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Alberto Tapia Ruano: Last Letter *

Architecture student leader of the Revolutionary Student Directorate, an association of university students

La Cabaña [prison], April 17, 1961

Dears Mom and Dad:

I just received, a few moments ago, the ratification of the Death Sentence and that is why now, that I am at the end, I write these lines to you. You may not believe me, but I can assure you that I have never had such a spiritual calm as I have now. I sincerely feel happy, feeling that soon I will be with God, waiting and praying for you.

Today, in my trial, I saw my brothers and my godparents crying. Why? No! A thousand times no! I know that this is very painful for you, but I want you to overcome this and think that God in His infinite virtue has given me the grace of aligning with Him, and we all should b e grateful.

Goodbye "viejucos" [term of endearment for parents], have a lot of faith in Eternal Life that I will be interceding on your behalf.

Viva Christ the King!

Hugs and kisses. Everyione: no tears!.

Goodbye brothers, godparents and family

Faith in God

Alberto
* Letter reprinted with permission from Clark, J. (1992) Cuba: Mito y Realidad (2nd. Ed.), Miami-Caracas: Saeta Ediciones.

Translated by Margarita García


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