Rashi says that with these words the Torah speaks
of Joseph's righteousness. Joseph, now the Viceroy of Egypt, still lives his life in the same Godly way as when he was a humble shepherd back in Canaan. He has not allowed success to go to his head. All of his power and wealth have not blinded him to God's will and the needs of his brothers and sisters.
The commentator Beit Pinchas observes that both poverty and wealth pose challenges to human beings. Poverty can make one sad, bitter, and resentful, while wealth can encourage arrogance, callousness, and selfishness.
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Joseph
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Joseph experienced both extremes in his life. He experienced the simplicity of the shepherd's life and the comforts of the wealthy. Yet, through it all, he did not change. He remained the same. While poor he was not bitter and when rich he was not arrogant. Through his entire life he remained grateful and devoted to God, and sensitive and caring to his fellow human beings.
As the shepherd who became King, Joseph always remembered where he came from in order to understand where he needed to go.
Rabbi Leonard Rosenthal
Tifereth Israel Synagogue
San Diego, CA
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The King replies: "Now that I am King, it is important for me to remind myself each day where I came from so that I will always be mindful of the wants and needs of those I rule."