Think about yourself 2-3 years ago. You would probably be able to find a vast difference. Some might be small, some might be large, but the overall idea is that you have grown over time. No matter what, you made progress, while learning, trying, and being exposed to new things. 

In this week’s Torah portion, Parshat Va’era, G-d appears to Moses and explains how the Israelites needed to leave their hardships behind, exit Egypt, and go to the promised land. Oftentimes, we too must leave behind our old ways, learn new things, and grow into better people. Both the exodus from Egypt, and our own experiences in life, involve change, trust, and growth.

For a long time, the Israelites were slaves in Egypt. Even though their lives were hard, that was all they knew. When Moses told them that G-d would free them, they had to trust something new and scary. Leaving Egypt meant stepping into the unknown, but it also gave them the chance to live better lives.

In the same way, becoming a better version of yourself means leaving behind old habits or ways of thinking that might be holding you back. Two or three years ago, you may have been comfortable staying the same, even if it wasn’t helping you grow. Trying new things and listening to advice can be uncomfortable, but it helps you improve as a person.

Both situations show that growth doesn’t happen without effort. The Israelites struggled in the desert before reaching freedom, just like people struggle when they are trying to improve themselves. However, both journeys show that change is worth it. By trusting the process and being open to new experiences, you can grow just like the Israelites did when they finally listened and gained their freedom.

Always remember that Va’era teaches us that even though new adventures, foods, or friendships can be intimidating, it's almost always impossible to know the outcome until you try.

Shabbat Shalom BBYO, 

Ezra Scott, Lonestar