 I just finished watching Blood Diamond and honestly can say I haven't been moved like this in a long time. To think that this so-called representation of love has been the source of anguish of a people; adding to their bloody history long tormented of colonialism and civil strife. Sure, they say that less that 15% of those diamonds are "conflict diamonds". But shouldn't this inkling of a chance of purchasing such a product enough to boycott? As a guy, I personally have no vested interest in purchasing diamond jewelry (or any for the matter). But of course, who can escape the tradition that comes along with engagements, weddings and all that sorts. So in my emotion post-film zeal, I hastily decide that when I finally find my lifelong companion, her wedding band will be diamond free. No sir, don't want nothing to do with diamonds. But wait. Here I am, sit here on this laptop, wearing my express jean, gap shirt, sipping on my Starbucks coffee and driving around in a gas-guzzling car. What about the plights of sweatshop workers in East and South East Asia? Cocoa plantations in South America exploiting the local people? The constant war over oil? Hypocrite! Reactionary! Tool! After recovering from my figurative panic attack (or mental breakdown if you will), I realized that in the end, a step towards awareness is better than none at all. It's kind of like that the saying of the Prophet (S) about action against injustice, whether it be physical, vocal or within our hearts; the last being the weakest of the three. So maybe it might be a little radical for many to completely cut out diamonds or GAP clothes, Starbucks coffee, etc. But I don't think it's too much to ask to find out the source of diamonds before buying, try different brands of coffee, or buy different clothing brands. And if you still find that hard to do, well, gosh darn it, at least feel guilty about it. | 
