My air-conditioned house or even the swimming pool would feel good about now. It’s 86 degrees, and I’m walking on hot pavement in downtown Des Moines. I offered to meet Lidia and a couple of her friends to browse the art at this year’s Art Festival. I must admit, I had no idea how hot it would be at this time of the evening; I might not have agreed to go if I did.

At our meeting spot, I wipe my brow as I scan the crowd for any sign of my daughter. There’s a huge gathering. This ...