A Thousand Years

Zareh Sarkissian

Let me begin with a few basics. I was born and raised in New York City. Some call me Zack. I’m fluent in English, Spanish and Armenian. I hold a degree in business. I’m a Scorpio, who embodies much of what my zodiac sign claims me to be. I’m an atheist, 5’ 6”, with an athletic build and a couple of inconspicuous tattoos.

My interests include architecture, interior design, animal rights, environmentalism, boating, cigars, wristwatches, poetry and art. I love mischief, and have a great sense of humor. My favorite style of music is Big Band/Bebop/Swing Jazz, as well as Flamenco and Latin Classics.

I eat plenty of raw foods. l love mangos and white chocolate. Mint tea and Arabic coffee are awesome. The fashion styles I mostly follow are casual/dressy and modern cowboy. So far I’ve been to Egypt, Lebanon, Cyprus, Armenia, Canada, Mexico, The Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico and St. Bart’s.

Close friends of mine say that I’m a courteous, humble, compassionate, organized, open-minded, daring and intense individual. I can either use my street smarts or be good hearted, depending on the surroundings. I feel that I’m an initiator, who takes pride in trying new things and leading the way. I’m truly free spirited as well, filled with endless passion and conviction. Above all, I’d say that I’m a maverick who has a zest for living – and for stirring things up.

Nowadays I read, write letters & poetry, listen to music and keep to myself. I usually exercise for about an hour a day. Sometimes I get incredibly lonely and homesick, but try not to dwell on unhealthy thoughts and emotions. I find it important to remain strong willed, especially when you’re trapped in a system designed to dehumanize you and break your spirit. My dream is to someday put all of this behind me and start a new life, perhaps outside of the United States. I long to raise a family. Also, I feel that one of my responsibilities will be to form something on a large scale that will benefit our planet. The thought and enthusiasm I have towards these ideas is what helps to keep me going.

I’ve been held in a federal detention center on murder charges since July of 2005. Due to the fact that my case has not yet gone to trial, know that my expected release date is estimated. This can be verified under The United States of America vs. Zareh Sarkissian, Docket Number Cr. 04-706 (DGT). I’m grateful for all your kind thoughts.

It would be great to meet a new friend from anywhere in the world - preferably someone who is upbeat, positive minded, uninhibited, truthful and considerate, with a slim to average build. Race is unimportant. Please include your photo when writing.

Many are intimidated by the idea of writing to a prisoner. I understand this, and can assure that I’m not a maniac, stalker, abusive, jealous, demanding nor controlling. Once you get to know me, you’ll find that I’m quite stable, and overall a pleasant person to communicate with. I hope you will accept my invitation as friends. Be brave enough to write me an introductory letter. Don’t be afraid to let me know of your limits - in terms of how frequently you can write, etc. Moral support and a lifeline to the outside are very precious to me.

Ciao. Au Revoir. Goodbye. Hasta La Vista. Maselema. Da Sveedaneeya