That’s how the first week of September unfolded; yet, Cuba went to school, dressed in the colors of the flag and carrying the scent of people who know what is worth defending and saving.

Amidst the flood of photos that filled social media during the first week of September, I loved the ones of Oliver and his *Elpidio Valdés*-themed school gear, crafted by his parents' own hands—as his mom, actress Isabel Cristina López Hamze, recounted:

"We made everything with a lot of love and effort, though it’s still a bit rough, lopsided, and slightly crooked... Jorgito handled the paper and cardboard—covering the books, making the math kit, the geometric shapes... I took care of the fabric. I embroidered and sewed as best I could, because I’m not an embroiderer; I’m just an ordinary mom. Oliver took part in the whole process, giving his approval and even voicing his dissatisfaction with a few things we had to redo.

"Yesterday, late at night, we finished Oliver’s *manigüero*-style [insurgent-themed] school gear. Almost all of it was done in the dim light, with the help of the super-flashlight Grandma Caro sent and Uncle Ernesto’s lamp." Oliver left the house very happy today. Since he doesn't know how to count, he didn't know we had been without power for over 40 hours; he only knew that his things are the most beautiful. They arrived at school with the joy of having a choice and seeing their families make their dreams come true.

Indeed, on September 1st, we headed to school—children, adolescents, exhausted families, mothers and fathers with dark circles under their eyes, and aunts, uncles, and grandparents who, despite their own lack of sleep, found a way to help ensure September didn't lose its magic. This happened despite everything—and everyone—who tried to rob us of that satisfaction through petty campaigns and the malicious spreading of rumors. Yet, the reasons for returning to the classroom prevailed, just as the "Crianza Respetuosa" (Respectful Parenting) project explained on its Facebook profile:

Structure and routine: Fixed schedules are restored, reducing anxiety and providing emotional security.

Cognitive reactivation: The brain "wakes up" with the school curriculum, regaining the capacity for concentration and critical thinking that can go dormant during the summer.

Real socialization: Face-to-face contact with classmates and teachers resumes. This boosts socio-emotional skills—such as empathy and conflict resolution—and strengthens self-esteem.

Healthy habits: Physical activity increases and screen time decreases, fostering better body and brain function.

Stimulation: Learning new things, returning to school routines, and overcoming academic challenges stimulates a desire for knowledge and a positive attitude toward school in general.

The school year continues as yet another feat for Cuban families; we have proven tougher than the times, choosing not to deny our children these benefits, but rather to support and accompany them as they grow, ensuring as much happiness as possible along the way.

Translated by Amilkal Labañino / CubaSí Translation Staff