On one side of the warehouse, skilled artisans practice their craft. On the other side, young trainees spend nine months learning the trade before their handiwork is worthy of being sold as a world-renowned Cuban cigar. Every day I seem to like my work better. A younger man expresses similar pride. Our handiwork is the best in the world, no matter what.
Next stop is an elementary school.
Fathers deliver their sons to the schoolyard gate on the back of bicycles. One man gives his son a stern lecture before he kisses him on the cheek and sends him through the gate. Inside, the children represent Cuba's multiethnic society. There are Cubans who look European, even Nordic, as well as Cubans who look Hispanic and Cubans who look African. The school is staffed with teachers, a nurse and a full-time physician who treats colds, inspects ears and eyes and gives monthly physical examinations.