We can only imagine how Elian might be doing today, what his hopes and dreams might be if he had not been sent back to that prison hell hole.
Very much agreed.
That was exactly what came into my mind, as I first read this article. How happy and hopeful would this boy be, had he remained in America. Think of the choices he would have. They would be limitless.
However, it has also occured to me that Castro might be planning to showcase this kid.....give him whatever passes for an "elite education" in the "island paradise," and then put him on the fast track up into a prominent government position, just to "prove" to the world that "upward mobility in Cuba" is possible for all citizens.
Castro might not live long enough to complete such a strategy with Elian, but the thought has crossed my mind. Elian would be great propaganda for Castro. Just imagine the "documentaries" that Castro-loving Hollywoodies would make about Elian's fabulous communist life! Oliver Stone and Sean Penn (who would play "Elian" as a grown-up) would be ecstatic.
"His great aunt, Haydee González, 61, said Elián is a quiet boy, reserved like his mother was, "
I think Elian remembers, that's why they have to have plainclothes police stationed in front of his house, so he can't talk to any outsiders.