Rabbi Mordechai Gifter zt”l, former R”H in Telz, once asked a question on bikkurim. The farmer finally picked his first fruits, wrapped them up lovingly in a beautiful basket, and marches proudly to Yerushalayim for the mitzvah of Bikurrim. The Rambam brings down how the locals would greet the weary travellers with much pomp and glory, with song and dance etc. It must have been a sight to behold! Imagine the simcha, imagine the delight and happiness that pervaded these farmers, and how appreciative of the opportunity to perform this mitzvah. They must have been ecstatic! So why is there a mitzvah, to be happy? The posuk says “V’Somachta B’Chol HaTov”, that the farmer must be happy with his lot. How can he not be happy??
The answer is, and this touches on the psyche of the human mind, that no matter how lucky you are to attend this beautiful celebration, and to proudly present your beautiful basket of delicious fruit to the Kohen, but you always look at the next guy’s basket…how did he make so much this year? It so much more than what I have! Why is his crop more larger and juicier? You start comparing your lot with s/1 elses, and then suddenly…poof…you’re no longer happy!!
“Vesomachtah B’Chol HaTov”- you musr appreciate what Hashem gave you and BE HAPPY, look at your basket WITHOUT COMPARING IT TO OTHERS. We have to appreciate our lot and to thank Hashem no matter what He gave us, because ultimately, He knows what is for our best.
Good Shabbos.
L’Chaim L’Chaim!