By: Sherri Shahar (11th Grade)
In this week’s Torah portion, Parshat Mikeitz, Pharaoh had two dreams that left him very concerned. The first dream was about seven thin and malnourished cows who ate seven large healthy cows. In the second dream, there were seven thin bundles of grain that consumed seven healthy bundles of grain. Pharaoh wanted to find someone to interpret his dreams, but nobody proved to be capable.
Eventually, Pharaoh was informed of Joseph and his gift of analyzing dreams and sent for him immediately. Joseph told Pharaoh that the dreams meant the same thing. Egypt was going to experience seven years of abundance and plenty before seven years of famine. After interpreting the dreams, Joseph offered Pharaoh a plan to prepare for the famine.
Pharaoh only asked Joseph to interpret his dreams, but, despite not being asked, Joseph then went on to advise Pharaoh on how to deal with the situation.
Unlike most people who were before Pharaoh, Joseph had the courage to do more than what the king requested and provide a solution to the problem. When there’s a problem, people tend to focus on the negative things instead of focusing on the positive and offer solutions. People who are constantly moving and getting things done usually have more positive and active thoughts than those who are not. If we focus on a positive future and being productive, we can achieve our goals.
Don’t follow the crowd and point out all of the things that are wrong. Be the one person who comes up with solutions and maybe even take action to resolve the situation. Perhaps this will make you want to go out there and make a difference in the world.
Shabbat Shalom!