When ‘Not Enough’ Meets the Wisdom of Parsha Miketz

The feeling of not being enough is something many of us struggle with—a nagging voice that whispers we don’t measure up to the expectations of others or even our own. This week’s Torah portion, Parsha Miketz, offers profound lessons that remind us of the beauty in human imperfection and the strength that comes from faith and resilience.

In Parsha Miketz, we encounter Joseph, who rises from the depths of an Egyptian prison to the pinnacle of power, second only to Pharaoh. His journey is one of transformation, shaped by rejection, hardship, and moments when he, too, may have felt like he wasn’t enough. Yet, his story reveals a deeper truth: our worth is not defined by the low points but by how we rise from them.

Lessons from Joseph’s Journey

1. Dreams Take Time and Faith – Joseph’s story begins with dreams—visions of greatness that alienated him from his brothers and led to his betrayal. It would have been easy for Joseph to lose faith as he languished in prison. Yet, he held on to his belief that his life had purpose, even when the evidence seemed to suggest otherwise.

• •  “A man’s steps are directed by the Lord; how then can anyone understand their own way?” (Proverbs 20:24)
    This reminds us that while we may not always understand our path, there is a divine plan at work guiding us through our struggles toward something greater.

2. Wisdom in Humility
   When Joseph is summoned to interpret Pharaoh’s dreams, he doesn’t claim the glory for himself. Instead, he humbly attributes his ability to God: “It is not I; G-d will give Pharaoh an answer of peace” (Genesis 41:16). Joseph shows that acknowledging our limitations doesn’t diminish us—it allows us to draw strength from a higher source.

• •  When we feel we’re not enough, it can help to lean on our faith, our community, and the belief that we don’t have to carry the weight alone.

3. Resilience in Adversity
   Despite years of rejection and false accusations, Joseph never lets bitterness define him. He uses his experiences to grow and ultimately to save countless lives during a time of famine. His resilience is a testament to the power of perseverance.

• • “Fall seven times, stand up eight.” (Proverbs 24:16)
    This teaches us that setbacks don’t define us—our ability to rise again does.

Finding Strength in Our Own Stories

Like Joseph, we all have moments when we feel inadequate. Perhaps it’s in our relationships, our work, or our role in our community. But Parsha Miketz reminds us that we are not alone in these struggles. Just as Joseph’s journey was guided by unseen hands, so too are our lives part of a larger story.

When feelings of “not being enough” creep in, consider these reflections: Celebrate progress, no matter how small. Each step forward is a triumph.

• • Lean into humility and faith, recognizing that we are part of something greater than ourselves.
  • Remember that resilience isn’t about never falling—it’s about choosing to rise, again and again.

My Closing Thoughts

Parsha Miketz teaches us that even in the darkest times, there is potential for light and redemption. Joseph’s journey reminds us that feelings of inadequacy are not the end of the story; they are part of the process that shapes us into who we are meant to be.

So, as we light the Chanukah candles this week and reflect on the miracles of the season, let us also remember the miracle within ourselves—the ability to grow, to persevere, and to trust that we are, indeed, enough.

Shabbat Shalom!