The Cuban influencer Michel Crónicas, known for sharing his reflections and experiences as an immigrant in Mexico on TikTok, elegantly addressed an offensive comment with thoughtfulness. The incident began when a user remarked, "Honestly, these Cubans are so primitive, they've never been on a bridge." This comment was in reference to a video Michel posted, showing a Cuban relative admiring the view from a bridge in the Angelópolis area of Puebla.
In his response, Michel clarified, "That comment was about a video I uploaded where the good Don Manolo was observing the traffic from a bridge in Angelópolis, a nice and wealthy area in Puebla, a city with a lot of development. I want to respond because there's often this stereotype about Cubans specifically. We're not primitive; calling us cavemen is a very specific type of comment."
Michel's reply was filled with personal reflections on appreciating life's simple pleasures: "I'm Cuban, I've flown on over 50 planes, traveled to Europe, Latin America, Italy, Spain, Peru, and explored parts of Mexico. I've seen the first world after leaving Cuba, and yet I'm still amazed by a simple bakery or the Aurrerá store here in Mexico because I know where I come from and cherish what I have. Ultimately, losing the ability to be amazed means losing everything. One should never lose that sense of wonder; it's something, I believe, inherent to being human. Let’s never lose that curiosity, that ability to admire the simplest things."
Michel's video gathered over 5,000 likes and hundreds of comments, sparking a wave of support. Many users condemned the offensive remark and stood by the Cuban creator. Some of the most notable reactions included: "That comment doesn't represent us, Michel. More of us appreciate and are grateful you're in Mexico," and another added, "What an elegant way to give a white-glove slap."
Some followers took the opportunity to reflect on what Michel expressed. "I'm from Puebla, and I'm surprised when I see new things in the city. Don't mind them, Michel, keep on as you are; your videos are excellent," commented one user, while another affirmed, "Never lose that sense of wonder, that's what makes us human."
Apologies also came from Mexican users who regretted the tone of the original comment. "That message doesn't represent us. Apologies on behalf of Mexicans; more of us value and respect people like you," one expressed, while another added, "Whoever made that comment doesn't even know how to appreciate what they have around them. Keep moving forward."
Others didn't miss the chance to praise how Michel handled the criticism. "I don’t know what I like more, what you say or how you say it with such respect and education," wrote a follower, while another noted, "You don't need to justify yourself, Michel. We support and value you for who you are."
Michel's reflection on valuing simplicity isn't new. In October, he had already declared in a video that he felt "like a millionaire" living in Mexico, finding happiness in basic things that were inaccessible in Cuba. Now, his response reconnects with his audience, reaffirming that his message of humility and gratitude continues to resonate strongly.
Michel Crónicas continues to demonstrate how to transform criticism into positive messages, reminding his audience of the value of simple things and the importance of maintaining a sense of wonder in life.
Understanding Michel Crónicas' Message
Why did Michel Crónicas respond to the offensive comment on TikTok?
Michel Crónicas responded to address the stereotype about Cubans and to emphasize the importance of appreciating simple pleasures in life, despite the criticism.
What was the reaction of Michel's audience to his response?
Michel's audience largely supported him, rejecting the offensive comment and praising his respectful and thoughtful response, while reflecting on the value of appreciating the simple things in life.
How does Michel Crónicas view his experiences in Mexico?
Michel Crónicas views his experiences in Mexico positively, feeling like a "millionaire" due to the happiness he finds in basic things that were inaccessible in Cuba, and cherishing the ability to be amazed by the simple aspects of life.