In a medium saucepan, place all ingredients (if you add vanilla, add both the pod and seeds) and bring to a boil until sugar dissolves, stirring occasionally. Reduce heat to low and cook mixture uncovered, continuing to stir occasionally, for 30-60 minutes or until the liquid is thick and sticky and drops heavily from the spoon (refer to above post for more ways to check for being done). Remove from heat and discard vanilla pod and cinnamon stick. For a chunky jam, gently mush large pieces of figs with a fork or potato masher; for a smoother jam, process in a food processor. Spoon jam into jars, leaving ¼ inch space and close with lid. Let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate. Store jam in the refrigerator for up to 2 months.