The night before last I had a dream. And like most dreams, this one was a bit odd. But at the end of it, it turned into a type of high school reunion with my graduating class. And one of the guys (whose name I can’t remember for the life of me!) came over and asked me, “E sigira filadugu ra wa?” It was the best pick-up line EVER and made me smile. It’s in Jula, and means, “Have you been living with people of the Fulani people group?”
Let me explain . . . the Fulani is one of the people groups here in My Country and across a large part of West Africa. They are the only people group here in My Country that I can pick out by sight, because they are often tall and skinny, with lighter skin, long faces, and long noses. The ladies often have very ornate jewelry as well. They are spread out across the country, so yes, I see them regularly but I haven’t ever lived in their “territory,” which is more in the north of the country. However, when I speak Jula, I’ve been told by many different people (both those who know me and those who don’t) that I have a Fulani accent. I don’t know how since I can’t speak their language (other than “good morning” and “have a good night”), but I figure that it’s better than having an American accent, so I accept.
I think that why it was such a great pick-up line and made me smile was that it showed me that this guy from the US knew Jula, and not only knew it a little bit, but knew it well enough to hear my accent and know that it was a Fulani accent. How many people from the US know it that well, and of them, how many will mosey over to me during a high school class reunion and want to start up a conversation?
So there you have it, guys – if you’re looking for a pick-up line for a cute girl, try that one – “Have you been living with the people of the Fulani people group?” I’m sure any girl will fall for you right away.
I loved this post Suzi! So sweet and so you!