There was famine in all the lands… the hunger spread over the entire area…all countries came to Egypt to Joseph to buy grain; because the famine was so severe in all the earth. – This week’s portion, Genesis 41:54-57
In this week’s Torah Portion, Mikeitz, Joseph (Yosef) – after interpreting Pharaoh’s dream to mean a 7 year famine that would follow 7 years of plenty – suggests that Egypt hoard food during the first 7 years that would serve them during the upcoming famine. Subsequently, this allows Egypt to become the dominant superpower as the surrounding countries become dependent on them for their sustenance.
This foresight, the process of thinking ahead, is an incredible quality to possess. Often, we get stuck in the here and now – trying our best to simply survive or live in the moment, and not being able to see the forest from the trees. How do we find the resolve and passion to look ahead, to see a future that is a direct result of our current actions and beliefs? Can we shift our mindset to see the bigger picture and actualize it in our daily lives? What lessons can we learn from Joseph and his wise counsel?
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