"You don't have to pay me, you are a doctor," were the words of a young Cuban taxi driver that deeply touched a local physician due to the nobility of his gesture. "I want to share what happened to me today. First of all, I am a doctor working since March at Policlínico 'Managua'," began Dr. Daykel González Rodríguez, a doctor at the clinic's emergency room, clarifying that he usually doesn't share such stories publicly.
"Today, after an exhausting shift, I headed to the bus stop to catch a bus that would take me closer to my home in Reparto Eléctrico. However, there were no buses, so I went to the area where cars usually head towards my neighborhood. I got in one and made the usual trip," the doctor recounted in the Facebook group "Managua, Frank País, and Las Guasimas."
The physician noted that when he went to pay the driver for the ride, the driver refused to take the money. "I want to express my respect for this young man with such altruism, kindness, and generosity. Thank you for that act of kindness towards me today. A thousand times thank you, and I wish you and your family a wonderful and fruitful day," the doctor expressed, clearly moved by the rare gesture within the Cuban context.
Dr. González also shared the car's license plate number so that others could express their gratitude to the driver's family for the values they instilled in him. His post received significant interaction, especially from Cubans supporting the doctor's words and appreciating the driver's attitude. The young man's mother, Ailin García, identified the driver as Edennis Álvarez García.
"Edennito, as I call him, acts this way because his heart is full of kindness and good feelings. He behaves like this every day, and all the credit goes to him. I am very proud and grateful for the children I have and the beautiful comments from people," wrote his mother.
The young driver also responded to the praise. "Thank you very much for the dedication... doctors do so much for the people," he wrote.
Acts of Kindness Amidst Crisis
Such actions, though uncommon, have gone viral on social media as a beacon of hope amid a prolonged crisis and increasing violence on the island. In February, a Cuban grandmother took to social media to thank a public transport driver in Havana for helping her daughter, who was in labor pains.
"Driver of route 222 working early Thursday morning, February 15, thank you infinitely," said the woman named Dalia Lissette Masaguer.
Cuban netizens also acknowledged a driver of route P13 who diverted the bus to help a child having seizures inside the vehicle. Recently, another public transport driver in Havana demonstrated humanity and solidarity by assisting a passenger who fainted during the journey.
Frequently Asked Questions About Acts of Kindness in Cuba
Given the rarity and impact of such gestures, many people have questions about these acts of kindness in Cuba. Here are some frequently asked questions and their answers:
Why are acts of kindness like this rare in Cuba?
Due to the prolonged economic crisis and increasing violence on the island, such gestures of kindness and generosity are not commonly seen, making them all the more significant when they do occur.
How did the community react to the doctor's story?
The community reacted positively, with many expressing their support and appreciation for both the doctor and the taxi driver. The driver's mother and the young driver himself also responded to the praise with gratitude.
Are there other instances of kindness in Havana's public transportation?
Yes, there have been other instances where drivers have shown kindness, such as helping a woman in labor or assisting a child having seizures. These acts, though rare, highlight the humanity still present in the community.