I have a new sense of purpose today.  Rich and I adopt a family for Christmas every year because we really don’t have anyone else to buy gifts for and we like to do it.  We never know the family, just the gifts they want.  This year is different because the agency we go through thought it would be best if I connected directly with the mother.  She has a two year old and is giving birth again in February.  She works, takes the bus, and would be thrilled with Lemon Ice for a treat.  I’m writing this because I forget how lucky I am and how I never have to think about being warm or buying clothes or food.  When I offered her whatever she wanted, she wanted Lemon Ice.   I have replaced my thoughts about surgery with ideas on how I can help this family.  I have a renewed sense of urgency because I have to be ready for her Christmas before my surgery and I will not fail her.  When I spoke with her today, she wondered if I could give her the used rugs I promised because her floors are tile.  They are newly in subsidized housing that doesn’t allow for much heat and they are cold.

They will not be cold tomorrow, we’ll make sure of that, but tonight, I worry.  Life is not always fair, I know, but it breaks my heart to know so many people have so little.  She is a good mother and a good person and this year Santa will find her and give her the one gift that she may be missing, hope.  Isn’t that all we can ask for?

 

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