perspective:
a : the technique or process of representing on a plane or curved surface the spatial relation of objects as they might appear to the eye; specifically : representation in a drawing or painting of parallel lines as converging in order to give the illusion of depth and distance b : a picture in perspective2 a : the interrelation in which a subject or its parts are mentally viewed ; also : POINT OF VIEW
b : the capacity to view things in their true relations or relative importance 3 a : a visible scene; especially : one giving a distinctive impression of distance : VISTA b : a mental view or prospect 4 : the appearance to the eye of objects in respect to their relative distance and positions

let me use this word in a sentence...
This tragedy in New Orleans should help us all to put our lives in perspective.

News on Katrina and her wake