To the Family

Che’s Farewell Letter to his childrenDear children Hildita, Aleidita, Camilo, Celia and Ernesto

Che’s Farewell Letter to his childrenDear children Hildita, Aleidita, Camilo, Celia and Ernesto, If you have the occasion to read this letter, it will be because I won’t be among you. You will hardly remember me, and the youngest among you will have entirely forgotten me. Your father has been a man who acted on his believes and has certainly been loyal to his own convictions. Grow up as good revolutionaries. Study hard so that you can master technology, which allows you to master nature. Remember that it is the Revolution which is important and that each of us, taken in isolation, is worth nothing. Above all always be capable of feeling any injustice committed against anyone, anywhere in the world. This is the most beautiful quality in a revolutionary. Farewell my children. I still hope to see you... A big kiss and a strong hug from Dad.Che’s Farewell Letter to his parentsApril 1st, 1965 
Dear mum and dad,Once again I feel under my heels the ribs of Rosinante, I return to the road with my shield on my arm. Almost ten years ago, I wrote you another farewell letter. As I remember, I lamented not being a better soldier and a better doctor; the second no longer interests me. I’m not such a bad soldier. Nothing in essence has changed, except that I am more conscious, and my Marxism has taken root and become pure. I believe in the armed struggle as the only solution for those peoples who fight to free themselves, and I am consistent with my beliefs. Many will call me an adventurer, and that I am; only one of a different kind – one of those who risk his skin to prove his beliefs. It could be that this will be the definitive one. I don’t go looking for it but it is within the logical calculation of probabilities. If it is to be, then this is my final embrace. I have loved you a lot, I just didn’t know how to express my love, I’m extremely rigid in my actions and I believe that sometimes I was misunderstood. However, it was not easy to understand me, believe only today. Now, a will I have polished with an artist’s delight, will support my flaccid legs and tired lungs. I will do it. Remember from time to time this small condotieri of the 20th century. A kiss for Celia, Roberto, Juan Marin and Patotín, for Beatriz, for everybody. For you, a big hug from your prodigal and recalcitrant son Ernesto.