We generally don’t really appreciate that which we have until it looks like there’s a risk of losing it. When you’re going through financial difficulties, that’s when you learn the value of wealth. When sick or injured, that’s when you learn to value your health; and you really appreciate the gift of family only after they’ve gone.

There is a special blessing to be said after surviving danger. One who has been sick, or in another perilous situation, will come to the synagogue and say a blessing of gratitude at the Torah. In Temple times they’d also bring a korban todah (thanksgiving offering), to show their appreciation to G‑d for saving them from danger. We make this public affirmation of thanks because when you’ve nearly lost everything, you know how much you have to be grateful for, and you wish to openly show your appreciation to G‑d for His gifts and miracles.

The person offering a korban todah would also bring 40 large loaves of bread to the Temple, following which the meat and bread would be taken home and eaten. The Torah warns that “it shall be eaten on that day; leave none of it over to the next morning.”

There was no way that a single person, or even his extended family, could possibly consume such a large amount of food in such a short amount of time; so, obviously they’d have to invite their friends and neighbors over to join the meal. It is almost as if the Torah is forcing you to share your simchahs with the community. You’d sit together in company, rejoicing in G‑d’s blessings and recounting over and over the story of your escape from danger.

However, more than just a way of publicizing your personal miracle, the act of inviting others over to share in your bounty demonstrates the Jewish attitude to gratitude. When you have been personally blessed, seek to share your blessings with others.

Your wealth is a gift from G‑d—the jackpot won in the great lottery of life—and it is your responsibility to make sure that everyone else is looked after. If you enjoy good health, be thankful, and then actively seek to bring that comfort to other people who are waiting for their own blessing.