Letters From Students That We Have Received

“Dear Louie, Your story means something different to kids who have been struggling their entire lives, who have been holding on for so long, who have been stranded on the raft for what feels like forever. Despite being through all of this, I'm still here, and I think that's what your story means to me. It means that, regardless of what life is deciding to throw at us, we still have to push through, to stay alive, to find reasons to keep trying and to live. Even though there are some days when you're at your end, when you can't take it anymore, when you feel like going to sleep and never waking up, there's always a reason to live. Your story is a beacon of hope to the people who need it, and it shows that you can get through it. Thank you for everything you've done for us Louie, you have no idea how much we appreciate it”. ~ JJ, 15

“Louis, you by far have the strongest amount of humanity, and maybe our generation should learn a thing or two from you. . . Your story has made me realize, rethink, and appreciate many more things than I did before, and I thank you for that.” ~ CN

Blaize

“Your story resonates with me so much because it is the story of life after hardship, forgiveness after pain, belonging after losing oneself. Whenever I am in a tough situation, I will ask myself, ‘what would Louis do’.” ~ Blaize, 14

Tiffany

"I truly believe that if I hadn’t heard your father’s story, I wouldn't be where I am today. “As I listened to everything Louis went through; and how much determination, hope, faith, heart, courage, and strength he had to overcome the impossible; something deep inside of me woke up.” ~ Tiffany, disabled athlete.

Brooke

“Hearing about your story put things into perspective. EVERYONE matters. Forgiving the Bird helped me realize that no matter the person, they still matter.” ~ Brooke, 15

Katy

“Your story should live on and never be forgotten. What you endured and how you overcame it all is truly motivational. The fact that even after all of your struggles you found faith in God inspires me to spread this story. You will forever be an inspiration to everyone who has ever heard about you.” ~ Katy, 15

Mary

“May I start by saying that every aspect and detail of your story is both inspiring and extraordinary. Your life story is encouraging and honorable in every way possible. Even in the hardest of struggles your resilient optimism stayed strong throughout. Even in the face of misery and fear you held onto who you were and where you came from.

It encourages me to be proud of who I am and where I come from no matter what might lie ahead. I believe your stories are life lessons that can be applied to many different situations. Every moment of your incredible journey is a story worth telling and a lesson worth learning.” ~ Mary, 15

Skylar

“What inspired me the most was your over powering optimism and your ability to survive through horrible circumstances. I hope that one day I’ll be a little like you, and grow to be just as strong.” ~ Skylar, 14

Lillian

“Your story is one that I can’t help but marvel at! It inspires me to face the issues I’m currently dealing with. It gives me HOPE for the future. Thank you for persevering and continuing to fight. Your legacy and inspiration will never fade”. ~ Lillian, 15

Justin

“Your life connects to my life in so many ways. When you were a kid you got into mischief and so did I. It shows me that it wasn’t only me that gets into trouble as a kid. It would be easy to overlook a person like you. I’m glad I didn’t. Your life will be honored by everyone. I hope everyone will hear your story.” ~ Justin, 14

Abigail

“You taught me that with dignity and will that I can overcome any situation life has to throw at me. I was so moved and touched by your story. I think your story could show people the true meaning of pain and glory. ~ Abigail, 15

Mario

“This story was truly amazing on how Louie starts as a bad kid to becoming really close to God. The story also inspired me to have more appreciation for other people that have gone through really tough things in their life. I thank Louie so much for his story as it made me view things in a whole different way. Thank you Louie Zamperini.” ~ Mario, 14

Eddy

I have taken the time to write you because of the book "Unbroken". The story of your father, Mr. Louis Zamperini, has deeply touched my heart in a way beyond what words can express. I feel the need to contact you as you are his son. Louis was an extraordinary person, and what he endured was absolutely incredible. I believe that your father is my hero. I had never actually had a hero until I read Lauren Hillenbrand's book. Though you have no doubt heard this countless times, your father was an incredibly brave man and he deserves your pride. I without hesitation place him among the many important icons of our country. I can't explain the joy that Louis' story brought to me. His faith in God brought me confidence that he will reward according to what we have done. God rewarded Louis. His service to those less fortunate in life whatever it may have been gains my respect. I was once a foster child. I was lucky enough to have been adopted by family. I wish that you and your husband could speak to those in my school as your words are inspirational. I feel that Louis' story would give them reassurance that having faith can get you through the hardest of obstacles. Again, thank you for your time. What you and your organization have done is truly amazing. Thank you, Eddy ~ Age 14