Finding Perspective in Unexpected Places

To be honest, as a mother of a terminally ill child, I sometimes believe that I have enough perspective in my life. Like everyone else, though, I take my blessings for granted, and I sometimes need a jolt to put things back in the proper perspective.

Case in point: I love Christmas. I pride myself in remembering what this time of year is all about. I enjoy decorating, baking and celebrating with family and friends. As someone who despises shopping, I even enjoy hunting for the perfect gift for the people on my list. I try not to buy into the stress and rush that the holidays can bring. My daughter has helped me to center myself in the simple pleasures. This year, though, I find myself stressing a little more than usual -- and definitely not about anything that matters in the grand scheme of things.

I got a good dose of perspective this week when I became aware of a charity called Christmas in the City that throws an enormous Christmas party for homeless children in the greater Boston area. Last year, they hosted 1,800 homeless children; this year, that number nearly doubled, to 3,500. This is one party that would like to see its guest list diminish each year, but that's just not the reality.

For all of my family's struggles with our daughter's illness, she (and we) are well-fed, clothed and warm. There is a tiny bit of peace in my mind knowing that I am doing everything that I can for my daughter. She has the best medical care.  She gets all her medications and nutrients every day. So, if she does suffer, at least I know I am doing everything humanly possible to relieve it. I can't imagine the heartbreak of watching my child suffer, knowing that I could relieve the suffering if only I had the resources.

If this wasn't enough perspective, I heard this morning that seven people died this year in Framingham while struggling with homelessness. One death due to homelessness is too many; seven is devastating. Our church, , in conjunction with Framingham Street Ministries is hosting a service of candlelighting, prayer, and remembrance of those who died this year while struggling with homelessness. The service will be held Wednesday, Dec. 21, at 5 p.m. in Framingham Downtown Common. I will be changing my plans and attending this service for some much-needed perspective in this holiday season.