Meir’s rash had become unbearable. Over a month had passed, and the red, itchy blotches were becoming redder and itchier! Exasperated from the discomfort and worried that he may have a serious condition, he decided to make an appointment with the doctor.

After his examination, the doctor prescribed an ointment and predicted that the rash would disappear within three days.

“That’s it?” exclaimed Meir, wondering how such a persistent ailment could be cured so quickly.

“No,” replied the doctor, “that’s after four years of medical school, and ten years of practice!”

—Heard from Yossi Mizrachi

Comment:

Often, an action or experience that appears insignificant may be valuable. Our actions should be estimated by the past effort that brought us to this point. Only after many years of toil in medical school could the doctor prescribe the ointment.

Similarly, the Amida prayers are built upon the merit of all the preceding prayers. One “little” mitzva we perform adds to the good deeds accumulated by our ancestors, and can “tip the scales” to bring Moshiach.