Night Moves

Last night was a first. It was the first time that I had gone for a drive at night in Goma. Now you might say, “driving at night is no different than driving during the day, it is just darker.” And I would respond “you are wrong, sir!”

The city of Goma changes when the sun goes down. Suddenly the armed soldiers you ignore during the day become menacing and sketchy. The cars drive faster on the roads and there isn’t as much foot traffic along the makeshift sidewalks.

Although getting ice cream was not our soul reason for going out, it was a very important mission. Weaving through the streets of Goma and coming to a quick stop in front of the Lebanese owned “Shoppers” grocery store was a contradiction in itself.

Walking through the doors of Shoppers is like walking into a grocery store at home. Pringles, Hershey’s chocolate bars and even Kellogg’s cereal grace the shelves at this wondrous place. We make a b-line for the freezer where a large assortment of ice cream is waiting. After a few minutes of deliberation we finally decide to buy two flavors.

We joke about how much we are going to enjoy our ice cream as we walk to the cashier. I slide my box onto the cashier’s counter and take out my wallet. I am not paying attention as she “beeps” me through until she tells me how much it costs, 17 American dollars!!! Ya I know its freakin’ crazy. I look at the other box of ice cream Loran is holding and without words we both decide that one will be enough. Despite what anyone may say, it was the best ice cream I have ever had and was worth every penny.

We were not proud of our expensive ice cream purchase. Especially since 17 dollars could help feed some patients at the HEAL Africa hospital who are without food. But we guiltily chose to indulge our selves tonight with a treat that we will not be a habit.

The comforts of home come at a cost when you are thousands of miles away. I am going to make an effort to learn about the comforts and treats of the local ‘Gomatricien’. I have a feeling they may be cheaper.