Last week, my son spoke with a successful jeweler, and confirmed a story people tell about the man:
This Jeweler had a financially-strapped neighbor who decided to try his hand at jewelry, so the neighbor asked the jeweler for help. The latter took him to all of his suppliers, with complete transparency about how he makes his money.
“Does that make ANY business sense?” he was asked.
The elderly man smiled, “As hard as I work, I won’t get one penny more than G-d gives me.”
Then he laughed “Years later, I’m still rich, that fellow still isn’t; and I have a good story!”
By historical terms, we live in a wealthy country and a comfortable era. Yet many of us don’t feel that way. Many don’t have enough to pursue their desires, and long-term financial security seems elusive, especially since 2008.
Let’s learn from another ‘wealthy’ time in history:
When the Jews left Egypt, they went out into the wilderness. How did they survive? G-d. For example, when they awoke in the morning, they found Heaven-sent Manna on the ground outside their tents.
The Manna was white, a bit bland looking, but it had whatever taste you desired. Fettucini Alfredo for lunch? You got it. Grandma’s brisket with mashed potatoes for dinner? That was the exact taste in your mouth.
But there was a wrinkle. You couldn’t store the manna for tomorrow; if you tried to save some, it miraculously spoiled.
The Talmud points out that the Manna – for all its wonders - had two elements which were dissatisfying to the human psyche/palate.
A. There was no sense of security. Since they couldn’t put away for a rainy day, they ate well today, but with unease about tomorrow.
B. People eat with their eyes. The Manna tasted great, but the bland appearance detracted from the pleasure.
In more modern words: They were objectively given wealth, but they subjectively felt dissatisfaction/’poverty’.
Our society is blessed with plenty; just three generations ago this lifestyle was unimaginable. Believe it or not, we have our very own Manna from Heaven.
Recognize it.
Let’s use and save our money wisely; let’s also recognize that our wealth is ultimately G-d’s blessing, our Manna. Sharing, by giving to charity, shows that awareness.
Let your senses enjoy life’s pleasures, but don’t get too bummed out if you’re not touching every single sensual base. Don’t get in your own way.
Just enjoy the Manna.