The REAL big 5

Most visitors to Africa, especially to a country with acclaimed wildlife parks (actually referred to as “game parks” by our animal-loving British brethren), will certainly hear the term “the big 5”. Traditionally the big 5 refer to the 5 most important, now perhaps rare, animal sightings one could endeavor to see if one were to visit a game park in Sub-Sahara Africa. These are the lion, leopard, black rhino, water buffalo, and elephant. I have seen all but the timorous and furtive leopard. I hope one day to say I’ve seen all 5. On the other hand, I want to propose a tweak to the big 5. After living here for almost 5 months, there are other important, if not in the least rare, sightings one could wait a long time to see. By this I mean; electricity, water, working cars, general health, and the newest member internet. Of course, It’s not that I’ve never seen these things independently – but to see all five at once, working properly – that my friend is a glorious day. Even if I had just one day where I could see the big 5, I would be so happy. But alas, something is always out of whack. If it’s not your car, it’s a health issue; if it’s not a health issue, the electricity is out – and there goes the cycle, round and round until you literally go insane – or develop some other serious neurosis, or as challenging as it might be for a previously full-functioning American, one can instead embrace the dark irony and uncontrollability of this cycle and laugh. That’s it. There is no one to call, no one to blame it one. No company that will send a service man out immediately. No bill adjustment, or free coupons for an inconvenience. Just laugh.