The way I see it, if someone’s meant to have it good, I’m glad it’s a member of the Jewish nation

As told to Raizy Friedman

I don’t think I’m jealous by nature. Generally, I’m happy for people when things go well for them. It’s great that my friend found a big apartment to house her growing family. It’s amazing that she got it for a great price and now owns a two-floor home. My own small rental is good enough for my family now. I don’t relegate her gain to the list of “my losses.”

I’m thrilled that some of my siblings were able to go away for a few days. One doesn’t work at all; another one has a boss that lets her make up her missed hours from home throughout the year. My need for time off and my stickler boss doesn’t come into the equation. If I feel that I want (or need) a vacation and don’t get one, that’s my own personal gripe; it has nothing to do with their getaway.

Jewelry and bank accounts fare the same way. I’m happy, genuinely pleased, that some people can afford full-time help and host lavish simchahs. I hope it brings them joy, and if it does, great.

I don’t join the club of “bashers” who need to find something wrong in the lives of the rich, thin, beautiful, and content. You know the people who are always on the lookout for doom in successful people’s lives by mentioning a child with disabilities or a past tragedy? They seem to take pleasure in finding the thorns in the lives of others. The way I see it, if someone’s meant to have it good, I’m glad it’s a member of the Jewish nation.

Yet, on occasion, when I see some stranger wearing a skirt I love, I eye it until it’s out of sight, wishing the skirt would whisper the name of the store where I, too, could purchase a similar one (usually in a larger size!).