Sergio has left us.  A little while ago I heard the news about his cremation on television.  He was much younger than I.  If we had more knowledge about health, perhaps he wouldn’t have gone so soon.  I learned from him when visiting the lovely mountains in the centre of the island.  I was an admirer of his principles.  I am certain that he wouldn’t have wanted his ashes to lie in the capital’s cemetery.  I hope that his relatives, or whoever else has the right to do so, decide to place them in some Escambray forest where a tree can grow together with his memory.  I shall accept any decision with sincere honesty. 

Fidel Castro Ruz

March 1, 2008

8:39 p.m.