When Bullets Turned To Ballads

Juárez, the War-Ravaged Border Town, Welcomes Back Juan Gabriel, and Hope

CIUDAD JUAREZ – This city, along with its prodigal son, the mega-star known as Juan Gabriel, has seen better days—we all have. The world-renowned singer with the thinning, dyed hair, wrinkles, and a few too many pounds walked forcefully on stage. Never mind that his voice was a bit raspy, his steps a bit wobbly. There he was, in full splendor, dressed in white with brown and green trimmings. Like Juárez, he was still standing.

The performance wasn’t so much about perfection as it was about redemption, reconciliation, and forgiveness for residents still …