André wrote to Angel when she went to India in January 1991
January 14, 1991
My Love,
I hope you receive this letter, on the day
of your 50th anniversary—what a milestone!
This year, this letter is the only way I
can mark your birthday. We would have loved to celebrate this half-century
together, but fate has decided otherwise.
On the positive side, you are with your family
in India, able to spend long hours with your loved ones. For this, I am truly
happy. I was also very glad to hear your voice over the phone, and to learn
that the situation in Andhra is calm, with less turmoil. Nevertheless, please
take care of yourself.
At home, remember the conversation we had
in the lobby of the Lor Elgin Hotel. Please ask Lourdhu to ensure that the back
exit of your home is always readily accessible. Every good security plan should
provide for multiple exits. This is necessary here because of the fire hazard,
and it applies in other circumstances too, such as in the case of a gang
robbery. Let us put all the odds on our side, without being overly insecure!
The current environment in India and the
world is perhaps one of the main reasons for my behaviour before your departure
for the airport. It was difficult for me to let you go, knowing what is
happening in the world and what could happen. I did not want to discuss it with
you, for fear of worrying you more. I felt compelled to keep everything inside,
but unfortunately, my uneasiness surfaced in the way you know. I am very sorry
for that.
Let us pray that your journey will go smoothly and that you will return safe and healthy.
As the children implied in their letter, I had to organize the work for each of us at home. It was necessary if we wanted you to avoid returning to a dirty house. As you might expect, those who are usually the sloppiest were also the loudest about it: 1) Éric, 2) Marc, 3) Sunita. You will be able to see for yourself whether I have succeeded when you return.
Since Sunday, I have been trying to reach
you through Father Colombo or Bishop Bala (Editorial note: Priest and bishop
from the Warangal diocese). The reason is that Radio Canada is preparing a
broadcast for February 2nd, during the week dedicated to International
Development in Canada. They would like to feature SOPAR and conduct an
interview with you while you are in India. I hope that by the time you read
this letter, this matter is already under control.
I could write much more, but I will stop
here. Please give my love to all the members of the family—to mother, and
especially to your brothers and sister.
Take good care of yourself. Do not work too
hard! Make sure to leave time for rest and relaxation. Come back in good shape.
While you are relaxing, think about how we could spend some free time together
next summer.
I miss you very much. Once more, with all
my heart, I wish you a happy birthday and send you full of warm kisses.
With each passing year, you grow even more
beautiful, like a fine wine.
Nive Na Prema! André