The world of entertainment often makes entertainers vulnerable targets. Their presence in the limelight seems to invite constant critique of their every move and decision. While entertainers aspire to attain god-like status, which would amplify their impact and visibility, there's a downside - this often leads to them being dehumanized. Regardless of one's status and position, the desire to be seen as fundamentally human remains universal.
Being human means sharing common experiences, breathing the same air, and grappling with similar challenges. I've noticed that the way we, as Kenyans, perceive and treat our entertainers differs from the Western world. While we acknowledge their accomplishments, we fall short in truly celebrating their contributions and recognizing their worth.
Recently, I realized that irrespective of financial wealth, children are consistently encouraged to explore talents and passions. The adage "all work and no play makes Jack a dull boy" underscores this point. This encouragement leads to numerous youngsters pursuing music, sports, acting, and other creative pursuits. Consider the enthusiasm around music festivals and drama competitions. If you recall your school days, especially those under the 8-4-4 system, participating in such events was a privilege and obtaining a spot was a fierce competition.
During those times, discipline was paramount, and favoritism among teachers was prevalent. These events showcased the remarkable talent of many young individuals who, had they been born elsewhere, might have become top actors, actresses, or music and drama educators. In the IGCSE system, musical instrument classes and theatrical engagements is more prominent.
However, this scenario shifts once students reach university. Suddenly, they're advised to set aside their passions in favor of a career. This prompts the question: why are children encouraged to balance academics with extracurricular activities throughout their upbringing, only to be told to abandon these pursuits once they reach adulthood? What causes this shift in priorities and the abandonment of balance?
Even in history, wealthy children were educated in various subjects, including music, to cultivate their well-roundedness and attractiveness to potential partners. This allowed them to engage in entertaining conversations and showcase their talents during social interactions.
So, I'm left wondering: why does the appreciation for the arts fade as we grow older? When someone says, "I used to be a dancer/actor/musician, just like you," it's often intended as a compliment. But where's the pride in suggesting that success can only be achieved by abandoning these passions and pursuing a different career?
The transformation begins with each of us, as we take steps to reshape the entertainment industry and overhaul our perspectives. It's simple to be critical and label those in the arts as unsuccessful. Yet, the truth is, venturing into the arts requires immense courage, especially for individuals hailing from third-world nations. I urge all of you to rally behind the artistic pursuits of our entertainers and to motivate your children to actively engage in extracurricular activities.
Moreover, to those currently reading, remember, it's never too late to embark on a journey of learning, such as playing a musical instrument like the saxophone or piano. I encourage you to take that leap; believe me, your life will be forever transformed.