André wrote to Angel when she went to India in
January 1990
January 22, 1990
Gatineau
My dear Bala and Angel,
Tonight, the snow continues to fall, and
this year’s winter has proven to be especially harsh. I am truly glad that you
can escape, if only for a short while, from this severe weather. I imagine that
the climate in India must be much more pleasant, so I hope you are able to make
the most of it.
Since your departure, life at home has
settled back into its usual rhythm. Everyone is participating in the household
duties, though there are occasional lapses. I believe that these arrangements
should continue even after your return, with the understanding that you will
also contribute to the workload. We will see how things work out!
Marc has already begun his school year and
is actively involved in basketball games. He seems to be doing well in both
areas. Eric, on the other hand, remains much the same—he agrees when asked to
do something, but often chooses to follow his own inclinations. Today, he
called me at the office to request a book, explaining that he needed it to
finish an essay due by Friday. His passing the French course from last semester
depends on this assignment. I decided not to purchase the book for him, telling
him he must find a solution on his own. This evening, he told me he plans to
visit the CEGEP library tomorrow to borrow the book and complete the essay. We
will see how this unfolds.
Sunita is generally doing well. She
relishes her freedom and spends considerable time watching television. There
are rumours circulating in the house that she has a boyfriend named Philippe.
She asked my permission to visit the Museum of Civilization in Hull with
Philippe and two other friends, which I granted.
On Wednesday, both of our CEGEP students –
Éric and Sunita - will begin their classes—it is about time! I hope they will
perform better than they did in their first semester.
 |
| October 2000 - last day at 20 Chemin des Érables, Gatineau |
Regarding SOPAR, all seems to be
progressing smoothly. The PPP report has already been submitted to CIDA, and
CCIC has approved the latest submission sent to them, as I mentioned to you
over the phone. The second issue of PARTAGE (Editorial note: SOPAR Newsletter)
is nearly ready; it should be packed and mailed before Andrée’s departure (Editorial note: SOPAR program officer). Edmonde has scheduled
a brief board meeting to welcome the bishop, who will be visiting St. Alexandre
from February tenth. We will meet him on the evening of the tenth. For
additional updates, Andrée will provide you with the latest news.
As for your time in India, I was somewhat
disappointed to hear over the phone that the lot purchased for us by Father
Colombo is not ideal. Is it possible to secure a better one before your return?
What is the status of the plans and blueprint for the house? Have you found an
architect? When will construction begin? I understand we must follow the pace
of life in India, but time is short. Nevertheless, please proceed as you think
best.
I hope you found the family well, that
mother is aging gracefully and in good health, and that everyone else is also
doing fine. I send my warm regards to each one—though I am not mentioning names,
as I would not want to leave anyone out. How have Rajah and Showreddy adjusted
upon re-entering their own society after their stay in Canada? I suspect their
transition was made easier following the cold December they experienced here.
How is your SOPAR work progressing? You
must already have heard many concerns and received numerous delegations.
Remember—see, listen, note, and question, but do not commit yourself
immediately. In our profession, this approach is wise. Make sure to also take
time to rest and reflect at leisure, as this is essential for maintaining our
well-being.
On February fourth, you will not be with me
and the children—it is our fate. I will be especially close to you in spirit
that day, and I am happy for you, knowing how much you enjoy spending time with
your family in India.
As for us, and for myself, we are eagerly
awaiting your return. I love you with infinite yearning. I send you my embrace
and tender kisses.
Your Husband, André