Hidden Good

This weeks parsha, R'ay, starts off: Behold I give before you a blessing and a curse...

This is HaShem speaking to the Jewish people (through Moshe). We must ask: If HaShem is all good what does it mean that He gives a curse? 

Especially here HaShem refers to himself  as Anochi (אנכי) which is not one of HaShem's names. Anochi means "I". When HaShem refers to himself as Anochi it is referring to his essence, greater than any of his names. The quintessential "I", HaShem's essence. How is it possible that the essence of HaShem be connected to a curse?

Targum Yonason translates the word וקללה (curse) וחילופא (and it's exchange). In other words there is a blessing and then something other. Similar but different. 

There are different kinds of blessings. There are superficial blessings the ones we all see. Basic pleasures we recognize as good. Then there is a deeper good wich comes into the world through difficulty and suffering. We don't see them as blessings at the onset however with time we recognize how they are truly blessings. 

Many times, it's the suffering, that brings the greatest amount of change in the world. 

As many witnessed this week,  how a disease like ALS, bright so much joy, positivity and togetherness. Throwing a bucket of ice and water on the head.  How many good deeds, kindnesses, prayers & friendship were generated? 

So the verse could be understood like this 

Behold I give before you a revealed blessing and a concealed blessing. 

Anochi, HaShem'sessence then is only connected to blessing. Different kinds of blessing. 

Unfortunately, no one is free from suffering. Recognizing that I it's from HaShem will keep you positive. As you will be filled with a sense of deep purpose knowing that your suffering is making a difference. Accomplishing a great good for HaShem. 

May HaShem send clear, open revealed blessing. There is no need for suffering anymore. We are all ready for moshiach to come.