on a conscious level. Since my first visit, March 2013, I became enraptured, entangled and connected. My best friends, valued acquaintances, two adopted families, and baby godson live there. But for a chance encounter, a moment in time/space that cracked open, I would not have been ushered into this astonishing and complex world which has become an integral part of my life.

Without Latin decent and having lived and traveled extensively in the English-speaking world, Cuba was never on my mind or in my heart, as it is for all exiles. So I am surprised and delighted to find myself so deeply intrigued and absorbed by this society ostensibly on the verge of change.

I suspect my personal connection lies in fascination with those who have stayed through all the challenges and deprivations of the revolution, committed to home-as-place and family, a sense of belonging I’d sought but had evaded me. And I relate to the perennial Cuban struggle for identity as a people, a community and society, as it too is part of my search.

This is the story of my Cuban experiences over 3 years and five visits totally 6 months. It is not a guidebook in any traditional sense, although I hope you gain insight and guidance to serve if you are planning a trip to Cuba, or simply enjoy a personal journey informed by this island nation, which even its own citizens rightly describe as “complicado.”

6 Comments Cuba Stole My Heart

  1. Nicki May 15, 2016 at 6:52 am

    Can’t wait! I love the connections you made here between your own life’s desires and that which you feel the Cuban people possess.

  2. jann May 15, 2016 at 9:27 am

    Hi Aysha–I loved watching your slide show! Such lovely and soulful shots. I’m looking forward to reading your book and meanwhile sending you a great big hug.
    xxxjann

  3. Sheer Davidson May 16, 2016 at 9:32 am

    Aysha, I loved reading your new post and look forward to the book. I share your connection to Cuba and Cubanos after visiting there three years ago. Hope I can join you in November.

  4. Aysha Griffin May 16, 2016 at 2:45 pm

    Sher, Thank you for your kind words. It would be wonderful if you could join us in Cuba!

  5. Aysha Griffin May 16, 2016 at 2:46 pm

    Hi Jann, Always great to hear from you. Big hug back at you!

  6. Aysha Griffin May 16, 2016 at 2:47 pm

    Nicki, Thanks always for your insights! xox

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