By Jensen Brian Abass Cummings

The Words of the Shepherd Boys’ Song and Their Relevance to Everyday Sierra Leonean Lives

In the heart of Sierra Leone’s culture lies the poignant and resonant song of the shepherd boys, a piece that captures the essence of the struggles and hopes of everyday Sierra Leoneans. This song, deeply rooted in the tradition and experience of the people, reflects the collective narrative of perseverance amidst adversity. Coupled with the reflective quote from a renowned Sierra Leonean artist—VIDA-“U WAY GET NA U KNOW SAY U KOMPIN KAL KALO”-NA FOR SIDOM PAN DEM—which translates to “those who are rich or who see themselves as having more than someone else will always see those who have less as not serious about achieving their aims or becoming rich,” we find a profound commentary on the social and economic landscape of Sierra Leone.

The Song of the Shepherd Boys

The words of the shepherd boys’ song are a poetic depiction of the daily lives of the youth tending to their flocks. They sing of the hardships they face, the dreams they harbor, and the faith they hold onto despite the challenges. The lyrics resonate with the themes of endurance, hope, and the quest for a better future. This song, though simple, is a mirror reflecting the broader societal realities:

• “We wander the fields from dawn till night, with dreams of tomorrow shining bright. Though our paths are rocky and steep, in our hearts, the hope we keep.”

These lines illustrate the resilience of the shepherd boys, much like many Sierra Leoneans who work tirelessly in various fields, holding onto the hope that their efforts will eventually bear fruit.

Societal Perceptions and Economic Disparities

The quote from the Sierra Leonean artist captures a critical aspect of societal attitudes towards wealth and success. It highlights the often-dismissive view of the affluent towards those who are less fortunate. This perspective can be damaging, as it undermines the efforts and potential of those striving to improve their circumstances:

• “U WAY GET NA U KNOW SAY U KOMPIN KAL KALO.”

This statement points to a societal divide where the rich may perceive the poor as lacking ambition or effort, ignoring the structural barriers and systemic challenges that impede upward mobility. It underscores a lack of empathy and understanding of the diverse pathways and timing of success.

Relating the Song to Everyday Lives

Many Sierra Leoneans, like the shepherd boys, labor diligently yet remain marginalized by socio-economic and political structures. For instance, despite academic achievements, some individuals struggle to secure employment due to a lack of opportunities or connections. This is exacerbated by the political climate, where favouritism and nepotism can dictate access to resources and positions:

• “They toil in fields, with dreams untold, while others bask in wealth and gold. Yet, each one’s journey is their own, with hopes that someday they’ll be known.”

These lines reflect the disparity between the hard work of the many and the success enjoyed by the few. It speaks to the frustration of those who, despite their efforts, have not yet found the right opportunities or have not been favoured by the current political and economic systems.

The words of the shepherd boys’ song and the artist’s quote together paint a vivid picture of the Sierra Leonean experience. They remind us that wealth and success are not solely measures of individual effort but are also influenced by broader social, economic, and political contexts. As such, it is crucial to foster a more empathetic and supportive society where every individual’s struggle and journey are recognized and valued. Only then can we hope to bridge the divide and create a more equitable and inclusive Sierra Leone.

Copyright –Published in print in Expo Times Newspaper on Friday, July 12th, 2024 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)