A “cold” day in Cuba this morning set the stage for our journey back to Minnesota. We have made it to the end of our course content abroad and today we begin our return home. For many, this has been a life changing experience building relationships, exploring the community, and enjoying all that this cultural exchange has to offer. 

After breakfast with our house families, we ventured to the outside of the building, where we took group pictures and said our final thank you and goodbyes. An emotional moment filled with tears, laughter, and so much love, when the bus finally left it was somber and steeped in gratitude.

On our way to the airport, our dear bus driver Billy discovered that his phone was missing. We all began to search, but ultimately decided that it had either been stolen or lost. In Cuba, a new cellphone might cost someone close to a month’s salary. Without missing a beat, every student on the bus chipped in money to purchase Billy a new phone, a true testament to the relationships and the leadership we have all focused on developing this trip.

All in all, our airport adventures were relatively mild. The lines were at times long, but the company, as always, was supportive and fun. As far as a long day of travel goes, we were grateful to be with each other.

Landing in chilly Minnesota, we can look back at this experience with full hearts, open eyes, and new relationships we hope to cultivate for life. While nothing is as simply as it seems, and we understand the complexities of our combined histories, we hope that we can also look forward to an opportunity for future visits, relationships, and partnerships.

Hasta luego, Cuba. Muchas gracias y vive bien.