There are some movies, that no matter how many times you watch them, you leave the movie physically moved.
Blood Diamond is a story about Africa, its history in Diamond mining, and the effect that it is has on African families.
Danny Archer, played by Leonardo DiCaprio, is an orphan who grew up under a military commander. Archer’s affinity for finding and transporting Diamonds makes him an invaluable asset to the under the table deals within the military.
When Archer hears of a massive “pink” that Solomon Vandy finds, he works his way into Vandy’s life in order to acquire the Diamond.
Solomon Vandy is a man that had no interest in Diamonds until his family was ripped apart and he was forced to mine for the jewel.
While one storyline follows Vandy and Archer’s attempts to recover the precious Diamond, the other chronicles Vandy’s son, Dia, and his brainwashing as a child soldier.
Helping the Least of These
By far, the parts of Blood Diamond that have the most influence on me are the scenes that display the training of child soldiers.
In Africa’s recent history, there are countless stories of civil wars and the orphans those wars cause.
While organizations like Rafiki Foundation exist, the need's of orphans in Africa and around the world is great.
While some movies I watch to inspire and remind me of solid principles, Blood Diamond acts as more of a reminder to be grateful and serve the least of these.
It is incredibly easy to become complacent and hold onto things that will one day burn. Seeing and hearing the stories of people like Solomon Vandy, are a visual jolt to encourage my hands to hold possessions loosely.
