This week's parsha begins "See, I give you today a blessing and a curse." The word re'eh (see) is in the singular, while the word lifanechem (before you) is in the plural.
If Moshe is addressing all of Klal Yisrael, why doesn't he use the plural?
What is a blessing? Each person will have a different answer depending on personal experience, values and individual outlook. To some, the answer is health; to others, wealth. To many, the most significant blessing is having children and grandchildren. Interestingly, some may find a blessing in illness. A heart attack, for example, might inspire someone to eat better and to exercise.
By using the singular form of re'eh, Moshe acknowledges that we each see blessings through our own eyes. Therefore, each of us will receive whatever we consider a blessing. However, Moshe juxtaposes blessing with curse to remind us that what we consider a blessing might actually be a curse. Winning the lottery, for example, can change people and their priorities. Getting a promotion at work can mean longer hours at the office and a changed relationship with co-workers.
Likewise, what we perceive to be bad for us may actually turn out to be good -- a blessing in disguise. Being delayed, for example, may cause someone to miss being in an accident. Losing a job may mean finding an even better one. We may not be able to see it right away, but if we are patient and trust in G-d, we will ultimately see the blessing.
As parents, we face many challenges. While we are in the midst of dealing with them, they may appear to be curses. We must train our eyes to see these troubles as merely temporary setbacks that ultimately will be revealed as blessings.
Published in the merit of a refua shlema (complete healing) for Chana bas Rochel.
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