Surrounded by lemon, guava, and coffee trees, Arisbel Reyes Cruz spends most of her day living in the countryside, far from the hustle and bustle of the city. She finds peace, stimulation, and happiness among her chickens and plantations.
Las Tunas, Cuba.- Arisbel came to the area of La Mulata, in the municipality of Las Tunas, more than 18 years ago, captivated by a man with eyes as light as hers, who is her main ally in the management of the land, although she already knew something, being the daughter of peasants.
“I began to help him with all the chores, especially with the poultry, the household chores, and looking after the workers. I got involved in everything, and I liked it so much that I also started to want to fight for what was mine and now I have my land."
"I work on it and my son works with me. I thank God for having him here, his help relieves me of many tasks. My husband also takes on many things. This is my world, I like it and I will be here as long as I have the strength and health."
Using an usufruct, she has seven hectares, some of which are pastureland for her cattle and others for various crops, especially fruit trees and some tobacco, an area in which she has already planted some ten thousand plants.
"I get on quite well here because I get up very early every day; although I should point out that it is always after my husband - she says with a laugh -because he is who makes the coffee. Then I start with all the daily tasks of a peasant woman."
"I soften the beans and do the most urgent things. I quickly go to the fields and weed, pick the fruit, sow, and do whatever is necessary. Then I go back home and the rest is in the hands of my son and my husband so that I don't catch such strong suns."
"In the afternoons I also work in the fields and look after the birds, which is relatively easy. I feed them and change their water so that it is always fresh. My husband takes care of the big animals, he looks after the oxen and the other cattle."
Arisbel always sees her future in the countryside because she loves it so much. However, she knows that only time will tell. She assures us that she does not miss the city, only her loved ones, whom she visits from time to time to enjoy their company.
"I like living in the countryside because here we produce useful items to help both our relatives and the people. In these difficult times, one always gives one's contribution through all the crops that are delivered to the cooperative."
"That's why I feel useful. I am helping the Revolution with my efforts now that so many things are difficult. It gives me satisfaction to see the results of the fruit trees, the poultry, and other crops. Having what I need is the best reason to get out of bed daily and feel proud to be a rural woman."
