MCKIE'S MIDDLE-CLASS MEMORIES
Q What don't you take for granted anymore?
A Electricity. There are power outages all the time in the Dominican Republic and Haiti. I remember the days when you flipped a light switch and never had to wonder if a light would work.
Q What do you crave when you return to Minnesota?
A Midwestern beef. The free-range beef in the D.R. tastes tough and gristly.
Q Is there anything you didn't give away (besides sentimental items) that you took with you?
A My own bedsheets.
Q How are Dominicans different from Minnesotans?
A There is no sense of urgency and they never say no. Even if it's impossible and has never been done before, they will try to find a way. Maybe it won't be done for a year, but they will find a way.
Q Where do you live in Puerto Plata?
A An 800-square-foot, two-bedroom, one-bath apartment. I often have missionaries staying with me.
JOHN EWOLDT