Growing up, I thought diamonds were very beautiful and I liked the way that they glittered and sparkled in the light. When I was younger, I always dreamed of having my own diamond and awaited the day that I would get finally receive one when I got engaged or married.
Prior to ENGL 106, I wasn’t really aware of the wars in Africa and the problems that diamonds were causing. Definitely after reading A Long Way Gone, watching Blood Diamond, and reading articles on conflict diamonds, my feelings toward diamonds have altered. My desire for a diamond has greatly decreased and I have come to see that even though a diamond is technically really expensive and worth a lot, to me, the value of a diamond isn’t of great worth. A diamond is just a type of rock. If I really wanted something that looked like a diamond, I could simply just go to Claire’s and buy a ‘diamond’ ring for $5 and I would be satisfied.
Yes, I believe that the movie, songs, and practice of counter-storytelling are effective. People need to be informed of conflict diamonds. I think it was a great idea for Kanye West to write a song about the diamonds in Sierra Leone because numerous people like Kanye West and listen to his music. If people listened to this song and they actually paid attention to his lyrics, they would understand what he was talking about.
If I ever did receive a diamond, I would not be so wrapped up around the diamond and only focus on the diamond 24/7. If I did receive a diamond, I would not want to know if it was a conflict diamond. However, whenever I would look at it, the thoughts that it may have resulted in the deaths of many people would always be in the back of my mind. Also, I don’t think that I would give a diamond to anyone because I don’t think that I need to give people a diamond to show them that I love them.
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5 comments:
I didn't know about conflict diamonds until after english 106 either. I have always loved diamnds but I think your idea to get a fake diamond instead of a real one is really good. With a fake diamond I would not have to worry about the possible sad history that goes along with it.
I really like your title! Very creative. I also agree with your idea to get a fake diamond. Or another alternative is to choose another stone. However, I disagree with not knowing if your diamond is conflict or not. I would rather know or try to find out so that I could stop it. I can see where you are coming from, though. You probably just wouldn't want to know if you already had it, because it would torment you.
i feel the same...i would want to know if the diamond was a conflict diamond, cause i wouldnt buy it then i would rather buy a diamond that i was assured wasnt coming from a conflict area. I dont think id wear a fake diamond id probably want one that wasnt from a conflict area or one that was a different stone like a gem or something.
Learning all of these new things about diamonds has definatly affected my thinking about them too. That doesn't mean that I can't wait to get a diamond from some lucky man though!
Good point about Kanye's song, but people often don't pay attention to lyrics, especially of rap songs.
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