"The road to hell is paved with good intentions." This ancient aphorism is used to explain how the best of goals may not be met if the actions necessary to reach that goal are flawed or abandoned along the way. Well-meaning as we may be, our end results can be less than satisfactory if we do not stay attuned to detail and mission throughout the process. Bad intentions are another thing altogether. How do they get derailed?

The answer is in the Joseph narrative which concludes in this week's parashah, Vayehi. Even after the family's reconciliation, Joseph's brothers are still concerned there will be retribution for their actions of throwing Joseph in the pit and selling him into slavery. But, Joseph reassures them: "Besides, although you intended me harm, God intended it for good, so as to bring about the present result - the survival of many people." 50:20. Sometimes, there is a higher cause at work.

Good or evil, intentions are only part of the story. Action, perseverance, dedication, resilience, flexibility - these are what make the achievement of a goal possible. This is the work that engages our member agencies every day and which will continue to bring success to their clients and communities.

Shabbat Shalom.