WHAT IS A BOY’S WORTH?
Every May 16th has been set aside as the International Day of the Boy Child. It was founded in 2018 by Dr. Jerome Teelucksingh, a university lecturer from the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago.
In his letter to government leaders and NGOs, Teelucksingh says, “On the media, there are regular incidents in which young, misguided boys and teenagers are involved in crime and violence. If a boy child is neglected or fed a diet of hate and violence it is obvious he will develop into a teenager who is misguided and confused. There is an urgent need to focus on the home and school in order to save the boy child.”
The day focuses on boys and their well-being, their needs to feel happy, healthy, and valued within family and community.
The International Boys Day 2025 theme is “Building Self-esteem in Boys: Stand Up, Be Heard, Be Seen”. This theme encourages celebrating the unique strengths and abilities of boys, while also advocating for their mental health and well-being.
To celebrate this year’s International Boy Child’s day, we decided to review a people Worth of a Boy by Orvil W. Reid.
Orvil Wilson Reid was born May 22, 1908 and died September 9, 1994. His poem has become popular among the boys and men organisation of the Baptist denomination – Royal Ambassadors.
“Worth of a Boy” by Orvil W. Reid:
What would you say is the worth of a boy;
In sin and sorrow, in service and joy;
So much good and bad wrapped up in each life;
To build up and serve or tear down in strife.
A mine of diamonds, a bomb to destroy ?
Depends entirely on who gets the boy?
The devil, the world, and flesh make their bid:
But what will your church do to win this “kid?”
Some men have hobbies in which they invest
Much time and money with real zeal and zest.
But those who fathom life’s great thrills and joys
Major on making real men out of boys.
Themes
- Potential and Influence: The poem explores the potential of a boy and the influence that various forces (devil, world, flesh, church) can have on shaping his life.
- Morality and Direction: It highlights the dual nature of human beings, capable of both good and bad, and the importance of guidance in determining one’s path.
- Investment in Youth: The poem emphasizes the significance of investing time and effort in shaping the lives of young people.
Imagery and Symbolism
- “A mine of diamonds, a bomb to destroy”: This imagery illustrates the dual potential of a boy, representing both valuable assets and destructive forces.
- “The devil, the world, and flesh make their bid”: These symbols represent external influences that can shape a boy’s life, often in negative ways.
Tone and Message
- Reflective and Cautionary: The tone is reflective, urging readers to consider the importance of guiding young people.
- Call to Action: The poem conveys a sense of urgency, encouraging the church and individuals to invest in the lives of boys.
Poetic Devices
- Metaphor: Comparing a boy to “a mine of diamonds” and “a bomb to destroy” creates vivid and thought-provoking imagery.
- Rhetorical Questions: The poem’s opening question (“What would you say is the worth of a boy?”) engages the reader and encourages reflection.
Conclusion
The poem “Worth of a Boy” by Orvil W. Reid is a thought-provoking exploration of the potential and influence that shape young lives. It emphasizes the importance of guidance, investment, and positive direction in helping boys become valuable contributors to society.