This week’s parsha begins with a dramatic moment: Yosef is rushed out of prison, cleaned up, and brought before Pharaoh. Pharaoh had been troubled by two unsettling dreams. In the first, seven healthy, fat cows emerged from the Nile, only to be devoured by seven thin, sickly cows. In the second dream, seven ripe and robust ears of grain grew from a single stalk, but were swallowed by seven thin and scorched ears.

Pharaoh summoned all his wise men and magicians, but none could provide an interpretation that satisfied him.

When Yosef was brought before Pharaoh, he offered an interpretation that stood apart. Yosef explained that both dreams carried the same message: Egypt would experience seven years of abundance followed by seven years of severe famine. He emphasized that the doubling of the dream meant that Hashem had already decreed it, and it was imminent. But Yosef didn’t stop there. He advised Pharaoh to appoint overseers to gather and store food during the years of plenty to prepare for the famine.

Pharaoh accepted Yosef’s interpretation—and more importantly, his plan. Recognizing Yosef’s wisdom and foresight, Pharaoh appointed him as the second most powerful person in Egypt, entrusting him with the task of saving the nation.

Why Yosef’s Interpretation Stood Out

Pharaoh’s magicians and advisors also offered interpretations, yet Pharaoh dismissed them all. Why was Yosef’s explanation different? Because Yosef didn’t just interpret the dreams; he provided a solution. He didn’t focus solely on identifying the problem but took the extra step of suggesting a practical way to address it.

A Timeless Lesson

How often do we find ourselves lamenting what’s wrong in the world—what’s wrong with our shul, our children’s school, our community, or an organization we’re involved in? It’s easy to point out problems, but too often, that’s where the conversation ends.

Yosef’s example reminds us of a fundamental truth: every experience we have is directed by Hashem for a reason. Chazal teach us this through the juxtaposition of the Nazir and the Sotah in the Torah. If someone witnesses the disgrace of a Sotah, it’s a call to take action, perhaps by refraining from behaviors that could lead to similar outcomes. We see what we see because Hashem wants us to notice—and respond.

If you witness something amiss in your shul, your child’s school, or your community, it’s not an accident. Hashem has shown it to you because you have the ability to make a difference. Talking about the issue is a start, but it’s not enough. Yosef teaches us that we must move beyond discussion and take meaningful action to bring about change.

So, the next time you see a problem, remember Yosef. Don’t just point it out. Take responsibility, create a plan, and work to make things better. In doing so, you fulfill your role as a partner with Hashem in improving the world.

Shabbat Shalom!

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