If Moshe is addressing all of Klal Yisrael, why does he speak in the singular – vtr – “while the word ofhbpk, “before you” is in the plural form? Moreover, why does he tell them to see? Would it not have been just as effective had he said, “I place before you a blessing and a curse?” Horav David Feinstein, Shlita, suggests that the concept of blessing is in the mind of the individual. Some feel that continued good health is a blessing. In contrast, others feel that mild sickness may even be viewed as a blessing, since it encourages us to examine our lifestyle and make changes that are essential for good health. To some, wealth and prosperity is the greatest blessing, while to others, the greatest blessing is children. The list of blessing goes on. In most instances, the list is consistent with the type of person, his background and orientation.
Moshe Rabbeinu addressed all of Klal Yisrael when he emphasized the individual vision, vtr, see, each person will receive whatever he considers a blessing. At times, however, what an individual views as blessing can, in reality, be a curse. Others believe that certain things are bad, while these “bad” things are actually blessings in disguise.
Moshe told the people, “See,” you will have an opportunity to enjoy blessings and you will see how these blessing are truly good for you. In many situations in life we wonder if we are really blessed. Some individuals have the fortitude and trust in Hashem, Who always sends only good. Others, however, refuse to open their eyes or are simply too myopic to perceive the actual good of a blessing. Hashem will ultimately give us the opportunity to see the blessing and acknowledge its true benefit.
