This latest trip to Cuba, my 5th, was unlike previous visits. We traveled to the far western province of Viñales, known for its mountains and tobacco farming. Eight weeks prior to our arrival, Hurricane Ian had slammed into that region and left a devastating footprint. Our group was one of the first from ‘outside’ to visit. And the effects of the storm were on full display. Houses destroyed, crops uprooted, livestock demolished, tourism, a life-blood of the area, was almost non-existent. But the joyous spirit of the people remained intact, albeit severely tested. Some days we had no eggs, others no cheese. Chicken for dinner was a special treat. I was, again, overwhelmed with the Cuban generosity and warmth, despite having lost so much. I felt humbled by their tenacity and optimism.