We’re all in This Together (Parsha Devarim) by Rabbi Aaron Golfiz

Michael, though not wealthy, buys a lottery ticket for his struggling best friend, John. John wins a billion dollars and transforms his life, moving to a wealthy area and leaving his old life behind. The Conflict: John, once poor and reliant on Michael, stops communicating with him after becoming wealthy. John’s family dismisses their past, seeing themselves as above their former friends. The Moral: John’s ingratitude toward Michael is universally seen as wrong. Loyalty and gratitude are fundamental values that should persist regardless of wealth or status. Connection to Parsha Vaetchanan: Torah Warning: In Deuteronomy 6:10-12, God warns the Jewish people not to forget Him after entering the Promised Land, a land filled with abundance they did not earn. The land’s prosperity is a gift from God due to the merit of their forefathers, not their own deeds. Parallel to the Story: Just as John forgot Michael, God warns that people often forget Him after experiencing success and abundance. Forgetting the source of blessings leads to arrogance and ingratitude. Lessons for Today: Gratitude is Key: Remember that all blessings, whether wealth, skills, or success, come from God. Gratitude involves acknowledging the source and acting responsibly with those gifts. Wealth as a Test: Prosperity is not inherently negative; rather, it is a tool to grow closer to God. Use wealth and talents for good—supporting family, helping the less fortunate, and engaging in mitzvot. Avoiding Arrogance: Success can lead to forgetting God and prioritizing materialism over spirituality. God reminds us to use our blessings to fulfill His commandments and remain connected to Him. Practical Applications: Hosting and Giving: Use wealth to host Shabbat meals, help the poor, and support community needs. Profession as a Service: Leverage talents in professions like medicine or business to assist those in need. Staying Grounded: Regularly reflect on the source of your success and remain humble. Key Takeaway: Just as Michael gave John the lottery ticket, God gives us everything we need to succeed. The Torah’s message is clear: don’t become so consumed by your blessings that you forget their true source. Always remember and honor God by keeping His mitzvot and using your gifts to bring goodness into the world.