A Cuban named Ivey (@i.am.ivey) recently took to TikTok to share his thoughts on how life in Cuba has shifted to the point where friendships alone can no longer solve problems. In his widely commented video, he recounts a conversation with his father, who resides in Cuba and sought assistance to address the lack of gas at home due to persistent power outages.
Ivey suggested to his dad that offering a gift might encourage someone to help refill the gas cylinder. However, his father, holding onto an older mindset, believed it unnecessary, relying on a friend who usually "takes care of things." Ivey responded by emphasizing the new reality: “True friendships don't exist anymore. If you don't put money first, you get nothing,” highlighting that the crisis has made money the primary currency, even among friends.
He further explained that the money he sends from abroad should be used for such circumstances, as people can't survive on favors alone anymore. The post sparked a wave of responses from users sharing similar experiences. Comments included: "It's true, and even the man helping needs it too; I bought it for my mom at 5,000 yesterday," and "The one who gets you the gas also needs it; it's the truth since no one in Cuba can live on a salary," with another adding, "Even doctors need to be paid, or else nothing happens."
Most reactions concurred with Ivey's portrayal: widespread need has strained even the closest relationships due to resource scarcity. Many users expressed sorrow over the situation on the island, saying things like "Unfortunately, poverty has stripped away humility, good feelings, everything," and "The shortage destroys everything." Others shared insights about the steep gas prices across different Cuban provinces, citing figures ranging from 3,200 to 14,000 pesos for a refill.
Ivey's video has sparked significant reactions, reflecting the sentiments of Cubans both within and outside the island, all grappling with a reality where, as the creator puts it, "if you don't lead with money, nothing gets done."