In this week's parsha we read about the birth of the sons of Yaakov, the twelve tribes. Through the parsha we are told that the mothers gave their sons their respective names for various reasons. I would like to suggest that the method for naming the sons of Yaakov can be divided into two categories. The first category are names that reflect the kindness or salvation that Hashem did for the mothers in the past. The second category or names that express their hope and prayer for the future. I believe this dual perspective is something that we need to have as Jews. We need to look back and give praise and thanks to G-d for all that He has done for us. But at the same time we need to pray and hope for our future salvation on both the personal and national level.

One of my teachers often responds to my questions about his welfare with the words, "There is always what to be thankful for and there is always what to pray for". This should be our outlook. We should always appreciate and be thankful for what we have and pray for the future.

Shabbat Shalom,

Heath