Then you shall rejoice with all of the good that Hashem has granted you (Devarim 26:11)

Rabbi Yissochar Frand points out that part of the mitzvah of Bikkurim (first fruits) is you need to be happy when you bring the fruit. You might wonder, “why wouldn’t someone be happy?” He finished his harvesting. He is in the holiest city in the world, Yerushaliyim. Why would he even consider being sad?

The sad truth is sometimes when one is successful, he keeps his eyes on others to see how they are doing, and when he sees their success, he becomes jealous. He sees their riches and no longer feels joy from his own riches. Therefore, the Torah tells us to be happy. Be happy with what YOU have. Don’t look at what others have and be envious.

This past weekend, I had two important things I needed to get fixed and was getting very upset about them. Why me? This doesn’t happen to others! Our van has been giving us issues the past two weeks since we returned from our vacation. Also, the automatic cleaner in my pool stopped working and I’m having problems with the filter. I was angry on Sunday morning worrying about these. Then, on Sunday afternoon, a thought occurred to me. Why am I sad?

First, my car is probably having problems due to our vacation. We had the car loaded with people and luggage and drove hundreds of miles to the mountains in northern Georgia. One day, we drove 6 miles on a gravel road to get to a trail, which I’m sure did not help the car. So, I should be happy that my car is having issues because I was able to go on a wonderful vacation. Also, I got to spend time with my family.

Regarding my pool… I have a pool! Since this is my first time owning a pool, it is a lot more work than I expected. It is difficult to keep it up and running, but it is getting easier. BUT, my children enjoyed the summer much more this year since we had the pool.

There is lots we can complain about. Why do others have it easier than me? Why are things so difficult for me? But just like those bringing Bikkurim have a mitzvah to be happy, all of us have a mitzvah to be happy. Enjoy the great things you have! Don’t look at the negative side; look at the positive side. Because it is positively better!

Good Shabbos!
-y.e.s.
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