I read with interest an article in the university paper about the exploitation of many of the African nations by several local and foreign entities.
In his article he mentions in particular Catoka, Angola’s largest diamond mine. He asks, “How much of this corrupt money will make it back into the hands of Angola’s impoverished citizenry?”
Post-colonialistic trade tactics and the empathy felt by many of Africa’s children who have been cast worlwide by the diaspora in the late 13th century not withstanding, I could not help but call to mind a story told to me by my Aunt on a visit home to the Bahamas during the summer of 2006.
She told me the story as I sat down in her den one Sunday afternoon, drinking lemonade, and enjoying a day off after two months of work.
“There was once a man who wanted to be wealthy. He saw the photo of some diamonds that were said to exist in another part of the world. So he sold all of his belongings and went to find them. Unfortunately, he lost all of his money, and died, unable to attain his goal.”
“Later, someone else came into the possession of the property where the man used to live. He discovered to his delight that there was a diamond, un-cut, lying on the ground. When he brought it to a jeweler to have it appraised, he learned that it was the most valuable diamond in existence.”
“The original owner saw the un-cut diamond lying on the ground many times, but did not appreciate its value because he could not recognize it in its un-cut form.”
Sometimes, as I walk on campus, I feel as if the same blindess has afflicted all of the black diamonds and pearls (students) that grace the University. So many either are afraid of developing their own potential or value, or are totally blind to what they can truly achieve.
I pray that more of them in time do realize what diamonds they are.
