That July 19th

The author reflects on the 47th anniversary of the Sandinista Revolution's triumph in Nicaragua, an event that occurred on July 19, 1979. The date evokes powerful memories for the author, who finds it difficult to reconcile the passage of time with the vividness of the experience.

Recalling the day, the author describes the overwhelming joy and disbelief upon reuniting with comrades thought to be lost. The scene in Managua, with the lake and volcanoes in the distance, physically embodied the feeling of reclaiming their country. Returning from three years of exile, the author felt the palpable sense of freedom and triumph.

The narrative contrasts the celebratory atmosphere of 1979 with the present, where the author feels compelled to remember the revolution's ideals, especially while experiencing exile again. A poignant memory is of a migration officer at Managua airport telling those returning from exile, "you don't need passports, you are in your country." This stands in stark irony to the current situation, where such freedom of movement is no longer guaranteed.

The piece concludes with a hopeful note, drawing a parallel between the past fulfillment of dreams and the anticipation of future ones. The author expresses a renewed belief that dreams, like the one realized on that July day, can come true again.