JUNE 2011

While the so-called first world countries use their valuable resources to destroy life, Cuba uses its resources in education and healthcare.  There is a revolution in this island, a humanitarian revolution that protects life above all things. 

It saddens me to pick-up the newspaper and read about all the violence in the world.    As I read the paper the voice of Cuban children playing on the street catches my attention.  These kids are fortunate to have the opportunity to enjoy their childhood in an environment free of violence and drugs.  Safety is very important in this island as well as education and healthcare.  Cuba guarantees a free education, free healthcare and a safe environment for its citizens. 

Every child is guaranteed a free education in Cuba.   An early morning walk through the streets of Havana allows one to appreciate the privilege of going to school.  All the kids dressed in their school uniform walk to school giving the street a colorful appearance.  They all carry their backpack, a lunch bag and a water bottle for hydration.  Some of the backpacks are pretty old since they are passed on from generation to generation.  Their uniform, however, is as clean and neat as it can ever be.  After the school closes its doors the streets become silent and its colorful appearance disappear.  All the kids are at school, the place where they belong during school hours. 

In Cuba everyone receives free medical care.  The country has its priorities and healthcare for all is one of the most important priorities.  Despite the financial difficulties the government is capable of sustaining a free healthcare program and that is awesome for patients.  The benefits of having equal access to medical care are immense. 

If other governments would make better use of their resources in an effort to protect life, this world would be a better world.  One aught to think of those innocent lives caught in the middle of warfare; those children who are too scared to go to school; those with a chronic illness who are denied medical care and who go to bed each night with an empty stomach. 

Sincerely,

 

Alejandro Bernal
Website: www.pnhpwesternwashington.org
Email: alex238209@yahoo.com