We watched Blood Diamond yesterday. I was horrified. I am and have been far too sheltered in my life. My heart cries for the atrocities of humankind. Children armed with machine guns, forced to destroy their brothers and sisters, mothers and fathers. Riding the crest of a progesterone wave, the emotions are heightened and tears stream from my face. One scene, in particular, is so powerful, it stirs the very core of my being.
Dia is pointing a gun at his father. Solomon speaks slowly, steadily. His words are written in every line of his face, the depth of his heart pouring forth from his eyes. “I am your father who loves you. And you will come home with me and be my son again.” The tone of voice and expressions speak volumes more: “I will protect you. I will teach you. You can trust me. You can depend on me. You are safe. I love you.” It is so powerful and so very beautiful. They are so beautiful –Solomon and Dia.
After seeing this film, I am thankful (and relieved) that I don’t have an enormous diamond. Like many a GOAD (Girl of Asian Descent), I likes me some bling. Luckily, my conservative nature, in harmony with typical engineering frugality, prompted me to desire only a fabulous and beautifully set CZ as an engagement ring. Lucky for MG, too. For under $200 he made me quite happy with 1.5 carats of badabing, set in 14k white gold. I love it. I love that I have not one ounce of worry over the responsibility of owning and wearing something as valuable as a 1.5 carat diamond. And now that I have been enlightened in part as to the meaning of conflict diamond, I put all that more value into the ring that I wear.
