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Fireworks explode behind El Salvador's patron saint the Divine Savior of The World in San Salvador, El Salvador. (CNS photo/Jose Cabezas, Reuters)

Lights in the sky a cherished Christmas memory

December 22, 2022
By Mitzy Deras
Catholic Review
Filed Under: Christmas, Commentary, Feature, Guest Commentary

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Near the beginning of the new millennium, my parents decided to celebrate Christmas in their native country of El Salvador. We packed the entire family, including “Precious,” a mini schnauzer that loved food just as much as she loved us, and eight pieces of luggage filled with “regalos” – presents.

Christmas in El Salvador was different from what we experienced in the United States, of course. There was no snow, and the temperature was probably 80 degrees.

As a 10-year-old, the one thing that most interested me was the loud, booming fireworks that started as soon as it got dark on Christmas Eve. The beautiful, colorful display went on until the sun rose.

Enjoying snow and hot chocolate is a cozy way to spend Christmas, but watching the sky light up in celebration of the birth of Christ is just as magical.

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A Tale of Two Gifts

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