I was awakened by a memory a trace of other years
A figure calling to my life of ease
The face of poverty, ten thousand miles stand in a way
But it draws me to this day

I hear their voices deep inside of me
Vila beto ve
I tried to carve a new identity
But I could never forget

It's got a way of staying in your blood
As though you never left
Don't forget us when you go away
Vila beto ve, vila beto ve

I find myself complaining now and then
About such little things
Always looking for a better hand
Than what's been given me

But there are those who have much less than me
Yet they face the world with dignity
Thanking God with joyful eyes
Celebrating every moment of life

I hear their voices deep inside of me
Vila beto ve
I tried to carve a new identity
But I could never forget

It's got a way of staying in your blood
As though you never left
Don't forget us when you go away
Vila beto ve, vila beto ve

It is said the last shall be first
What we think is blessing can be a curse
It is said the door is a needle's eye
And the pure in heart will see God

I hear their voices deep inside of me
Vila beto ve
It's not a matter of my charity
I can't afford to forget, can't afford to forget

It's got a way of staying in my blood
As though I never left
I won't forget You when I go away
Vila beto ve, vila beto ve

I hear their voices deep inside of me
Vila beto ve
I tried to carve a new identity
But I could never forget

It's got a way of staying in your blood
As though you never left
Don't forget us when you go away
Vila beto ve, vila beto ve