It's an ordinary day in November 2016. As usual, the members of Cubalex visit the headquarters; the emptiness of their offices is barely bearable, their faces are not what they used to be, but they remain united.
“Some mail has arrived,” an assistant announced. “Read it aloud,” everyone exclaimed. “It’s a new case; I don’t remember this name,” he stated. “But start reading it anyway,” the investigator exclaimed.
Okay, I'll start now, -it says- Havana, November 16, 2016, Dear Laritza and Cubalex team, I recently wrote to you; another inmate gave me your address. Today I received your reply explaining the procedure for helping me.
And I felt like the happiest prisoner in the world. I've written to every state institution, and they've never responded. I tell you from the bottom of my heart, you have given me back the hope and the will to live.
The emotion was visible on everyone's face. After so many days unable to work, that letter filled the air and enveloped them in emotion. It was the first pleasant emotion they had felt after more than 90 days of anguish.
A million thanks, -continue reading- love and blessings to you all, a thousand times thank you for the help you can offer me, I will never be able to thank you enough. You have given me back the will to live. In you, I have found different human beings.
I will send you all the documents you've requested. I'm serving time for a crime I didn't commit, while the real culprit is walking free. I'm accused of theft and cattle rustling, sentenced to 12 years, and I swear I'm innocent.
I'll be 21 soon, and you are my greatest gift, just by answering my letters. I was thinking of going on a hunger strike, but then I learned about Cubalex and the help they've given to so many inmates here. May God always be with you, and many blessings to you all. – she concluded.
“He’s just a child,” the oldest in the group said sadly. “Where is he from?” “Agüica,” the reader replied, looking at the envelope. “We have to respond to him,” the psychologist advised, “even if it’s just on a blank sheet of paper with a pen. We have to explain what happened at our headquarters on September 23rd. He’s pinning his hopes on us.”.
“I have an envelope, and I saw they left the stamps the day of the operation—look for them in my drawer,” the secretary told the assistant. “Who will answer it?” the assistant asked. “I will,” came the chorus of replies. “That will be like throwing a bucket of cold water on her,” the secretary said. “It would be better if the psychologist answered.”.
The silence, the expression of anguish, captivated them. “Give him the phone number so he can call us,” the Director advised. “At least we can offer him some guidance. Let’s keep the letter, to show it to Professor Julio on his next visit to the prison. By the way, who’s going on this visit?” “Me,” the social researcher replied. “Don’t worry, I’ll give it to him.”.