Eric and I went to see Blood Diamond last Thursday night after a work Christmas Dinner. I am familiar with the smuggling of diamonds from Sierra Leone to Liberia by the rebels. In 2000 I attended a lecture organized by the Cdn Institute of Int'l Affairs about this subject. The author had written a report on the effect of diamond smuggling on the war in Sierra Leone. After watching the movie, I felt stupid that I hadn't abandoned everyday life and become involved in helping those who have suffered in some way. But, I suppose that if these victims had the chance to raise little ones in peace, they would leap. Anyhow - the movie. Well, I'm not sure whether I can recommend everyone go to see 'Blood Diamond'. I was sobbing through parts of the movie. I have seen documentaries and movies about genocide - seen terrible things, but I felt that if people are enduring these things, I should be able to witness what is happening. If everyone turns their head, it will never end. Maybe I was emotional because I am a mother now and view the world a little differently. The use of child soldiers was the most troubling part for me, I think. These kids grow into adults and will remain broken forever. One interesting point in the movie was when the rebel commander begged for 'the' way to get out of the country - that he had already been in hell long enough. Even the perpetrators were sick of their existence. Bottom-line - the movie was good and worth seeing if it prompts one to be more aware.
On a much lighter note - We had bathed and dressed the kids for bed when a mass of 40 people carrying lanterns came to our door. No, they weren't coming to chase us out of the neighbourhood - they were ... carolers! It was amazing. They filled our driveway and the road.
This picture isn't that great but it was amazing. Lots of fun and Christmas spirit.
Here's also another photo of our nightly routine. I tuck Konrad into his bed and as soon as we're out of sight he sneaks into our bed. Problem is, he doesn't come alone. He brings his bear, puppy, baby, teletubbie, drink, books to read, pillow. He sets himself up completely. So, everyone night I come to bed and find a sweaty little body in it. We move everything back to his bed and repeat the entire procedure the next night. He's so cute when he's sleeping, though, isn't he?
3 comments:
Konrad is too cute. And where did these carolers come from? Did they belong to a church or just a bunch of people got together to do it? We should do that next year...hey?
Previous commentator - I don't know who you are since you're anonymous These carolers came from a party at someone's house around the corner. It would be fun to do... whoever you are!
oh sorry, it's me, jlw.
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